Singapore, a vibrant city-state where futuristic skylines meet lush green spaces, offers an incredible array of family-friendly attractions and activities. From world-class theme parks to interactive museums and stunning natural reserves, there's no shortage of things to do in Singapore with family. This comprehensive guide explores the top family-friendly activities in Singapore while providing practical tips to ensure your family vacation is both memorable and stress-free.

If you're planning a trip with children or teenagers, Singapore should be high on your list of destinations. Find more about Places to Visit in Singapore with Family to round out your family adventure.

Why Singapore is Perfect for Family Vacations

Singapore has expertly balanced modern urban development with family-friendly infrastructure, making it an ideal destination for travelers with children of all ages. From immaculate streets to efficient public transportation and excellent healthcare facilities, Singapore eliminates many common travel worries for parents.

What makes Singapore special for families:

• Compact size allowing easy exploration without extensive travel time
• Excellent safety record with low crime rates
• Clean public facilities including restrooms and nursing rooms
• English widely spoken, reducing language barriers
• Diverse cultural experiences in a single destination
• Wide range of accommodation options suited for families
• Year-round attractions regardless of weather conditions

Singapore's education system is consistently ranked among the world's best, and this excellence extends to its educational tourism offerings. According to research from Singapore Management University, the country has successfully developed tourism experiences that balance entertainment with educational value—making it perfect for families who want their children to learn while having fun.

Top 15 Things to Do in Singapore with Family

Singapore offers such a diverse range of attractions that families can easily find activities to suit every age, interest, and energy level. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures or educational experiences, here are the top things to do in Singapore with family that shouldn't be missed.

1. Gardens by the Bay: Nature Meets Future

This award-winning horticultural destination ranks among the top things to do in Singapore with family thanks to its incredible blend of natural beauty and futuristic design:

Supertree Grove: These iconic vertical gardens reach up to 16 stories high and feature a breathtaking light and sound show every evening that mesmerizes children and adults alike. The OCBC Skyway, a suspended walkway connecting several Supertrees, provides stunning panoramic views that make for unforgettable family photos.

Cloud Forest and Flower Dome: These climate-controlled conservatories house plant species from around the world in spectacular settings. Children particularly enjoy the indoor waterfall in the Cloud Forest (the world's tallest indoor waterfall at 35 meters) and the changing seasonal displays in the Flower Dome.

Children's Garden: This dedicated play area features water play zones perfect for Singapore's warm climate. Thoughtfully designed for various age groups, it allows younger children to splash safely while older ones tackle more challenging water obstacles.

Visitor information: Open daily from 9am-9pm. Consider visiting late afternoon to experience both daylight and evening views. Allocate at least 3-4 hours for a comfortable exploration with children.

2. Universal Studios Singapore: Blockbuster Fun

Located on Sentosa Island, Universal Studios Singapore delivers movie magic with seven themed zones and numerous attractions tailored for different age groups:

Rides for all ages: From the gentle Madagascar Crate Adventure for toddlers to the thrilling Battlestar Galactica dueling roller coasters for teenagers and adults, there's something for everyone in the family regardless of thrill tolerance.

Character experiences: Children can meet beloved characters from Sesame Street, Madagascar, Shrek, and other popular franchises throughout the park, creating magical moments and photo opportunities.

Shows and entertainment: Regular performances like the WaterWorld show provide entertainment breaks between rides, helping families pace their day while still enjoying immersive experiences.

Visitor information: Purchase tickets in advance to avoid queues and arrive early (before opening time) to maximize your experience. Weekdays typically see smaller crowds than weekends. Consider Express Passes during peak periods if your budget allows.

3. Singapore Zoo and River Wonders: Wildlife Adventures

Singapore's approach to animal encounters emphasizes education and conservation while providing meaningful experiences for families:

Singapore Zoo: Known for its "open concept" design, the zoo minimizes visible barriers between visitors and animals, creating more naturalistic encounters. The Rainforest Kidzworld area offers water play, pony rides, and a petting zoo specifically designed for younger children. Don't miss the popular animal shows and feeding sessions, which are both entertaining and educational.

