10 Best Things to Do in Singapore with Kids

Singapore will always be a special place for our family. We called it home for few years, and even after moving away, we still enjoy coming back and exploring the city with Elise. Having experienced Singapore both as residents and as visitors, we’ve come to appreciate just how much there is for families to enjoy.

From exciting theme parks and wildlife encounters to beautiful gardens, outdoor adventures and local food experiences, there’s something for every age. We’re sharing 10 of the best things to do in Singapore with kids, along with our personal recommendations and practical tips to help you make the most of your family trip.

Whether you’re travelling with a curious toddler, school-age children or teenagers looking for a little adventure, you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy Singapore together.

Quick Answer

Some of the best family-friendly activities in Singapore include visiting Universal Studios Singapore, exploring Gardens by the Bay, spending a day at Singapore Zoo, discovering Bird Paradise, enjoying Sentosa’s beaches and attractions, and experiencing the city’s beautiful outdoor spaces. You can also add indoor attractions, waterfront walks and local hawker food adventures to your itinerary.

How We Chose the 10 Best Things to Do in Singapore with Kids

The best family experiences aren’t always the biggest or most popular attractions. Sometimes, it’s the simple things that make a trip memorable. For this list, we’ve considered a mix of attractions and experiences that offer something different for families, from toddlers to older children.

We’ve also kept practical things in mind, such as getting around with kids, dealing with Singapore’s heat and humidity, finding places to take a break, and choosing activities that are worth the time and money. Our goal is to help you plan a family trip that’s enjoyable without feeling like you have to squeeze everything into one day.

1. Universal Studios Singapore

Best for: Families with children of different ages | Time Needed: A full day

If there’s one attraction that can easily fill a day with family fun, it’s Universal Studios Singapore. From meeting familiar characters to enjoying themed rides and live shows, there’s plenty to keep children entertained. Younger kids may enjoy Minion Land and the Far Far Away area, while older children and teens have more thrilling options, including Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure and Battlestar Galactica.

Good to Know Before You Go:

• Arrive early and check the most popular rides first. Queues can build as the day goes on, particularly during weekends and school holidays.
• Check the latest ride height requirements before your visit. Some attractions have restrictions that may surprise younger children.
• Bring a refillable water bottle, sunscreen and a small towel. Singapore’s heat can be tiring, and water rides may leave you a little wet.
• Consider an Express Pass if you’re visiting during a busy period or want to fit in more rides. Whether it’s worth the extra cost depends on your plans and the crowd level.

Read our complete guide to Universal Studios Singapore.

Book Universal Studios Singapore ticket here.

2. Singapore Zoo

Best for: All ages, especially toddlers and primary-school children | Time Needed: 4–5 hours

Singapore Zoo is a lovely option for families who enjoy seeing animals up close. Its open, naturalistic habitats make the experience feel different from walking through a traditional zoo, and there is plenty to explore at a relaxed pace.

For families with younger children, the complimentary tram is useful when little legs start getting tired. You can also explore on foot and stop at the animal habitats and presentations that interest your family. If you’re visiting with a toddler, check the latest information about Rainforest KidzWorld and its water-play facilities before planning your afternoon around them.

Good to Know Before You Go:

• Start in the morning when the weather is generally cooler and plan your route around the animals and presentations your children most want to see.
• Use the complimentary tram to cover more ground, especially if you’re visiting with little ones.
• Check the daily presentation schedule before arriving so you can plan your route around it.
• Strollers and wagons are available for rent, which can be handy if you’re travelling with younger children.

Book Singapore Zoo ticket here.

3. Gardens by the Bay

Best for: All ages | Time Needed: 2–4 hours

Gardens by the Bay is one of those places that makes Singapore feel special. The towering Supertrees are impressive during the day, but they become even more magical when they light up at night.

There’s a good mix of outdoor and indoor attractions here. Children can enjoy the open spaces and the Far East Organization Children’s Garden, while the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest offer a welcome break from the heat. The OCBC Skyway is another option if your family would like to see the Supertrees from above, although it may not be everyone’s cup of tea if heights are a concern.

Good to Know Before You Go:

• Visit in the late afternoon if you want to enjoy the gardens before staying for the evening Garden Rhapsody light and sound show.
• Bring a change of clothes if your children plan to play in the Children’s Garden water-play area.
• Check the Children’s Garden opening hours and the conservatories’ ticketing details before visiting.
• Allow some extra time for walking between attractions. The gardens are larger than they may look on a map.

