Kid-Friendly Guide To Gardens by the Bay: Playgrounds, Light Shows & More

Dragon & Kingfisher Lakes at Gardens by the Bay Supertrees and Flowers

There’s a new FREE playground at Gardens by the Bay, the PropNex Family Zone. We have all the deets, plus all you need to know before visiting Gardens by the Bay, the Flower Dome, Cloud Forest and other free outdoor attractions and playgrounds with the kids.

This just in: There’s a new FREE outdoor playground at Gardens by the Bay, and it’s one that you may very well keep coming back to (click here to read about it asap!). But other than that, we all know that Gardens by the Bay is one of our favourite kids’ activities in Singapore! We don’t just love the fact you can cool off in indoor comfort, surrounded by beautiful flowers and plants from around the globe, but you can also explore the outdoor gardens and the famous Supertree Grove–all for FREE! There’s also a fab water playground at Gardens by the Bay, lots of great sightseeing spots, and of course, the highly anticipated nightly light shows at the Supertree Grove that make this place one of the best things to do in Singapore with the family.

Planning a visit to Gardens by the Bay with kids? Read on for our guide of the best attractions kids will love (plus what’s free and what’s ticketed), how to get to Gardens by the Bay, what to eat at Gardens by the Bay, and family-friendly tips to take note of before you go.

Jump to:
– New Playground at Gardens by the Bay
– Far East Organisation Children’s Garden
– Supertree Grove & Light Shows at GBTB
– OCBC Skyway at Gardens by the Bay
– Supertree Observatory at Gardens by the Bay
– Flower Dome with kids
– Cloud Forest with kids
– Other free gardens at GBTB
– Where to Eat at Gardens by the Bay
– Nursing Rooms at Gardens by the Bay
– Getting Around Gardens by the Bay
– How to Get to Gardens by the Bay

Kid-friendly Guide To Gardens by the Bay:

New! PropNex Family Zone at Gardens by the Bay (FREE!)

Gardens by the Bay with kids - PropNex Family Zone - new playground at Gardens by the Bay — Image credit: Jessica Fang

An outdoor playground inspired by the iconic Supertrees? We’re here for it. The new PropNex Family Zone playground at Gardens by the Bay lights up at night, just like the Supertrees! It’s built for adventurous kiddos, with plenty of climbing structures made of natural materials like wood, where kids can climb up two towers shaped like the Supertrees. There’s plenty of space and enough play structures for kids of all ages; the playground even takes inclusivity into mind, so no one’s left out! Tots will love the large sandpit, and little ones can “set up shop” at the little market.

However, as your kids are going to be climbing everywhere, we do urge parents to keep a sharp eye out for them and ensure they go down the long metal tube slide slowly as we saw some kids zooming down and flying out of the slide right into the sandpit (thankfully, they were alright!). We also recommend either coming later in the evening or early in the morning when the sun is more forgiving, and slapping on lots of sunscreen as the playground gets scorching hot.

Free GBTB playground opening hours: 5am – 2am, Daily
How much: Free!
Nearest Carpark: Bayfront Plaza Carpark or Main Entrance Carpark (note that it’s at least a 10-minute walk away).

Far East Organisation Children’s Garden: Water Play at Gardens by the Bay (FREE!)

Children's Garden Water Park at Gardens by the Bay — Image credit: Gardens by the Bay – Far East Organisation Children’s Garden.

Perhaps the most kid-centred attraction at Gardens by the Bay, the Far East Organisation Children’s Garden features a huge water play for kids (and their grown-ups!) to beat the heat and stay cool. There’s plenty of space to run around and even a dedicated Toddler Play Zone water play section with less overwhelming water fountains and play opportunities for the younger ones (ages 1 – 5)! Depending on how much your kids love water play, you can expect to spend a whole morning or afternoon at the Far East Organisation Children’s Garden! After the kids’ fingers have become wrinkly, they can embark on a jungle adventure at the Rainforest Tree House (for ages 6 – 12) equipped with a maze or ropes, and ladders in the middle of a canopy of trees.

