Gardens by the Bay: Kid-friendly Guide

Have you heard the latest buzz? There’s this amazing new thing happening at Gardens by the Bay – the Borealis Northern Lights installation at Supertree Grove! It’s like stepping into a whole other world of lights and sounds, and it’s totally free. Starting May 4th, you can lose yourself in the beauty of it all.

But wait, there’s more to Gardens by the Bay than just this cool light show. It’s a paradise for nature lovers, with all sorts of plants and flowers from around the globe. And the best part? You don’t have to pay a cent to explore most of it. Take a stroll under the shade of the towering trees, perfect for escaping the heat and keeping the kids entertained.

And let’s not forget about the free water play and Gardens by the Bay nightly light show at Supertree Grove—they’re must-sees! Sure, some attractions like the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest require tickets, but there’s still plenty to enjoy for free.

To help you make the most of your place to visit in Singapore GBTB, BusyKidd has put together a handy guide. Find out what’s free, what needs tickets, how to get there hassle-free, the best places to grab a bite, and tips for families. Get ready for an adventure you won’t soon forget at Marina Bay Gardens!

Related Reading: Check out our guides to Fort Canning Park, SEA Aquarium, Best Indoor Playgrounds For Children In Singapore, Best Free Water Parks.

Borealis: Northern Lights at Supertree Grove

The Northern Lights are no longer just a faraway dream. They’re right here in Singapore! Get ready to be blown away by the Northern Lights in Singapore with Borealis, the stunning new addition to Gardens by the Bay’s Supertree Grove.

Catch the show every Saturday and Sunday at 9 pm, with an extra dose of magic on Mondays at 8 pm. It’s totally free! Created by the incredibly talented artist Dan Acher from Switzerland, Borealis takes you on a journey into a world of wonder, using light and cloud particles to recreate the mesmerizing beauty of the Northern Lights, also known as aurora borealis.

As you soak in the breathtaking display, let yourself be carried away by the enchanting soundtrack from French composer Guillaume Desbois. And here’s the kicker – thanks to Mother Nature’s whims, each viewing is a one-of-a-kind experience, with changes in wind, humidity, and temperature adding to the magic.

And that’s not all. Borealis joins the lineup of nightly wonders at Supertree Grove, alongside the beloved Garden Rhapsody light and sound show. Having wowed audiences in over 40 cities around the world, Borealis is finally making its debut in Singapore, promising an unforgettable evening under the starlit skies of Gardens by the Bay.

Garden by the Bay Borealis Opening Hours: Mon, 8 pm to 8.30 pm; Sat & Sun 9 pm – 9.30 pm
Where: Supertree Grove, Gardens by the Bay
Borealis Garden by the Bay entrance fee: Free

Cloud Forest at Gardens by the Bay Singapore

Cloud Forest is hands down one of the most sought-after attractions at Gardens by the Bay. Picture this: lush mountain greenery adorned with exotic plant species that you won’t stumble upon in your local park. It’s like stepping into a botanical wonderland!

But what truly sets Cloud Forest apart is its atmosphere. The air is cool and refreshing, hovering around a comfortable 23 to 25 degrees Celsius. It’s almost like nature’s air-conditioning, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely exploration with your little ones. Their eyes will light up as they take in the vibrant colors and fascinating plants from all corners of the globe.

And let’s not forget about the pièce de résistance—the jaw-dropping 35-meter indoor waterfall, one of the tallest indoor waterfalls in the world! It’s a sight to behold, guaranteed to leave you in awe.

Parents, rejoice! The walkways here are stroller-friendly, and there are lifts within the dome for hassle-free access to each level. Just a friendly tip – it can get a tad chilly inside, so be sure to pack a jacket to stay cozy while you soak in the marvels of Cloud Forest.

For the optimal experience, plan to spend about 1.5 hours exploring Gardens by the Bay Cloud Forest.

Gardens by the Cloud Forest Opening Hours: Daily, 9 am – 9 pm (last admission at 8 pm)
Nearest Carpark: Main Entrance Basement Carpark at Gardens by the Bay
Gardens by the Bay Cloud Forest Tickets: from S$23

Gardens by the Bay Flower Dome Singapore

The Flower Dome at Gardens by the Bay is truly a feast for the senses. Imagine being surrounded by a kaleidoscope of colors, with flowers in every hue imaginable. It’s like stepping into a vibrant painting brought to life!

Here, your kids can take a leisurely stroll through the dome, immersing themselves in the delightful scents of roses and getting up close with plants from far-flung regions like the Mediterranean and arid deserts. It’s a botanical adventure unlike any other in Singapore!

Just like in Cloud Forest, the paths in Flower Dome are designed with families in mind, so you’ll find plenty of space to navigate with a stroller if your little one needs a break from walking. And here’s a pro tip: since the dome is kept at a slightly cooler temperature to create the perfect environment for the flowers to thrive, it’s a good idea to bring along a jacket to stay cozy during your visit. So, get ready to immerse yourself in a world of floral beauty at the Flower Dome—it’s an experience you won’t soon forget!

To make the most of your visit to the Singapore Flower Dome at Gardens by the Bay, plan for about an hour of exploration.

