9 Fun And Educational Places To Bring Your Kids To That Are Wallet-Friendly
Being a parent is tough. Teaching a child is tough. Looking after a child is tough.
But what if it doesn’t have to be? Don’t worry I’m not trying to sell you anything (fight me, insurance agents).
I’ve compiled a list of places to take your kids that’s both educational and inexpensive. Because honestly, we’re quite done with the zoo, and the rooftop play area at VivoCity.
So parents, aunties, uncles, guardians, LISTEN UP.
Farms
Mainland Tropical Fish Farm
Personally, I love fishes and marine life in general. So I spent a good amount of time visiting fish farms as a child. If you live in the East, then you might want to pay a visit to Mainland Tropical Fish Farm instead.
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Image Credit: Little Tree House[/caption]
While the place primarily sells aquarium fishes and supplies, there are activities available for the kids too. Spend a dollar or 3, on packets of food pellets and feed the fishes in the outdoor pond.
For $4, equip your child with a fishing net and a bucket for them to try their hand at catching their very own “longkang” fish! Just make sure they don’t fall in.
Mainland Tropical Fish Farm
Address: 1 Pasir Ris Farmway 1, Singapore 519352
Opening Hours: Daily: 8.30am – 7pm
Contact no.: 6287 3883
Image Credit: @emilymhx[/caption]
The Animal Resort is home to stallions, a variety of birds that includes a Cassowary and Marabou Stork, a German Shepherd dog training ground, rabbits and guinea pigs, fishes, a pet grooming centre, and a pet shop.
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Image Credit: @fourlittlepalms[/caption]
You can buy the animal feed from the pet store. No outside food should be brought in.
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Image Credit: @benayers1[/caption]
It’s a great place for children to interact with different animals in a relaxed and laid-back environment.
The Animal Resort
Address: T81 Seletar West Farmway 5, Singapore 798061
Opening Hours: Daily: 10am – 5pm
Contact no.: 6482 1160
Website
Bollywood Veggies
Tucked away in the Kranji countryside is a 10-acre farming facility complete with a bistro, food museum and even a cooking school!
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Image Credit: @lowjolin[/caption]
After familiarising yourself with the different species of flora and fauna within the farm, visitors can enjoy a myriad of dishes made from local produce at the bistro, Poison Ivy, to nourish your body.
If you ever need a break from the fast-paced city life we’re all used to, make a trip down to Bollywood Veggies and experience an afternoon of serenity for a change.
Bollywood Veggies
Address: 100 Neo Tiew Road, Singapore 719026
Opening Hours: Wed – Fri: 8am – 5.30pm, Sat – Sun: 8am – 6.30pm
Contact no.: 6898 5001
Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve has much to offer. Explore the vast mangroves and trails that span all over the reserve as you contemplate the beauty of your surroundings.
Image Credit: 2011 Bird Checklist released by the National Parks Board, over 200 different species of birds have been recorded on-site at the reserve!
Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
Address: 301 Neo Tiew Crescent, Singapore 718925
Opening Hours: Daily: 7am – 7pm
Contact no.: 6794 1401
Website
Kranji Marshes
For those unfamiliar with Kranji Marshes, the 56.8-hectare freshwater marshland is home to unique biodiversity.
Kranji Marshes is actually split into two main areas – the public area that is open to all members of the public, and the restricted core conservation area that is deemed to be ecologically sensitive. You can enter the core conservation area if you sign up for a guided tour.
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Image Credit: @fannaiaiwong[/caption]
According to NParks, Kranji Marshes is home to more than 170 species of birds, 54 species of butterflies, and 33 species of dragonflies! Alongside Sungei Buloh Nature Reserve, it plays an important role in providing a habitat for the conservation of wildlife in the Kranji area.
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Image Credit: @damithprs[/caption]
Moorhen Blind and Swamphen Hide are 2 bird-watching stations that overlook marsh landscapes, perfect for taking in the sights of nature.
