Marina Bay is Singapore's most iconic district, showcasing the city-state's transformation from a colonial port to a global financial and tourism hub. This waterfront area combines stunning architecture, lush gardens, world-class entertainment, and cultural landmarks. Whether you're visiting Singapore for the first time or returning to explore more deeply, Marina Bay offers diverse experiences that capture the essence of modern Singapore.
In this guide, we'll explore the top 10 must-visit attractions in Marina Bay, providing you with practical information and insider tips to make the most of your visit to this spectacular area.
1. Marina Bay Sands
This iconic three-towered complex has become the defining feature of Singapore's skyline. Designed by architect Moshe Safdie, Marina Bay Sands integrates a luxury hotel, shopping mall, casino, convention center, museum, and restaurants into a single breathtaking development.
Don't Miss: The SkyPark Observation Deck on the 57th floor offers panoramic views of Marina Bay and the Singapore skyline. Though the famous infinity pool is reserved for hotel guests only, the observation deck is open to all visitors.
Hours: SkyPark is open Monday to Thursday from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and Friday to Sunday from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Admission: S$26 for adults, S$20 for children (2-12 years).
Insider Tip: Visit just before sunset to experience both daytime and nighttime views as the city lights up.
2. Gardens by the Bay
This award-winning garden spans 101 hectares of reclaimed land and represents Singapore's commitment to becoming a "City in a Garden." The Gardens feature a variety of horticultural attractions including the iconic Supertree Grove, Flower Dome, and Cloud Forest.
Don't Miss: The free Garden Rhapsody light and sound show at the Supertree Grove (7:45 PM and 8:45 PM nightly). Inside the climate-controlled conservatories, the Flower Dome showcases exotic plants from Mediterranean and semi-arid regions, while the Cloud Forest features a 35-meter indoor waterfall and mountain ecosystem.
Hours: Outdoor gardens are open 5:00 AM to 2:00 AM daily. Conservatories are open 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily.
Admission: Outdoor gardens are free. Two conservatories: S$28 for adults, S$15 for children (3-12 years).
Insider Tip: Visit during the annual Christmas Wonderland (November-December) when the gardens transform into a magical holiday light festival.
3. ArtScience Museum
Located within the Marina Bay Sands complex, this lotus-shaped museum is Singapore's premier venue for major international exhibitions. The museum explores the creativity that results from the dynamic interplay of arts and science.
Don't Miss: The permanent Future World exhibition, created in collaboration with teamLab, features interactive digital installations that respond to visitor movements, creating an immersive art experience.
Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM (last admission at 6:00 PM).
Admission: Varies depending on exhibitions. Future World: S$21 for adults, S$16 for children (2-12 years).
Insider Tip: Check the museum's website before visiting to see which temporary exhibitions are currently showing.
4. The Merlion Park
No visit to Singapore is complete without seeing the Merlion, the country's mythical symbol with the head of a lion and the body of a fish. This iconic 8.6-meter statue spouts water from its mouth into Marina Bay and represents Singapore's origins as a fishing village (the fish body) and its original name, Singapura or "lion city" (the lion head).
Don't Miss: The perfect photo opportunity with the Merlion in the foreground and Marina Bay Sands in the background. At night, the statue is beautifully illuminated.
Hours: Open 24 hours daily.
Admission: Free.
Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning (before 8:00 AM) to avoid crowds and get the best photos.
5. Singapore Flyer
Standing at a height of 165 meters, the Singapore Flyer was once the world's tallest observation wheel. Each capsule can accommodate up to 28 passengers and offers breathtaking views of Marina Bay, the Singapore skyline, and on clear days, you can even see parts of Malaysia and Indonesia.
Don't Miss: The complete rotation takes about 30 minutes, giving you ample time to enjoy the changing views and take photos from different angles.
Hours: Open Thursday to Sunday and public holidays from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM (last admission at 9:30 PM).
Admission: S$40 for adults, S$30 for children (3-12 years).
Insider Tip: For a special experience, book a Singapore Sling Flight, which includes Singapore's iconic cocktail served during your ride.
6. Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay
This distinctive performing arts center is recognizable by its unique architecture, often likened to durian fruit or "the fly's eyes." The Esplanade hosts a variety of performances, from international productions to local arts events across its multiple venues.
