Katherine Perry discovers family outings that won’t break the bank.
1. Central Fire Station
Take a free tour of Singapore’s oldest functional fire station and the Civil Defence Heritage Gallery, housed in an impressive 19th century building. Kids can experience real-life fire fighting action at the interactive areas and will see how fire engines have evolved over the years. Climb the hose tower to reach what was once Singapore’s highest point and learn from the experts how best to handle a fire emergency. 62 Hill Street. Tel: 6332 2996, Web: www.scdf.gov.sg/General/About_Us/CD_Heritage_Gallery, Open: Tues-Sun 10am-5pm.
2. Singapore Science Centre
Great value for money at just $6 for adults and $3 for children aged three to 16 years, the Singapore Science Centre features more than 1,000 exhibits providing both kids and parents with hours of entertainment – not to mention education. Regular live presentations include the Telsa Coil demonstration – a dramatic display of high voltage electricity. And the Centre isn’t only for rainy days! When the sun shines Waterworks – a new water play area – is great fun. So don’t forget your swimsuit. You can also wander around the Kinetic Garden – Asia’s first outdoor interactive science park – for free. Additional fees are only payable for Omni-Max Theatre and special exhibitions. 15 Science Centre Road. Tel: 6425 2500, Web: www.science.edu.sg. Open: Tues-Sun 10am-6pm, open Mondays during local school holidays and public holidays.
3. Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
Lush greenery, primary rainforest and home to more than 850 plant species and over 500 animals, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve also has an interesting visitors centre, an abandoned quarry, a challenging hill climb, cycling tracks and adventurous play equipment – including a Flying Fox. Recommended for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages, admission is free. Just be sure to keep snacks well hidden – mischievous monkeys have been known to empty pockets and steal backpacks! 177 Hindhede Drive. Tel: 6468 5736, Web: www.nparks.gov.sg, Open: Daily 8:30am-6:30pm.
4. Pulau Ubin
For a taste of traditional kampong (village) life, catch a 10-minute bumboat ride from Changi Point Ferry Terminal to Ubin Jetty. It’s just $2 one-way per person for a maximum of 12 people and you can take your bike for an additional $2, or hire one there. Pulau Ubin (Granite Island) is still home to around 100 hundred villagers who rely on wells for water and diesel generators for electricity. Head west for spectacular views of Aik Hwa Quarry and to visit the popular Thai temple. East is Chek Jawa, where several fascinating ecosystems exist in one small area. The longer route north through Ubin Town takes you through rubber plantations and the old Malay village. Camp overnight and fish for your breakfast! Changi Point Ferry Terminal, Lorong Bekukong. Tel: 6542 4108, Web: www.nparks.gov.sg, Transfers: 8:30am-5pm.
5. Sentosa Island
Avoid the expensive attractions on Sentosa Island and get good value for the $2 per person entrance fee by spending a day at the beach and checking out the many free shows. The daily programme includes Animal and Bird Encounters at Palawan Amphitheatre from 12pm until 5:30pm. The Musical Fountain hosts Magical Sentosa, a multi-media extravaganza with performances at 5pm, 5:30pm, 7:40pm and 8:40pm – the nighttime shows include amazing laser and light displays. Sentosa Island, accessible by car ($2 admission), taxi, cable car and bus (Harbourfront Interchange). Bus Operating Hours: Sun to Thurs 7am-11pm, Fri & Sat 7am-12:30am.
6. SAFRA Kids’ Adventure
If it’s raining, head to SAFRA Kids’ Adventure, this indoor, air-conditioned, two-storey high, adventure maze of tunnels, climbing frames and a small rubber ball play area is safe for up to 70 children under the age of 12. So your children won’t be short of new friends! 293 Lorong 6, Toa Payoh. Tel: 6355 4508, Web: www.safra.sg, Open: Mon-Fri 1pm-6pm (off-peak), Sat, Sun, SH & PH 9am-6pm (peak). Admission: Peak SAFRA members: $3, non-members: $5. Non-Peak SAFRA members: $2, non-members: $3.
7. Concerts in the Park
This National Parks Board initiative is a series of free concerts run throughout the year Pack a picnic basket, take a blanket and enjoy some open-air entertainment from a symphony to rock music. Most performances take place in the early evening. The Shaw Foundation Symphony Stage in the Singapore Botanic Gardens, Palm Valley is a popular venue and kids will have fun picnicking, playing and dancing. Web: www.nparks.gov.sg.
8. Festive Light-ups
Kids are always dazzled by the festival lights and as Singapore is home to so many different cultures there are always colourful displays, street stalls and activities happening somewhere in the Lion City. This October, the following areas come alive from around 7pm: Little India showcases Deepavali – the Festival of Lights – until October 29 and Geylang Serai and Kampong Gelam celebrate Hari Raya until October 31. Watch out for the Orchard Road Christmas lights due to be up by November. Web: www.visitsingapore.com.
Posted on Oct 06