GBTB Water Play opening hours: 9am – 7pm (Thursday – Sunday & PH, last admission at 6pm); closed on Monday – Wednesday (unless it is a public holiday)
How much: Free!
Nearest Carpark: Satay by the Bay Carpark

Active Garden at Gardens by the Bay (FREE!)

With the vision to bring everyone together, the Active Garden is an outdoor social hub that serves as a playground. This communal space welcomes people of all ages to relax, connect, and unwind in a lush garden setting. This is also where you’ll find the Waterfront Plaza, which is just next to the PropNex Family Zone.

GBTB Active Garden opening hours: 5am – 2am daily
How much: Free!
Nearest carpark: Bayfront Plaza Carpark or Main Entrance Carpark

Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay (FREE!)

Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay with Sunset — Image Credit: Gardens by the Bay

To experience the magnificence of these Avatar-like trees, take a stroll through the Supertree Grove surrounded by 12 of the Gardens’ 18 Supertrees. The little ones will be in awe of these giants that stand 50 metres above the ground. These Supertrees artistically present a novel, vertical way to grow plants. With a diverse selection of plants spanning over 200 species, your kiddos can hunt for ferns, orchids, and tropical climbers! By the way, seven of these Supertrees harvest solar energy, which serves as a great conversation starter with any young science enthusiast at home! You can access the OCBC Skyway and Supertree Observatory from here.

Opening hours: 5am – 2am
How much: Free!

Supertree Grove light show at GBTB (FREE!)

Gardens by the Bay Light Show Garden Rhapsody — Image credit: Gardens by the Bay

We highly recommend staying at Gardens by the Bay with the kids till after sunset. You can watch your kids’ faces light up when the trees come alive with a colourful light and musical show called Garden Rhapsody! The Gardens by the Bay light show is one of the most popular attractions here, and it’s FREE for all to watch! Each month features a new music and light arrangement, so by all means keep coming back for more! View what’s on in 2025 here.

When: 7:45pm & 8:45pm, daily
Where: Supertree Grove or World of Plants, Gardens by the Bay
How much: Free!

Borealis: Northern Lights at Supertree Grove (FREE!)

You no longer need to travel across the world to see the magical Northern Lights as they’re now in Singapore! Borealis is a free immersive light and sound installation at Gardens by the Bay’s Supertree Grove every Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Created by Switzerland-based artist Dan Acher, these Northern Lights in Singapore will last for 30 minutes each time and is accompanied by an immersive soundtrack by French composer Guillaume Desbois.

When: Saturday – Sunday, 9pm – 9.30pm & Monday 8pm – 8.30pm
Where: Supertree Grove, Gardens by the Bay
How much: FREE!

OCBC Skyway at Gardens by the Bay (Tickets Needed)

For a captivating view of Gardens by the Bay with the kids, this 22-metre high aerial walkway gives you the perfect opportunity for Insta-worthy shots! With a panoramic bird’s eye view of the garden, you will be able to capture the lush greenery and marvel at the breathtaking landscape. Although, those who are afraid of heights may want to stay closer to the middle part of the path! The wide walkway gives you plenty of space for your stroller or your little one to run around while you enjoy the view and maybe take a rare selfie without the kids! You can expect to take around 15 minutes to complete your visit here.

OCBC Skyway opening hours: 9am – 9pm daily (last admission at 8:30pm)
OCBC Skyway tickets: from $7. Click here to purchase tickets.
Nearest Carpark: Main Entrance Basement Carpark

Supertree Observatory (Tickets Needed)

SuperTree Observatory with people at Gardens by the Bay — Image credit: Gardens by the Bay

If you want to get an even better aerial view of the Gardens by the Bay, the Supertree Observatory is for you! Sitting at the top of the tallest Supertree canopy, you can get unbeatable views and picture-perfect photos! Overlooking the Singapore city skyline, you will be able to spot the Singapore Ferris Wheel, Marina Bay Sands and other iconic landmarks. You can expect to take around 45 minutes at the Supertree Observatory.

