Discover the Best Things to Do in Singapore in 2025
There are so many things to do in Singapore that reflect the diversity of the city. You can meander past otherworldly Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay, browse cultural enclaves such as Chinatown and Kampong Glam, or hop on a cable car to Sentosa for a day spent playing in the sea. Singapore has a knack for blending the new and the traditional, and that balance makes it one of a kind.
For those visiting for the first time, the sights are indelible, yet even return visitors discover a new reason to keep coming back each year. The city keeps adding attractions, like the Rainforest Wild Asia, a local wildlife extravaganza at Mandai, and the IMBA Theatre, which fuses technology with art in live immersive shows. From the food scene to the wildlife, shopping, or culture, the list of what to do in Singapore only keeps getting longer, which is just another reason 2025 is the year to head here.
City Landmarks & Iconic Attractions – Best Things to Do in Singapore
Things to do in Singapore often start with the famous landmarks that loom over the skyline and demonstrate the distinct character of the city. From Marina Bay Sands to Gardens by the Bay, these sights combine cutting-edge architecture with culture. They don’t merely feel like tourist stops, but rather experiences that have captured the essence of Singapore.
1. Visit Gardens by the Bay
To be honest, no trip to Singapore feels complete without walking into Gardens by the Bay. Standing under the Supertrees, with their branches stretching high above like something out of a fantasy film, is one of those things to do in Singapore that really stays with you. They look impressive in the daytime, but it’s at night, when the lights switch on and the music starts, that the whole place feels surreal.
The domes are a different world altogether. The Cloud Forest is cool and damp, with mist clinging to your skin and a waterfall that roars the moment you walk in. The Flower Dome, on the other hand, is calmer, brighter, and filled with rotating displays that change throughout the year. You wander slowly because everywhere you look, there’s a new corner to explore, orchids, art pieces, even quiet benches where you can just sit and take it in.
It doesn’t feel like a typical garden. It’s futuristic, experimental, and a little theatrical, yet somehow still peaceful. That mix sums up Singapore better than almost anything else.
Explore the City with Ease
If you only have time for one visit, go in the evening. Watching the Supertrees light up against the night sky is easily one of the most magical things to do in Singapore.
2. Marvel at Marina Bay Sands and Enjoy the SkyPark Views
Marina Bay Sands isn’t just another hotel; it’s the building everyone recognizes in Singapore. The three towers with that “ship” balanced on top look almost unreal when you see them up close. Heading up to the SkyPark is one of those classic things to do in Singapore, and honestly, the views are as good as everyone says.
The lift shoots you up in seconds, and suddenly you’re looking out over the whole city. The Supertrees glow on one side, the bay stretches out on the other, and if the weather’s clear, you can even spot ships lined up far out at sea. At sunset, the light bounces off the glass towers around the bay, turning the whole place golden for a few minutes before the skyline switches to neon.
Down below, the waterfront is lively too. Street musicians, the ArtScience Museum shaped like a lotus, fountains, and crowds just soaking it all in. You’ll probably end up hanging around longer than you expect.
Explore the City with Ease
Visiting landmarks like Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay is easier when everything is planned for you. Embassy Alliance offers private transport, professional tour guides, and even small group tour arrangements so you can focus on enjoying the views without worrying about logistics.
3. Snap a Selfie at Merlion Park and Walk the Waterfront
Yes, it’s touristy, but the Merlion is one of those things you just have to see. The statue is quirky, half lion and half fish, spitting water into the bay. Everyone ends up here at some point, and grabbing a photo is still one of the classic things to do in Singapore.
It’s usually crowded. Tour groups, families, and couples are all waiting for their turn. The heat bounces off the concrete, the sound of cameras clicking everywhere, but there’s also this buzz that makes it kind of fun. The real surprise is the view. From the Merlion, you get Marina Bay Sands right across the water, and at night, the whole skyline glitters.
The waterfront walk around here is nice, too. There are benches, food stalls, and always a bit of a breeze coming off the bay. You might come for a five-minute selfie and end up staying an hour just people-watching.
