Singapore is well-known for its stunning skyline and vibrant urban life, but the true beauty of the “Garden City” lies in its green spaces. As part of Singapore’s commitment to being a green and clean city, its parks are seamlessly integrated into the infrastructure, offering some of the best parks for families, perfect for outdoor adventures, learning, and bonding.
From futuristic landscapes with towering Supertrees to rustic islands that feel like a step back in time, this Singapore green spaces guide will help you uncover the best destinations for family fun.
The Green Heart of Singapore
Singapore truly lives up to its reputation as the “Garden City,” with a remarkable blend of lush greenery and vibrant outdoor spaces woven into its urban landscape. Across the island, families can discover a wide variety of nature parks, gardens, and playgrounds that invite everyone to step outside and enjoy some outdoor fun. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll among towering trees or a lively afternoon at a playground, Singapore’s green spaces offer a refreshing escape from city life.
Types of Parks
Singapore’s parks come in all shapes and sizes, each offering a unique experience for visitors of all ages. Nature parks like Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and East Coast Park are perfect for those who love hiking, cycling, or simply soaking up the sights and sounds of the great outdoors. If you’re interested in history, heritage parks such as Fort Canning Park provide a fascinating look at Singapore’s past, complete with colonial buildings and historical landmarks. For families with younger kids, urban parks like West Coast Park and Changi Beach Park are packed with play areas, water play features, and plenty of space for a picnic or a fun day in the sun. With so many different parks to explore, there’s always a new adventure waiting in Singapore’s green spaces.
Gardens by the Bay
This iconic destination is not just a park—it’s a masterpiece of design and innovation. Gardens by the Bay is one of the best parks in Singapore for families, offering something for everyone.
- Iconic Sights: Marvel at the towering Supertrees and take the OCBC Skyway for a walk among these giants. Don’t miss the nightly Garden Rhapsody light and sound show. For a break from the heat, explore the climate-controlled Cloud Forest and Flower Dome, showcasing exotic plants in stunning displays.
- For the Kids: The Far East Organization Children’s Garden (free entry) is a hit with young children. It features a water playground with sprinklers, a toddler play area, and an adventure trail with treehouses, helping young ones develop their sense of adventure and discovery.
- Practical Info: The outdoor gardens are free, but tickets are required for the conservatories and OCBC Skyway. Nearest MRT: Bayfront.
As Singapore’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic park is a must-visit. Spanning 82 hectares, it’s a serene escape with rolling lawns, tranquil lakes, and a wide variety of flora. The therapeutic garden offers a calming space for relaxation and wellness.
- A Child’s Paradise: The Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden is a highlight for families. Dedicated to play and discovery, it features a farm, orchard, suspension bridge, and water play area.
- Family Fun: Feed the swans at Swan Lake, enjoy a picnic at Palm Valley, or simply stroll through lush greenery. Don’t miss the tranquil ponds, which are great spots for observing dragonflies, birds, and other wildlife.
- Practical Info: Entry to the main gardens and Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden is free. Both are closed on Mondays. Nearest MRT: Botanic Gardens.
East Coast Park
For sun, sand, and sea, East Coast Park is one of the best parks in Singapore for families, featuring beautiful beaches perfect for picnicking, swimming, and relaxing by the sea. Spanning 15 kilometers of coastline, this massive park offers endless opportunities for family-friendly outdoor activities in Singapore.
- Activities Galore: Rent bikes, rollerblades, or go-karts, build sandcastles, or let the kids explore the Coastal PlayGrove, a massive outdoor play tower with slides and water features. We also recommend cycling as a great way to explore the park and enjoy its scenic views.
- Food and Facilities: Enjoy local hawker food at East Coast Lagoon Food Village or book a BBQ pit for a family cookout.
- Practical Info: Open 24/7 with free entry. Best reached by bus or taxi.
Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park
A central gem, Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park is a prime example of how an urban space can be transformed into a nature park, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation and wildlife spotting.
- Nature and Play: The park is divided into two sections. River Plains offers water and adventure playgrounds that help children develop their sense of adventure, while Pond Gardens is perfect for spotting wildlife like dragonflies and otters.
- For Furry Friends: This is also one of the most dog-friendly parks, with two off-leash dog runs.
- Practical Info: Open 24/7 with free entry. Nearest MRT: Bishan or Ang Mo Kio.
West Coast Park
Often called the “Play Centre in the West,” this massive park is a dream come true for energetic kids, with extensive play areas for all ages.
- Adventure Awaits: The sprawling playground has zones for all ages, featuring obstacle courses, climbing structures, a flying fox, and zip lines designed for older ones, while safer play areas cater to toddlers.
- More Fun: Fly a kite on the open lawns, go cycling, or book a BBQ pit for a fun weekend gathering.