Supertree Observatory opening hours: 9am – 9pm daily (last admission at 8:30pm)
Supertree Observatory tickets: from $6. Click here to purchase tickets.
Nearest Carpark: Main Entrance Basement Carpark, Gardens by the Bay

Flower Dome at Gardens by the Bay (Tickets Needed)

Flower Dome at Gardens by the Bay with Little House — Image credit: Gardens by the Bay Facebook

The Flower Dome is probably the most colourful attraction at Gardens by the Bay! Imagine seeing flowers in every shade of colour–such a lovely sight. Your kids can stroll through the Flower Dome and smell the roses (literally!) and even get up close with plants from the Mediterranean region or arid deserts that you would not be able to find anywhere else in Singapore! The paths here at Flower Dome are spacious and stroller-friendly in case your little one gets too tired to walk. To provide the ideal environment for the flowers to bloom, the air can be a little cooler than what you’re used to in Singapore, so bring a jacket just in case! We love that the flower displays are updated every few months with impressive installations and unique themes, so it’s worth coming back every so often. You can expect to spend at least an hour exploring the Flower Dome with the kids.

Flower Dome opening hours: 9am – 9pm daily (last admission at 8:30pm)
Flower Dome tickets: from $27. Click here to buy tickets.
Nearest Carpark: Main Entrance Basement Carpark, Gardens by the Bay

Cloud Forest at Gardens by the Bay (Tickets Needed)

waterfall at cloud forest in Gardens by the Bay — Image credit: Gardens by the Bay via Facebook

This is probably one of the most popular attractions at Gardens by the Bay. Cloud Forest features lush mountain greenery with exotic plant species that you wouldn’t normally find in Singapore! The cool, fresh misty air (23 to 25 degrees Celsius) makes this a comfortable (and almost relaxing) place to explore with your little ones! Don’t miss the 35-metre indoor waterfall, one of the world’s tallest indoor waterfalls, as well as The Hidden Forest, a digital art experience that lies beneath the Cloud Forest! We love that the walkways are stroller-friendly, and there are lifts within the dome for quick and easy access to each level. Be sure to bring along a jacket in case it gets a tad too chilly! You can expect to spend at least an hour and a half exploring the Flower Dome with the kids.

Cloud Forest opening hours: 9am – 9pm daily (last admission at 8pm)
Cloud Forest tickets: from $23. Click here to buy tickets.
Nearest Carpark: Main Entrance Basement Carpark at Gardens by the Bay

Floral Fantasy at Gardens by the Bay (Tickets Needed)

Flower Fantasy at Gardens by the Bay — Image credit: Gardens by the Bay Facebook

If you can’t get enough of flowers, head over to Floral Fantasy which offers a picturesque escape with suspended bouquets of floral arrangements. There is a mix of over 15,000 fresh-cut, dried, and preserved flowers perfectly arranged for your next shot for Instagram! This garden landscape spans 1,500 square meters, so you and the littles can take your time to enjoy a magical stroll through a vibrant garden like no other!

Floral Fantasy opening hours: 10am – 9pm, Daily (last admission at 8.30pm)
Floral Fantasy tickets: From $8. Click here to purchase tickets.
Nearest Carpark: Bayfront Plaza Carpark

Other FREE gardens at Gardens by the Bay:

Heritage Gardens at Gardens by the Bay (FREE!)

Heritage Gardens with horse statues at Gardens by the Bay — Image credit: Gardens by the Bay

Heritage Gardens features a beautiful array of fauna and flora that are intricately woven into the culture of Singapore’s three main ethnic groups and colonial past. Take a stroll through the Indian Garden to admire the most creative garden here that takes the shape of a traditional floral motif or be intrigued by the tantalising garden lined with plants that are grown for food. Head over to the picturesque Chinese Garden where nature meets art for a creative display of plants. The Colonial Garden features aromatic spices and cash crops for much-needed aromatherapy! The wide walkways in each garden are perfect for little ones to roam and explore while you take in the sights and smells.

