Singapore has a reputation as one of the world’s most expensive cities to live in and to holiday in. You may be planning to visit Singapore and wondering if there are any free or cheap things to do here, or you might be residing in Singapore and looking for something fun to do that doesn’t involve heavy spending. Fret not, if you’ve already spent too much on food and shopping, you still can enjoy Singapore, all for free.
Here are some free activities you can do in Singapore, suitable for those who would like to be alone, for couples, and for families and big friend groups alike! Whether you would like to plan a full-day event or a small activity to fill up your free time, you will find something here for you.
Watch the Sentosa SkyJet
At 80 metres tall, located on Sentosa Island,Sentosa SkyJetis the tallest fountain in Southeast Asia. If you’re a fan of the Marina Bay Sands light and water Spectra, you’ll love the Sentosa SkyJet at Central Beach Bazaar. You can admire the waterworks in the day against the blue sky or visit at night to see a spectacular LED lightshow along with the SkyJet.
Location: Central Beach Bazaar, 60 Siloso Beach Walk, Singapore 098997
Time: 10AM, 4:25PM and 9PM daily
Catch a Movie by The Beach at Sentosa
It’s in the name: movies by the beach on Friday and Saturday evenings, under the stars! The complimentary film screening has free entry but only seats the first 400 people, so feel free to have dinner at the nearby restaurants before heading over to unwind. Feel the cool sea breeze as you relax to a free movie with your friends, family, or partner.
Location: Southside, 80 Siloso Road, Singapore 098969
Time: 7:45 PM, dates depend on scheduling
Beach Day!
There are numerous waterfront spots all over Singapore, all of which are accessible by bus and car. On a warm, sunny day, you could plan a day at the beach for you and your loved ones. Soak up the sun, have a homemade picnic, or visit beach bars – whatever strikes your fancy. If you’re keen on protecting the environment, you can also organise your own beach clean-ups with friends and family to keep your favourite beaches spotless!
Live Performances at the Esplanade
A good concert doesn’t have to cost a lot or in this case, anything at all! The Esplanade has long been a strong champion of the arts and provides a space for artists to perform and showcase their won. You can catch both local and international performances every evening at the Esplanade Concourse, and every weekend and public holiday at the Esplanade Outdoor Theatre.
Location: The Esplanade,1 Esplanade Dr, Singapore 038981
Time: Every evening on weekdays, weekends and public holidays
Stargazing for $1 in Woodlands
Have you ever gone stargazing? What about stargazing through a powerful astronomical telescope? In 2022, the Galaxy CC Observatory reopened its doors to the public on after two years of closure over the Covid-19 lockdown period. A little-known gem of the North, the Observatory is run by a group of astronomy enthusiasts made of students and volunteers and organises the occasional stargazing event. Entry to the Observatory is by pre-booked ticket only, so grab your $1 tickets through the QR codes posted on their Facebook page!
Location: Woodlands Galaxy Community Club, 31 Woodlands Ave 6, Singapore 738991
Time: 7:30PM every Friday and Saturday
Visit Parks in Singapore
Singapore is known for its lush and well-kept greenery, so why not visit one of the many parks situated around the island? You could visit one near your residence, or you could check out some of the more iconic parks and gardens. Fort Canning Park is a treasure trove of colonial history and offers a getaway in the midst of the bustling city, as well as many green spaces within the park to spend a calm afternoon. Another good place to spend a day is at the Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UN Heritage site known for its Orchid Garden. Many nature reserves also have volunteer-based guided walks, which you can sign up for.
Visit a Museum
Singapore has a multitude of museums and galleries that showcase both historical and artistic exhibits, with the occasional event in collaboration with an overseas gallery or museum. Many inspiring art pieces and exhibitions are held at the ArtScience Museum, and the Asian Civilisation Museum has many fascinating historical artefacts and a wealth of historical knowledge to showcase. Many museums in Singapore offer free entry to Singaporeans and Permanent Residents, so do check out the museums around you!
Time: Museum’s opening hours may vary
Website: Please refer to the museum’s website
Go For a Workout
For those who would like to sweat without committing to a membership at a gym or a studio, check out Decathlon’s free workout classes and clinic sessions, or the Health Promotion Board’s (HPB)free exercise programmes! Under the Move It Campaign, HPB offers free classes and group activities for the family and the community at large. Biking around the island is another affordable activity with many cheap bicycle rentals and bike-sharing options. If you prefer to be on your feet, Singapore offers many walking trails in its Nature Reserves, including the popular MacRitchie Reservoir Park!
Decathlon’s Website: https://activities.decathlon.sg/c/all-free-activities
HPB’s Website: https://hpb.gov.sg/healthy-living/physical-activity/move-it
Volunteer Your Time
There are many charity and volunteering opportunities in Singapore targeting youths, the elderly, and even the environment! If you feel strongly about sustainability and food wastage, why not volunteer with SG Food Rescue, a ground-up volunteer movement that reduces food wastage and helps the needy? You can choose to participate in various programmes available to the public and play your part in saving fresh and good food destined for the trash bin. Many of the rescued fruits and vegetables are redirected to community kitchens and fridges, as well as charities, for consumption by those who are unable to afford them.
Website: https://sgfoodrescue.wordpress.com/
Visit a Public Library
The public libraries in Singapore are a wealth of knowledge and literature, with reference books, travel books, novels, poetry, and even comic books available on their shelves. Instead of buying a book, why not check out a few from the library? Some libraries in Singapore are especially pleasant to visit, like the library@harbourfront and the library@orchard. The library@esplanade is also worth a visit as Singapore’s first performing arts library, with resources on dance, music, theatre, and film. It is also equipped with a soundproof jamming studio! Even in the heartlands, regional libraries boast comfortable and spacious reading spaces, so why not visit your local library today?
Time: Most libraries are open from 10AM to 9PM daily. However, opening hours may differ, so do check the opening hours of your chosen library before visiting!
Despite its reputation as an expensive city, Singapore is still full of both affordable and free activities to do. This list is not comprehensive as there are always more new and free activities and pop-up events! Stay tuned for more interesting things to do around Singapore!
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