Travel Tip:
Go early in the morning if you want fewer crowds, or head there after dark when the lights reflect on the water. Either way, it’s one of those things to do in Singapore you shouldn’t skip, even if it feels a little cliché.
4. Ride the Singapore Flyer for Sweeping Views
The Singapore Flyer is hard to miss. It looks a bit like any other Ferris wheel from far away, but once you’re in the capsule, you get why it’s different. The thing is massive, and slowly rising over Marina Bay is still one of those things to do in Singapore that makes you stop and just take it all in.
The ride itself is slow, about half an hour for one full loop. The capsules are huge, air-conditioned, and steady, so it doesn’t feel scary, more like floating. On clear days, you can spot ships out on the strait and even faint outlines of Malaysia. Down below, the city feels hectic, but up there it’s almost quiet.
It’s not as flashy as going up Marina Bay Sands, but that’s part of the charm. You just watch the skyline change, the Supertrees glowing, and the bay turning gold at sunset, and for a while, Singapore feels calmer than usual.
Travel Tip:
Time your ride for late afternoon. You’ll see the city in daylight, then watch the lights flick on as dusk falls. Simple, but still one of the most underrated things to do in Singapore.
5. Explore the ArtScience Museum
The ArtScience Museum is the lotus-shaped building right next to Marina Bay Sands, and stepping inside is akin to stepping into the future. It combines art and science, and technology in delightfully playful, surprising, and occasionally thought-provoking ways. A few hours here is one of the more unusual things to do in Singapore, especially if you love interactive exhibits.
Some galleries are hands-on, inviting you to draw, touch, or even construct things. Others are all about light, sound, and giant digital projections that make you feel as if you’ve stepped into another world. Families with kids love it, which is no surprise; there is plenty to capture their attention, but even adults get sucked in: it’s difficult not to when an entire wall filled with moving colors is responding to your movements.
The museum also stages large international exhibitions, so depending on when you visit, you may find yourself one minute looking at ancient artifacts and the next at futuristic tech.
Travel Tip:
Look up the exhibition schedule online before visiting. The permanent interactive displays are great, but the temporary exhibitions can be incredible, making this easily one of the coolest things to do in Singapore.
6. Visit the IMBA Theatre at Gardens by the Bay
This is one of the newest spots in town, tucked inside Gardens by the Bay. The IMBA Theatre doesn’t feel like a regular cinema at all. It’s more like stepping into a digital dream, with huge screens, sound all around you, and visuals that honestly make you forget where you are. If you’re into art that blends with tech, this is one of the coolest things to do in Singapore right now.
The shows change, but they’re usually immersive, with light, sound, and sometimes even movement in the seats. You don’t just watch; you feel like you’re part of the story. It’s different from the usual museum or garden walk, and that’s why people are talking about it so much in 2025.
What I liked most was how it fits into the Gardens’ vibe. You step out of nature, Supertrees still glowing outside, and then suddenly you’re dropped into this futuristic show. It’s a sharp contrast, but it works.
Travel Tip:
Book tickets early if you’re going on weekends. The place isn’t huge, and shows fill up fast. If you’re already visiting Gardens by the Bay, adding this to your plan makes it one of the most memorable things to do in Singapore.
7. Wander Through the Singapore Botanic Gardens
If you need a break from skyscrapers and malls, the Botanic Gardens are the easiest escape. It’s Singapore’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, and spending a morning here is one of the most peaceful things to do in Singapore. The place feels huge, with winding paths, lakes full of swans, and open lawns where people jog or picnic.
The star of the gardens is the National Orchid Garden. Rows and rows of orchids in every shape and color, some so bright they don’t look real. It’s calm, a little humid, and very photogenic. Even if you’re not into plants, it’s hard not to be impressed by the scale of it.
What makes the gardens special is how local life and tourism mix. On weekends, you’ll see families walking their dogs, musicians practicing under a tree, and travelers slowly making their way from one section to another. It’s not a “rush through” type of place, more like somewhere you linger.
