Singapore is home to some of the most family-friendly museums in Asia, but many parents still assume museums are only suitable for older children. In reality, many museums now feature interactive galleries, hands-on activities, multimedia installations and regular family programmes that encourage children to learn through play.
Whether your child is fascinated by dinosaurs, aeroplanes, history or giant ships, there is a museum that can spark their curiosity. Better still, several museums are completely free, while others offer free admission for Singaporeans and PRs or run regular free family events.
In this BusyKidd guide, we’ve selected museums that children genuinely enjoy visiting. Rather than rushing through every gallery, we recommend choosing one or two highlights, taking plenty of breaks and combining your visit with a nearby playground or park. Many museums also organise storytelling sessions, craft workshops, discovery trails and seasonal programmes during the school holidays, making every visit a little different.
This first chapter covers three of our favourite museums for curious young explorers.
National Museum of Singapore
Singapore’s oldest museum is also one of its most engaging for families. Rather than simply displaying historical artefacts, the museum uses immersive projections, sound, interactive installations and storytelling to help children experience Singapore’s history in a fun and memorable way.
Families should look out for the Children’s Season programme, usually held during the June school holidays, when the museum transforms with activity stations, craft workshops, storytelling sessions and family trails. Throughout the year there are also weekend family programmes, guided tours and special exhibitions.
Young children particularly enjoy digital experiences such as Singapore Odyssea, while older children can explore galleries about Singapore’s development, culture and everyday life.
Plan around 2–3 hours for your visit.
What kids will love
- Interactive multimedia galleries
- Children’s Season activities
- Family discovery trails
- Rotating exhibitions
- Beautiful architecture
Practical Information
- Opening hours: Daily, 10:00am–7:00pm
- Admission: Permanent galleries are generally free for Singapore Citizens and PRs; special exhibitions may require tickets.
- Nearby: Fort Canning Park, National Gallery Singapore, CHIJMES
BusyKidd Tip
Pack a water bottle, encourage your child to complete a mini scavenger hunt, and let them choose one favourite exhibit to tell the family about afterwards. This helps keep the visit engaging without trying to see everything in one trip.
Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum
Image Credit: John Sunga via Google Reviews
This museum is a dream destination for children who love dinosaurs, animals and nature. The highlight is the trio of giant sauropod dinosaur skeletons towering above visitors, but there is far more to discover, including fascinating displays on marine life, rainforest biodiversity and Southeast Asian wildlife.
The museum regularly organises educational talks, guided tours, family workshops and holiday activities designed to encourage children to explore the natural world. Interactive learning materials help younger visitors stay engaged throughout the visit.
Allow at least two hours to explore comfortably, especially if your child enjoys reading exhibit panels or sketching favourite animals.
What kids will love
- Three dinosaur skeletons
- Whale and marine life displays
- Rainforest biodiversity
- Educational workshops
- Family-friendly trails
Practical Information
- Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00am–6:00pm (closed Mondays unless public holiday).
- Admission: Paid admission; discounts available for Singapore Citizens, PRs and children. Tickets from 5 SGD.
- Nearby: Kent Ridge Park, West Coast Park, NUS campus
Singapore Maritime Gallery
If your child is fascinated by enormous ships, ports or anything that floats, the Singapore Maritime Gallery is one of the city’s best hidden gems. Operated by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, this modern gallery explains how Singapore became one of the busiest ports in the world through interactive exhibits that are easy for children to understand.
Children can explore large ship models, discover how containers travel around the globe, try interactive digital stations and learn how harbour pilots safely guide giant vessels into port. During school holidays the gallery regularly hosts family-friendly programmes such as craft workshops, sustainability activities and young explorer sessions. Guided tours are also available on selected weekends.
After visiting the gallery, walk a few minutes to Marina South Pier where children can watch real ferries, cargo ships and harbour vessels, making it easy to connect what they have learned with the real world.
What kids will enjoy
- Build and load virtual container ships
- Interactive touch-screen games
- Ship models and navigation displays
- Holiday workshops and family activities
- Weekend guided tours
Practical Information
- Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 9:00am–6:00pm (closed Mondays).
- Admission: Free.
- Allow 60–90 minutes.
Air Force Museum
The Air Force Museum is a must-visit for children who dream of becoming pilots. The outdoor display features real fighter aircraft and helicopters, while the indoor galleries tell the story of Singapore’s air defence through interactive exhibits, videos and cockpit displays.
Young visitors enjoy standing next to full-size aircraft and learning how different planes are used. During selected school holidays the museum occasionally organises aviation-themed workshops and educational activities for families.
What kids will enjoy
- Real fighter jets
- Helicopters
- Cockpit exhibits
- Interactive displays
- Aviation history
Practical Information
- Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 9:30am–5:00pm.
- Admission: Free.
- Allow 1.5–2 hours.
