Singapore is one of the smallest countries in the world, but the sheer variety of attractions and places to bring your kids to is astounding. Although leisure travel isn’t allowed yet, there are so many places in Singapore I have visited or plan to visit, with my kids as our economy gradually reopens.

In the last half a year, as Singapore battles the Covid-19 pandemic, we have had to make major adjustments to our daily routines and everyday life. There was a period of time in the second quarter of 2020 that outdoor playgrounds and some parks were out-of-bounds, attractions were closed and only essential services were operational. No one could eat out, sit at the void deck nor even attend gatherings of any sort.

This video reminded me of how my little ones were largely home-bound and could only dream of the places they wished to visit. We read books on insects and the solar system while searching for quiet nature routes to walk to get a breath of fresh air.

Thankfully, the kids adapted well to the multiple changes in their lives, and we appreciated the infrastructure in our neighbourhoods that allowed us to savour little moments of peace in a chaotic 2020.

As our community cases dropped, Singapore’s economy has gradually opened up in phases. This means that many attractions, parks and recreational areas are now open to visitors, both Singaporean and overseas travellers (when leisure travel eventually resumes).

While Singapore is taking precautions to stave off the spread of Covid-19, these are some of my favourite magical places which are open to visitors, with the necessary safety management measures.

1. Gardens by the Bay

Gardens by the Bay is one of the top Singapore destinations you must visit at least once in your life. Suitable for visitors of all ages, attractions at Gardens by the Bay which are open include the Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, Far East Organization Children’s Garden and the Outdoor Gardens.

For families looking to experience a cool and dry Mediterranean climate, the Flower Dome showcases exotic plants from five continents and features changing mini displays. Dress up in your favourite costumes to take photos as if you’re in a whole new world!

To take in breathtaking mountain views surrounded by mist and hidden floral gems, visit the Cloud Forest and let your kids imagine they’re in the magical world of their dreams.

Pre-book and purchase your Gardens by the Bay tickets in advance here before heading down.

2. Resorts World Sentosa, S.E.A. Aquarium

My kids are perpetually fascinated by underwater creatures 🐡🐠🐟 and the S.E.A. Aquarium always elicits exclamations of wonder. Home to more than 100,000 marine animals of over 1,000 species, across 50 different habitats, we love the mesmerising exhibits of luminous jellyfish and seahorses.

The climax of our visits always takes place when we watch sharks 🦈 and stingrays gracefully gliding past each other at the Open Ocean Gallery, one of the largest underwater viewing panels in the world.

Before heading down to ensure a memorable experience with your family, plan your trip to Resorts World Sentosa, S.E.A. Aquarium here.

3. Science Centre Singapore

When I was a kid, visiting the Science Centre Singapore was a big deal as it was one of the coolest places to see Science in action.

As a parent, I now watch my kids discover the same wonder of Science as we wander through exhibits such as Butterflies Up Close and E-mmersive Experiential Environments, an immersive exhibition featuring virtual reality headsets and 3D 360-degree environments.

Lose yourself in Professor Crackitt’s laboratory – a life-size labyrinth of mirrors, filled with infinite reflections and endless hallways while helping the professor find his pet parrot who has gotten lost in the vast laboratory.

Plan your visit for an eye-opening day of science at the Science Centre Singapore here.

4. Changi Beach Park

Changi Beach Park is one of the oldest coastal parks in Singapore, and also a family favourite to visit for some sensory playtime at the beach.

Popular with families and fishermen who gather along its stretches of pristine white beaches dotted with coconut palms, BBQ pits, park benches and shelters, Changi Beach Park provides a 3.3km long nature respite with a kampong ambience overlooking Pulau Ubin and Pulau Tekong.

At the North end of the park, families can either experience seafront dining at a bistro in the park or at the nearby Changi Village Hawker Centre. At the South end, take a stroll at the other end for seclusion amongst the sounds of rolling waves and rustling casuarinas, whose dried fruit remind the kids of mini durians.

Learn more about the sights and activities at Changi Beach Park here.

5. Bukit Timah Saddle Club 🐎

Interacting with animals can be a wonderful bonding opportunity for families, especially in fast-paced Singapore.

Nestled in the quiet greenery of Fairways Drive near the old Singapore Turf Club, Bukit Timah Saddle Club, which was set up in 1951, is the home of equestrian sport in Singapore. This BHS (British Horse Society) Approved Centre offers pony rides for kids from 3 years old to 12 years to have an introductory experience to the thrills of horseback riding.

No prior booking is required (first-come-first-served basis) for the pony rides, which are usually available* every Saturday and Sunday from 10.30am – 1.00pm.

There are also other activities available at the Bukit Timah Saddle Club such as trail rides where you get to enjoy a relaxing stroll on horseback while taking in the lush greenery!

This post is in partnership with VisitSingapore.

By Julia Chan.

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