Opening Hours: 5am – 2am
How much: Free!
Nearest Carpark: Main Entrance Basement Carpark

Dragonfly & Kingfisher Lakes at Gardens by the Bay (FREE!)

If you’re in search of something calming, the Dragonfly & Kingfisher Lakes are just what you need! It’s been proven that looking at a body of water – whether it’s the sea or a lake – helps to improve mood and reduce stress. We know that being a parent is stressful, and everyone needs a breather once in a while. This 440-metre river walk will help you step outside of the running to-do list in your head! The kiddos can try to spot the roaming dragonflies (or otters if you are lucky!), and older ones can scan QR codes along the boardwalk to discover fascinating facts about the lake system!
Read more: Where to spot wild animals in SG

Opening Hours: 5am – 2am
How much: Free!

Kingfisher Wetlands at Gardens by the Bay (FREE!)

Spanning over 15,000 square metres (bigger than two football pitches!), Kingfisher Wetlands is the place to be for bird watchers and nature lovers. There are more than 200 mangrove trees and plants to contribute to sustainability and a diverse range of exotic flora and fauna. For the bird watchers, 16 out of 40 migratory birds have passed through Kingfisher Wetlands, so if you’re lucky enough, you might catch a glimpse of the White-collared Kingfisher, Scarlet-backed Flowerpecker, or maybe even the Lesser Whistling Ducks. This is a great place to explore biodiversity with the little ones and teach them to appreciate the beauty of nature in all its glory!

Opening Hours: 5am – 2am daily
How much: Free!

Bay East Garden at Gardens by the Bay (FREE!)

Lined with palm trees and lush greenery, Bay East Garden overlooks the awe-inspiring Marina Bay skyline. An oasis in the heart of Singapore’s busy business district, this is the place to go for a relaxing afternoon with a family picnic. There’s plenty of space for the kids to run around, soak up the sun, and explore the nature around them! If you’re looking for an Insta-worthy spot for a new family photo, Bay East Garden gives you the perfect backdrop!

Opening Hours: 24 hours daily
How much: Free!
Nearest Carpark: Bay East Garden Carpark

Serene Garden at Gardens by the Bay (FREE!)

This new outdoor attraction at Gardens by the Bay adopts the minimalist concept of Japanese gardens. With 2-hectares to explore, this tranquil escape gives you a reprieve from the chaos of city life and helps you reconnect with nature. Here, you will find the tallest Podocarpus bonsai tree measuring 11.5 metres tall and over 160 naturally red and blue rocks from Niyoda, Japan. As you follow the path through the Serene Garden, shady tropical trees will keep you and the little ones cool and shade you from the scorching Singapore heat.

Opening Hours: 5am – 2am daily
How much: Free!
Nearest Carpark: Bayfront Carpark

Sun Pavilion at Gardens by the Bay (FREE!)

Though high temperatures in Singapore can often feel like we live in the desert, the humidity reminds us otherwise! The Sun Pavilion gives you and the kiddos an opportunity to walk through desert-like landscapes with unique cacti that you wouldn’t find elsewhere in Singapore. The fittest cacti here can live up to 300 years! With over 1,000 desert plants and 100 species and varieties, you will be able to marvel at unique plants like the Brain Cactus that is shaped just like the human brain. Both young and old will be amazed at the range of fauna that you will find here.

Opening Hours: 5am – 2am daily
How much: Free!
Nearest Carpark: Main Entrance Basement Carpark

The Canyon at Gardens by the Bay (FREE!)

This 400-metre trail is lined with the world’s largest collection of sculptural rocks. These intriguing shapes and sizes come from Shandong, China and are some of the most timeless structures. The biggest rocks here are an astounding 7 metres tall! Over 200 plant species are interspersed throughout this trail adding colour and life to this mystical trail. The young ones will be amazed to walk next to these uniquely ginormous rocks.

Opening Hours: 5am – 2am daily
How much: Free!
Nearest Carpark: Main Entrance Basement Carpark

World of Plants at Gardens by the Bay (FREE!)