Travel Tip:
Go early in the morning before the heat kicks in. Bring water, and if you can, check out a free concert at the Shaw Foundation Symphony Stage. It adds a whole new vibe and makes the gardens one of the most relaxed things to do in Singapore.
Nature & Wildlife Experiences—Must-Do Things to Do in Singapore
Singapore may be a city of glass towers, but it’s also full of green escapes and wildlife parks. From UNESCO gardens to brand-new jungle adventures, exploring nature is one of the most rewarding things to do in Singapore. These spots show a softer, wilder side of the city that balances out its fast-paced modern energy.
8. Explore Rainforest Wild Asia at Mandai
Rainforest Wild Asia is one of the newest additions at Mandai, and it’s a game-changer. Walking through here doesn’t feel like a zoo; it feels like you’ve stepped straight into a Southeast Asian jungle. The trails wind past waterfalls, thick greenery, and open habitats where animals move freely. It’s easily one of the most exciting things to do in Singapore in 2025.
Expect to see everything from orangutans to clouded leopards, sometimes closer than you’d think. The enclosures are designed so well that half the time you forget there’s any barrier at all. It’s immersive, a little humid, and surprisingly quiet compared to the bustle of the city.
What’s nice is that it works for both families and solo travelers. Kids love spotting animals up close, while adults can appreciate how much thought has gone into conservation here. It feels educational without being boring.
Travel Tip:
Wear good shoes, because the walking trails can be long. If you’re already heading to Mandai for the zoo or Bird Paradise, add this to your plan; it’s one of the most unforgettable things to do in Singapore right now.
9. Visit the Singapore Zoo and River Wonders
The Singapore Zoo has been around for years, but it still stands out as one of the best wildlife parks anywhere. The enclosures are open and natural, so instead of cages, you see animals moving through spaces that look like their real habitats. Spending half a day here is one of the most family-friendly things to do in Singapore, and it doesn’t feel like a typical zoo visit.
The white tigers, orangutans, and elephants are big favorites, but the smaller sections are just as fun. There’s a fragile forest dome where lemurs jump past you, and reptile houses that kids either love or get a little spooked by. The layout makes it easy to wander slowly, with shaded paths and plenty of stops along the way.
Right next door is River Wonders, and it’s worth adding on. Giant pandas are the star attraction here, along with a river-themed aquarium that brings together creatures from the Amazon, Mekong, and Nile. It’s calmer than the zoo but just as engaging.
Seamless Family Adventures:
Heading to Mandai for the zoo, River Wonders, or Night Safari? Embassy Alliance can arrange transport, tour guides, and family-friendly group tours, making it easy to enjoy the wildlife parks without the stress of planning.
10. Experience the Night Safari
The Night Safari is one of those attractions you don’t really understand until you try it. It’s the world’s first nocturnal zoo, and instead of bright enclosures, you explore under dim lights, hearing animals before you see them. It’s easily one of the most unusual things to do in Singapore, and it feels a bit adventurous too.
Most visitors start with the tram ride, which takes you through different zones. You’ll spot deer, elephants, and even big cats moving in the shadows. Because the lighting is so natural, the animals look like they’re roaming freely. After the tram, you can walk the trails on foot. This is where it gets exciting, with owls staring at you from the trees or bats swooping quietly overhead.
The atmosphere is very different from the daytime parks. It’s cooler and quieter, and there’s this sense of being out in the wild even though you’re just minutes from the city. Families love it, but it’s also a fun evening for couples or friends who want something out of the ordinary.
Travel Tip:
Book tickets in advance and go early, as the lines build up fast. If you’re looking for a memory that feels a little different, the Night Safari is one of the most unforgettable things to do in Singapore.
11. Trek the Southern Ridges
If you want to see a greener side of the city without leaving town, the Southern Ridges is the place to go. It’s a 10-kilometer stretch of parks and elevated walkways that connects Mount Faber, Telok Blangah Hill, and Kent Ridge. Spending a few hours here is one of the most refreshing things to do in Singapore, especially if you’re tired of shopping malls and crowds.