River Wonders: Formerly known as River Safari, this river-themed wildlife park showcases aquatic and terrestrial animals from major river ecosystems. The Giant Panda Forest, home to pandas Kai Kai and Jia Jia, is a highlight for most families. The Amazon River Quest boat ride provides an exciting way to spot animals while giving tired legs a break.

Visitor information: Consider purchasing multi-park tickets if you plan to visit more than one wildlife attraction. Morning visits are recommended to see more active animals and avoid afternoon heat. Both parks feature excellent dining options and rest areas for families needing breaks.

4. Night Safari: Evening Explorations

The world's first nocturnal zoo offers a unique family activity after sunset:

Tram Safari Experience: This 40-minute guided tram ride transports families through six geographical zones showcasing nocturnal animals in naturalistic habitats. The knowledgeable commentary keeps children engaged while spotting animals they rarely see active.

Walking Trails: After the tram ride, several walking paths allow families to explore at their own pace, with well-lit trails suitable even for families with strollers.

Creatures of the Night Show: This entertaining presentation introduces various nocturnal animals and their behaviors in an interactive format that captivates young audiences.

Visitor information: Arrive just before opening at 7:30pm to maximize your visit before younger children tire. Have dinner before arriving as food options inside can be limited and crowded. The Night Safari can be busy, so visiting on weekdays is recommended for families with younger children who may find crowds overwhelming.

5. Sentosa Island: A World of Family Fun

This resort island just minutes from downtown Singapore offers concentrations of family things to do in Singapore all in one convenient location:

Beaches: Palawan Beach features a children's playground and calm waters ideal for younger swimmers, while Siloso Beach offers more vibrant atmosphere with beach activities suitable for older children and teenagers.

S.E.A. Aquarium: One of the world's largest aquariums houses over 100,000 marine animals across more than 1,000 species. The Open Ocean habitat, with its massive viewing panel, consistently amazes children as they watch manta rays and sharks glide overhead.

Adventure activities: From the exhilarating Mega Adventure Park zipline to the excitement of Skyline Luge Sentosa, families with older children and teenagers find plenty of adrenaline-pumping options.

Visitor information: Consider staying on Sentosa itself if these attractions form a major part of your itinerary. The Sentosa Fun Pass offers good value for families planning multiple activities. The island connects to mainland Singapore via monorail, pedestrian boardwalk, or cable car—each transportation method providing its own unique experience.

6. Science Centre Singapore: Interactive Learning

This educational attraction makes learning fun through hundreds of interactive exhibits:

Permanent exhibitions: Covering topics from physics to space exploration, these hands-on displays encourage children to touch, experiment, and discover scientific principles through play.

KidsSTOP™: Designed specifically for children aged 18 months to 8 years, this dedicated space allows younger visitors to explore science concepts through age-appropriate play areas.

Butterflies Up-Close: This enclosed garden houses hundreds of live butterflies, offering children close encounters with these fascinating insects throughout their life cycle.

Visitor information: Allow at least half a day for exploration. Weekday visits provide a less crowded experience. Check the schedule for science shows and demonstrations before planning your visit to catch these engaging presentations.

7. Singapore Flyer: Sky-High Views

One of the world's largest observation wheels provides families with breathtaking panoramic views:

Capsule experience: Each air-conditioned capsule accommodates up to 28 people, providing comfortable viewing for approximately 30 minutes. The slow rotation gives children plenty of time to spot landmarks and ask questions.

Singapore Flight experience: This immersive journey showcases Singapore's transformation from fishing village to global city through multimedia displays before your flight on the wheel.

Visitor information: Visit during clear weather for the best visibility. Early morning rides often feature shorter queues. Consider pre-booking tickets online to save time at this popular attraction.

8. ArtScience Museum: Where Creativity Meets Technology

This architectural marvel houses exhibitions that blend artistic expression with scientific innovation:

Future World: Created in collaboration with teamLab, this permanent exhibition features interactive digital installations that respond to visitors' movements and actions. The vibrant, immersive experiences appeal particularly to children who can directly influence the exhibits.

Rotating exhibitions: The museum regularly hosts international exhibitions covering diverse topics from natural history to pop culture, offering fresh experiences even for repeat visitors.

