Free Things To Do In Singapore

What is it: With the most exquisite collection of flora and fauna, the Singapore Botanic Gardens is claimed to abode the world's first children garden and is absolutely worth a visit. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Singapore Botanic Gardens is the country's first and only tropical botanic garden on the UNESCO's World Heritage List. First of its kind in the whole of Asia and third in the world, these gardens are over a hundred and fifty years old. Having tremendous horticultural attractions with a rich history, these gardens possess a wonderful collection of plants that deserve worldwide significance. Hence why a stroll in these gardens isn't just one of the free things to do in Singapore, but it gives you an experience that is priceless.

Where is it: 1 Cluny Rd

What is it: Rejuvenate yourself by taking a walk through Singapore's dramatic Gardens By The Bay. The garden offers breath-taking waterfront views. The massive Super trees here are a treat for the eyes. With a height ranging between 9 to 16 storeys, walking on the suspended walkway between two Supertrees to enjoy a bird's eye view of the gardens will make your day. In the evening, take pleasure amidst the Supertrees watching beautiful sky shows with colourful lights and sounds. Visit Singapore's most iconic attraction on your way to find the best free things to do in Singapore. While entry to the gardens is free, the walkway costs SGD 5 (which is totally worth it).

Where is it: 18 Marina Gardens Drive Singapore.

When to go there: The garden opens at 5:00 AM and closes at 2:00 AM. The Garden Rhapsody light show begins at 7:45 PM and 8:45 PM.

What is it: The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple Museum is a Chinese Buddhist temple found in the Chinatown district of Singapore. It is dedicated to the Sacred Buddha Tooth Relic, said to be the left canine tooth of Lord Buddha which can be found in the shrine, constructed in 2007. The chief draw of the temple lies in its design and architecture, which has been extensively-researched to replicate the architectural style of the Tang Dynasty and the Buddhist Mandala.

Where is it: 288 South Bridge Rd

What is it: It goes without saying that Marina Bay is one of the most expensive areas in Singapore and indulging in any activity here would result in a heavy load on your wallet. But there's an exception. Immerse yourself - free of cost - in the Spectra light show at Marina Bay. The beautiful laser lights coupled with sounds form a symphony that will surely mesmerize you.

Where is it: Event Plaza at Promenade

When is it: 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM every day.

What is it: If you're on the hunt for very interesting and varied free performances, concerts, or even visual arts exhibits, the Esplanade is a truly wonderful place to start. Boasting a diverse calendar of non-ticketed programmes, you can choose from a range of dance, music, theatre, visual arts and more. Attending a performance at the Esplanade is one the best free things to do in Singapore. Just so you know, Do head down early if you don't want to be disappointed!

Where is it: Esplanade - Theatres On The Bay

When to go there: A Sunday is essentially a string of free concerts.

What is it: No doubt Singapore is a concrete jungle but amidst this jungle is some green space tucked away. Escape the hustle-bustle of the city for an afternoon and jog at the uncharted trails here. Keep an eye on the exquisite plants, rare in nature, that you meet along the way. There's no entry fee so spend all the time you can and befriend the nature.

Where is it: River Valley Rd, Singapore

When to go there: The park is open 24/7

What is it: When it comes to free things to do in Singapore, a walk along the Southern Ridges is a must! What makes a city stand out from the rest is its balance between the natural and the manmade, and in this respect, Singapore has never fallen behind. In spite of a new skyscraper rising against the backdrop of the cobalt sky almost every month, Singapore has never fallen short of making genuine efforts to preserve its natural parks and the lush green forests. These very efforts have given rise to beautiful and serene spaces, such as the Southern Ridges, where people take shelter in order to get away from the city and feel closer to nature. This ten-kilometre long trail spans the hills of four parks and picturesque pathways and provides an excellent walk through nature without ever having to leave the city.

Where is it: The parks between the Kent Ridge Park and HarbourFront.

What is it: Singapore's iconic Merlion, the so-called half-lion, a half-fish hybrid is the official mascot of Singapore. Hunting down all seven merlions is a fun activity to do. Not only do you get to see a lot of the city, but its an inexpensive way to spend the day! Challenge your friends and see who could track them all down and click a picture the quickest.

Where is it: All over the city.

When to go there: Any time of the day.

