National Museum Of Singapore: Inspiring Journey Through Time

If you are looking for family-friendly things to do in Singapore today or this weekend, there is an excellent option for you. This place is full of fantastic history, impressive art, fascinating stories, and incredible mysteries. This place is a getaway into the past, the present, and the future of our nation – all at the same time. This place is a must-visit for everyone who really wants to know and understand Singapore and its people. This place is the National Museum of Singapore, and we invite you to take a virtual tour of one of the best and most significant museums islandwide together with BusyKidd.

Take your family and spend an exciting, educational, and meaningful day at Singapore’s National Museum. Explore the history of Singapore, get acquainted with its culture and traditions, and learn more about its famous residents who made a significant contribution to the formation and development of the country. So stop wondering where to go and what to visit in Singapore today and head to the National Museum in Singapore!

Where is the National Museum of Singapore located? What is the National Museum of Singapore famous for? Is entry to the National Museum Singapore free? We know you’ve got so many questions! We’ll find answers to all of them in today’s article. So let’s go!

Related Reading: Check out our guides to Sentosa Sensoryscape, The Palawan at Sentosa Family Guide, Children’s Museums In Singapore.

National Museum of Singapore History

The history of the museum goes back to 1823 when Sir Stamford Raffles first proposed the idea of having a library and museum in Singapore. More than two decades had passed before The Singapore Library was officially opened at the Singapore Institution (now Raffles Institution) at Bras Basah Road becoming the first public library in Singapore. In 1874, The Singapore Library and Museum was renamed the Raffles Library and Museum.

In 1887, The Raffles Library and Museum building was officially opened in Singapore – and that’s when the history of the National Museum as we know it today began.

In 1993, the museum became part of the National Heritage Board.

Today, it is the nation’s oldest museum – and undoubtedly among the most important museums in Singapore. It is a must-visit for every citizen of Singapore and the top landmark on a city tour for each tourist and visitor of The Little Red Dot. That only is the magnificent building of the National Museum – the true hallmark of the whole state! The building is amazing both outside and inside. Its Rotunda Dome, Glass Passage, and The Gallery Theatre cannot but impress.

The beautiful architecture is accompanied by an incredible atmosphere and fantastic exhibits. And we offer to talk about them right now.

National Museum of Singapore Exhibitions

What to see and do in Singapore today? How about diving into its eventful history? The National Museum’s exhibitions in Singapore will tell and show you a lot. After all, it is Singapore’s oldest museum, so it definitely has something to share with its visitors, including important artifacts, beautiful drawings, incredible modern art installations, cutting-edge technologies, and more.

Singapore History Gallery

Discover how Singapore has developed over the years – from ancient settlements to a modern city. Explore mighty artifacts and listen to incredible stories. Get acquainted with Singapore as a Crown Colony, see it during the war and occupation. Live the moment when Singapore became independent.

Among the highlights of Singapore’s historical exhibition are Singapore Stone (Singapore’s earliest inscribed artifact), Majapahit armlet and earrings dating back to the 14th century, a Vinyl record of Singapore’s national anthem, and more.

Singapore History Gallery is a permanent exhibition.

Singapore, Very Old Tree

Trees have seen a lot – and they keep many secrets. ‘Singapore, Very Old Tree’ is an exceptional and intimate exhibit. It was created by Robert Zhao, a well-known local photographer and artist. His images tell the stories of 17 trees in Singapore. By the way, this exhibition was inspired by an old postcard from the National Archives of Singapore named ‘Singapore, Very Old Tree.’

It’s such a unique way to get acquainted with the history of our country, feel its spirit, and see how closely we are connected to the trees.

‘Singapore, Very Old Tree’ is a permanent exhibition.

Wings Of A Rich Manoeuvre

Soaring high above the bridge that links the National Museum’s 19th-century building with its modern glass wing, this incredible art installation cannot but impress. Eight kinetic chandeliers literally dance and sing, creating a breathtaking symphony of light.

Suzann Victor created this modern art exhibition in Singapore, and its choreography of light will take your breath away.

‘Wings of a Rich Manoeuvre’ is a permanent exhibition.

Story of the Forest

It is undoubtedly one of the most popular Singapore’s museum exhibitions. When art, creativity, and modern technology meet, a one-of-a-kind masterpiece emerges.

‘Story of the Forest,’ by the world’s famous Japanese digital art collective teamLab, is situated in the museum’s Glass Rotunda and shows magical nightscapes. This mind-blowing large-scale installation blooms, shines, and evokes indescribable feelings. Singapore’s native plants, flowers, and animals live their lives right above your head. Just stop, forget about everything, and plunge into the incredible world of ‘Story of the Forest.’   