- Practical Info: Open 24/7 with free entry. Best reached by bus or taxi.
Pulau Ubin
Looking for a unique adventure? Pulau Ubin offers a glimpse into Singapore’s past, making it perfect for older kids and families ready for exploration. If you’re feeling adventurous, set out to trek the island’s scenic trails and discover hidden gems. Young explorers can develop their sense of adventure as they experience the island’s natural wonders.
- Explore on Two Wheels: Rent bikes (child seats available) and cycle around the island’s gentle trails, or trek up Puaka Hill for panoramic views.
- Nature’s Wonders: Visit the Chek Jawa Wetlands to explore mangroves and coastal forests via the mangrove boardwalk. Spot wildlife like wild boars and monitor lizards.
- Practical Info: A 15-minute bumboat ride from Changi Point Ferry Terminal (cash only).
The Southern Ridges
This 10-kilometre trail connects a series of hilltop parks and offers stunning views, making it a must-include in any Singapore green spaces guide. If you’re feeling adventurous, embark on a trek along the entire Southern Ridges trail to experience the full range of scenic outdoor attractions.
- Iconic Walkways: Don’t miss Henderson Waves, a unique pedestrian bridge, or the Forest Walk, which takes you through the treetops.
- Family-Friendly Trails: Shorter segments, like the HortPark to Kent Ridge Park route, are ideal for families and feature stroller friendly paths for easy navigation.
- Practical Info: Multiple entry points. Start at Mount Faber or HarbourFront MRT via the Marang Trail.
MacRitchie Reservoir Park
For adventurous families, MacRitchie offers hiking and wildlife spotting in Singapore’s largest nature park. Children can develop their sense of adventure and discovery on the scenic trails. Families seeking more challenging hikes can also visit Bukit Timah Hill, a popular destination for trekking enthusiasts.
- Walk Among the Trees: The TreeTop Walk, a 250-metre suspension bridge, offers stunning views but requires a 10km trek, best for older kids.
- Wildlife Spotting: Look out for macaques, monitor lizards, and birds. Kayaking is also available.
- Practical Info: Trails vary in difficulty; check maps at the entrance. Nearest MRT: Caldecott.
Nature Playgardens
Nature playgardens are a wonderful way for children to connect with the outdoors while having loads of fun. Designed to spark curiosity and creativity, these play areas use natural materials like wood, sand, and stone to encourage imaginative play and hands-on discovery.
Yishun Park is a favorite among families, featuring a nature playgarden with a towering play structure, rope climbs, and a water play area that’s perfect for cooling off on a hot day. Over at Pasir Ris Park, kids can explore mangrove boardwalks, try out the play tower, or even go for a pony ride. These nature playgardens are great places for families to spend quality time together, letting little ones explore, learn, and enjoy the wonders of nature in a safe and engaging environment.
Butterfly Gardens
Butterfly gardens are a magical addition to Singapore’s parks, offering a close-up look at some of nature’s most beautiful creatures. The Butterfly Garden at the Singapore Botanic Gardens is a highlight, home to over 50 species of butterflies fluttering among vibrant flowers and lush greenery. Strolling along the walking trails, visitors can watch butterflies in their natural habitat and learn about their fascinating life cycles.
HortPark also features a charming butterfly garden, complete with water features and peaceful spots to sit and enjoy the scenery. These gardens are a great spot for families and nature lovers to relax, take a leisurely stroll, and experience the gentle beauty of butterflies up close—making every visit a memorable one.
Practical Tips for Families
- Visit Early or Late: Avoid the midday sun by heading out in the early morning or late afternoon.
- What to Pack: Bring water, sunscreen, hats, insect repellent, and a change of clothes for water play.
- Transport Options: Most parks are accessible via MRT and bus, or use ride-hailing apps for convenience.
- Recommend Cycling: For larger parks like Jurong Lake Gardens or Changi Jurassic Mile, we recommend cycling as a great way to explore the area and enjoy the scenery.
- Stroller Friendly Paths: Many parks feature stroller friendly paths, making it easy for families with young children to navigate comfortably.
Plan Your Next Green Adventure!
Singapore’s parks are an incredible mix of natural beauty and family fun, reflecting Singapore’s commitment to being a ‘City in a Garden’. Whether it’s exploring the Supertrees, cycling along the coast, relaxing at scenic beaches, or hiking through lush trails, these green spaces offer something for everyone. For even more family-friendly adventures, consider visiting St John’s Island for its beautiful beaches, Marina Bay for its iconic waterfront attractions, and the Ludo Garden for outdoor board game fun. Use this Singapore green spaces guide to discover the best parks in Singapore for families and create lasting memories through family-friendly outdoor activities in Singapore!
