Fort Canning Park – An Overview For Families

It is a perfect blend of nature, history, heritage, and recreational activities for visitors of all ages. It attracts with its lush greenery, important historical landmarks, and fascinating stories. It is deservedly considered among the best nature parks in Singapore and an ideal destination for an enjoyable time with your nearest and dearest. It is Fort Canning Park, and we are going to take a virtual tour of this remarkable place with the BusyKidd team today. Where is Fort Canning Park situated in Singapore? How to get there? Why is Fort Canning Park so famous among Singaporeans and visitors to the city? What happened at Fort Canning Park? Is it free to enter Fort Canning Park? Is it family-friendly? What to do at Fort Canning Park? This time, we are going to find it all out. Get ready for a virtual tour of the incredible amenities of this charming ‘Singapore park near me’ – from the magnificent Fort Canning Centre to the enchanting Fort Canning Tree Tunnel.

Related Reading: Check out our guides to East Coast Park, Best Indoor Playgrounds For Children and Free Water Parks in Singapore, SEA Aquarium.

Image Credit: Weerakorn fk go via Google reviews

Fort Canning Park is deservedly considered among the most interesting places in Singapore, which makes for a great day out for families, thanks to the wide variety of attractions to visit and things you can do there. As well as a chance to spend time outdoors and explore Fort Canning Park hiking trails, the park offers a unique opportunity to delve into Singapore’s history and visit some sites that were fundamental to the country we know and love today. As the list of options could be a bit overwhelming, we have chosen some of our favourite things to do on a trip to Fort Canning Park SG.

Fort Canning Park General Information

The 18-acre park, with its numerous landmarks, beautiful flora, large lawns perfect for picnics, lovely dining venues, and more, attracts history geeks, nature lovers, music fans, families with kids, and tourists nowadays. And in medieval times, it was a site where Malay royalty ruled, and numerous significant historical events took place.

Fort Canning Park is situated on a 48-meter (157 ft) high hill in central Singapore. The park was originally known as Bukit Larangan, or ‘Forbidden Hill’ in Malay. The Malays believed it was the place where the kings of ancient Singapore were buried. Of course, there are stories about the Forbidden Hill’s ghosts.

The area received the name of Fort Canning Park on November 1, 1981.

In 2019, the park became the venue of the bicentennial showcase.

Fort Canning Park overlooks the well-known Orchard Road. It is situated in the very heart of Singapore’s Civic and Cultural District. In addition to its historical, cultural, and recreational importance, the park serves as an essential green lung for the city’s downtown area.

Now, let us check the list of family-friendly things to do at Fort Canning Park, from taking a time travel at the Fort Canning Centre to admiring the magnificent Fort Canning Tree Tunnel.

Family-Friendly Things To Do At Fort Canning Park

Explore The Fort Canning Tree Tunnel

Fort Canning Park Tree Tunnel is not just the park’s most popular landmark but also one of the best spots for photos throughout Singapore. It connects Penang Road with the park. At the end of the Tree Tunnel at Fort Canning Park is a beautiful spiral staircase perfect for walking, admiring fantastic views, people-watching, and taking the most stylish photos ever. If you look up this most picturesque spiral staircase in Singapore, you can see walls covered with lush hanging greenery and a large Yellow Rain Tree. It’s like the past, the present, and the future met at one point.

Fort Canning Tree Tunnel is among the most popular spots for wedding photos. It is also a hotspot for nature photographers, couples, families with kids, and others willing to capture this moment. Be ready for long queues, as people usually come here at about 9 or 10 AM to catch the perfect light (well, and just to get an opportunity to take a photo).

We should note that the spiral stairs with the circular window is not the only place for Instagram-worthy shots at Fort Canning Tree Tunnel. After all, all who seek will find.

Yes, Fort Canning Tree Tunnel is a great place for walking as well.

There’s no Fort Canning Tree Tunnel entrance fee, and you can easily find it on the Fort Canning Park Singapore Map or Google Map. Fort Canning Park Tree Tunnel’s nearest MRT stations are Dhoby Ghaut MRT and Bencoolen MRT. Besides, there are no opening hours for the Fort Canning Tree Tunnel since the landmark is open around the clock.

Explore The Park’s History

Image Credit: Tee Nee via Google reviews

Fort Canning Park is brimming with history, so you won’t have to look far to find some interesting nods to the past. Best of all, a lot of this history is very accessible to kids, with things like cannons and stories about kings. Back in the 14th century, what is now Fort Canning was the site of palaces for the royal family, and on the hill at Keramat Iskandar Shah, you can see what is claimed to be the final resting place of the dynasty’s last king. In the 19th century, the park housed a British Army barracks, and you can still see the 9-pound cannon that was fired each day to mark the passing of the day. There was once a fortress here to protect Singapore from sea attacks, complete with a moat, but now all that remains in Fort Canning is the Fort Gate.