What is it: The man-made Sentosa beach is the perfect spot for you to unwind and perhaps take a swim. The drinks and food are expensive over there but there's no harm in laying on the golden sands and breathing in the salty air. So bring along a towel, apply lots of sunscreens because this is the ideal de-stressing tonic.

Where is it: Sentosa, Singapore

When to go there: Visit the beach in the noon if you feel like soaking in some sun or in the evening if you want to wander around the pristine waters.

What is it: Singapore is an ethnic hub. Explore the old age medicine shops and spiritual temples at Chinatown, or head over to Little India and immerse in the vibrant district. There's a lot to see. Hindu temples, traditional eateries, and flower garland vendors and more. Put on your sweats, fill up a bottle of water, tie up your shoelaces and hit the streets and make the most of this a great free activity.

Where is it: China Town/ Little India

When to go there: Any time of the day.

What is it: Marina Barrage is the windiest spot in Singapore and the perfect place to fly kites. Yes, the tradition of flying kites is revived amongst Singaporeans and you can join in the fun. Bring your own kite or visit the Barrage Cove to purchase one, available at all sizes and colours for people of all age. Don't know how to fly a kite? No worries. You could just watch others as the sky fills up with vibrant colours. Want a fun yet free thing to do in Singapore? This one's for you!

Where is it: 8 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore

When to go there: The park is open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

What is it: It is not an exaggeration when people say that Singapore is full of surprises. Every nook, every corner houses an attraction which is completely different from the previous one. From mosques to museums, from temples to theme parks, Singapore is wonderfully peppered with all kinds of visual treats for people. In order to embark on a journey you would not expect, step into the unconventional world of Haw Par Villa at Pasir Panjang Road. Formerly known as the Tiger Balm Garden, this Asian cultural park, built in 1937 by Aw Boon Haw and Aw Boon Par, is where you need to be if you want an adrenaline-inducing experience.

Where is it: 262 Pasir Panjang Rd

What is it: The Singapore City Gallery is located between two prominent landmarks, Chinatown and the Central Business District. It is a three storey centre which accommodates enormous model replicas, providing visitors with a complete view of the Central Area of Singapore. When it comes to finding free things to do in Singapore, learn something about the beautiful city at an urban scale!

Where is it: 45 Maxwell Rd, The URA Centre

What is it: ION Orchid is a very popular shopping mall in Singapore, housing the ION Sky Observation Deck. Started in the year 2009, the ION Orchard occupies 335 food and retail outlets. Recognised as one of the top shopping malls in Singapore by Forbes, it has the most mind-blowing indoor observation deck, all the way up on the 56th floor, giving stunning views of the city. The Ion Sky takes you back in time to discover Orchard Road's history at the refurbished Ion Sky. On the 56th level, the Ion Sky hosts an animation show following the development of Singapore and Orchard Road.

Where is it: 2 Orchard Turn

What is it: With a sprawling area of 185 hectares and covering 15 kms of coastline, East Coast Park is a splendid beach park located in the southeastern part of Singapore. It is the largest park in Singapore and is built entirely on reclaimed land, the beach is a man-made one, where swimming is also possible. Bearing the theme of "recreation for all" this park caters to everyone's needs. For those looking forward to an hour or two of relaxation, the swaying coconut trees and the beautiful sight of the ocean serve as the perfect companions. This is also a great picnic spot. Children can make sandcastles or play in the Marine Cove's Children's Playground, nearby. There are also barbeque pits in the park. Other than that, great dining options are available at the East Coast Food Lagoon, and at other nearby dining options.

Where is it: E Coast Park Service Rd

What is it: Coming across the word "free market" is highly inconvincible, and that's probably why there's two (not one) "really" added as a prefix. But yes, you read that right. The SRRFM exists and is based on the concept of building a society giving and sharing resources. From vintage items, toys, books to have your fortune read, or getting a massage, nothing here costs a cent. Here's a little tip: Do not carry your wallet.

Where is it: Post-Museum's premises on Rowell Rd.

When to go there: The next SRRFM is happening on 2nd June 2018, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Check out their Facebook page for more details.

What is it: Ticket prices cost double of what they used to a few years back. Your high quality - big-screen entertainment should not go in vain. Singapore houses a couple of movie cinemas which host regular fortnightly screenings that take place all over the island. MovieMob's drive-in cinema experience would hit the nostalgia bone just right. Bring a mat and some snacks and enjoy a flick with your loved ones under the stars free of cost. What's better is the fact that you could vote for your favourite movie to be screened.

