What to Do at Gardens by the Bay Singapore?

Written By Creative Eateries

Photo credits to rightful owner

Aside from the Merlion, the place most associated with Singapore is Gardens by the Bay. Opened in 2012, it quickly became one of the world’s most recognizable urban green spaces. The site spans 101 hectares, anchored by the Supertree Grove, Cloud Forest, and Flower Dome attractions that combine architecture, technology, and nature in one setting. 

More than 50 million people have visited since its opening, making it as much a global icon as a local gathering spot. This guide looks at what a beginner specially tourist can explore here and how to make the most of a first-time visit.

A Full Guide on What to Do at Gardens by the Bay Singapore to Make the Most of Your Visit

Photo credits to Gardens by the Bay

Gardens by the Bay, is a must-visit destination in Singapore. Seamlessly blending futuristic marvels with lush, natural beauty. This ultimate guide will help you plan your visit and navigate this part of Singapore's city center. From the outdoor gardens to the iconic Supertree Grove, it’s a great addition to any Singapore itinerary and one of the best things to do in the city center.

Getting There:

  1. To get to Gardens from the city center and Marina Bay area, the most convenient way is to take the Circle or Downtown MRT station to Bayfront MRT station.

  2. From Bayfront MRT station, you can follow an underground linkway or take a short walk to enter Gardens by the Bay and begin your trip to Gardens.

This complete guide to Gardens will show you the free attractions you can enjoy and the paid experiences that are well worth the fee.

  • 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018953

Free Attractions at Gardens by the Bay (No Admission Fee)

Photo credits to Gardens by the Bay

You can spend hours exploring the outdoor gardens without spending a cent. It's free to enter Gardens by the Bay's main outdoor areas, which offer stunning walks and a taste of the magic within the grounds of Gardens.

  1. Supertree Grove: This is the heart of Singapore's iconic vertical gardens. These magnificent Supertrees are home to plants from around the world. Don't miss the spectacular Garden Rhapsody light show that takes place here every night, a truly mesmerizing light show.

  2. Dragonfly & Kingfisher Lakes: Stroll along the boardwalks and enjoy the beautiful view of the Marina Bay waterfront. It's a great vantage point for photos of the Supertrees and the famous Marina Bay Sands hotel.

  3. Far East Organization Children's Garden: A fantastic water playground for Singapore with kids. It’s one of the best things for families, offering a fun space for children to play.

  4. Heritage Gardens: Explore four themed gardens that tell the story of Singapore's diverse history and culture.

  5. World of Plants: This series of six themed gardens offers a fascinating look at plant life and exotic plant species.

Ultimate Guide to Paid Attractions (Admission Fee Required)

Photo credits to Gardens by the Bay

For a more in-depth visit to the Gardens, these top attractions offer unique, immersive environments that are a highlight of any trip to Singapore. It's recommended to purchase tickets online in advance.

1. The Cooled Conservatories: These cooled conservatories are a refuge from the Singapore heat.

  • Cloud Forest: Step into a world of mist and lush vegetation. A highlight is the towering indoor waterfall, which cascades from the top of the mountain. Elevated walkways take you around the gardens, offering spectacular views.

  • Flower Dome: The world's largest glass greenhouse, this conservatory is a constant spectacle of blooms from five continents. The main flower field features new floral displays regularly.

2. OCBC Skyway: This aerial walkway connects two of the Supertrees, allowing you to walk among the canopy and get breathtaking panoramic views of the entire Gardens by the Bay's grounds, the Marina Bay waterfront, and the Singapore skyline.

3. Floral Fantasy: This whimsical and immersive space features intricate floral fantasy arrangements and a vivarium of poison dart frogs.

4. Supertree Observatory: For the highest vantage point in the park, take the lift to the top of the tallest Supertree. The Supertree Observatory offers unparalleled 360-degree views of the Singapore skyline.

Planning Your Visit

  1. Itinerary: A good itinerary for a trip to Gardens might include exploring the outdoor attractions first, then heading to the cooled conservatories during the hotter part of the day, before returning to the Supertree Grove for the evening light show.

  2. Getting There: The Bayfront MRT station is directly linked to the park.

  3. Other things to do in Singapore: Consider visiting other nearby attractions like the Singapore River or the Singapore Flyer for more views of the city skyline.

  4. Dining: For food, you can find a variety of options, including the nearby

Gardens by the Bay is a top attraction that is definitely worth visiting for anyone spending time in Singapore. There is so much to see and do, making it a perfect destination for any Singapore travel plan.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Gardens by the Bay as a Tourist in Singapore?