You can take a tour of the Heritage Gallery and the Spice Gallery to learn more about the history of the park and Singapore.

Fort Canning Heritage Gallery

Fort Canning Heritage Gallery at Fort Canning Centre tells a fascinating story about more than 700 years of Fort Canning Hill’s history. Visitors can view archeological artifacts excavated from sites within the park, get acquainted with Fort Canning Hill’s history and its role in the history of The Lion City, and explore exciting interactive displays.

There is no entrance fee. The welcoming Heritage Gallery at Fort Canning Centre is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM (closed on the last Monday of the month).

Fort Canning Spice Gallery

It is a place to learn about the importance of the spice trade in Singapore’s history and the role of the park in this sphere. Its interactive panels and displays and a mock-up of a spice provision shop and a local kopitiam (coffee shop) will turn this gallery into your kids’ favourite spot here.

The Spice Gallery is free and open to the public daily from 7 AM to 7 PM.

Visit The Park’s Gardens

Image Credit: Nparks.gov.sg

Fort Canning Park is home to a staggering nine gardens, so you will never be short of places to walk and enjoy the outdoors! Perfect for strolling, admiring beautiful flora, relaxing, and dreaming. Explore them all and find your ideal haven of tranquility. Artisan’s Garden, First Botanic Garden, Raffles Garden, and others – they all keep their special secrets and can’t wait to share them with you. Let’s uncover them all!

Armenian Street Park

The Armenian Street Park is situated close to the Armenian church and the Peranakan Museum and serves as a connector between the park, Bras Basah, the Civic District, and Bugis. It offers a beautiful mix of plants and architecture and is perfect for strolling and taking nice pictures.

Artisan’s Garden

The Artisan’s Garden was the site of the artisans who worked for the royal family – today, it is a place where kids and adults can get hands-on with archaeology workshops.

Farquhar Garden

Named after Major General William Farquhar, the first British Resident and Commandant of Singapore, the Farquhar Garden is an excellent place for kids to learn more about species like guava, jujube, taro, and others. Be ready to get inspired by beautiful ‘living paintings’ in giant frames.

First Botanic Garden

The First Botanic Garden is a re-creation of Singapore’s original botanic garden, which had over 1,000 trees, including nutmeg and clove trees.

Jubilee Park

Jubilee Park at Fort Canning Singapore is nicknamed ‘play park’ as it has swings, seesaws, and other play equipment (see later section for more details).

Pancur Larangan

Pancur Larangan is the site of the mythical ‘Forbidden Spring’ and was the ancient bathing area for the royal family in the 14th century. Today, little explorers and young adventurers can paddle in its wading pool, which is surrounded by re-created ancient Javanese architecture.

Raffles Garden

This area is named after Sir Stamford Raffles, the founder of modern Singapore, and it’s a place to admire beautiful plants from ‘Raffles’ time.’ Your little adventure seekers will be impressed by a replica of a naval flagstaff and the Fort Canning Lighthouse, which you can find in the Raffles Garden. There’s also a lovely Raffles House that serves as a venue for various events in Fort Canning Park.

Sang Nila Utama Garden

It is named after Sri Tri Buana or Sang Nila Utama, the first ancient King of Singapore. The garden is full of history, Javanese culture, and lovely plants, including magnolias, ixoras, gardenias, and others.

Spice Garden

If you love botanical aromas, you’ll love Fort Canning’s Spice Garden with its cinnamon trees, pepper trees, laksa plants, and basil plants.

Immerse Yourself In The Past At The Battlebox

Image Credit: Nparks.gov.sg

Fort Canning Park’s Battlebox is Singapore’s only remaining World War II bunker, which served as the headquarters of the country’s military until 1942 when the Japanese Occupation began. Indeed, it was within the Battlebox that the British commander, General Percival, made the decision to surrender in what became the greatest British military defeat in history. Now, the Battlebox has been restored to look exactly like it would have done 80 years ago. Inside the underground bomb-proof bunker, visitors can see the Guns Operation Room, Anti-Aircraft Defence Room, and Signal Control Room. The Battlebox is a great place for kids to learn about Singapore’s history from this era.

• The Battlebox Address: 2 Cox Terrace, Singapore 179622

Play In The Playground

Image Credit: Nparks.gov.sg

Jubilee Park is the best place at Fort Canning Park for little boys and girls to run around and have fun playing in its well-designed playground. Kids can choose from 4 slides of varying excitement, swings, seesaws, and obstacle courses. There is even a climbing net with an exciting (but safe and enclosed) rope bridge. If kids still have excess energy, they can burn it off by running across the grassed areas that abound in Jubilee Park. Moreover, the Jubilee Park Playground is great for taking your kids’ sincere and careless photos.

