Singapore Family Attractions: Beyond Universal Studios’ Main Draws

The Merlion statue spouts water into Marina Bay as families stroll along the waterfront promenade, with Singapore’s sleek skyline rising behind—an iconic moment that blends myth, modernity, and a relaxed urban vibe, inviting visitors to explore family-friendly attractions beyond the theme park circuit.

Written by

Eat Play Stay Team

in

Singapore is globally recognized as a premier family-friendly destination, seamlessly blending a vibrant city centre with the lush gardens and iconic landmarks that make every trip memorable. While Universal Studios Singapore often tops the wish list of families visiting Sentosa Island, there’s an entire world of alternative Singapore family attractions just a stone’s throw from Marina Bay, Orchard Road, and the surrounding area. These hidden gems are perfect for children of all ages and deliver education, adventure, street art, and a taste of the city’s diverse culture well beyond the theme parks.

Statistics show that family tourism is booming, with attractions welcoming millions of visitors annually. Savvy parents are looking beyond the main attractions and planning efficient itineraries that include stroller-friendly parks, hawker centres, and signature dishes in the heart of the city. In this guide, we’ll dive into the best Singapore attractions for children across six exciting categories: interactive museums, nature and wildlife, indoor play spaces, water-based fun, cultural explorations, and unique outdoor adventures—all set to make your next eight nights in Singapore truly unforgettable.

Marina Bay Sands & Interactive Museums: Top Picks for Kids Singapore

Marina Bay Sands gleams under a clear blue sky, its ship-like sky park bridging three towers above the calm waters of Marina Bay, while the lotus-shaped ArtScience Museum anchors the scene—an awe-inspiring urban vista that invites families to explore Singapore’s imaginative attractions beyond the thrill rides of Universal Studios.

Begin your exploration around iconic landmarks like Marina Bay Sands and the city centre. These world-class attractions are just a short walk from public transportation, making access easy for the whole family.

Science Centre Singapore & KidsSTOP: Just a stone’s throw from the city’s heart, this dynamic complex is essential for exploring Singapore with kids. The Science Centre features cutting-edge exhibitions, while KidsSTOP lets young children explore hands-on flights, construction play, and more, making it ideal for kids Singapore parents with curious little minds.

Time Needed: 4-5 hours

Pricing: Approx. S$12/person for Science Centre; separate ticket for KidsSTOP.

ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay Sands: Perched by Marina Bay, the iconic lotus-shaped building features rotating interactive exhibitions alongside family-friendly installations like Future World. It’s a great place to inspire budding artists and scientists.

Time Needed: 2-3 hours

Pricing: S$21-S$25 (adult).

Mint Museum of Toys: This shopping centre-adjacent jewel provides nostalgic fun for the whole family, with rare collectibles and interactive displays reflecting Singapore’s creative culture.

Time Needed: 1.5 hours

Age Appropriateness: 6+

Kids Gardens & Nature and Wildlife Singapore Attractions

A vibrant entrance to Jurong Bird Park framed by lush tropical greenery and playful flamingo statues, with a colorful sign welcoming visitors—an inviting gateway to one of Singapore’s beloved wildlife attractions, perfect for families seeking nature-rich experiences beyond the city’s blockbuster theme parks.

Nature lovers will be thrilled with Singapore’s outdoor offerings, from the National Orchid Garden to the Singapore Zoo—all within easy reach of the city centre and Marina Bay.

  • Jurong Bird Park: With its sprawling aviaries and vibrant bird shows, this iconic sanctuary is a delight for every age. Interactive feeding sessions and close-up encounters make it an unforgettable outing for young kids.
  • Time Needed: 4-5 hours
    • Pricing: Approx. S$38/adult, S$25/child.
  • Hay Dairies Goat Farm & Wetland Trails: Located near the city, this farm lets children feed goats and learn about milk production—a fun, educational trip away from the bustle of Orchard Road. Combine with nearby wetland trails for a full day immersed in nature.
  • Time Needed: 1-2 hours
    • Pricing: Free entry; small charge for goat feed.
  • The Live Turtle and Tortoise Museum: Head to this unique attraction at the edge of the city for hands-on animal encounters. Touch, feed, and learn about rare species in a relaxed, stroller-friendly environment.
  • Time Needed: 1 hour
    • Pricing: S$10–S$14/person.
  • Singapore Zoo & Night Safari: For families interested in larger wildlife, the award-winning Singapore Zoo and the Night Safari (world’s first nocturnal zoo) are must-visits and provide accessibility for strollers and active children alike.

Hawker Centre Fun Things & Unique Indoor Play Spaces

Five individuals gleefully slide down vibrant purple and yellow indoor slides, arms raised in excitement amid a lively, modern play facility—an energetic snapshot of Singapore’s growing landscape of indoor family attractions that go beyond the blockbuster thrills of Universal Studios.

Explore the island’s famous hawker centre dining before heading indoors for fun things to do with kids—rain or shine.