Where is it: Next to The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands.

When to go there: Third or fourth weekend of the month. Checkout MovieMob's Facebook page for more details.

What is it: Vibrant and colourful with a cheerful crowd, the festivals of Singapore are just the right place to meet new people and get to know the Singaporean culture better. Be it the eclectic Buskers Festival or the artistic Singapore Night Festival or to the musical Mosaic Music Festival, there's guaranteed quality entertainment for everybody without shelling out a penny.

Where is it: The festivals happen year-round all over the city.

When to go there: You can find information about some of the most vibrant festivals in Singapore here. Keep a check on their social media pages as most information is updated there.

What is it: Do you have a day to spare? Head over to Chek Jawa, a preserved ecosystem away from the world of shopping malls and fancy restaurants. Tucked away in a corner of Pulau Ubin, Chek Jawa is a place to capture nature in its purest forms. Promenade in the natural world, click a lot of pictures and take back a lot of memories. The best thing about it is that there's no entry fee. After all, nature doesn't ask a price.

Where is it: Chek Jawa Trail

When to go there: The park is open from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM.

What is it: This is one for the pet lovers. Singapore has a selection of farms where the animals are waiting to be cuddled with, without any cost. Head over to Hay Dairies to watch the adorable goats being milked. You can also buy freshly-produced goat milk. Pet the four-legged furry friends at Ericsson Pet Farm located at Pasir Ris Farmway. Get up close and personal with chickens and hamsters at Farmart Centre. Get your dose of agriculture at the choice of your farm.

Where is it: Various locations.

What is it: The Chinese Garden along with its neighbour- the Japanese Garden, has always been especially famous in Singapore due to its beautiful Asian architecture and hoard of attractions. At the entrance of the Chinese Garden stand two majestic lions made of stone and guarding the gates which lead to a 13-arch white-bridge that resembles and replicates the 17-arch bridge in Beijing. This bridge is a particularly famous spot for several pictures that you might see on social media platforms. The white bridge leads to the main arch building of the garden that contains a pond filled with Koi fish, another homage to China, and two splendid courtyards ahead of which lies all that the garden has to offer from museums and statues to unique natural displays. The garden is especially visited during the Mid Autumn Festival as well as the Chinese New Year (January/February).

Where is it: 1 Chinese Garden Rd

What is it: Gillman Barracks, once the house of the British Army, is pivotal in building Singapore's national art and culture scene, serving as a contemporary arts cluster where one can find international art galleries, restaurants and the NTU Centre for Contemporary Art, part of the prestigious Nanyang Technological University. These services are all found in the well-maintained colonial barracks found at the site. One can marvel at the elegant blend of the colonial architecture of the barracks and the buildings with the ever-evolving arts sphere of the modern world, transforming it into Singapore's Contemporary Art Enclave. Who says an art walk won't be the ideal free thing to do in Singapore.

Where is it: 9 Lock Rd

What is it: If you are a nature lover, this place is a must visit. Take a walk at a canopy suspension bridge amidst the lush green trees. As the name suggests, at the Macritchie Treetop you can admire the nature and wildlife from an elevated treetop bridge. One can also experience a proper an 8 km round-trip hike for the bridge. It’s undoubtedly a visual treat. The highlight of this bridge is that one gets to observe and take a close look at the lives of the animals residing here.

Where is it: Reservoir Road, Singapore

When to go: It is always best to visit it in the mornings and evenings otherwise it’s extremely hot during the afternoons.

What is it: If you think visiting orchestra concerts burns a hole in your pocket, then guess what? Singapore has an orchestra which holds free shows for one and all. Bring along your family and have a mini picnic while you enjoy some soulful classical music. It is an experience you must not miss.

Where is it: they hold performances at different locations such as institutions, gardens and more. So track them down and be there.

When to go: Time is decided by the orchestra. It is advised to reach earlier than the scheduled time to get preferred seats.

What is it: Singapore has transformed drastically over time but much of earlier Singapore consisted of villages. Lorong Buangkok is the oldest living village which still exists. If you want to take a time lapse and explore the authentic beauty of Singapore, then you must head here. It’s a gateway to the past times and it’s just fascinating as to how it has managed to survive. It’s a good retreat.

Where is it: Lor Buangkok, Singapore

When to go: One can visit the village anytime all around the year.