The park is open from 7am-7pm daily. Do note that there is no lighting in the evenings! The park is also wheelchair- and pram-friendly, with the exception of the Raptor Tower.
Kranji Marshes
Address: 11 Neo Tiew Lane 2, Singapore 718814
Opening Hours: Daily: 7am – 7pm
Contact no.: 6794 1401
Website
Play And Learn
Diggersite
If your child has a fascination for excavators, cranes, and dump trucks, then they’ll love Diggersite.
[caption id="attachment_35333" align="aligncenter" width="2048"]
Image Credit: Diggersite[/caption]
Diggersite is a one-of-a-kind edutainment centre that provides realistic experience in operating small scale construction machinery. The main motive is to help your child build motor skills, which are vital for writing, crafts, and other fine motor activities.
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Image Credit: Diggersite[/caption]
The experience is quite legitimate. Your child will get to put on a construction safety helmet, build small blocks, and operate a construction digger!
Diggersite
Address: Find your nearest Diggersite Clip ‘n Climb
If you’re a member of HomeTeamNS, then you’re in luck. HomeTeamNS is the first to bring in the New Zealand-born Clip ‘n Climb to Singapore!
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Image Credit: @heyitsnicole.sg[/caption]
Unlike most rock-climbing facilities, Clip ‘n Climb also caters for climbers of all ages with 19 different colourful climbing challenges. Meaning, kids can join in the fun too!
Clip ‘n Climb is great for improving a kid’s concentration and focus as well as sensory and motor skills.
Check out the packages and pricing at Clip ‘n Climb here!
Clip ‘n Climb
Address: Our Tampines Hub, 51 Tampines Ave 4, #03-03, Singapore 528523
Opening Hours: Mon – Thu: 12pm – 9pm, Fri – Sat: 10am – 11pm, Sun: 10am – 9pm
Contact no.: 6705 9410
Website
ORTO
I remember the days when ORTO used to be Bottle Tree Park.
Today, the 555,000 square feet space has been completely revamped and taken over by ORTO. Located in the North, it is Singapore’s first multi-recreational park that is open 24 hours a day.
Today, it houses a prawning and fishing facility, a paintball park, a trampoline park, a drift karting circuit, and even a sporting facility for rent!
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Image Credit: Katapult[/caption]
Kids can bounce around in 
Image Credit: ORTO[/caption]
What’s more, with a whole list of dining places at ORTO, it’s the perfect place for a family day out!
ORTO
Address: 81 Lorong Chencharu, #01-01, Singapore 769198
Image Credit: The Artground[/caption]
The Artground is an accessible play space for children aged 12 and below, and they aim to provide positive art experiences through interactive art installations that changes tri-annually.
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Image Credit: The Artground[/caption]
Children are encouraged to climb over, under or through the interactive art installations, which helps to develop their motor skills.
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Image Credit: The Artground[/caption]
On the weekends, there will also be various art-related programs that families with young children can participate in.
The best part? Entry to The Artground is FREE!
The Artground
Address: Goodman Arts Centre, 90 Goodman Road, Block J #01-40, Singapore 439053
Opening Hours: Wed – Thu: 9.30am – 5pm, Fri – Sun: 9.30am – 6pm, Mon – Tue: Closed
Contact no.: 6925 0621
Website
Also read Golden Village Cinema Is Bringing Movies Back To Bedok After 10 Years
(Header Image Source: @fourlittlepalms and The Artground)
Forget The Zoo – Make Some New Animal Friends At These Lesser Known Farms In S’pore
If your idea of paradise is to be surrounded by animals of all kinds, this one’s for you.
We all know the Zoo, the Bird Park, the Night Safari, and the River Safari. Let’s be honest, you can only visit these places so many times before you get bored of it.
Here are 7 lesser-known places in Singapore for you animal lovers to get up close and personal with some cute (and some less cute) critters. From rabbits to goats, to tortoises, you’re sure to find your spirit animal in one of these animal enclaves.