The highlight is Henderson Waves, a wooden bridge shaped like rolling waves that sits high above the road. It’s photogenic during the day, but at night it glows with soft lighting and feels almost surreal. Along the way, you’ll walk through forest trails, canopy walks where you’re surrounded by trees, and open areas with views stretching out toward the sea.
What makes the trek fun is that it’s easy to do at your own pace. Locals use it for jogging or evening strolls, while visitors stop every few minutes for photos. There’s no rush, and every section feels a little different from the last.
Travel Tip:
Go early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat. Bring water, because the walk can take a couple of hours if you do the whole stretch. For anyone who enjoys nature and city views combined, the Southern Ridges is one of the most rewarding things to do in Singapore.
12. Stroll Kampong Glam and Visit Sultan Mosque
Kampong Glam is one of those neighborhoods where you feel layers of history and modern life blending together. At its heart is the Sultan Mosque, with its golden dome that shines above the low-rise streets. Just standing in front of it is one of the essential things to do in Singapore, but the real charm is wandering the streets around it.
Haji Lane is the spot everyone talks about — narrow, full of street art, indie boutiques, and tiny cafés tucked into shophouses. It’s crowded at times, but the vibe is lively, and it’s the kind of place where you’ll want to stop for a coffee just to watch people go by. Arab Street, on the other hand, has fabric shops, carpet dealers, and Middle Eastern restaurants that smell amazing as you pass.
What makes Kampong Glam special is the mix. You can step into a centuries-old mosque, then five minutes later be looking at murals or sipping craft beer. It feels both traditional and trendy, and that’s what keeps people coming back.
Travel Tip:
Go in the late afternoon so you can explore while the shops are open, then stay for dinner in one of the Middle Eastern restaurants. Experiencing Kampong Glam is one of the most vibrant cultural things to do in Singapore.
13. Discover Chinatown and the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple
Chinatown is bustling, vibrant, and idiosyncratic. It’s one of those classic things to do in Singapore to walk its streets, because it encapsulates everything about food, history, and everyday life in one little micro neighborhood.
The centerpiece is the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. The first thing one notices is its red-and-gold façade, and once you’re inside, you’ll marvel at the ornate halls, which are full of statues, murals, and, of course, the sacred relic it’s named after. And no matter what your spiritual beliefs are, the temple is peaceful and worth a leisurely stroll.
Outside, the contrast is striking. That street is flanked by souvenirs on one side, satay and noodles, and fresh squeezes on the other. Lanterns light up the streets at night, and the buzz transitions into something even more animated. If you’re a foodie, this is where you’ll make your stand; the hawker centers in this vicinity are among the best in the city.
Go Deeper into Singapore’s Culture:
Heritage districts like Chinatown and Kampong Glam are best explored with a guide who knows the stories behind the streets. Embassy Alliance provides cultural walking tours, private itineraries, and group experiences that help you see the neighbourhoods in a whole new way.
14. Step into the National Museum of Singapore and the Asian Civilisations Museum
If you’re ready for a deeper look at the city that goes beyond its skyline, these museums make an excellent beginning. The National Museum of Singapore is the nation’s oldest, and visiting here is one of the most interesting things to do in Singapore. The exhibits follow the city’s evolution from a humble trading post to the world crossroads it is today, with photos, artifacts and multimedia displays that bring the past alive.
A little further afield, the Asian Civilisations Museum has a wider-angle lens. It focuses on the history of the region, with galleries on trade, religion and cultures that influenced Southeast Asia. The building itself is on the Singapore River, which adds to the atmosphere, as it is the same river where so much of the city’s early trade was carried on.
Each museum combines education with entertainment. They don’t overwhelm, and the combination of interactive exhibits and thoughtfully curated galleries make them fascinating for history nerds and lay city enthusiasts alike.
Travel Tip:
If you’re pressed for time, begin with the National Museum for a deep dive into Singapore’s own tale. However, you likely don’t have a full afternoon to spare, so consider doing both; it’s among Singapore’s most enriching cultural activities.
