Marina Bay in Singapore is a dynamic blend of futuristic architecture, luxurious lifestyle, and cultural landmarks. Nestled in the heart of Singapore, this iconic area offers a multitude of attractions and activities that cater to all kinds of travelers.
Whether you're a foodie, a culture enthusiast, or an adventure seeker, Marina Bay has something for everyone. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the 10 best things to do in Marina Bay, Singapore.
7 best things to do in Marina Bay, Singapore
1. Marvel at Marina Bay Sands SkyPark
Location: Level 56, Hotel Tower 3; entrance to the SkyPark Observation Deck is accessible via the Hotel Tower 3 driveway.
Timings: Non-Peak: 11am – 4.30pm (Last entry 4pm); Peak: 5pm – 9pm (Last entry 8.30pm)
One of the most iconic structures in Marina Bay, if not all of Singapore, is the Marina Bay Sands Hotel. This architectural marvel comprises three 55-story towers connected by a sprawling rooftop terrace, the SkyPark.
The SkyPark Observation Deck is open to the public (for a fee) and offers 360-degree views of Singapore's bustling cityscape, iconic landmarks, and the serene waterfront.
On a clear day, visitors can see as far as Indonesia and Malaysia. The deck is particularly popular at sunset, when the city is bathed in a golden glow, transitioning into the dazzling lights of the night.
For a premium experience, get tickets for the Sunset in the Sky dine-in program (6 pm to 9 pm) that provides priority access to SkyPark Observation Deck, exclusive seating area for the most stunning views, Champagne (or mocktails), personalized premium photobook and exquisite dishes from à la carte menu. Enjoy an unforgettable evening as you take in the magnificent sunset and create lasting memories.
One of the most striking features of the SkyPark is its infinity pool, which is the world's largest rooftop pool at 150 meters long.
Floating on the edge of this pool, guests can enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline and Marina Bay. This experience is exclusive to hotel guests, making it a unique incentive to stay at Marina Bay Sands.
The SkyPark also features lush gardens with more than 250 trees and 650 plants, creating a serene environment amidst the urban setting. Strolling through these gardens, visitors can enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the landscaped areas.
2. Explore Gardens by the Bay
Gardens by the Bay is a futuristic park spanning 101 hectares of reclaimed land. This nature park is home to the iconic Cloud Forest, Flower Dome, and Supertree Grove.
Cloud Forest is an enchanting attraction that offers visitors a unique experience of a tropical mountain environment.
This stunning conservatory, one of the two cooled conservatories in Gardens by the Bay, is designed to replicate the cool, moist conditions found in tropical mountain regions between 1,000 and 3,000 meters above sea level.
One of the main highlights of Cloud Forest is the spectacular 35-meter-tall Cloud Mountain, covered in lush vegetation and featuring the world's tallest indoor waterfall.
As you enter, you'll be greeted by a refreshing mist and the sight of water cascading down the mountain, creating a cool and invigorating atmosphere.
Visitors can take an elevator to the top of Cloud Mountain and make their way down via a circular path known as the Cloud Walk and Treetop Walk.
These walkways provide an immersive experience, offering breathtaking views of the diverse plant life and the mist-filled air. Along the way, you’ll encounter a vast array of orchids, ferns, and carnivorous plants, each thriving in the cool, moist environment.
The Lost World, located at the summit, showcases plants typically found in cloud forests around the world. Here, you can learn about the unique adaptations of these plants and the ecological significance of cloud forests.
Another notable feature is the Crystal Mountain, where visitors can explore a fascinating collection of stalactites, stalagmites, and crystals. This section provides insights into the geology and mineralogy of cloud forests, enhancing the educational aspect of the visit.
The Flower Dome, recognized as the world’s largest glass greenhouse by the Guinness World Records, offers a spectacular display of plants and flowers from Mediterranean and semi-arid regions around the world.
One of the primary highlights of the Flower Dome is its diverse collection of flora. Visitors can stroll through themed gardens that represent different regions, including South Africa, California, and the Mediterranean.
Each garden showcases unique plants adapted to the varying climates, providing a global botanical experience without leaving Singapore.
A standout feature within the Flower Dome is the Baobabs and Bottle Trees section. These unusual trees, known for their distinctive shapes and water-storing trunks, are a visual delight and offer insight into the plant adaptations necessary for survival in arid environments.
The Olive Grove is another highlight, where visitors can see ancient olive trees, some of which are over a thousand years old, symbolizing peace and endurance.
The Flower Field is a dynamic display area that changes with the seasons and festival themes. Throughout the year, the Flower Field hosts vibrant floral displays, from tulips in the spring to chrysanthemums in the autumn.
Each display is meticulously curated, creating a breathtaking tapestry of colors and patterns that enchant visitors of all ages.