The Flower Dome Opening Hours: Daily, 9 am – 9 pm (last admission at 8:30 pm)
Nearest Carpark: Main Entrance Basement Carpark, Gardens by the Bay
Gardens by the Bay Flower Dome Tickets: from S$27

Floral Fantasy at Gardens by the Bay

If you’re a flower lover, you absolutely have to check out Floral Fantasy! It’s like stepping into a fairytale garden filled with the most stunning floral arrangements you can imagine.

Imagine this – over 15,000 flowers, both fresh and preserved, meticulously arranged in suspended bouquets, creating a magical atmosphere that’s perfect for capturing those Instagram-worthy moments.

Spanning across 1,500 square meters, Floral Fantasy offers plenty of space for you and your little ones to wander and take in the beauty of it all at your own pace.

Plan to spend about an hour at both Floral Fantasy and the Flower Dome to fully immerse yourself in the captivating floral displays and explore the beauty of each unique attraction.

Gardens by the Bay Floral Fantasy Opening Hours: 10 am – 7 pm (Mon to Fri, last admission at 6:30 pm); 10 am – 8 pm (Sat, Sun & PH, last admission at 7:30 pm)
Nearest Carpark: Bayfront Plaza Carpark
Tickets: from S$5

OCBC Skyway at Gardens by the Bay

For a stunning perspective of Gardens by the Bay, the 22-meter high aerial walkway offers an ideal opportunity for Instagram-worthy shots! From this vantage point, you can enjoy a panoramic bird’s eye view of the gardens, capturing the lush greenery and breathtaking landscape. However, if you’re afraid of heights, sticking to the middle section of the path might be more comfortable. The wide walkway also provides ample space for strollers or for your little ones to explore while you soak in the scenery and perhaps even snap a rare selfie without the kids!

To make the most of your visit to the OCBC Skyway, allocate about 15 minutes to stroll along the aerial walkway and soak in the enthralling views of Gardens by the Bay and the surrounding Marina Bay area. This duration allows for a quick but memorable experience, perfect for capturing stunning photos and appreciating the unique perspective offered by this iconic attraction.

Experience breathtaking views from the Sky Garden in Singapore, offering a serene escape amidst the bustling cityscape. Don’t miss the thrill of walking among the clouds on the Gardens by the Bay Skywalk in Singapore, where you can admire the stunning Supertree Grove from above.

Opening Hours: Daily, 9 am – 9 pm (last admission at 8:30 pm)
Nearest Carpark: Main Entrance Basement Carpark
OCBC Skyway ticket: from S$5

Supertree Grove at GBTB

Take a trip around the Supertree Grove, which is encircled by 12 of the Gardens’ 18 Supertrees, to truly appreciate the splendor of these Avatar-like trees. These enormous creatures, standing 50 meters above the earth, will amaze the younger ones. These Supertrees creatively demonstrate a cutting-edge, vertical method of plant growth. Your children may go plant hunting for ferns, orchids, and tropical climbers thanks to the wide variety of plants that comprise 200 species! In case you have any young science enthusiasts at home, you should bring up the fact that seven of these Supertrees are solar energy harvesters throughout your talk!

Don’t forget to check the Marina Gardens by the Bay Supertree Grove Light Show time so you can catch the mesmerizing spectacle of lights and music against the night sky during your visit!

Supertree Grove GBTB Opening Hours: 5 am – 2 am
Tickets: Free

Gardens by the Bay Light Show

If you linger at the Supertree Grove until after sunset, you’ll witness a magical transformation as the trees light up with vibrant colors and a musical show begins. The Gardens by the Bay light show is a must-see attraction, drawing crowds for its captivating display. Don’t forget, each month brings a new arrangement of music and lights, offering something fresh to enjoy every time you visit. For the latest information on the Singapore Gardens by the Bay Light Show today schedule timing, be sure to check the website.

Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing experience of music and lights among our towering Supertrees. Come and marvel at the spectacular sight as these magnificent structures come alive with vibrant colors and captivating rhythms after dark!

What time is the Light Show at Gardens by the Bay? 7:45pm & 8:45pm daily
Where: Supertree Grove or World of Plants
Tickets: Gardens by the Bay Light Show is free

Gardens by the Bay Supertree Observatory

For an unparalleled bird’s-eye view of Gardens by the Bay, the Supertree Observatory is a must-visit! Perched atop the tallest Supertree, it offers breathtaking panoramas and perfect photo opportunities. From there, you can admire iconic landmarks like the Singapore Ferris Wheel and Marina Bay Sands, all while soaking in the stunning Singapore city skyline. It’s a view you won’t want to miss!

Plan to spend around 45 minutes at the Supertree Observatory to fully soak in the stunning views and capture some memorable photos.