Don't Miss: Free performances are regularly held at the Esplanade's outdoor theater and concourse. Check their website for the schedule of performances during your visit.
Hours: Varies depending on performances. The mall area is open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Admission: Free to enter, performance ticket prices vary.
Insider Tip: Visit the rooftop garden for a quiet spot with excellent views of Marina Bay.
7. The Helix Bridge
This pedestrian bridge spanning Marina Bay is inspired by the double helix structure of DNA. At night, the Helix Bridge is illuminated with a series of LED lights that highlight its unique architecture and create a stunning visual effect.
Don't Miss: The bridge provides excellent vantage points for photographing Marina Bay Sands and the CBD skyline, especially at night.
Hours: Open 24 hours daily.
Admission: Free.
Insider Tip: Look for the pairs of colored letters 'c', 'g', 'a', and 't' embedded in the bridge's design, representing the four bases of DNA.
8. The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands
This luxury shopping mall features over 270 boutiques and restaurants, representing both international luxury brands and emerging designers. The mall's architecture includes a canal running through its center, allowing for sampan (boat) rides.
Don't Miss: The Rain Oculus, a large whirlpool that drains rainwater from the mall's roof and creates a vortex that empties into the canal below. This water feature also doubles as an art installation.
Hours: Open Sunday to Thursday from 10:30 AM to 11:00 PM, and Friday to Saturday from 10:30 AM to 11:30 PM.
Admission: Free to enter, sampan rides cost S$13 for adults, S$10 for children.
Insider Tip: Even if luxury shopping isn't on your agenda, the mall is worth visiting for its architecture and to see the Rain Oculus in action (the water feature runs every hour from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM).
9. Marina Barrage
This dam was built across the Marina Channel to create Singapore's 15th reservoir and provide flood control, water supply, and recreational space. The roof of the barrage's pump house has been converted into a large green space where locals gather for picnics and kite-flying.
Don't Miss: The Sustainable Singapore Gallery inside the barrage, which showcases Singapore's environmental initiatives and water management strategies.
Hours: Green roof is open 24 hours. Sustainable Singapore Gallery is open Monday to Sunday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (closed on Tuesdays).
Admission: Free.
Insider Tip: The green roof offers one of the best sunset views in Singapore, with the city skyline as a backdrop.
10. Spectra - A Light & Water Show
This free outdoor light and water show takes place along the promenade in front of Marina Bay Sands. The 15-minute spectacle combines fountains, lasers, projections, and music to tell the story of Singapore's journey from a fishing village to a cosmopolitan city.
Don't Miss: The grand finale, which features high jets of water, dramatic laser effects, and music crescendo that leaves audiences in awe.
Hours: Shows at 8:00 PM and 9:00 PM Sunday to Thursday, with an additional show at 10:00 PM on Friday and Saturday.
Admission: Free.
Insider Tip: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the Event Plaza promenade. The area in front of The Shoppes provides the best vantage point.
Planning Your Visit to Marina Bay
Best Time to Visit
Marina Bay is spectacular at any time of day, but it truly comes alive after dark when the buildings light up and the various light shows begin. Plan to arrive in the late afternoon to explore the attractions in daylight, then stay for sunset and evening shows.
Getting Around
The Marina Bay area is very walkable, with most attractions connected by pedestrian walkways and bridges. The Circle Line and Downtown Line MRT stations (Bayfront, Marina Bay, and Promenade) provide easy access to the area. For a unique perspective, consider taking a river cruise around Marina Bay.
Dining Options
Marina Bay offers dining options for every budget, from the high-end celebrity chef restaurants at Marina Bay Sands to more affordable options at Gluttons Bay near the Esplanade and the food court at The Shoppes. For a special experience, book a table at one of the rooftop restaurants for dinner with a view.
Marina Bay Tours
At Shfseepico, we offer specialized Marina Bay tours that can be customized to your interests. Our knowledgeable guides provide historical context and behind-the-scenes insights that enhance your appreciation of this remarkable district. Contact us to arrange a private or group tour of Marina Bay's highlights.
Have you visited Marina Bay? Which attraction was your favorite? Share your experiences in the comments below or contact us for help planning your perfect Singapore itinerary!