In addition to its botanical treasures, the Flower Dome is an architectural marvel. The greenhouse features an innovative cooling system that maintains an optimal climate for the plants while being energy-efficient.
Wander through Supertree Grove, iconic tree-like structures and take a walk on the OCBC Skyway for a panoramic view of the gardens.
The OCBC Skyway, a 128-meter-long aerial walkway between the Supertrees, offers a breathtaking view of the Marina Bay area and is open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. This is a chargeable attraction and each OCBC Skyway ticket costs SGD 14 for adults and SGD 10 for children (3-12 yrs).
As dusk descends, treat yourself to the Garden Rhapsody show (7.45 PM; 20 minutes), a symphony of lights that dance and twinkle in harmony with the rhythm of the music.
These 2 conservatories are closed once a month for maintenance. Check the closure dates before planning your visit.
Pro tip: Buy combo tickets for Cloud Forest & Flower Dome to maximise your savings!!
3. Wander around the ArtScience Museum
Location: 6 Bayfront Ave, Singapore
Operating hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Nearest MRT: Bayfront Station (CE1/DT16)
The lotus-inspired ArtScience Museum is a cultural landmark in Marina Bay. This museum blends art, science, culture, and technology, offering fascinating exhibitions and interactive displays.
From futuristic installations to historic artifacts, the museum covers a wide range of topics. Past exhibitions have included works by Leonardo da Vinci, Salvador Dalí, and Marvel superheroes.
The museum's striking architecture and engaging exhibits make it a top attraction for both adults and children.
ArtScience Museum Tickets cost around SGD 30 per adult which include admission to the Future World permanent exhibition.
Pro tip: To maximise your savings, book combo tickets for ArtScience Museum, Cloud Forest & Flower Dome at Gardens by the Bay and Marina Bay Sands SkyPark as all these attractions are located nearby and can be covered in one afternoon !!!
4. Take a Leisurely Stroll Along the Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade
The Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade is a scenic 3.5-kilometer-long stretch perfect for a leisurely walk or a jog.
The promenade offers unobstructed views of the bay and the city’s skyline, with numerous photo opportunities along the way. At night, the area comes alive with the Spectra – A Light & Water Show, a free-to-public extravaganza featuring lasers, water jets, and visual projections.
The promenade also boasts a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, making it a delightful spot to unwind.
5. Enjoy a Ride on the Singapore Flyer
The Singapore Flyer is one of the world's largest observation wheels, standing at 165 meters tall.
A ride on the Flyer offers breathtaking, 360-degree views of Singapore’s skyline, Marina Bay, and even parts of Malaysia and Indonesia on clear days.
The 30-minute journey in one of the spacious, air-conditioned capsules is both relaxing and exhilarating.
For a unique experience, opt for a Sky Dining package, where you can enjoy a gourmet meal while taking in the spectacular views.
Book your Singapore Flyer ticket for a high in the sky!!
6. Discover the Helix Bridge
The Helix Bridge is an architectural marvel that blends modern design with functionality. Opened in 2010, this pedestrian bridge connects Marina Centre with Marina South, offering tourists a convenient and scenic route across the bay.
Inspired by the double helix structure of DNA, the bridge features a striking spiral design made of stainless steel, creating a visually stunning experience both day and night.
For tourists, the Helix Bridge provides more than just a passage. Its integrated viewing platforms offer panoramic vistas of the Marina Bay Sands, the ArtScience Museum, and the city skyline, making it a perfect spot for photography.
The bridge is illuminated with a dynamic LED lighting system that enhances its structure and provides a captivating light show after dusk.
The bridge is easily accessible from Promenade MRT station or Bayfront MRT station.
Whether you're out for a leisurely stroll, capturing the perfect photo, or simply enjoying the architectural beauty, the Helix Bridge is a must-visit landmark in Singapore.
7. Shop and Dine at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands
For a luxurious shopping experience, visit The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands. This high-end mall features an array of designer boutiques, luxury brands, and fine dining options.
From Chanel and Gucci to Louis Vuitton and Prada, the mall is a paradise for fashion enthusiasts. Apart from shopping, visitors can enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants offering diverse cuisines, or take a gondola ride along the mall’s indoor canal.
The Shoppes also house the Marina Bay Sands Casino, adding a touch of excitement to your visit.
Conclusion
Marina Bay, Singapore, is a vibrant and diverse area that offers an array of attractions and activities.
From architectural marvels and lush gardens to cultural landmarks and thrilling nightlife, Marina Bay has something to captivate every visitor. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned explorer, these top 10 things to do in Marina Bay will ensure you experience the best of what this iconic area has to offer.
So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Marina Bay, Singapore.