A word of warning though: some of these critters aren’t as cute and fluffy as the ones you may have in mind…
1. The Animal Resort
It seems like gone are the days when animals could run and roam freely around our homes.
The Animal Resort brings a taste of that back with its little zoo with a kampong twist!
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Image Credit: T81 Seletar West Farmway 5, Singapore 798061Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm daily
Admission: Free
Contact no.: 64821160 / 91271323
Make friends with goats at Hay Dairies!
Walking down the enclosures, these amicable and curious animals will poke their noses through the bars to nudge your hand, as if to say “hello”.
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Image Credit: No. 3 Lim Chu Kang, Agrotech Park Lane 4, Singapore 718859Opening Hours: Mon, Wed, Sun: 9am – 4pm; Farm is closed on Tuesdays
Admission: Free
Contact no.: 6792 0931
These slow and chill guys are our spirit animal for sure.
The Live Turtle & Tortoise Museum lets you enter a rare world of turtles and tortoises.
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Image Credit: Wikimedia[/caption]
You’ll be surrounded by 200 turtles and tortoises of more than 60 different species.
Be entertained by the funny antics of the Terrapins and Soft Shells roaming freely through the park. You can also pet and hand feed some of them! If you are in luck, you might even witness eggs hatching.
The founders of this museum rescue and rehabilitate the rarer species. These include “Double Happiness”, a two-headed, six-legged turtle that was nursed back to health after she was found in critical condition.
It is a common Chinese belief that turtles and tortoises represent longevity. So come soak up the good fortune with these zen creatures!
The Live Turtle & Tortoise Museum
Address: 1 Chinese Garden Road, Singapore 619795
Opening Hours: 10am – 7pm daily
Contact no.: 6268 5363
For a nature paradise and getaway from the hectic city life, try Farmart Centre!
Their simple setup and rest-and-relax activities will give you a glimpse of the kampung spirit.
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Image Credit: Adrian Video Image[/caption]
Its “Weekend Animal Corner” lets everyone interact with the small animals. Experience the feeding of goats, rabbits, bullfrogs, tortoises, and many more.
You can also sign up for one of their interesting and educational farm tours. You’ll be taken around and introduced to all the different farm animals around the Kranji area!
Don’t leave before having a good lunch of Traditional hot wok Zi Char, Hot Grilled BBQ Chicken Wings, Otah Otah and Malay Satay!
Farmart Centre
Address: 67 Sungei Tengah Road, Singapore 699008
Opening Hours: Food Outlets: Sun – Thu: 10am – 10pm; Fri, Sun, PH: 10am – 12am
Admission: Free
Contact no.: 67670070
If calming sea creatures are more your thing, the endless rows of koi ponds at Mainland Tropical Fish Farm will be a treat.
It’s a great place to indulge in a bit of fishing or fish feeding!
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Image Credit: Andrew, Shuhua, Claire[/caption]
Buy a pack of fish food from the shop and watch the pretty koi gather eagerly for a bite. Or try your hand at longkang fishing and prawn fishing.
Dip your feet at the fish spa for a ticklish, yet relaxing experience. Or simply gaze at the scores of ornamental fish on display and admire nature’s handiwork.
Should you decide to take home a finned friend, you’ll find everything you need for its well-being right here!
Mainland Tropical Fish Farm
Address: No.1 Pasir Ris Farmway 1, Singapore 519352
Opening hours: 8.30am – 7pm daily
Admission: Free
Contact no.: 62873883, 65843643, 65812550
You’ll hear them before you see them.
These outspoken creatures at Jurong Frog Farm are sure to greet you as you enter their home!
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Image Credit: 51 (Plot 56) Lim Chu Kang Lane 6 Singapore 718864Opening Hours: Tue – Fri: 9am – 6pm (reserved for booked tours and pick up of purchases); Sat, Sun, PH: 9am – 5.30pm
Admission: Free
Contact no.: 6791 7229
Don’t forget that insects are animals too!
Butterfly lovers will love Oh’ Farms Butterfly Lodge, a place that houses around 20 local butterfly species.