Book Gardens by the Bay ticket here.

4. Singapore Oceanarium

Best for: All ages, especially children who love marine life | Time Needed: 2–3 hours

If your children are fascinated by sharks, rays and other sea creatures, Singapore Oceanarium is worth adding to your Sentosa itinerary. Previously known as S.E.A. Aquarium, the attraction has been redeveloped and expanded under its new name.

The large marine habitats and underwater viewing areas make it an enjoyable indoor activity, particularly during the hottest part of the day or when the weather turns rainy. It’s also close to Universal Studios Singapore, so you can combine the two attractions if you have enough time, although visiting both in one day may feel rushed with younger children.

Good to Know Before You Go:

• Check the current exhibits, experiences and ticket options before booking.
• Allow time to enjoy the larger viewing habitats instead of rushing from one area to another.
• It can be an air-conditioned break from Sentosa’s outdoor attractions.

Book Singapore Oceanarium ticket here.

5. Singapore Night Safari

Best for: School-age children and older kids | Time Needed: Around 3 hours

Night Safari offers a different kind of wildlife experience. Instead of visiting during the day, families get to explore the animal habitats after dark, when many nocturnal animals are active.

You can take the complimentary tram through different geographical zones or explore the walking trails at your own pace. It’s a fun experience for curious children, although younger kids who are easily tired or uncomfortable staying out late may find it a little challenging.

Good to Know Before You Go:

• Plan your visit around your children’s usual bedtime. A late evening out can be tiring, especially after a full day of sightseeing.
• Check the tram schedule and walking trails before arriving so you can decide how to spend your time.
• The Creatures of the Night presentation is popular, so check the latest schedule and reserve seats when the booking window opens.
• Turn off your camera flash. Flash photography is not allowed because it can disturb the animals.

Book Singapore Night Safari ticket here.

6. Bird Paradise

Best for: All ages, especially children who enjoy animals and nature | Time Needed: Around 4 hours

Bird Paradise is a wonderful alternative to a traditional zoo visit. Home to more than 3,500 birds across over 400 species, the park features eight large walk-through aviaries inspired by different natural habitats.

Rather than simply looking at birds from behind enclosures, you can walk through these themed spaces and observe them in surroundings designed to resemble their natural environments. Children can discover different species, watch feeding sessions and enjoy the presentations scheduled throughout the day.

The park is spacious, so it helps to plan your route before setting off. There’s also a complimentary shuttle between the entrance and Central Plaza, which is useful when visiting with younger children.

Good to Know Before You Go:

• Check the daily presentation and feeding schedules before your visit.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you’ll be exploring several large aviaries.
• Bring water and sun protection, even though some areas offer shade.
• If you’re visiting with a stroller, check the shuttle arrangements and park map to plan your route.

Book Singapore Bird Paradise ticket here.

7. Sentosa: Skyline Luge and the Beaches

Best for: Families with school-age children, plus younger children accompanied by an adult | Time Needed: Half a day

Sentosa is more than just theme parks. If your family wants something a little more outdoorsy, the Skyline Luge is a fun way to spend part of the day. It’s a gravity-powered ride where you steer and control your speed as you make your way down the track.

Children who meet the height and age requirements can ride on their own, while younger children can share a luge with an accompanying adult under the attraction’s tandem-riding rules.

Afterwards, you can slow things down with a visit to one of Sentosa’s beaches. Siloso, Palawan and Tanjong each have their own atmosphere, so choose one based on how you’d like to spend the afternoon.

Good to Know Before You Go:

• Check the latest height and age requirements before purchasing your Luge tickets.
• Children aged 2–6 and between 85 and 110 cm can ride tandem with a responsible adult. Solo riders must be over 6 years old and taller than 110 cm.
• Bring swimwear, towels and a change of clothes if you plan to spend time at the beach.
• Don’t assume every beach area has calm water. Check the conditions and supervise children closely near the sea.

Book Singapore Skyline Luge ticket here.

8. Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden

Best for: Children up to 14 years old | Time Needed: 1–2 hours | Cost: Free

Sometimes, the best family outings don’t have to involve expensive tickets or a packed schedule. Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, within the Singapore Botanic Gardens, is a lovely place for children to explore nature through play.