  • SuperPark Singapore: Located within a shopping centre, this Finnish adventure park brims with slides, climbing walls, obstacle courses, and street sports suitable for children ages 4 and up. It’s indoor fun with a creative twist for the whole family.
  • Time Needed: 3-4 hours
    • Age Appropriateness: 4+
    • Pricing: S$34–S$52 per session.
  • Kidztopia & Indoor Playgrounds: This massive indoor playground in the Marina Bay area offers engaging play zones, themed slides, and toddler-friendly spaces—great for cooling off between trips to city attractions.
  • Time Needed: 3 hours
    • Pricing: From S$32 (child + adult).
  • BOUNCE Singapore: A favourite for older kids, this trampoline park lets them practice flips and test their fitness—from City Hall to Clarke Quay, it’s a great way to burn energy for all ages.
  • Time Needed: 1-2 hours
    • Age Appropriateness: 5+

Marina Bay & Water-Based Activities for Kids Singapore

A kaleidoscope of colorful water slides—pink, purple, green, and orange—twist and splash into shallow pools at a lively Singapore water park, where kids and families dive into fun beyond the blockbuster thrills of Universal Studios.

After Universal Studios and other major theme parks, families can find world-class water fun just a stone’s throw from the city centre and Marina Bay.

  • Wild Wild Wet: Situated in the east, this popular water park features slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones making it a strong competitor to Adventure Cove on Sentosa Island. Pricing is easier on the wallet for big families.
  • Time Needed: 4-6 hours
    • Pricing: S$26–S$35/person.
  • Public Water Play Areas & Swimming Pools: Splash around for free at Marina Barrage or at the Far East Organization Gardens by the Bay Children’s Garden. Both attractions offer water jets, climbing structures, and stroller-friendly access.
  • Marina Barrage Activities: Enjoy kite flying or a refreshing walk along the waterfront after a swim. The surrounding area is lined with convenient restaurants, food stalls, and beautiful marina views.

Cable Car & Kampong Glam: Cultural and Heritage Attractions

Go beyond Orchard Road and shopping malls to explore the island’s deep multicultural heritage.

  • The Intan: Dive into Peranakan culture at this beautifully preserved shophouse in the east or take a stroll through the vibrant districts of Little India and Kampong Glam, both easy to reach via public transportation.
  • Time Needed: 1.5 hours
    • Age Appropriateness: 10+
  • National Museum of Singapore & Sri Mariamman Temple: Get a modern perspective on local history and festivals through family programs and interactive exhibits. Sri Mariamman, the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore, is only a short walk from Chinatown.
  • Time Needed: 2-3 hours
  • Chinatown Heritage Centre & Street Art: Explore Chinatown’s immersive museum and snap photos of colorful street art, introducing children to Singapore’s evolving art and culture scene.
  • Time Needed: 1.5 hours
  • Cable Car Rides to Mount Faber Park: Hop onto the Singapore Cable Car for a scenic route from Sentosa Island to Mount Faber—perfect for introducing the whole family to panoramic city, bay, and island views.

Gardens by the Bay & Unique Outdoor Fun Activities

Singapore’s kid-friendly parks and walking trails take you from city to nature in minutes and are perfect for the whole family.

  • Coastal PlayGrove at East Coast Park: Revamped with new play towers, slides, and a safe beach area, it’s just a stone’s throw from hawker centres and features plenty of shaded, stroller-friendly rest areas.
  • Time Needed: 2-3 hours
    • Pricing: Free.
  • Forest Adventure & Singapore Botanic Gardens: For more thrills, try the Forest Adventure treetop course, then stroll through the National Orchid Garden or check out fun activities at Gallop Extension, ideal for introducing children to plant life and native birds.
  • Jewel Changi Airport’s Canopy Park: Before you check in for your return flight, schedule a visit to Jewel’s sky nets, flower dome, and Supertree Grove. Changi Airport is an attraction itself, offering shopping, food, and world-class gardens for a fun last day in Singapore.

Conclusion and Practical Tips for Exploring Singapore Family Attractions

Towering Supertrees rise from a patterned plaza at Gardens by the Bay, their lush vertical gardens and skywalk inviting families into a futuristic oasis—where nature, design, and imagination converge in one of Singapore’s most awe-inspiring attractions beyond the theme park spotlight.

Exploring beyond Universal Studios Singapore ensures your family experiences the full spectrum of what the city has to offer. Take advantage of Singapore’s excellent public transportation, plan your routes around city centre attractions, and consider combining nearby spots like Gardens by the Bay with Marina Bay Sands for an efficient, fun-filled day. Many attractions offer stroller-friendly spaces, free or affordable entry, and flexible packages to help you mix and match your favourite experiences regardless of the weather.

With options ranging from hawker centre street food to fine dining and iconic landmarks just a stone’s throw apart, Singapore family attractions cater to every interest and age group. Don’t miss the chance to visit these hidden gems—your next trip to Singapore is guaranteed to be filled with fun, culture, and lasting family memories. For a different kind of adventure, explore the complete hiking guide to Singapore’s Southern Ridges, or discover alternative shopping districts beyond Orchard Road’s famous streets for a unique retail experience.

More posts