Explore Fort Canning Centre

The Fort Canning Centre was originally an army barracks but later became an arts centre. In the 1990s, Fort Canning Centre was even home to two of Singapore’s prominent arts groups – the Singapore Dance Theatre and Theatre Works. After a major re-development, the Fort Canning Centre became a heritage museum that introduces visitors to Fort Canning Park’s history and natural history over the last 7 centuries (find more information about the park’s Heritage Gallery above). The Fort Canning Centre building is impressive both outside and inside – it’s like Fort Canning’s gem.

Find Incredible Sculptures

While wandering through this wonder created by Mother Nature and humankind, look for beautiful sculptures by various artists. Be sure to visit the ASEAN Sculpture Garden that opened in June 1982 with lovely masterpieces of art, each with its fascinating history and sense.

Admire Outdoor Murals

There are also three magnificent outdoor murals created by a talented local artist, Eng Siak Loy. Those murals enliven the park’s atmosphere and add even more beauty to this place. As you can see, this location is not just about history and nature but also about incredible art.

Enjoy A Brilliant Performance

In addition to fascinating heritage tours and recreational facilities, Fort Canning Park also serves as a concert venue. Shakespeare in the Park at Fort Canning by SRT, various art festivals, open-air cinemas, and even Ballet Under the Stars performances – the park has already hosted a wide variety of outdoor events and activities for everyone and continues to do so.

Have Lunch

Although there are plenty of dining options just outside the park, including everything from hawker centres to French cafés, there are several places to enjoy delicious food within Fort Canning Park’s grounds.

Tiong Bahru Bakery

Tiong Bahru Bakery at Fort Canning Park is an informal cafe with a fusion menu that includes breakfasts, pastries, burgers, and Asian favourites, as well as coffee and other drinks. Chocolate Kouign Amann, Tomato & Basil Quiche, Za’atar & Miso Eggplant Sandwich, Apple Crumble, and other finger-licking treats at Tiong Bahru Bakery won’t leave anyone indifferent.

The park’s Tiong Bahru Bakery is perfect for nice talks, aromatic coffee, and a gourmet break before you continue your fascinating tour of the park.

• Tiong Bahru Bakery Address: 70 River Valley Road, #01-05 Foothills, Fort Canning Park, Singapore 179037
• Tiong Bahru Bakery Operating Hours:
  • Monday to Friday: 7:30 AM to 7 PM
  • Saturday to Sunday: 8 AM to 7 PM
• More Details

Le Jardin Restaurant

Le Jardin at Fort Canning Park is definitely one of the most atmospheric restaurants in Singapore. It offers lovely gardens and an all-day menu that will exceed all your expectations. What about Truffle Scrambled Egg Croissant and Smoked Salmon Miso Benedict for breakfast? Be sure to try Bacon & Mushroom Truffle Cream Linguine, Tiger Prawn Aglio Olio, and Le Jardin’s Wagyu Burger for dinner. F1 Wagyu Skirt Steak is a must-try for all meat connoisseurs. Your little ones will appreciate the Kids Menu with Breakfast Platter, Bacon Carbonara Linguine, Tomato Sauce Linguine, and other mouthwatering delicacies. Yes, and don’t forget about the desserts! Basque Cheesecake, Sourdough Brule French Toast, and Chocolate Fondant absolutely deserve your attention!

Be sure to visit for breakfast, lunch, or dinner after exploring the park.

• Le Jardin Restaurant Address: Fort Canning Centre, Level 2, 5 Cox Terrace, Singapore 179620
• Le Jardin Restaurant Operating Hours:
  • Monday and Tuesday: 9:30 AM to 6 PM
  • Wednesday to Sunday & Public Holidays: 9:30 AM to 9 PM
• More Details

Fort Canning Park Picnic

Alternatively, you could come prepared and enjoy a picnic in one of Fort Canning Park’s gardens or on Fort Canning Green, where events such as open-air concerts are sometimes held. It is not surprising that the site is considered among the best places to enjoy a family picnic in Singapore.

Other Dining Venues Situated Close to the Park

• Black Society
• Café Brera at Reunion
• Cuba Libre Café & Bar
• Ganko Sushi
• Guzman y Gomez
• True Blue
• SG Hawker
• Swee Lee Clarke Quay

Enjoy a Family Staycation at Mett Singapore

Did you know that this site, beloved by all families in The Lion City, also offers an excellent opportunity for your staycation right in the heart of the park? Being nestled among the lush greenery and history, this family escape is a perfect combination of elegance, luxury, comfort, and outstanding dining experiences. Welcome to the Mett Singapore hotel!

The well-known and well-loved Fort Canning Park Hotel is undergoing its renovation as of today to open its doors as Mett Singapore in October 2025, with even more first-class facilities for your exceptional stay and four unique dining concepts, which are due to be announced soon! Moreover, Mett Singapore will have a new beach club concept open to the public!