The World of Plants houses a remarkable 24,500 species. With something new to explore around every corner, this is a great place for kids to learn about how plants disperse their seeds and adapt to diverse environments.

Opening Hours: 5am – 2am daily
How much: Free!

Where to Eat at Gardens by the Bay

Jurassic Nest Food Hall: Dinosaur food court at Gardens by the Bay

Located in the heart of Supertree Grove, the Jurassic Nest Food Hall features Michelin-rated cuisines and larger-than-life dinosaurs in Singapore! The little dino fans at home will love sitting right next to these giant creatures while feasting on their meal. Offering a variety of cuisines from soya sauce chicken rice to biryani or Thai food, there is something for everyone. Perhaps the most family-friendly stall here JN Cafe serves kid-friendly dishes like pasta, sandwiches, waffles, and more!

Jurassic Nest Food Hall, Supertree Grove, Gardens by the Bay

Satay by the Bay: Outdoor hawker at Gardens by the Bay

Satay by the Bay at Gardens by the Bay Food Hall — Image credit: Gardens by the Bay

For local delights in an outdoor space that’s great for bringing kids, Satay by the Bay is an outdoor hawker market offering everything from BBQ chicken wings and Hokkien mee to chilli crabs all enjoyed while overlooking the waterfront.

Satay by the Bay, Waterfront, Gardens by the Bay

Shake Shack: Burgers at Gardens by the Bay

Shake Shack at Gardens by the Bay — Image credit: Gardens by the Bay

An easy crowd-pleaser, Shake Shack serves modern-day “roadside” burgers with 100% all-natural Angus beef burgers, chicken sandwiches, and even hot dogs. Shake Shack does awesome milkshakes too. This fuss-free restaurant is perfect for families and is sure to have something that everyone will enjoy.

Shake Shack, The Canopy, Gardens by the Bay

Co+Nut+Ink: Coconut desserts at GBTB

For the scorching hot days at Gardens by the Bay, Co+Nut+Ink is here to offer some respite! Get a refreshing cup of coconut water and cool off with some great coconut ice cream!

Co+Nut+Ink, Supertree Grove, Gardens by the Bay

Finwood: Children’s Garden restaurant

Fuel up for your day at the Far East Organisation Children’s Garden at Finwood. This family-friendly restaurant has kid-friendly dishes to make dining a breeze, from Asian to Western fare. Check out their children’s menu with “food art” inspirations!

Finwood, Supertree Grove, Gardens by the Bay

Hopscotch: Local food & craft cocktail bar

Hopscotch features well-loved dishes like chicken and waffles, cereal prawns, burgers and truffle fries to go with Singapore-themed artisanal cocktails! They even have a kids’ menu with classic mac & cheese or wagyu beef bolognese linguine.

Hopscotch, Bayfront Plaza (Next to Bayfront MRT)

Douraku Sushi: Sushi bar at GBTB

You can have authentic sushi at Douraku Sushi, located just below the Flower Dome! This sushi bar has all your favourite Japanese dishes which you can pair with some lovely sake.

Douraku Sushi, Below Flower Dome, Gardens by the Bay

Hortus: Restaurant inside Flower Dome

Hortus Mediterranean Cuisine at Gardens by the Bay — Image cedit: Gardens by the Bay

To enjoy a unique Mediterranean meal with a stunning view, head over to Hortus, which features vibrant salads, dips, hearty mains and much more, specially prepared by Michelin star chef Michael Wilson.

Hortus, Flower Dome, Gardens by the Bay

Janice Wong: Chocolates & cocktails at Supertree Grove

Dessert with a view? Say no more. Head up to the Supertree Observatory to enjoy great artisanal cakes, chocolates and cocktails.

Janice Wong, Supertree Observatory, Gardens by the Bay

Marguerite: Fine dining at Flower Dome

Marguerite Restaurant at Gardens by the Bay — Image credit: Marguerite Restaurant Facebook

Marguerite sets the bar for an unforgettable fine dining experience that is perfect for a date night or a fancy ladies’ lunch. You can look forward to delicious dishes like bouillabaisse, ratatouille, New Caledonian blue prawn “tagliolini” and many more!