‘Story of the Forest’ is a permanent exhibition.

Plastic: Remaking Our World

Be sure to visit this impressive exhibition at the National Museum of Singapore with more than 300 photos, films, objects, and other exhibits. As you may have guessed, everything displayed at this exhibition is about plastic, its history of development, effect on the environment, and breakthrough solutions on how to reduce this effect.

‘Plastic: Remaking Our World’ is a special exhibition created by the Vitra Design Museum, V&A Dundee, and MAAT, Lisbon. It aims to awaken our consciences and make our world cleaner, safer, and better.

Please note that the ‘Plastic: Remaking Our World’ exhibition runs until June 23, 2024.

National Museum of Singapore Programmes

The National Museum of Singapore offers a wide range of programmes, both permanent and temporary, for visitors of all ages. Many are kid-friendly and aim to encourage little explorers to learn history, respect and appreciate our nation’s past, and become its bright future.

National Museum School Programmes

Pre-School Programmes

It is a perfect age to make first steps into the world of history and culture – through play and fun, of course. Kids can join a 45-minute music and movement workshop, where little ones will learn about the museum’s artifacts in an interesting way.

It is recommended for children aged 5-6.

Primary School Programmes

The museum’s primary school programmes feature interactive elements that prove that studying can be exciting. Kids will learn about Singapore’s 700 years of history in a fun way, examine the artifacts, listen to fascinating stories, and enjoy meaningful time while getting acquainted with the museum’s exhibits.

Secondary School Programmes

It’s going to be an incredible journey through time with artifacts, stories, and engaging activities. Students will even conduct a real historical investigation through the story of Singapore from the pre-colonial to post-independence years.

Special Needs Education

The National Museum of Singapore has developed a series of programmes and resources for kids and students with additional needs. They will learn, craft, play, communicate, and enjoy a precious time.

The National Museum of Singapore also offers various programs for adults and seniors.

National Museum of Singapore Guided Tours

When it’s raining outside or when it’s too hot, when you want to broaden your horizons and learn something new, or when you are searching for exciting, family-friendly things to do this weekend in Singapore, consider taking a guided tour of the National Museum of Singapore.

Singapore History Gallery

Embark on a fascinating journey through time and find yourself in the different eras of Singapore’s history. Listen to exciting stories, uncover mysteries, and spend some meaningful time at the Singapore History Gallery.

The tour lasts approximately one hour. You can choose a tour in English, Mandarin, Japanese, Korean, and French.

Plastic: Remaking Our World

Spend one hour exploring the museum’s ‘Plastic: Remaking Our World’ exhibition. Learn more about the history of plastic, its environmental impact, ways to reduce it, and more.

You can enjoy the tour in English, Mandarin, and Japanese.

Please note that the ‘Plastic: Remaking Our World’ exhibition lasts until June 23, 2024.

Art Tour

Dive into the world of art at the National Museum of Singapore. Enjoy magnificent art installations, visit the Goh Seng Choo Gallery and ‘Story of the Forest,’ and learn more about the museum’s admirable building.

The tour lasts approximately one hour. Please note that the art tour is conducted in Japanese only.

Besides, the National Museum of Singapore offers senior-friendly tours through permanent galleries and virtual tours over Zoom. You can also enjoy an exclusive guided tour experience by ordering the ‘Private Tour for Groups.’

National Museum of Singapore Itineraries

Do you like to explore everything on your own, leisurely walking from one exhibit to another? Can you spend many moments standing by one picture that gets your attention? Do you want to enjoy time in a warm little company? You can take advantage of the National Museum’s itineraries, developed to make your visit enjoyable, educational, and memorable.

So, the National Museum of Singapore offers the following ready-made itineraries:

• Sustainability (60 minutes)
• Family Fun (60 minutes)
• History (60 minutes)

Besides, you can make your own itinerary to get the most out of your visit. Create your perfect adventure with the museum’s ‘Itinerary Planner’ feature. Just browse the exhibitions, add your favorites to the itinerary, and choose the date and start time of your visit. Export the image or send it to your email – and enjoy your day at the National Museum to the fullest.

National Museum of Singapore Group Visits

For Groups

Do you want to explore the National Museum of Singapore with a group of tourists, colleagues, friends, etc.? In that case, the museum offers General Group Visits and Private Tours for Groups with more than 20 explorers. Tours are available in English, Mandarin, or Japanese and help you avoid crowds and deepen your experience at the museum.

Please note that group visits must be booked in advance.

For Schools

The National Museum also offers School Group Visits and Guided Tours for Schools. With a wide range of school programmes, you’ll easily find the perfect option that suits your kids the best. Each programme is interactive, fun, informative, and meaningful at the same time.