There are interactive play areas, garden trails and spaces where little ones can learn about plants, insects and the natural environment. It’s a nice change of pace if your itinerary has been filled with theme parks and indoor attractions.

One thing to know before visiting: the popular Tree House is temporarily closed because of termite damage, with a replacement expected around the end of 2027. There’s still plenty to explore around the garden in the meantime.

Good to Know Before You Go:

• Entry is free, making this a good option for a more budget-friendly family outing.
• The garden is open from 8am to 7pm and is closed on Mondays unless it’s a public holiday.
• Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
• Bring water, sun protection and comfortable shoes for exploring the trails.

9. Pulau Ubin

Best for: Older children and adventurous families | Time Needed: Half a day or more

For families who want to see a different side of Singapore, consider taking a trip to Pulau Ubin. A short bumboat ride from Changi Point Ferry Terminal brings you to an island with a much more rustic feel, away from the city’s shopping malls and busy streets.

It’s a good place to enjoy the outdoors, with walking and cycling routes, village scenery and opportunities to spot local wildlife. The experience is less about organised attractions and more about exploring at your own pace.

This isn’t necessarily the easiest outing with toddlers, especially if you’re planning to cycle or explore for several hours. But for families with older children who enjoy nature and outdoor adventures, it can be a memorable addition to the trip.

Good to Know Before You Go:

• Bring drinking water, insect repellent, sunscreen and comfortable footwear.
• Check the weather before leaving and avoid forested trails during or immediately after heavy rain.
• Stay on designated paths and observe wildlife from a safe distance. Don’t feed or approach the animals.
• Check your transport and bicycle arrangements ahead of time, especially if travelling with children.

10. A Hawker Centre Food Adventure

Best for: All ages | Time Needed: 1–2 hours

You can’t visit Singapore without trying its local food, and hawker centres are one of the best places to start. They’re part of everyday life in the city, with plenty of stalls serving local favourites at different price points.

For families, it’s also a relaxed way to let everyone try something different without committing to a full restaurant meal. You could order chicken rice, satay, noodles, kaya toast or fresh fruit juice and share a few dishes around the table.

If you’ve been following our Singapore stories, you may already know that we enjoy exploring the city’s food scene. Places such as Maxwell Food Centre, Old Airport Road Food Centre, Lau Pa Sat and Geylang Serai Market each offer a different local atmosphere and food selection.

Good to Know Before You Go:

Bring tissues and wet wipes, and keep an eye on children around busy walkways and hot food.

Visit outside the busiest lunch and dinner periods if you’re travelling with young children.

Order a few dishes to share so everyone gets to try something new.

Look for the food hygiene grade displayed at each stall.

Practical Tips for Visiting Singapore with Kids

• Best time to visit: Singapore is warm year-round. February to April is typically slightly drier, but always pack for sudden rain.
• Getting around: The MRT is clean, safe, and affordable. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are plentiful, and children travel free or at reduced fares on public transport depending on height or age, so check current rules.
• Staying cool: Plan outdoor activities early or late, and schedule indoor attractions for midday.
• Sun and hydration: Pack sunscreen, hats, and refillable bottles.
• Stroller tips: Most attractions are fully accessible, though Pulau Ubin is better with a carrier or bicycle.
• Sample 4-day plan: Day 1 Gardens by the Bay and hawker dinner; Day 2 Universal Studios and S.E.A. Aquarium; Day 3 Singapore Zoo and Night Safari; Day 4 Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden and Sentosa beach.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best age to visit Singapore with kids? Singapore suits any age. Toddlers enjoy the zoo, gardens, and splash areas, while ages 6 and above get the most from the theme park and Pulau Ubin.

How many days do you need in Singapore with kids? Four to five days is comfortable for the main attractions without exhausting children.

Is Singapore safe for families? Yes. Singapore is widely regarded as one of the safest countries in the world, with clean streets, reliable public transport, and good healthcare.

Are there free things to do in Singapore with kids? Yes. The Children’s Garden at Gardens by the Bay, the Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, the Supertree light show, and many public playgrounds and beaches are free.

What is the best way to beat the heat? Schedule outdoor activities for mornings and evenings, and visit air-conditioned attractions like the S.E.A. Aquarium and Cloud Forest at midday.