15. Browse Art at the National Gallery Singapore
From the outside, the National Gallery Singapore is already stunning. It’s inside two wonderfully restored buildings, the historic City Hall and Supreme Court, which are connected by modern glass walkways. Strolling down its galleries is one of the more inspiring activities in Singapore, well before examining the art hanging from the wall.
An emphasis on Southeast Asian art can be seen inside. You’ll find everything from traditional paintings to avant-garde contemporary works, as well as exhibitions that take a close look at the region’s culture and identity. Some are bold, some understated, but they all help you understand how vast the region’s diversity really is. The gallery is immense, so don’t think you’ll see everything in one go.
The garden on the roof is another highlight. It provides expansive vistas over the Padang to (and even over) Marina Bay, and it’s a peaceful place to sit down and recover after wandering through the galleries.
Travel Tip:
Visit on a weekday if you can, as weekends are often busy. You’ll need at least two or three hours if you’re of a mind to see it properly. For those who love art or those just interested in the region’s creativity, this is one of the most inspiring cultural things to do in Singapore.
16. Visit the Peranakan Museum
The Peranakan Museum is small compared to the city’s larger museums, but it is full of character. Visiting it is one of the most meaningful things to do in Singapore if you want to understand the culture that shaped much of the region.
Inside, the exhibits focus on the Peranakan community, who blend Chinese, Malay, and local traditions into a unique identity. You will see colorful beadwork, wedding outfits, porcelain, and even recreations of traditional rooms that feel like stepping back in time. The details are beautiful, and the stories behind them make the culture come alive.
What makes the museum special is how personal it feels. Unlike big galleries, this space draws you in slowly, with each display telling you something about daily life, family customs, and celebrations. It is both intimate and rich with history.
Travel Tip:
Pair your visit with a walk around the nearby Armenian Street area, which has cafés and heritage buildings. The museum itself does not take too long to explore, but it adds depth to your trip and stands out as one of the most insightful cultural things to do in Singapore.
17. Tour the Historic Sri Mariamman Temple in Chinatown
Amid the heart of Chinatown is the Sri Mariamman Temple, Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple. Standing tall is its colorful gopuram or gateway tower adorned with gods and mythological figures, just one of the many eye-catching things to do in Singapore.
In there, it’s a lively but still air in the temple. You might hear bells chiming, smell incense wafting, and see the faithful navigating from shrine to shrine. Visitors are welcome as long as they follow the rules, and spending a few minutes here offers a view into the spiritual life of the’ city.
Built in the 1800s, the temple still feels like an important part of the community. Outside, the streets are crowded with shops and food stalls, but the temple grounds themselves feel like a world apart.
Travel Tip:
Dress appropriately and leave your shoes at the door. For an even wilder spectacle, time your visit to the annual fire walking festival, but really, any day of the year, the Sri Mariamman Temple is one of the most captivating cultural activities in Singapore.
Entertainment & Family Fun – Best Things to Do in Singapore
Singapore is not just about culture and nature; it is also full of attractions that are built purely for fun. From island getaways with roller coasters to massive aquariums and adventure parks, these experiences are some of the most exciting things to do in Singapore for families, couples, and groups of friends.
18. Spend a Day at Sentosa Island
Sentosa is the place the city comes to play. Beaches, theme parks, aquariums, cable cars, and restaurants galore all reside on this little island, barely 15 minutes from downtown. It is one of the biggest attractions of Singapore and one of the best things to do in Singapore in a day, since there’s so much in one place.
The biggest draw is Universal Studios Singapore, with its rides and shows that help families spend hours having fun. Thrill seekers go to the Mega Adventure Park for zip lines and climbing courses, and there are also Siloso or Palawan Beach for lying around with a drink.
Sentosa also offers attractions such as S.E.A. Aquarium and Trick Eye Museum, as well as a multitude of beach clubs that light up at night. You can reach it via cable car, monorail, or even on foot across the Sentosa Boardwalk, so the trip there is all part of the fun.