Opening Hours: Daily, 9 am – 9 pm (last admission at 8:30 pm)
Nearest Carpark: Main Entrance Basement Carpark, Gardens by the Bay
Tickets: from S$6

Gardens by the Bay Water Play

The Far East Organization Children’s Garden Gardens by the Bay

Looking for a fun-filled day for the kids at Gardens by the Bay? Head over to the Bay Far East Organisation Children’s Garden, where they can splash around in the water play area and beat the heat. With space to run and play, plus a special Toddler Play Zone designed for the little ones aged 1 to 5, there’s something for every age. Spend the morning or afternoon here depending on how much they love water play! And when they’re ready for more adventure, let them explore the Rainforest Tree House, a jungle-themed Gardens by the Bay playground for ages 6 to 12, complete with mazes and ropes among the trees. It’s sure to be a day full of excitement and laughter for the whole family!

Gardens by the Bay Water Park Opening Hours: 9 am – 7 pm (Thu – Sun & PH, last admission at 6 pm); closed on Mon – Wed (unless it is a public holiday)
Nearest Carpark: Satay by the Bay Carpark
Gardens by the Bay Water Play Ticket Price: Free

Where and What to Eat at Gardens by the Bay

Wonder where and what you can eat near Gardens by the Bay? At the Gardens by the Bay food court, you’re in for a treat! Nestled within the beautiful greenery, it’s a haven for food lovers. Check out the newest food spots at Gardens by the Bay.

Jurassic Nest Food Hall

Nestled in the heart of Supertree Grove, this recently opened food hall offers Michelin-rated cuisines alongside larger-than-life dinosaurs, creating a unique dining experience for families.

Hopscotch

Located next to Bayfront MRT, this newly opened restaurant serves up well-loved dishes like chicken and waffles, cereal prawns, and burgers, paired with artisanal cocktails inspired by Singapore.

Hortus Mediterranean Cuisine

For a taste of the Mediterranean with a stunning view, head to Hortus in the Flower Dome, where you can enjoy vibrant salads, dips, and hearty mains prepared by Michelin star chef Michael Wilson.

Majestic Gardens by the Bay Seafood Restaurant

Indulge in classic Chilli Crab and dim sum while soaking in breathtaking views of Marina Bay waterfront near the Cloud Forest entrance.

Marguerite

Treat yourself to an unforgettable fine dining experience at Marguerite in the Flower Dome, where you can savor delicious dishes like bouillabaisse and ratatouille.

Shake Shack

Craving burgers and milkshakes? Head to Shake Shack at The Canopy for modern-day roadside classics made with all-natural Angus beef.

McDonald’s Gardens by the Bay (Halal-certified)

Perfect for families, this fast-food favorite near Golden Garden offers fuss-free options like burgers and chicken nuggets.

Petit Coco at Children’s Garden Cafe

Enjoy brunch all day while your kids play at the Children’s Garden, with kid-friendly favorites like sandwiches and pizza.

Conservatory Cafe

Grab ice cream and light snacks between Flower Dome and Cloud Forest to keep you refreshed.

Mylo’s

Visit this pet-friendly cafe at Active Garden for fresh bakes, coffee, and seasonal gelatos made onsite.

The Social Kitchen

Support a social enterprise while enjoying sweet treats and gourmet coffee at Supertree Observatory.

Starbucks

Get your coffee fix at this international chain near Golden Garden.

Satay by the Bay

Indulge in local delights like BBQ chicken wings and hokkien mee while enjoying waterfront views at this outdoor hawker market.

FAQ

Can I visit Gardens by the Bay for free? Yes, you can visit Gardens by the Bay for free! The outdoor gardens, including the Supertree Grove, are open to the public without any admission fee. However, there may be charges for certain attractions within the Gardens, such as the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest.
How much to pay for Gardens by the Bay? The admission fees for Gardens by the Bay attractions vary depending on the specific areas you wish to visit. It’s always a good idea to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on ticket prices and promotions.
What is so special about Gardens by the Bay? Gardens by the Bay is special for several reasons. Its iconic Supertrees, towering structures covered in plants, create a stunning skyline and serve as vertical gardens. The Gardens also feature the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest, two giant conservatories showcasing diverse plant life from around the world. Additionally, the nightly light shows at the Supertree Grove offer a magical experience for visitors.
How many supertrees in Gardens by the Bay? There are a total of 18 Supertrees in Gardens by the Bay, each varying in height and design. These iconic structures serve as vertical gardens and are located within the Supertree Grove, forming a key attraction within the gardens.
How much time needed for Gardens by the Bay? The amount of time needed to explore Gardens by the Bay can vary depending on your interests and the attractions you choose to visit. A casual visit to stroll through the outdoor gardens may take a couple of hours, while exploring the conservatories and attending a light show can extend your visit to half a day or more.
How to get to Gardens by the Bay? You can easily access Gardens by the Bay via the Gardens by the Bay MRT station.
What time does Gardens by the Bay close? Marina Gardens by the Bay Opening Hours are from 9.00 am to 9.00 pm daily.
Where is Gardens by the Bay? Gardens by the Bay is located in Singapore, specifically in the Marina Bay area. It spans a total area of 101 hectares and is situated adjacent to iconic landmarks such as the Marina Bay Sands and the Singapore Flyer. Gardens by the Bay Address: 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953

Before your visit, be sure to check out the Gardens by the Bay map for directions and attractions. And don’t forget to capture your memories with stunning Gardens by the Bay photos during your visit!

Images Credit: Gardensbythebay.com.sg