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Image Credit: Butterflies of Singapore[/caption]
This butterfly-friendly flight cage allows visitors to observe and enjoy the butterflies in a landscaped garden environment.
The habitats are carefully designed to allow the butterflies to fly freely and go about their daily business with as little interference as possible. Nectar collecting and flower pollinating is all very important stuff.
You’ll also learn about the ecology and conservation of butterflies, and appreciate the diversity and beauty of Singapore’s butterfly fauna.
Come marvel at the beauty of these flying jewels as they flit just by your ear!
Oh’ Farms
Address: 14A, Bah Soon Pah Road, Singapore 769970
Opening Hours: Mon – Sat: 8am – 5pm; Closed on Sundays & PH
Contact no.: 67538011
In Need Of A Happy Hour? This ‘Atas’ Food Hall In The CBD Has A Bar That Offers Drinks For Just $5
Need A Breather From Work? Here Are 5 Therapeutic Activities To Help Rest Your Tired Soul!
After trudging through the weekly work mountain, you exhale slowly whilst slamming your laptop shut; it’s finally Friday. It’s been a long week and you’re seriously in need of a recharge. However, instead of binge watching Breaking Bad over the weekends, you’re looking for something a little more invigorating. But besides short getaways, what other activities can you indulge in, to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life?
Fret not, Discover SG is here to rescue your tired, working soul! Below is a list of therapeutic weekend activities we’ve come up with, to keep you refreshed for the upcoming workweek(s). Besides keeping you from lashing out at your colleague, these activities will keep you slightly more motivated. Until the next weekend at least.
1. Pick Up Modern Calligraphy
[caption id="attachment_2600" align="alignnone" width="1024"]Always been fascinated with hipster fonts? Here’s your chance to master these fonts. A rising trend, learning the art of modern calligraphy, can help relax and unleash creativity. Plus, nothing makes a more unique gift than a hand-printed card, right? Calligraphers such as ($140/hour) conduct ad hoc calligraphy workshops that are usually held in creativity-inspiring cafés. Nothing like a good calligraphy and coffee session to kick start a relaxing weekend, really.
Workshops can fill up pretty fast so do register in advance. Do note that Happy Hands Project is currently on a mini hiatus but do keep a lookout for upcoming workshops!
2. Art Jamming
[caption id="attachment_2604" align="alignnone" width="640"]They say life is an open canvas and you’re the artist. For folks like us, we’re more than pleased with an actual canvas and a brush. For now. At café-studios such as , unleash your inner Monet and let your imagination (or pent up stress) go wild. But if you can’t seem to locate your inner artist, worry not as these café-studios offer tutors who will have you discover your artsy side in no time.
Arteastiq is located at Mandarin Gallery, Plaza Singapura and Turf City. Click
3. Maketh Your Own Leather Accessories
[caption id="attachment_2607" align="alignnone" width="960"]Leather maketh man.
At Maketh, a mini studio dedicated to leather lovers, you’ll get to design and create your own leather products ranging from cardholders to satchels. An afternoon at this studio will have you feeling like a medieval craftsman (in a good way) as you hammer your stress away. The price and duration of each session depends on the product you wish to craft so do contact Maketh beforehand to work out the details or pop by to say hi if you’re in the area.
Maketh is located at 751 North Bridge Road #02-02, S198719.
4.Indulge In Pet Therapy
[caption id="attachment_2609" align="alignnone" width="630"]As fellow animal lovers, we understand the wonders of pet therapy. Teeming with pet farms such as the , Pasir Ris Farmway is the place to be. Let your tension melt away as you visit countless fur balls from different pet farms. To top it off, a relatively unknown Jomando Adventure & Recreations at Punggol Waterway, cycle through Coney Island and to Paris Farmway! This can be helpful for north-easterners who find travelling to the East a hassle.