Fun Made Simple:
Sentosa can be overwhelming with so much to do in one place. Embassy Alliance organizes private transfers, group activities, and guided tours, allowing you to fit beaches, theme parks, and attractions into a single smooth day.
19. Discover the New Oceanarium
The oceanarium on Sentosa has been completely revamped, and it is now one of the most impressive marine attractions in Asia. Visiting it is one of the most exciting things to do in Singapore, especially if you are traveling with kids or anyone fascinated by the underwater world.
The tanks are massive, with floor-to-ceiling glass walls that let you watch sharks, rays, and schools of colorful fish drift by. Some sections recreate habitats from different oceans, while others focus on conservation and the role of the sea in our daily lives. The scale of it is breathtaking, and you can easily spend hours just watching the animals move gracefully through the water.
What makes the new version stand out are the interactive elements. There are touch pools, multimedia displays, and immersive walkthroughs that make learning fun without feeling heavy. It is educational, but it still feels like entertainment first.
Travel Tip:
Go early in the day before it gets crowded. The quieter hours let you enjoy the atmosphere fully, and it is one of the most relaxing yet fascinating things to do in Singapore for families and couples alike.
20. Dive into Imagination at Minion Land in Universal Studios
Universal Studios Singapore just got even more playful with the opening of Minion Land. Bright colors, silly characters, and themed rides make this one of the most entertaining things to do in Singapore for families with kids, though plenty of adults secretly enjoy it too.
The rides here are designed to pull you into the world of the Minions, complete with 3D effects, slapstick humor, and plenty of chances to laugh. Younger kids will love the gentler attractions, while thrill seekers can hop on rides that twist, turn, and surprise you along the way. The design details are fun as well, from oversized bananas to hidden gags tucked into the queue lines.
What makes Minion Land work is the atmosphere. It is lighthearted, full of energy, and the perfect break from more serious sightseeing in the city. If you are already spending the day at Universal Studios, this new zone is worth making a beeline for.
Travel Tip:
Visit on weekdays if you can, since weekends get crowded quickly. The morning hours are best, giving you shorter lines and more time to enjoy what has become one of the most fun family-friendly things to do in Singapore.
21. Try the Jungle Thrills at Mega Adventure Park
If you’re in the mood for a shot of adrenaline, Mega Adventure Park on Sentosa is where to find it. This is one of the most action-packed activities you can do in Singapore, with everything from zip lining, rope courses, and climbing walls, and all of this set in the middle of a jungle!
The top pick is the MegaZip, a 450-meter criss-crossing zip line over the trees and beaches on the way to its end-point near Siloso Beach. It feels fast and high, but the views will make it a trip to remember. There are balloon obstacle courses up in the trees, for gastrointestinal balancing acts, and a giant swing that will lower you down so fast you’ll think your stomach has flipped out of your body.
What makes it enjoyable for both kids and adults is that the park is in two parts. Parents sit cheering to see members of their families make it through the rope courses, while groups of friends time themselves to see how quickly they can complete challenges.
Travel Tip:
Wear athletic shoes and loose, comfortable clothing, and arrive early in the day before the temperature rises too high. Live on the edge. If you’re an adrenaline junkie, you might find that Mega Adventure Park is one of the most thrilling places for outdoor activities in Singapore.
22. Join the EOY Cosplay Festival
If you’re in Singapore at the right time of year, make sure to look up the EOY Cosplay Festival. It is also one of the most vibrant things to do in Singapore, where anime fans, gamers, and pop culture aficionados converge for an energetic community celebration.
The festival is creativity, plain and simple. You’ll encounter fans wearing costumes of their favorite characters, from elaborate samurai armor and enormous robot suits to plain, amusing costumes that brighten everyone’s day. The feel is inclusive and open, whether you are attending in full cosplay or dressed as a casual passerby. There are also performances, themed stalls, and lots of photo opportunities.
What stands out is the energy. It doesn’t feel like a formal event, but like a celebration, where people commune around a shared passion. Families, teenagers who run the cotton candy machine, and older fans, too, and it’s a fun mix of ages and styles.