Marguerite, Flower Dome, Gardens by the Bay

McDonald’s (Halal-certified)

This fast-food restaurant needs no introduction! A popular family favourite and probably your little one’s first choice, McDonald’s offers family-friendly seating and fuss-free options like fries, burgers, chicken nuggets and more!

McDonald’s, Near Golden Garden

Conservatory Cafe: Light bites at GBTB

Conservatory Cafe offers ice cream, light snacks and thirst-quenching drinks.

Conservatory Cafe, Between Flower Dome and Cloud Forest

Starbucks @ Active Garden & Golden Garden

This internationally renowned coffee chain needs no introduction! There are two Starbucks outlets at Gardens by the Bay: one at the Active Garden and another at the Golden Garden.

Starbucks, Near Golden Garden & Active Garden

Baby amenities at Gardens by the Bay

art sculpture kei chan at Gardens by the Bay — Image credit: Gardens by the Bay

Bottle-filling Stations

You and the little ones are bound to get thirsty while spending the day outdoors! If you run out of water, head over to any of these bottle-filling stations to quench your thirst:

Bay East Visitor Centre
Supertree Grove
Active Garden
Bayfront Shuttle Service

Nursing Rooms

Baby’s got to eat when baby’s got to eat! Thankfully, there are nursing rooms scattered throughout Gardens by the Bay. Just look for any of these landmarks to get some privacy to feed your hungry baby.

Golden Garden – near Information Counter
The Canopy – near Flower Dome entrance
Supertree Food Hall
Far East Organization Children’s Garden
The Meadow

Getting Around Gardens by the Bay

Shuttle Bus Service at Gardens by the Bay — Image credit: Gardens by the Bay via Facebook

Gardens by the Bay is huge, and it can get tiring for little ones to walk around all day! So if you’re in need of a quicker, less exhausting way to get around, hop on their shuttle service that operates daily from 9am to 9pm in 10-minute intervals. It provides a loop service between Bayfront Plaza, Active Garden, and Flower Dome, three primary landmarks at Gardens by the Bay that will get you closer to other attractions in the area. This shuttle service is free for passengers using a wheelchair and little ones under 3, but everyone else is required to purchase a ticket online or via the Gardens by the Bay Mobile App. You can find a useful information guide here for all you need to know to explore Gardens by the Bay.

Operating hours: 9am – 9pm daily (last ride at 8:45pm; runs at 10-minute intervals)
Tickets: $3 for one 2-way ride (adults & children 3 years and above)

How to Get to Gardens by the Bay

By Train/Bus:

If you are taking the Circle Line or Downtown Line, alight at Bayfront MRT station and take exit B.
If you are taking the East-West Line, alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station and take exit C. Transfer to bus 400 at International Plaza, Anson Road, and alight along Marina Gardens Drive.
If you are taking the Thomson East-Coast Line (NEW!), alight at Gardens by the Bay MRT station and take exit 1.

By Car:

Take the ECP towards the City. Head towards Sheares Avenue. Turn left onto Marina Boulevard and enter Bayfront Plaza Carpark.
Take KPE towards the City. Take exit 1 onto ECP / Sheares Avenue. Turn left onto Marina Boulevard and enter Bayfront Plaza Carpark.
Take AYE towards the City. Continue onto Marina Coastal Expressway (MCE). Take exit 2 onto Central Boulevard. Turn right to Sheares Avenue and another right onto Marina Boulevard. Enter Bayfront Plaza Carpark.

For more information on parking rates and how to get to Gardens by the Bay, click here.

Read more:

Best Free Outdoor Playgrounds In Singapore

parks in singapore — Best kid-friendly parks in Singapore

water park singapore water playground singapore — Best Water Playgrounds & Water Parks

Lead Image Credit: Gardens by the Bay

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