Are you a local looking to rediscover your city, or are you an international student new to Singapore keen on seeing a different side of the city beyond your campus’s four walls? Singapore is full of hidden gems that will make your stay worthwhile. Here, we highlight 30 unique things to do in Singapore to make sure your experience is unforgettable. 

1. Stargaze at Science Centre Singapore’s Observatory

Science Centre Observatory is one of the most sought-after destinations in West Singapore. It offers visitors several unique experiences, including a 45-minute stargazing programme that allows them to experience the universe wonder.

2. Zip-line with panoramic views at the Mega Adventure Park on Sentosa

The Mega Adventure Park on the famous Sentosa Island in Singapore offers a thrilling adventure arena for thrill seekers. Fun activities you can do there include enjoying panoramic views of the island and the cityscape as you zip from treetop to treetop, as well as rock climbing. 

Business Management

In-person

Develop global business acumen in Singapore, Asia’s leading...

Academic Insights
Provides a thorough introduction to diverse academic fields. Ideal for students beginning to contemplate their future academic paths and eager to explore various disciplines.
Laptop with Google analytics dashboard on screen
Ages: 16-18

Software Development and AI

In-person

Innovate with technology in Singapore, a ‘Smart Nation’...

Academic Insights
Provides a thorough introduction to diverse academic fields. Ideal for students beginning to contemplate their future academic paths and eager to explore various disciplines.
Ages: 16-18

3. Hike the Southern Ridges Trail

If you love taking breathtaking citywide pictures or want to escape the city’s hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in nature, then Southern Ridges Trail is the right spot.

The Southern Ridges, which consists of 10 kilometres of trails, bridges the hills of Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park, and Kent Ridge Park. Some of the attractions along these trails include its greenery and the panoramic views across Singapore that trekkers can enjoy.

Join the Immerse Education 2024 
Essay Competition

The Immerse Essay Competition is open for 2024! Follow the instructions to write and submit your best essay for a chance to be awarded a 100% scholarship.

Join competition

4. Visit the Maritime Experiential Museum

The Maritime Experiential Museum is a part of the new Singapore Oceanarium, an expansion of the former S.E.A. Aquarium. It offers exciting attractions for an immersive experience of Singapore’s history and its rise as a world trading power.

5. Take a Night Safari at the Singapore Zoo

Want to see and understand how nocturnal animals like Malayan tigers, Asian elephants, fishing cats, red dholes, anoas, markhors, bantengs, Malayan tapirs, and Asian lions behave without having to go through what Tarzan went through? The Night Safari is for you.

6. Go Island Hopping at the Southern Islands

Singapore’s islands offer another opportunity to escape the city and explore the tranquillity of Singapore’s southern islands. There are several of them, including Kusu Island and Lazarus Island.

Kusu” means “Tortoise,” and legend has it that a magical tortoise turned itself into this spectacular island to save two shipwrecked sailors. Whether the legend is true or not, Kusu Island is a must-visit island with its many iconic spots on-site, including lagoons, a wishing well, and temples.

Lazarus Island has recently risen from obscurity to becoming a sought-after destination for those seeking sun, sand, and serenity. Exploring the island’s fascinating history and promising future as a sustainable resort destination are some of the best things to do here.

7. Kayak Through Mangroves at Pulau Ubin

Pulau Ubin, a 1,020-hectare island, was once a cluster of five smaller islets separated by tidal rivers. Today, thrill-seekers can rent mountain bikes and kayaks for a thrilling ride while enjoying the island’s rustic beauty.

8. Explore the Cultural Richness of Kampong Glam

Kampong Glam, nestled on a busy Arab Street, is known as Singapore’s Muslim Quarter. Its 19th-century shophouses have been turned into stores selling textiles and casual restaurants serving spicy Malay and global fare. 

Notable landmarks here include the Sultan Mosque, the bustling Haji Lane and the Malay Heritage Centre, where exhibits focus on local history. 

Visit this fascinating spot, and you will see that Kampong Glam is a neighbourhood that easily captivates the senses and enriches the soul.

9. Visit The Intan: A Hidden Peranakan Gem

Discover the beauty of Peranakan culture at The Intan. This charming shophouse museum gives visitors the chance to turn back the hands of time and sneak peek at the beautiful and remarkable culture preserved for years.

10. Discover Tiong Bahru’s Art Deco Charm

Tiong Bahru may be one of the oldest housing estates in Singapore, but this once-sleepy residential district is now a cultural hotbed for the island’s young people. If you desire some hip cafes and brunch joints to sit back and relax as you sip on coffee, visit the Tiong Bahru Bakery, amongst many others.

11. Attend a Traditional Tea Ceremony

An excellent place to visit is Tea Chapter, the city’s largest and oldest tea house. It provides an authentic tea experience with a variety of high-quality Chinese teas. 

12. Explore Little India’s Unique Cultural Heritage

Have you always wanted to explore India? Little India is just the place for you.. As it’s historically been home to, and built by, Singapore’s indian community… It’s home to many restaurants that serve Indian food, as well as other fun attractions.

13. Dine in Complete Darkness at NOX – Dine in the Dark

If you have never paid attention to your sense of taste and smell before, Nox-Dine is a diner like no other that will take you through an eye-opening (or rather, eye-closing) experience of having to find cutlery through touch and identify the meals through smell and savour.