Travel Tip:
Food, Festivals, and Singaporean Surprises
No trip to Singapore is complete without food, festivals, and a few unexpected finds. From world-famous hawker centers to historic cocktails, cultural events, and hidden neighborhoods, these are the things to do in Singapore that give you a real taste of local life.
23. Taste Your Way Through the Hawker Centers
If you do nothing else in terms of food experiences in Singapore, do the hawker centers. They’re loud, they’re busy, and they are all delicious, and eating here is one of the most genuine things you can do when visiting Singapore.
Some of the most famous include Maxwell Food Centre, Lau Pa Sat, and Newton Food Centre, where rows of stalls hawk dishes that cost only a few dollars. Hainanese chicken rice, satay skewers, laksa, chili crab, and char kway teow are just some of the classics for which you’ll find locals queuing.
It’s the atmosphere you can’t get anywhere else. You perch at plastic tables amid families, office workers, and travelers, all tucking into plates of food that are simple but vibrant. The setting lacks pretension and instead offers delicious food and a real slice of life as it is lived daily.
Travel Tip:
24. Have a Singapore Sling at Raffles Long Bar
The Singapore Sling is more than just a cocktail; it’s a bit of the city’s past. Finding a 24-hour establishment to try one in, such as the Long Bar inside Raffles Hotel, is one of the quintessential things to do in Singapore, even if you aren’t a big cocktail person.
The bar is feeling more colonial by the day. The ceiling fans turn lazily, the décor feels timeless, and peanut shells crumble beneath your feet, tossed on the floor as a matter of tradition. Here, the atmosphere is casual but iconic (visitors from all over the world are known to visit to sip the drink where it was first made, in 1915).
It’s fruity, sweet, and a little strong because it’s got gin, some cherry brandy, and some pineapple juice. Some people adore it, others taste more novelty factor than flavor, but it is all part of the Raffles experience.
Travel Tip:
25. Visit the Revamped Straits Museum in Kampong Glam
Kampong Glam is already one of Singapore’s most colorful districts, but the revamped Straits Museum adds another reason to visit. It focuses on the history of the Malay world and the trading connections that shaped Singapore, and exploring it is one of the most insightful things to do in Singapore if you enjoy culture with context.
Inside, the galleries tell stories through artifacts, textiles, maps, and multimedia displays. You get a sense of how merchants, sailors, and communities from across the region all came together in this port city. It feels smaller and more personal than the big national museums, which makes it easier to take in without feeling overwhelmed.
The best part is how close it is to the rest of Kampong Glam. You can spend the morning exploring the mosque and Haji Lane, then step into the museum for a deeper look at the area’s heritage before heading out for a meal in one of the nearby cafés.
Travel Tip:
Plan an hour or two here as part of a wider Kampong Glam day. It is not huge, but it adds depth and is one of the most educational cultural things to do in Singapore.
26. Try the Floating Obstacle Course for Some Splashy Fun
Not everything in Singapore is about museums or skylines; sometimes it is just about having fun. The floating obstacle course, set out on the water, is one of the quirkiest things to do in Singapore if you want to mix a workout with laughter.
The course is basically a giant inflatable playground. Think climbing walls, slides, and balance beams, all floating on the sea. It looks easy from a distance, but once you are out there, every step wobbles, and one wrong move sends you splashing into the water. Families love it, groups of friends turn it into a competition, and even solo travelers can join in for a fun challenge.
It is not the most traditional attraction, but that is what makes it stand out. Between slipping, sliding, and swimming, you will probably forget you are still in one of the world’s busiest cities.
Travel Tip:
Bring swimwear and a good dose of energy. Go earlier in the day when the sun is not too strong. For anyone who likes something lighthearted and active, this is one of the most fun things to do in Singapore.
27. Stroll East Coast and Katong for Local Vibes
If you want to slow down and see how locals live, head out to the East Coast and Katong. Walking these neighborhoods is one of the most laid-back things to do in Singapore, far from the glass towers and big malls downtown.