BusyKidd Tip
Check each museum’s official website before visiting, especially during school holidays, as extra workshops and family programmes are often added.
Singapore City Gallery (URA Centre)
This free gallery surprises many parents with how engaging it is for children. The highlight is the enormous 3D scale model of Singapore, showing roads, MRT lines, parks and neighbourhoods in incredible detail.
Interactive displays allow children to discover how new towns are designed, why parks are important and how Singapore plans for the future. Older children interested in engineering, architecture or geography will find plenty to explore. The gallery also provides family facilities including stroller parking and nursing rooms.
What kids will enjoy
- Massive city model
- Interactive planning exhibits
- Future Singapore displays
- Digital games
Practical Information
- Opening hours: Monday–Saturday, 9:00am–5:00pm.
- Admission: Free.
- Allow 60–90 minutes.
BusyKidd Tip
Check each museum’s official website before visiting, especially during school holidays, as extra workshops and family programmes are often added.
Army Museum of Singapore
The Army Museum introduces children to Singapore’s military history through modern multimedia displays, authentic military vehicles, uniforms and interactive exhibits. Rather than focusing only on history, the museum explains teamwork, technology, leadership and how the Singapore Armed Forces have evolved over time.
School holiday periods sometimes feature family-friendly workshops, guided tours and activity booklets that encourage children to complete missions while exploring the galleries. Outdoor military vehicles are always popular with younger visitors, while older children enjoy learning how technology is used in modern defence.
A visit usually takes around two hours and works well for primary school children interested in vehicles, engineering or history.
What kids will enjoy
- Military vehicles
- Interactive multimedia
- Hands-on discovery booklets
- Uniform displays
Practical Information
- Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 9:00am–5:30pm.
- Admission: Free.
- Nearby: SAFTI area, Jurong Lake Gardens.
BusyKidd Tip
Check the museum’s holiday calendar before visiting, as family workshops and craft sessions are usually announced ahead of Singapore school holidays and often require advance registration.
Indian Heritage Centre
Bright colours, music, traditional costumes and interactive exhibits make the Indian Heritage Centre one of Singapore’s most engaging cultural museums for children. Galleries introduce families to Indian traditions, festivals, food, migration and daily life using child-friendly displays.
Throughout the year the museum organises family craft workshops, storytelling sessions, Deepavali celebrations, gallery trails and holiday programmes where children can create traditional art or learn simple cultural dances.
What kids will enjoy
- Dress and festival displays
- Interactive family trails
- Craft workshops
- Storytelling
- Deepavali family events
Practical Information
- Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00am–6:00pm.
- Admission: Free for Singapore Citizens & PRs; ticket required for most foreign visitors.
- Nearby: Little India, Tekka Centre, Little India Arcade.
Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall
This beautifully restored villa tells the story of Dr Sun Yat Sen and the Chinese community in Singapore. Although it focuses on history, the museum includes multimedia displays, family trails and seasonal activities that make the experience enjoyable for children.
During school holidays the museum often offers hands-on workshops, heritage crafts, family discovery trails and cultural festivals. The peaceful gardens surrounding the villa are also lovely for younger children to explore after the museum visit.
What kids will enjoy
- Interactive multimedia
- Family trails
- Heritage craft workshops
- Historic villa and gardens
Practical Information
- Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00am–5:00pm.
- Admission: Free for Singapore Citizens & PRs; standard admission for tourists.
- Nearby: Zhongshan Park, Whampoa food centres.
MINT Museum of Toys
The MINT Museum of Toys is a paradise for children and adults alike. Home to more than 50,000 vintage toys from over 40 countries, it tells the story of childhood through beautifully curated collections. Although many toys are displayed behind glass, children are fascinated by the colourful displays of robots, teddy bears, Disney memorabilia, comic characters and classic collectibles.
During school holidays, the museum often hosts family-friendly workshops, storytelling sessions and themed exhibitions. Kids can also complete activity sheets while exploring the galleries, making the visit much more engaging.
Plan around 1.5–2 hours for your visit.
What kids will love
- Vintage toys from around the world
- Robots and space toys
- Disney collections
- Family workshops
- Holiday exhibitions
Practical Information
- Opening hours: Daily, 9:30am–6:30pm.
- Admission: Paid admission. Family packages are available.
- Nearby attractions: Nearby: Bugis, Haji Lane, Kampong Glam.
Peranakan Museum
Recently renovated, the Peranakan Museum introduces children to the colourful culture of the Peranakans through jewellery, clothing, furniture and interactive multimedia displays. Family trails encourage young visitors to look for hidden objects throughout the galleries.
The museum regularly organises children’s craft workshops, storytelling, cultural performances and school holiday activities where families can try traditional Peranakan art and games.
Allow around 2 hours for your visit.
