Marina Bay

Situated near Central Area to the east of the Downtown Core, Marina Bay is the result of a huge project that has completely transformed Singapore and its skyline. In practical terms, Marina Bay is a freshwater reservoir that reduces Singapore’s dependence on water supplies from Malaysia. For visitors to Singapore, Marina Bay is a major attraction—a place to stroll along its 3.5-kilometer Waterfront Promenade, get involved in some of the attractions and events taking place, and to perhaps visit the exuberant Marina Bay Sands hotel.
Gardens by the Bay is a 250-acre site at Marina Bay spread along the mouth of Singapore River and made up of Bay South Garden, Bay East Garden, and Bay Central Garden. Just next door, the Marina Bay Sands hotel and casino is another huge draw for many visitors to the area. This 55-storey building features 2560 luxurious rooms, a museum, rooftop restaurants, and, of course, the infamous 150-metre infinity swimming pool, which towers over the city and offers views of the South China Sea. Also well worth a visit is the Marina Bay City Gallery, an eco-friendly building situated along Marina Boulevard that houses a large model of Marina Bay itself.
The iconic Helix pedestrian bridge is a double-helix structure (much like the structure of DNA) that links Bayfront to Marina Centre, where the Youth Olympic Park is located. The Youth Olympic Park is Singapore’s first art park and was established to promote a sense of community and connection within Marina Bay. It features artwork by various young Singaporeans and was built in commemoration of the Youth Olympic Games hosted by Singapore in 2010. The park is particularly worth visiting at night, when LED lights illuminate the various art installations, creating a spectacular dance against Singapore’s city skyline.

Practical Info

Marina Bay is easily accessible by public transport. To get there, take the MRT and alight at City Hall, Raffles Place or Marina Bay stations—or the Promenade and Esplanade stations on the Circle Line. (You can also alight at Downtown and Bayfront stations on the Downtown Line.)