Photo credits to Gardens by the Bay

Gardens by the Bay is a key highlight for any tourist visiting Singapore. With its mix of natural beauty and stunning futuristic design, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. Here's how to structure your visit to ensure you make the most of your time and see all the top attractions.

1. Timing is Everything: Plan Your Itinerary

To beat the crowds and the Singapore heat, the best times to visit are either early in the morning (right at opening time) or in the late afternoon. This also allows you to experience the park in both daylight and at night.

  1. Morning (9 AM - 12 PM): Start with the ticketed cooled conservatories, the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest, while it's still relatively cool outside. The Cloud Forest is a must-see, with its towering indoor waterfall and misty atmosphere. It's an incredible photo opportunity.

  2. Afternoon (1 PM - 5 PM): After lunch, explore the free outdoor gardens like the Heritage Gardens and World of Plants. These areas are quieter and offer a relaxing stroll. Consider grabbing a meal at Satay by the Bay for a taste of local hawker food.

  3. Evening (6 PM onwards): As the sun begins to set, head back to the Supertree Grove. The magic truly comes alive at night. The Garden Rhapsody light and sound show is a spectacular finale and a highlight of any trip to Singapore.

2. Practical Tips for a Smooth Visit

  1. Book Tickets in Advance: To avoid long queues, especially for the cooled conservatories, buy your tickets online before you go.

  2. Dress Comfortably: Wear light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking.

  3. Stay Hydrated: Singapore is hot and humid. Bring a water bottle and refill it at the designated stations.

  4. Check the App: Download the official Gardens by the Bay mobile app to help you navigate, view a map of Gardens, and check showtimes and closure dates for attractions.

  5. Combine with Nearby Attractions: Gardens by the Bay is located near the Marina Bay waterfront. Consider pairing your visit with a trip to the Singapore Flyer, or catching the bay light show at Marina Bay Sands for a full day of sightseeing.

Where are the Best Places to Dine after The Visit Gardens by the Bay?

After a day of exploring the futuristic beauty of Gardens by the Bay, tourists and locals often seek a great meal. A truly satisfying dining experience can be found with Creative Eateries, a trusted brand in Singapore's culinary scene. With over 30 years of experience, they offer a diverse array of dining options across the city, from Thai, Japanese to Western cuisine.

As an exclusive catering partner for many of Singapore's top venues, including Gardens by the Bay, Creative Eateries is known for its consistent quality. For a convenient post-Gardens meal, a short trip to VivoCity offers a fantastic selection of their restaurants, each perfect for a memorable outing.

1. Suki-Ya

Located at VivoCity, Suki-Ya is a "House of Hot Pot" designed to offer a heartwarming and affordable all-you-can-eat dining experience. Perfect for friends and families, this popular spot allows diners to enjoy unlimited, high-quality chilled beef, pork, and farmed chicken. With a wide variety of fresh vegetables at the dedicated bar and a selection of flavorful soup bases, it's a fun and interactive way to enjoy a meal together.

After a day of exploring Gardens by the Bay, recharge with a fun and satisfying all-you-can-eat Japanese Hotpot. Gather your group and head to Suki-Ya at VivoCity for a hot pot experience you won't forget!

2. Barossa Steak & Grill

For those who prefer a hearty Australian-inspired meal, Barossa Steak & Grill is an excellent choice. This restaurant prides itself on serving high-quality steak, carefully sourced meats, with a focus on dry-aged Australian beef and Josper grilled dishes. The deep, smoky flavors and premium cuts make it a standout for meat lovers, and the laid-back Australian-inspired ambiance is perfect for a relaxing meal.

End your day of sightseeing on a high note. Treat your taste buds to a premium, Josper grilled steak at Barossa Steak & Grill. Book your table now for a truly memorable dining experience near Gardens by the Bay.

3. Tajimaya Yakiniku

For a unique and interactive dining experience, head to Tajimaya Yakiniku. This Japanese charcoal grill restaurant allows you and your friends to cook your own delectable meats right at your table. It offers a wide range of premium cuts, from Wagyu beef to Kurobuta pork, in a cozy yet smoke-free environment. This "hands-on" cooking style makes for a fun and memorable group meal.

Turn your dinner into an activity! After your Gardens by the Bay adventure, keep the fun going at Tajimaya Yakiniku. Reserve your spot today for a sizzling and unforgettable Japanese charcoal grill experience.

Creative Eateries
Next

Where to Find Best Spicy Hot pot in Singapore?