14. Savour Local Flavors at Hawker Centres

If you desire an authentic local dining experience, Singapore features iconic hawker centres scattered around the city. Lau Pa Sat is one centre that is readily available to any traveller.

15. Experience Unique Themed Cafes

Singapore has no shortage of quirky-themed cafes that offer unique experiences. You might want to try Hard Rock Cafe for some American dining and rock music experience. We recommend their burgers and ribs!

16. Visit Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

Nature lovers who want to escape the city for a while can explore the natural beauty of Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve. The reserve offers many trails for visitors to explore with resident birds such as herons and sunbirds.

17. Relax at Little Guilin

Have picnics and enjoy a peaceful afternoon walk at Little Guilin, a tranquil park named after the popular natural granite formations in Guilin, China. The park is best known for its picturesque granite rock in a serene lake.

18. Unwind at Gardens by the Bay

The Gardens by the Bay, rated No. 8 in the World’s Top Attraction by Tripadvisor 2024, is a must-see site in Singapore! It consists of plants and impressive manufactured structures called Supertrees, which all work together to create a spectacular landscape. 

19. Visit Yunnan Garden at Nanyang

Yunnan Garden, nestled within NTU’s campus grounds, features scenic landscapes, a waterfall, and traditional Chinese architecture. The garden caters to all ages and has Wi-Fi connectivity, which we think you will love. 

20. Experience Art After Dark at Gillman Barracks

Gillman Barracks‘ history is tied to the island’s colonial past. On-site, visitors can explore international galleries featuring live performances and several dining options, like Masons for European cuisine and Creamier for ice cream and coffee.

21. Explore Haw Par Villa

Haw Par Villa is a blend of cultural artefacts and a semi-terrifying theme park that has been lost in time. The park is a homage of sorts to super traditional ‘Chinese myths’  featuring life-size statues, dioramas, and intricate carvings depicting Chinese legends and moral tales.

22. Take a Duck Tour for a Unique Adventure

Have you ever been in an amphibious vehicle? If you haven’t, link up with DUCKtours Singapore. The tour takes you from land to water in an amphibious vehicle, exploring Singapore’s iconic waterways and landmarks, including St. Andrew’s Cathedral, Merlion Park, and Esplanade.

23. Discover Secret Waterfalls at Tanjong Rimau

Tanjong Rimau, or Siloso Headland, is a secluded beach on Sentosa Island, Singapore. To explore, a seasoned guide from the Siloso Headland and Intertidal Programme will take you down during low tides, where you will find hidden waterfalls and unique rock formations.

24. Visit Japanese Cemetery Park for Serenity

Explore the Japanese Cemetery Park, the largest Japanese cemetery in Southeast Asia, housing more than 900 graves. Over there, you can delve into the city’s multicultural history.

25. Check out the array of shops in Chinatown

Chinatown is a great place to visit if you’re interested in learning about Singapore’s culture, rich history, colourful streets, and diverse culinary offerings. 

Founded in the 1820s, Singapore’s Chinatown is one of the city’s oldest parts. It was originally a settlement for Chinese immigrants. Over time, Chinatown grew into a thriving commercial and cultural centre, and today, it is a must-visit tourist destination with restaurants, shops, and other attractions that excite travellers and locals.

26. Tarzan all day long at Houbii Spot Singapore

Houbii Spot Singapore just revamped their outdoor obstacle course. Nestled within Singapore Zoo, the cool escapade boasts a scenic obstacle course. 

27. Explore Merlion Park

The Merlion is a symbol of Singapore, and it’s one of the most popular places to visit and have fun in this city! It’s located on Marina Bay, also home to many other attractions, including Universal Studios Singapore and the Amazonia Indoor Playground Experience.

Some key places we recommend visiting include the half lion half fish statue symbolising Singapore’s roots as a fishing village known as Temasek—a name from the same root as the word tasek (lake in Malay). You can also indulge in up-close experiences with over 4,200 animals at the Singapore Zoo near Merlion Park

28. Experience Singapore’s Botanic Gardens

The Singapore Botanic Gardens is a fantastic place to visit if you are interested in learning more about Southeast Asian plants! It’s a tropical garden that was created back in 1859 and is located near the famous Orchard Road shopping district.

29. Sightsee through Puzzles at Marina Bay

Marina Bay Sands can be a bit expensive, but it is full of fun outdoor puzzle hunts and escape room adventures. 

30. Discover Hidden Rooftop Views

Marina Bay may be too pricey for some. Visit Funan Mall’s rooftop garden, a more affordable alternative fun activity that will blow your mind with its stunning skyline vistas.

Takeaway: Unique discoveries await you in Singapore

Singapore, a tiny island country, is bursting with life and things to do. As an applicant looking to study in this city, exploring its iconic sites can enrich your mind in ways you might not expect. It can also help you create unforgettable moments.

If you want to explore academic and cultural adventures in Singapore more deeply, consider our Singapore Summer School Programme. This exceptional opportunity combines rigorous academic programmes with Singapore’s rich history and heritage, ensuring your time in the city is transformative and memorable.