Singapore is renowned for its distinctive attractions like the well-known Jewel Changi, Merlion Park, Haji Lane, Sentosa Island, and Fort Canning, to name a few. However, a visit to this bustling city wouldn’t be complete without exploring the popular Gardens by the Bay.

Referred to as Singapore’s “City in Nature” concept, Gardens by the Bay stands out as a major public park and top botanical destination featuring more than 1.5 million flora specimens along with numerous photogenic areas for visitors to enjoy.

One or two hours might not suffice to fully experience the place, but below are some locations you should unquestionably add to your itinerary when you tour the Gardens.

1. Floral Walk at the Flower Dome Gardens

Image: Sherylin Untalan/GMA Integrated News

The Flower Dome is teeming with flora ranging from the Mediterranean to the South African grasslands and arid desert regions.

Dive into the fragrant olive orchards, imposing baobab trees, and hardy succulent plants that have adjusted to arid environments.

A floral exhibition called Carnival of Flowers, which draws inspiration from Australia’s Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers—the longest continuously running flower festival—can likewise be observed here. This showcase highlights indigenous Australian flora such as kangaroo paws, grevilleas, waratahs, manukas, and banksias.

2. Cloud Forest

Image: Sherylin Untalan/GMA Integrated News

Famous for housing one of the globe’s highest indoor waterfalls, Cloud Forest is undoubtedly a hit among visitors!

As you step inside, a soft breeze greets you accompanied by a stunning 35-meter-high waterfall. The Cloud Forest is also inhabited by meat-eating plants like pitcher plants and Venus flytraps, all thriving amidst a lush expanse of tender ferns and mosses.

You can likewise capture your selfies with a touch of home at the Orchid Haven’s latest feature, “Orchid Retreat”.
Orchids in Gardens Near the Bahay Kubo: A Celebration of Flowers
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The exhibit was created by 20 Filipinos who work as domestic helpers and students eager to showcase their culture in Singapore.

This showcase includes the Queen of Philippine Flowers, Waling-waling, alongside a presentation of the carabao, our country’s national mammal, and the Philippine eagle, which holds the title of our national avian emblem.

3. Thoughts on Monet: The Encounter

Photo: Sherylin Untalan/GMA Integrated News

A museum inside a garden? Count me in since the Gardens by the Bay offers it all. They’ve introduced an interactive, multi-sensory journey honoring the creations and stories of Monet along with his peers.

From Colorful Dreams to Underneath the Bloom, By the Lotus Pool at Night, and The Engaging Exhibit, there are numerous Instagrammable locations you shouldn’t overlook.

The Impressions of Monet: The Experience exhibit can be found at the Flower Field Hall.

4. Garden Rhapsody

Image: Sherylin Untalan/GMA Integrated News

Indulge yourself and treat your eyes to the spectacular sight of the Supertrees accompanied by music and lighting effects at night! The display runs daily from 7:45 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. at Supertree Grove.

You can similarly witness the Aurora Borealis in Singapore through Borealis, featuring a newly launched interactive light and audio exhibit.

Guests can relax, bring their own meals, and snap pictures while catching the evening performance. Admission is generally free but some events like Christmas Wonderland require tickets.

5. Strolling through the open-air gardens

Photo: Sherylin Untalan/GMA Integrated News

If you’re looking to create that perfect #naturelover post, the Gardens offer 10 different zones where you can stroll around outdoors at no cost.

Many people use the Bay East Garden path for running, cycling, or leisurely strolls since it remains accessible round the clock.

Here’s a suggestion: Drop by on a weekday when fewer people tend to be around, ideally just as the sun starts setting.

You can reach the Gardens by the Bay via train (MRT) or bus.

Covering an expanse of 101 hectares right in the middle of Singapore’s bustling downtown district of Marina Bay, this region includes three water-fronted parks: Bay South, Bay East, and Bay Central. Among these, Bay South stands out as the biggest at 54 hectares and was inaugurated in 2012.

Gardens by the Bay has received over 100 million guests and earned various global awards, such as being ranked the eighth best tourist destination globally in the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards for Best of the Best 2024.

—MGP, GMA Integrated News

This article
Singapore: 5 must-see locations at Gardens by the Bay
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