Please note that group visits must be booked in advance.

National Museum Of Singapore Dining And Shopping

Café Brera at Reunion

Since the collection of exhibits at the National Museum of Singapore is so vast and exciting, you can spend hours exploring all the exhibitions. And when you get hungry, you will undoubtedly feel an appetizing aroma spreading from Café Brera at Reunion.

Café Brera is a lovely place to relax and refresh yourself in a calm, friendly atmosphere. Treat yourself to fresh baked goods, delicious local and international lunch sets, and aromatic tea or coffee.

Have you already recharged yourself with a delicious snack? Well, it’s the ideal time to resume your tour of the National Museum!

• Opening Hours: 9 AM to 6 PM (Daily)

MUSEUM MARTKET by ABRY

MUSEUM MARTKET by ABRY is not an ordinary store but a whole paradise of style and creativity. It offers a great selection of unique things talented Asian designers create. Cardholders, coasters, tea towels, tote bags, T-shirts, and more – everything is one-of-a-kind, modern, and with art in every detail.

• Opening Hours: 10 AM to 7:30 PM (Daily)

National Museum Of Singapore Events

The National Museum of Singapore serves as a venue for many exciting events in Singapore, like festivals, workshops, temporary exhibitions, and more. It takes part in the Singapore Night Festival, celebrates the Children’s Season, displays breathtaking installations, and plays a significant role in Singapore’s life. So, if you are searching for bright, family-friendly events in Singapore to visit this weekend, be sure to check the museum’s official website to find your ideal option.

Quiet Mornings

The morning of the first Saturday of each month and the first and third Thursdays are Quiet Mornings. This is an excellent time for all those seeking a quieter and more relaxing environment to tour the National Museum.

You can also opt for Group Visits on Quiet Mornings.

• When:
  • 1st Saturday of each month: 9 AM to 11 AM
  • 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month: 9 AM to 12 PM

Besides, the Nationa Museum of Singapore offers Virtual Exhibitions: ‘Every Body Plays a Part’ and ‘An Old New World: Digital Edition.’ Yes, you can enjoy an exciting and educational virtual tour of the museum anywhere and anytime. So, if you are trying to decide what to do today or this weekend in Singapore without even leaving your home, why don’t you take a virtual tour of the National Museum of Singapore?

National Museum of Singapore FAQ

Where is the National Museum of Singapore?

National Museum of Singapore Address: 93 Stamford Rd, Singapore 178897

How to get to the National Museum of Singapore?

By MRT

• Bencoolen MRT Station
• Bras Basah MRT Station
• Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station
• City Hall MRT Station

By Bus

• YMCA bus stop
• Singapore Management University (SMU), Stamford Road bus stop

By Car

Where to park for the National Museum of Singapore?

You can park at the National Museum of Singapore parking.

Alternatively, parking is available at Singapore Management University, Manulife Centre, Fort Canning Park, and the YMCA.

What are the National Museum of Singapore’s opening hours?

National Museum of Singapore Opening Hours: 10 AM to 7 PM (Daily)

Last Admission Time:

• Glass Rotunda: 6:15 AM
• All Other Galleries: 6:30 PM

How much is the entrance fee at the National Museum of Singapore?

National Museum Of Singapore Tickets Price:

• Singapore Citizens & Permanent Residents:
  • Permanent Galleries: Free
  • Plastic ONLY: All-Access Ticket
    • Adult: $5
    • Concession: Free
• Tourists And Foreign Residents:
  • Adult: $15
  • Concession: $11
  • Children aged 6 and below: Free

Please check the official website for more details on the National Museum of Singapore ticket prices.

Is the National Museum of Singapore wheelchair accessible?

The National Museum of Singapore and all its facilities are wheelchair and stroller accessible.

There are designated accessible parking, manual wheelchairs for complimentary use, and stroller parking.

There are Quiet Corners and a Quiet Room for visitors who need a place to rest before they continue to explore the museum.

Sensory Bags with ear defenders, sensory maps, sensory toys, etc., are available free of charge.

How long does it take to tour the National Museum of Singapore?

Since the National Museum of Singapore is large and has an impressive collection of exhibits, it is recommended that you plan to allow at least 2-3 hours to explore the museum. You can take a break and refresh yourself at the museum’s café before resuming your tour.

Official Website: National Museum of Singapore

Is it worth visiting the National Museum of Singapore? Definitely yes! It is open to all history lovers, to everyone who wants to know more about our country and get even closer to its people. We are sure that this visit won’t be the last one.

So, do you know what to do in Singapore today or this weekend? We bet you do!

Images Credit: Nhb.gov.sg/nationalmuseum