The East Coast is best known for its long parks and beaches. People cycle, jog, or just sit by the water with snacks from the nearby food stalls. It feels relaxed, with sea breezes and open space, which you do not always find in the city center.
Katong, on the other hand, is full of heritage shophouses painted in bright pastel colors. The streets are lined with Peranakan bakeries, noodle shops, and cozy cafés. The mix of old traditions and trendy spots makes it a great place to wander without an agenda.
Travel Tip:
Try laksa in Katong, it is one of the most famous dishes in the area. Pair it with an evening walk along East Coast Park, and you will experience two of the most authentic things to do in Singapore in a single day.
28. Take a Ferry to the Southern Islands
And if the city feels a bit much, there’s always a ferry to the Southern Islands. One of the most relaxing things to do in Singapore, the hours I have spent here soothe my mind while providing me with a side of the country that many tourists glide right past.
The islands, including St John’s, Lazarus, and Kusu, are peaceful and underdeveloped compared to the main city. Instead of towering skyscrapers, there are sandy beaches, shady trees, and waters gently lapping the shore. Lazarus Island is especially prized for the crescent-shaped beach that looks practically untouched.
There’s not much to “do” in the standard sense, but that’s the idea. You pack a picnic, maybe dabble in swimming, get out for a walk, and generally revel in the decreased tempo. On weekends, this is where locals come to day trip, but it’s still way less crowded than Sentosa.
Travel Tip:
Did you Know?
29. See the Orchid Extravaganza at Gardens by the Bay
Gardens by the Bay is always doing something new, but the Orchid Extravaganza is a crowd-pleaser that really stands out. Strolling through rooms bursting with thousands of orchids in every hue is one of the most beautiful experiences in Singapore, particularly if you love photography or just love to see nature at its best.
The exhibition is new each year, but it always pairs floral displays with cultural themes, mingling art with plants in unexpected ways. Some orchids form so daintily you’d swear they were fake, while others are massive explosions of color that make people gather around them. It smells, looks, and feels a bit surreal.
It’s popular, so it will be crowded, but the size of the display offers plenty of room to walk and take it in slowly. The display of orchids is also presented in such a way that it feels like a living gallery rather than a flower show.
Travel Tip:
30. Celebrate Singapore’s National Day SG60
In 2025, Singapore will be 60, and it will be National Day when the Party is at its biggest. Witnessing this milestone is one of the best things to do in Singapore if you want to get a sense of the city’s pride and energy.
The marquee event is the National Day Parade, featuring a fireworks show and military demonstrations and performances taking place at Marina Bay. There’s an electric feel with the entire town in red and white, flags waving, and music filling the air. Even if you don’t have tickets to the main parade, you can still enjoy live screenings and parties throughout the town.
Museums and cultural attractions also get in on the action, presenting special exhibitions that illustrate Singapore’s history as a small trading port at the mouth of the Malacca Strait to a contemporary hub. Street fairs, concerts, and family fun continue the festivities long after the parade has ended.
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Conclusion
From futuristic landmarks to heritage quarters, from wildlife parks to food adventures, the list of things to do in Singapore in 2025 proves why this city remains one of the world’s top destinations. You can spend a morning exploring Gardens by the Bay, an afternoon wandering through Chinatown or Kampong Glam, and an evening watching the skyline light up at Marina Bay. Add in day trips to the Southern Islands, cultural festivals, and family attractions on Sentosa, and there is always something new to discover.
To make your trip seamless, you can rely on Embassy Alliance, a tour operator in Singapore. Their team provides private transport, expert tour guides, group tour arrangements, and tailor-made itineraries that cover all the highlights in comfort.
Families traveling with teens may also want to explore Embassy Camps, which run international educational camps in Singapore and across Asia. These programs combine fun, culture, and learning, giving young travelers a chance to experience the city in a unique way.
Whether you are here for culture, nature, food, or entertainment, the top things to do in Singapore in 2025 will leave you with experiences that are as memorable as they are diverse.