So, stay tuned for more details!

• Mett Singapore Address: Mett Singapore, 11 Canning Walk, Singapore 178881
• More Details

Pose For Family Photos

Image Credit: Langloy via Google reviews

As you have probably guessed, Fort Canning Park is a perfect place for a wedding photoshoot and for taking pictures with your family, loved ones, fluffy friends, etc. Yes, and it is a must-visit for all nature and history photography lovers. This place is filled with great spots for Fort Canning Park photos, but some of the most sought-after locations for your ideal photos are the Fort Canning Tree Tunnel and Sang Nila Utama Garden (we have already mentioned both of them above).

The Fort Canning Tree Tunnel is so popular that it is signposted from the Battlebox (see above), but essentially, it is close to the UBS building near Dhoby Ghaut MRT Exit A. We have already found out that it is best to take photos from the base of the staircase looking up, as you get a lovely spiral shape with the photogenic trees at the top of the Fort Canning Park Tree Tunnel. Now, let’s move to another photogenic point that we have chosen for you.

The other top spot is Sang Nila Utama Garden, a re-creation of the 14th-century royal gardens, complete with Javanese split gates and statues of frogs and fish. The gardens are so exotic that it would be easy to tell people you were in Bali!

Take A Stroll Through Fort Canning Park At Night

The park is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and it is especially charming after sunset. The site is illuminated with myriads of fairy lights, turning it into a scene out of a fairytale. Perfect for a romantic walk under the starry sky.

Is Fort Canning Park worth visiting? Absolutely yes! Moreover, Fort Canning Park is not somewhere that you can do justice to in one visit. Brimming with history and home to 9 gardens, plus playgrounds and places to eat, Fort Canning Park is a place that is sure to become a family favourite. We can’t wait to hear your Fort Canning Park Singapore reviews and see many bright pictures.

• Official Website: Fort Canning Park

Fort Canning Park Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Fort Canning Park location?

Fort Canning Park is located on Fort Canning Hill in central Singapore at the junction of Canning Rise and Fort Canning Road.

What are Fort Canning Park’s opening hours?

Fort Canning Park is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Is Fort Canning Park free? How much are Fort Canning Park tickets?

There is no Fort Canning Park Singapore entrance fee. It is free for all visitors.

How to get to the park?

The easiest way to get to the park is by MRT. You can also get there by bus (ride buses 106, 143, and 147). Getting to your destination by taxi or car is also a convenient option. There are more than 10 entrances. You can access some of them by public transport. There are car parks at some entrances. Some of the entrances have escalators, and some require you to climb tall stairs.

What is the nearest MRT to Fort Canning Park?

Fort Canning MRT, Dhoby Ghaut MRT, Clarke Quay MRT, and Bencoolen MRT stations are the nearest MRT stations to Fort Canning Park.

Is there Fort Canning Park parking?

There are numerous parking options around Fort Canning Park, including open-air Car Park A, Car Park B, and Car Park C (check the Fort Canning Park map for more information).

Carparks A, B, and C are located at the following address: 11 Canning Walk, Singapore 178881

What to take on a walk?

Since the park is huge, we highly recommend you take water. If you forgot your water or have already drunk it all, do not worry. Although there is no convenience store, there is a vending machine near the Lighthouse and restaurants for you to replenish your stocks: Tiong Bahru Bakery, Le Jardin Restaurant, and dining venues at the Mett Singapore hotel.

Do not forget your mosquito repellent or mosquito patch. Sunblock is also a must since the place is mostly unsheltered.

Are there guided tours of Fort Canning Park?

Yes, you can join a guided tour of Fort Canning Park. Guided group tour: Heritage on the Hill Tour takes 2 hours and costs $10 per person. The group’s size is a minimum of 15 participants. To book the guided tour, you should register at least 1 month in advance. You can register via email.

There are also various free guided tours taking place from time to time. Follow information on the official website and BusyKidd’s guides on kids and family activities in The Lion City to catch your fascinating tour.

You can also take a self-guided walk: the Ancient History Trail or the Colonial History Trail. Both trails have a distance of 2 km and will take you approximately 45 minutes.

Are there any events held in Fort Canning Park?

Yes, Fort Canning Park is a popular concert venue that holds events of various genres (check the official website for more information).

What are other places not to miss with your kids situated near the park?

There are many places you should visit with your kids situated close to the park. Here are several of the most popular ones:

• National Museum of Singapore
• Children’s Museum Singapore
• Old Hill Street Police Station
• Civil Defence Heritage Museum
• CQ @ Clarke Quay
• Central Fire Station
• Peranakan Museum

Cover Image Credit: Langloy via Google reviews