5. Go Trampoline-ing
[caption id="attachment_2611" align="alignnone" width="640"]If you’re more of an adrenaline/sports junkie, trampoline is the one for you. It may be a full body workout, but jumping on the trampoline is may be more therapeutic than one thinks (probably has to do with the floating-jumping sensation). With trampoline parks such as enquiries@katapult.com.sg
Zoom Park
200 Pandan Gardens #01-14, S609336
+65 6334 4615
So the next time you’re looking for an activity to take your mind off the long weekdays, you know whom to call upon. We may not be the hero you need, but maybe we can be the hero you deserve.
20 Wildly Fun Outing Activities In Singapore Under S$19 – Most Are Free!
Singapore is a small country, and it’s certainly not boring. It just means that you have to look harder. More often than not, it’s about entertaining yourself in the place you live in. If you prefer not to spend too much money to travel across another continent, Discover SG’s got you covered.
1. Go hiking at The Southern Ridges
[caption id="attachment_2936" align="aligncenter" width="700"]Free admission
Ditch your pumps and Birkenstock, and opt for a pair of sensible footwear to have a stab at hiking down The Southern Ridges. At 10km long, it’s the hot new favourite place for history aficionados, nature lovers and selfie buffs.
2. Volunteer at SPCA
[caption id="attachment_2937" align="alignnone" width="700"]Free admission
SPCA is always on the lookout for helpers and dog walkers to advocate their animal welfare cause. If you’re an animal lover, consider volunteering at the shelter to make a pup’s day. You’re going to go home with a sense of accomplishment.
3. Marvel at the flowers in Singapore Botanic Gardens
[caption id="attachment_2938" align="alignnone" width="700"]Free admission
Here’s something you probably haven’t heard of: picnics are back in fashion. They’re so popular that there are companies here selling packed baskets! If your money is a wee tight, treat it as a DIY project. Set a time, pick a shady spot and I guarantee you’ll have butt-loads of fun.
4. Window-shop at Haji Lane
[caption id="attachment_2940" align="alignnone" width="700"]Free admission
There’s something about Haji Lane. The quirky knick-knacks, the timeless fashion apparels, the aesthetically pleasing little shops. It’s a must-visit for every Singaporean (and tourist). Get a sneak peek at the charming town and its must-visit stores here.
5. Make googly eyes at the fishes at Qian Hu Fish Farm
[caption id="attachment_2941" align="alignnone" width="700"]Free admission
If you don’t know who Kenny Yap is, I, well, let’s leave it at that. Qian Hu, famous for its Dragon fishes, has been around the block since the late nineties. The fish farm may not be as glitzy as Orchard Road, but it still has its own rustic charm.
6. Watch a free movie outdoors
[caption id="attachment_2942" align="alignnone" width="700"]Free admission
A free outdoors drive-in movie screening? It certainly beats shivering uncontrollably in the cinema. Movie Mob was launched in 2009 and seven years later, it’s still going strong. Join their mailing list to get the first deets.
also read: Image credit: Mind Blowing Trip[/caption]
We’ve oohed and ahhed while we were in the Singapore Flyer capsule, but how many of us have actually experienced the Tiger Sky Tower? Not many of us, I’d presume. It’s not too late to have a go. Tickets cost S$18 for adults and S$10 for children.
8. Forget hipster cafes, dine at hawker centres instead
[caption id="attachment_2944" align="alignnone" width="700"]Estimated cost: >S$4.50
Ice-cream waffles? Nah, I’ll take unconventional local cuisine any day. Here are some recommendations to get you started on your foodie trip:
- Seletar Nam Hoe’s Bak Kut Teh at the Hainanese Village Food Centre
- Guang Liang Cooked Food’s Kway Chap at Bedok Reservoir Road Market & Food Centre
- Soup Kambing Haji M. Abdul Razak’s Mutton Soup at Upper Boon Keng Road Market and Food Centre
9. Test your endurance at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
[caption id="attachment_2945" align="alignnone" width="700"]Free admission
Get away from the hustle and bustle, and escape to Singapore’s first ASEAN Heritage Park to rewind. The rich biodiversity is something to behold. I wouldn’t be surprised if you stop to smell the flowers. Oh yeah, that Komodo dragon that’s staring at you like food? Don’t worry, it won’t kill you. It’s a water monitor lizard.