Visitor information: Located at Marina Bay Sands, the museum's central position makes it easy to combine with other nearby attractions. Check the current exhibition schedule before visiting to ensure content appropriate for your children's ages and interests.

9. Singapore Botanic Gardens: Natural Respite

This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers families a peaceful green escape from urban Singapore:

Jacob Ballas Children's Garden: Singapore's first garden dedicated to children provides themed play areas, interactive exhibits, and educational activities designed to nurture love for nature.

Swan Lake: The serene lake with its graceful swans offers perfect picnic spots and photo opportunities that children adore.

National Orchid Garden: While younger children might not fully appreciate the orchid collections, the colorful blooms and pleasant pathways provide sensory stimulation for all ages.

Visitor information: The main gardens are open from 5am to midnight daily with free admission (only the National Orchid Garden charges an entrance fee). Early morning or late afternoon visits offer more comfortable temperatures for exploration. Stroller-friendly paths throughout make this an easy outing even with very young children.

10. Singapore River Cruises: Water-Based Exploration

Seeing Singapore from the water provides a different perspective and a relaxing activity for families:

Bumboat tours: These traditional-style boats (now powered by environmentally friendly electric engines) ply the Singapore River, passing key landmarks while providing informative commentary. The 40-minute journey is just right for children's attention spans.

River history: The cruise highlights Singapore's transformation from trading port to modern city-state, offering educational value alongside the fun of a boat ride.

Visitor information: Boats depart regularly from multiple jetties along the river. Evening cruises showcase Singapore's illuminated skyline but daytime trips offer better visibility of historical details. Choose embarkation points near other attractions you plan to visit for convenience.

11. Jurong Bird Park: Feathered Encounters

As Asia's largest bird park, this attraction captivates children with spectacular aviaries and up-close bird experiences:

Waterfall Aviary: Housing one of the world's tallest artificial waterfalls within a massive flight cage, this immersive environment allows children to observe birds flying freely all around them.

High Flyers Show: This entertaining presentation showcases birds' natural behaviors and amazing abilities through free-flying demonstrations that both educate and amaze.

Penguin Coast: The air-conditioned habitat houses several penguin species, offering a cool respite from Singapore's heat while introducing children to these charismatic birds.

Visitor information: The park will be relocating to Mandai Wildlife Reserve in 2026, so check current information before planning your visit. Morning visits offer more active bird sightings and better photo opportunities.

12. Jewel Changi Airport: More Than Transportation

Even if you're not flying, Jewel Changi deserves a spot on your list of things to do in Singapore with family:

HSBC Rain Vortex: The world's tallest indoor waterfall creates a spectacular centerpiece, with evening light shows that entrance children.

Canopy Park: This indoor nature-themed playground features bouncing nets, hedge mazes, and walking trails suspended high above the main floors, providing active play options regardless of weather.

Changi Experience Studio: This interactive space uses technology to showcase the inner workings of one of the world's best airports through games and immersive exhibits.

Visitor information: Allow several hours to explore, especially if including play areas. The complex connects directly to public transportation making it easily accessible. Visit on weekday evenings for fewer crowds while still experiencing the light shows.

13. National Museum of Singapore: Cultural Exploration

Singapore's oldest museum balances historical education with child-friendly exhibits:

Story of the Forest: This immersive digital installation transforms 69 drawings from the William Farquhar Collection into animated landscapes that children can explore through an interactive app.

Play @ NMS: This dedicated space offers hands-on activities designed to engage younger visitors with history and heritage through age-appropriate experiences.

Singapore History Gallery: Interactive elements throughout keep children engaged while learning about Singapore's development from settlement to modern nation.

Visitor information: Free admission for children 6 and under. The museum offers family-friendly tours and activity sheets that help children engage with exhibits. Plan around 2-3 hours for a comfortable visit with younger attention spans.

14. Pulau Ubin: Back-to-Nature Day Trip

This rustic island offers families a glimpse of Singapore's past and outdoor adventures:

Bicycle exploration: Rental shops near the jetty offer bikes in all sizes, including child seats and children's bicycles, making family exploration easy along the island's relatively flat paths.

Chek Jawa Wetlands: This rich ecosystem features a coastal boardwalk and viewing tower where children can spot marine creatures, monkeys, and birds in their natural habitats.

