Wild safaris
Singapore is renowned for its zoo, and with tropical jungle right on the edge of urbanity, it has to be one of the world’s best cities for getting up close to cute critters. There are night and river safaris in specially-designed nature reserves, as well as an ultra-modern Marine Park. Singapore Zoo
This place hardly feels like a zoo – you can wander right through the habitats of many animals, enjoying encounters with elephants or kangaroos. Plus, rare and beautiful animals like the white tigers are protected within their natural environment in this Asian jungle.
80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729826. Marine Life Park
You might want to put aside an entire day to explore the world’s largest oceanarium. As well as featuring an epic aquarium filled with shark, manta rays, and tropical fish, there’s a hectic water park suitable for all ages. Teens and adults can also raise the stakes with a shark safari or sea trek.
8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098269.
Theme parks
Among Singapore’s many family activities, there’s a wide variety of theme parks, from water parks to high-adrenaline rides. Thrill seekers and film buffs of any age should head straight for Universal Studios Singapore – a slice of Hollywood action in the middle of tropical Asia. Universal Studios Singapore
This attraction's diverse, themed areas range from a sci-fi city to Ancient Egypt, and kids will relish being able to explore from realm to realm. The exhilarating rides will take your family past dinosaurs and through fairy tale fantasies, and there's live shows and places to eat a-plenty.
8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098269.
Discovery centres
Let your little ones indulge their naturally curious instincts at one of Singapore’s interactive museums. If they’re a Monet in training, you can take them to a workshop at the Singapore Art Museum, while mini-Einsteins will be right at home in the Science Centre. Singapore Science Centre
From exploring the inner workings of their own brains, to examining ecosystems as they clamber about on rope ladders and in treehouses, children will be in their element at this science centre. The laser maze is a must.
15 Science Centre Road, Singapore 609081.
Family dining
Singapore’s chic harbourfront is the perfect location for relaxed family dining. Many of the restaurants along this stretch have children’s play areas, and spacious seating areas. Plus, you’re surrounded by attractions, so it’s ideal for a convenient meal once you’ve worked up an appetite. Brussels Sprouts
It might be named after kids’ most hated food, but there’s plenty on the menu of this casual Belgian restaurant to tempt them, such as spaghetti and meatballs, plus there’s a soda fountain, and ice-cream for dessert. Parents will be equally happy, with mussels and Belgian beer the house specialties.
902 East Coast Parkway, Singapore 449874.
Food for Thought at Botanic Gardens
After you’ve spent the morning connecting with nature in the Botanic Gardens, why not head for lunch at Food for Thought? This eco-conscious restaurant serves up burgers, sandwiches, and noodle dishes, all made from sustainably-sourced ingredients. There’s an enclosed kids’ play area, and ramps to allow easy pushchair and wheelchair access.
1 Cluny Road, Tanglin Gate, Singapore 259569.