What kids will love
- Family discovery trails
- Interactive displays
- Craft workshops
- Colourful costumes
- Holiday family events
Practical Information
- Opening hours: Daily, 10:00am–7:00pm.
- Admission: Free for Singapore Citizens & PRs
- Nearby attractions: Nearby: Fort Canning Park, National Museum, Armenian Street.
Children’s Museum Singapore
Designed especially for children aged 12 and below, the Children’s Museum Singapore offers one of the most interactive museum experiences in the city. Every gallery encourages touching, experimenting and playing while learning about Singapore’s history.
Expect role-play areas, interactive games, storytelling spaces and changing exhibitions. Advance booking is usually required, especially during weekends and school holidays.
Family workshops, craft sessions and educational programmes are organised throughout the year.
What kids will love
- Role-play exhibits
- Hands-on learning
- Interactive games
- Storytelling
- Holiday workshops
Practical Information
- Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 9:00am–5:00pm.
- Admission: Free for children who are Singapore Citizens & PRs; ticketing applies for many other visitors and sessions.
- Nearby attractions: Nearby: Fort Canning Park, National Gallery, Clarke Quay.
Harmony in Diversity Gallery
Discover Singapore’s different religions through colourful interactive displays, digital games and family-friendly exhibits. Children can learn about festivals, places of worship and how different communities celebrate together. The gallery occasionally hosts family talks and guided visits.
Why visit with kids?
• Interactive exhibits
• Educational but engaging
• Suitable for a rainy day
• Great for primary-school children
Visitor Information
- Open Monday–Saturday, 10am–5pm.
- Admission is free. Booking is recommended.
- Nearby attractions: Maxwell Food Centre, Chinatown.
Civil Defence Heritage Gallery
Located inside Singapore’s historic Central Fire Station, this is one of the city’s most exciting free museums for children. Kids can see vintage fire engines, rescue equipment, firefighter uniforms and interactive emergency preparedness exhibits. On Saturday mornings, selected fire stations hold Open House sessions where families can see operational fire engines and meet firefighters.
Why visit with kids?
• Interactive exhibits
• Educational but engaging
• Suitable for a rainy day
• Great for primary-school children
Visitor Information
- Gallery reopens Tuesday–Sunday; Saturday Fire Station Open House runs from 9am with guided tours.
- Admission is free.
- Nearby attractions: National Museum, Clarke Quay, Fort Canning.
Eurasian Heritage Gallery
This compact museum introduces children to the history and traditions of Singapore’s Eurasian community through family stories, music, costumes and interactive exhibits. It’s a quiet hidden gem ideal for older children interested in Singapore’s multicultural heritage.
Why visit with kids?
• Interactive exhibits
• Educational but engaging
• Suitable for a rainy day
• Great for primary-school children
Visitor Information
- Open Tuesday–Sunday, around 10am–5pm.
- Admission is free.
- Nearby attractions: East Coast, Katong, Joo Chiat.
Check the official website before your visit, especially during school holidays, when additional family workshops, craft sessions and guided tours are often available.
ArtScience Museum
Famous for its lotus-shaped building at Marina Bay Sands, ArtScience Museum combines technology, creativity and science. The permanent Future World exhibition is especially popular with families thanks to immersive digital projections and interactive installations where children can draw, play and explore.
The museum regularly introduces travelling exhibitions, maker workshops and family weekends.
What kids will love
- Future World
- Interactive digital art
- Immersive projections
- Maker workshops
- Family weekends
Visitor Information
- Opening hours: Daily, around 10am–7pm.
- Admission: paid
- Nearby attractions: Nearby: Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, Spectra light show.
Science Centre Singapore
Although technically a science centre rather than a traditional museum, no family guide would be complete without it. With hundreds of interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, science shows and seasonal exhibitions, children can spend an entire day experimenting and discovering.
Don’t miss KidsSTOP™ for younger children, the Omni-Theatre and the outdoor WaterWorks area.
What kids will love
- Hands-on experiments
- Science shows
- KidsSTOP™
- WaterWorks
- Omni-Theatre
Visitor Information
- Opening hours: Wednesday–Monday, 10am–5pm.
- Admission: paid
- Nearby attractions: Nearby: Snow City, Jurong Lake Gardens.
Former Ford Factory
History comes alive at the Former Ford Factory, the site where the British surrendered Singapore to Japan during World War II. Although the topic is best suited to older primary school children and teenagers, the museum presents history through interactive displays, photographs, videos and reconstructed scenes that make it easier to understand.
Families can explore original artefacts, wartime objects and multimedia exhibits explaining how ordinary people lived during the occupation. During selected weekends and school holidays, the museum hosts guided tours, talks and educational family programmes.
What kids will enjoy
- Interactive multimedia exhibits
- Original wartime artefacts
- Educational family tours
- Historical videos
Visitor Information
- Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00am–6:00pm.