Village atmosphere: The island's laid-back vibe and absence of modern development creates an experience dramatically different from mainland Singapore, teaching children about simpler lifestyles.

Visitor information: Reach the island via a 10-minute bumboat ride from Changi Point Ferry Terminal. Visit on weekdays for a more serene experience. Pack water, snacks, and sun protection as facilities are limited.

15. East Coast Park: Beachside Recreation

This sprawling coastal park provides outdoor family fun with stunning sea views:

Cycling and skating: The paved paths stretching over 15km offer safe spaces for children to develop skills on bikes, skates, or scooters, with rental facilities available for tourists.

Beach playgrounds: Multiple play areas dotted throughout the park cater to different age groups, with Marine Cove Playground being particularly popular for its inclusive design and seaside location.

Water sports: Older children and teenagers can try kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or windsurfing through various operators along the beach.

Visitor information: Easily accessible via public transportation, the park offers numerous food outlets and restroom facilities. Early mornings or weekday visits provide more space for active families. Consider visiting the park on your way to or from Changi Airport due to its convenient eastern location.

Best Times to Visit Singapore with Family

Singapore's equatorial location means consistently warm temperatures year-round, but certain periods offer advantages for family trips:

February-April: This period between major holidays sees fewer tourists while offering relatively dry conditions. Comfortable for outdoor activities with children while benefiting from lower accommodation rates.

June-July: Coincides with school holidays in many countries but offers the Great Singapore Sale with shopping discounts throughout the city. Indoor attractions provide relief from occasional rain showers.

August-October: Generally good weather conditions with cultural festivals like the Mid-Autumn Festival that add extra dimensions to family visits. National Day celebrations in August create festive atmosphere throughout Singapore.

Family travel tip: If possible, avoid Chinese New Year (January/February) when many local businesses close and prices increase. September offers an excellent combination of good weather, moderate crowds, and normal operating hours for most attractions.

Where to Stay in Singapore with Family

When planning things to do in Singapore with family, choosing the right accommodation is crucial for convenience and comfort. The best neighborhoods for families in Singapore provide easy access to attractions while offering amenities that make traveling with children easier.

1. Orchard Road: Central Convenience

For families seeking centrality and easy access to shopping and dining options:

Family benefits: Connected to multiple MRT lines for easy transportation to attractions Accommodation types: Luxury hotels with family rooms and suites, many featuring children's amenities and swimming pools Budget range: Mid to high-end, with occasional promotions during off-peak seasons Convenience factor: Indoor connections between many malls and hotels protect families from rain or heat

2. Sentosa Island: Resort Atmosphere

For families focusing on beach activities and Sentosa attractions:

Family benefits: Reduced transportation needs if focusing on Sentosa's numerous attractions Accommodation highlight: Hotels offering dedicated children's pools, kids' clubs, and family entertainment Worth noting: Higher price point but potential savings on transportation and convenience for multiple Sentosa visits Dining advantage: Child-friendly dining options within resorts and nearby areas

3. Marina Bay: Urban Luxury

For families seeking iconic Singapore experiences and views:

Location advantage: Walking distance to Gardens by the Bay, ArtScience Museum, and other top attractions Accommodation style: Luxury hotels with spectacular views and premium family facilities Budget consideration: Higher price point but excellent facilities and convenient location Family perk: Many hotels offer family packages including attraction tickets

4. Bugis/Kampong Glam: Cultural Immersion

For families seeking more authentic neighborhood experiences:

Cultural advantage: Walking distance to cultural sites and unique shopping experiences Accommodation options: Boutique hotels and serviced apartments suitable for families Value proposition: Generally more affordable than Orchard or Marina Bay areas Family-friendly feature: Pedestrian-friendly streets with interesting sights at child's eye level

When selecting accommodation for exploring things to do in Singapore with family, consider properties offering family rooms, swimming pools, and in-house dining options to simplify logistics with children.

Family-Friendly Dining in Singapore

Singapore's reputation as a food paradise extends to family dining, with options to suit even the pickiest eaters:

Hawker Centers: These food courts offer affordable, authentic meals with enormous variety. Maxwell Food Centre and Lau Pa Sat provide central locations with child-friendly options like chicken rice and satay. Smaller portions for children are often available upon request.

Theme Restaurants: Establishments like DC Super Heroes Cafe or Central Perk (Friends-themed) combine dining with entertainment that appeals to different age groups. Reserve in advance for these popular venues, especially during weekends.

Food Courts in Malls: Nearly every shopping center features a food court with international and local options, perfect for families with varying preferences. Clean, air-conditioned environments with high chairs and sometimes play areas nearby make these practical choices.

Dining tip: Singapore's hot climate means children need regular hydration. Most establishments provide free water upon request, or purchase bottled water at convenience stores found throughout the city.

Transportation Tips for Families in Singapore

Navigating Singapore with children is straightforward thanks to the city's excellent public transportation system:

MRT (Mass Rapid Transit): Singapore's subway system connects most major attractions with clean, air-conditioned trains running frequently. Priority seating is available for families with young children. Purchase an EZ-Link card for each family member (children under 0.9m height travel free) to avoid buying single tickets repeatedly.

Buses: Extensive bus networks reach areas not served by MRT. Most buses are stroller-friendly with designated spaces. Bus stops display real-time arrival information to minimize waiting with impatient children.

Walking: Many central areas feature covered walkways and underground passages connecting attractions, malls, and transportation hubs—particularly valuable during rain showers or intense midday heat.

Ride-hailing services: Apps like Grab provide convenient transportation when carrying multiple bags or traveling with tired children. Car seats are not commonly available but can be requested through specialized services.

Transportation tip: During morning (8-9am) and evening (5-7pm) rush hours, consider adjusting your itinerary to avoid crowded trains and buses, which can be stressful with children.

Budget Tips for Family Activities in Singapore

While Singapore has a reputation for being expensive, families can enjoy numerous attractions without overspending:

Free Attractions: Many of Singapore's best attractions offer free components—Gardens by the Bay outdoor areas, Merlion Park, playground areas at Gardens by the Bay and East Coast Park all provide no-cost entertainment.

Tourist Passes: For families planning to visit multiple paid attractions, the Singapore Tourist Pass offers unlimited public transportation and the Go Singapore Pass provides admission to multiple attractions at discounted rates. Calculate whether these passes provide value based on your specific itinerary.

Meal Strategies: Alternate between hawker centers and restaurant dining to control food costs. Many attractions have picnic areas where families can enjoy packed lunches.

Off-Peak Visits: Some attractions offer discounted rates during weekday afternoons or non-peak periods. Check official websites for current promotions before your visit.

Budget tip: Water parks like Wild Wild Wet offer twilight tickets at reduced prices for late-afternoon entry—perfect for families with older children who want water fun without full-day prices.

Creating Your Perfect Singapore Family Itinerary

With so many things to do in Singapore with family, organizing your time effectively ensures you experience the best the city offers without exhausting younger travelers:

Day 1: Urban Exploration

• Morning: Gardens by the Bay (Cloud Forest and Flower Dome)
• Lunch: Satay by the Bay hawker center
• Afternoon: ArtScience Museum
• Evening: Gardens by the Bay light show

Day 2: Animal Adventures

• Morning: Singapore Zoo
• Lunch: Zoo dining options
• Afternoon: River Wonders
• Evening: Night Safari

Day 3: Sentosa Fun

• Morning: Universal Studios Singapore
• Lunch: In-park dining
• Afternoon: S.E.A. Aquarium
• Evening: Relaxed dinner at your hotel

Day 4: Cultural Immersion

• Morning: National Museum of Singapore
• Lunch: Food court at nearby mall
• Afternoon: Singapore Botanic Gardens
• Evening: Singapore River cruise

Day 5: Free & Easy

• Morning: Jewel Changi
• Lunch: Jewel dining options
• Afternoon: East Coast Park or additional time at family favorites
• Evening: Final dinner at a hawker center

Ready to experience the best things to do in Singapore with family? Frenzy Holidays offers expertly crafted Singapore tour packages from Mumbai that include all these highlights plus seamless logistics. Call +91 7400453140 today to speak with a Singapore specialist who can customize your perfect family adventure.

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