- Admission: Free for kids below 6, citizens and PRs
- Nearby attractions: Nearby: Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, Rail Corridor.
BusyKidd Tip
Many of these museums are quieter than Singapore’s major attractions, making them ideal for weekends when you want to avoid large crowds.
Changi Chapel & Museum
This beautifully designed museum shares the stories of prisoners of war and civilians during World War II. Older children will appreciate the personal stories, recreated chapel and thoughtful multimedia exhibits. Family-friendly talks and guided tours are organised throughout the year.
What kids will enjoy
- Recreated chapel
- Interactive displays
- Personal wartime stories
- Guided tours
Visitor Information
- Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 9:30am–5:30pm.
- Admission: free for locals
- Nearby attractions: Nearby: Changi Village, Changi Beach Park.
Singapore Musical Box Museum
A hidden gem in the city centre, this museum introduces children to the fascinating world of mechanical music. Live demonstrations allow families to hear beautifully restored musical boxes while learning how they work. The museum regularly organises guided tours and educational demonstrations.
What kids will enjoy
- Live musical box demonstrations
- Mechanical music displays
- Interactive explanations
- Guided tours
Visitor Information
- Opening hours: Usually Tuesday–Sunday, guided visits by schedule.
- Admission: free for locals
- Nearby attractions: Nearby: Marina Bay, Fullerton, Asian Civilisations Museum.
Singapore Navy Museum
Learn about the history of the Republic of Singapore Navy through scale models, naval artefacts, uniforms and multimedia exhibits. Children who love ships will enjoy seeing how sailors live and work. The museum occasionally hosts educational visits and special open-house events.
Highlights for Kids
- Ship models
- Naval equipment
- Interactive displays
- History of Singapore’s Navy
Visitor Information
- Opening hours vary; check before visiting.
- Admission: Free.
- Nearby attractions: Nearby: Changi Naval Base area.
BusyKidd Tip
These attractions are ideal if you’ve already explored Singapore’s major museums and want to discover somewhere new.
The Intan
A private Peranakan home museum filled with colourful antiques, jewellery and ceramics. Visits are by guided tour only, making the experience feel very personal. Older children interested in culture and design will enjoy hearing the stories behind the objects.
Highlights for Kids
- Beautiful Peranakan collection
- Guided storytelling
- Traditional crafts
Visitor Information
- Visits by advance booking.
- Admission: Paid guided tours.
- Nearby attractions: Nearby: Joo Chiat and Katong.
Reflections at Bukit Chandu
This heritage museum tells the story of the Battle of Pasir Panjang using immersive multimedia exhibits. Interactive displays and short films help older children understand Singapore’s wartime history.
Highlights for Kids
- Immersive multimedia
- Interactive exhibits
- Historical artefacts
Visitor Information
- Tuesday–Sunday, 9:30am–5:00pm.
- Admission: Free for Singapore Citizens & PRs; fees may apply for others.
- Nearby attractions: Nearby: Labrador Nature Reserve.
Curiosium – Singapore’s New Hands-On Science Museum (Recommended for ages 2–12)
If your child learns best by touching, building, experimenting and creating, then Curiosium West is a must-visit. Unlike traditional museums where children are encouraged not to touch the exhibits, Curiosium is designed around the idea that everything is meant to be explored with your hands. It offers a screen-free, play-and-learn experience with 10 interactive stations that combine science, creativity and sensory play.
Admission: from 10 SGD
Each visit includes access to experiences such as:
- Paint a life-size dinosaur
- Make and stretch slime
- Create glowing artwork at the Light Discovery station
- Build giant structures with oversized foam blocks
- Experiment with air pressure at the Air Station
- Learn the periodic table through giant interactive pieces
- Add your own masterpiece to the Doodle Wall
- Create 3D sculptures on the Giant Pin Board
- Build imaginative creations with all-white LEGO bricks
- Try light drawing using long-exposure photography techniques.
One of Curiosium’s biggest highlights is the Curio-Capsule Workshop, which is included with every ticket. Every month, children take part in a new hands-on science or creative activity and bring home something they’ve made themselves. Recent workshops have focused on colour science, sensory experiments and simple STEM projects.
Why kids love it
- Everything is hands-on
- Science through play
- Creative art and sensory experiences
- Activities for parents and children together
- New workshop every month, so every visit feels different
Practical Information
- Recommended age: 2–12 years
- Visit duration: Around 1.5–2 hours
- Opening hours: Weekends 10:00 am–8:00 pm
- Locations: Bukit Timah, Joo Chiat, Mohamed Sultan and Goldhill Plaza.
BusyKidd Tip
If you’re visiting with younger children (ages 2–5), book an early weekend session when it’s usually quieter. Since the monthly Curio-Capsule Workshop changes regularly, repeat visits offer fresh activities and new take-home creations.
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