also read: Image credit: Today Online[/caption]
Free admission (duh)
Say whatever you want about Stephenie Meyer (Twilight series), but you’ve got to admit it, she’s made reading cool again. If you’re looking for quality me-time, get on the bus and head to the library. Design fanatics can’t go wrong with Library@Orchard or Jurong Regional Library, and YA (young adult fiction) buffs should not miss Queenstown Public Library for its impressive collection.
11. Admire the greenery at Gardens by the Bay
[caption id="attachment_2947" align="alignnone" width="700"]Depends
You don’t have to spend a bomb at Gardens by the Bay. You can enjoy free admission for most of the sights. Take The World of Plants, Dragonfly and Kingfishers Lakes, Heritage Gardens and Sun Pavilion for instance. They’re enough to keep you entertained.
12. Rub shoulders with animals at Farmart Centre
[caption id="attachment_2948" align="alignnone" width="700"]Free admission
If you appreciate casual dining and low-maintenance relaxation, look no further than Farmart Centre. You can have a prawning contest with your mates or feed the farm animals. Price: free, unless you end up going home with a puppy.
13. Attempt the humongous climbing structure at Woodlands Waterfront Park
[caption id="attachment_2949" align="alignnone" width="700"]Free admission
Any children — or adult — will want to try this out. If playgrounds aren’t your cup of tea, grab your bikes, skateboards or fishing rods. What’s interesting about Woodlands Waterfront Park is that there’s a restaurant located at the jetty. Who knew?
14. Turn back the hands of time at Creative Art Corner (or Timezone)
[caption id="attachment_2950" align="alignnone" width="700"]Cost: >S$8
Create art with a cotton swab and toothpick! An activity like this will hit you with the nostalgia bomb. If you can’t stand art, grab your pals and head down to the arcade (price varies). It’s much more satisfying than being cooped up alone in home playing Call Of Duty on your Xbox 360.
15. Dance with coconuts at Bollywood Veggies
[caption id="attachment_2951" align="alignnone" width="700"]Well, I don’t know if there are coconuts at the farm, but the name ‘Bollywood’ certainly brings the fruit to mind. The lush greenery is a marvel and reminds us to take a step back from our fast-paced, urban lifestyle. Entrance fee costs S$2. Admission is free for kids under 12 and seniors over 60.
also read: Image credit: National Parks[/caption]
Free admission
Alexandra Canal Linear Park is like a pearl oyster. At first glance, there’s not much to look at. Look further and you’d feel like you’ve been had. If you spend ample time at the park, you’d see that there’s a rope playground and a scaled-down skate park for skateboarding enthusiasts.
17. Feed the animals at The Animal Resort
[caption id="attachment_2953" align="alignnone" width="700"]Free admission
The Animal Resort is another lesser-known place in Singapore. Think of it as a mini zoo. You get to feed the animals, see what it’s like for a pet to get a haircut, and witness a dog training ground.
18. Sneak into The Library & have a drink
[caption id="attachment_2954" align="alignnone" width="700"]Not much is known about The Library, except that it’s as secretive as hosting an underground supper club. What makes the bar so intriguing is that it’s by appointment only and guarded by a secret pass code. One writer at Popspoken recommends the Wonky Donkey ($17).
19. Get over your fear of heights at the Treetop Walk
[caption id="attachment_2961" align="alignnone" width="700"]Free admission
To any acrophobic, attempting the Treetop Walk is as frightening as walking down the Yuntaishan glass walkway. Think carefully before you embark on this exhilarating mission. Get a friend you trust to come along with you and whatever you do, don’t look down!
20. Or better yet, go Sparta! with Running Man
[caption id="attachment_2962" align="alignnone" width="700"]Cost: varies, depends on your resourcefulness
Here are some ideas to get you started. You could play dodgeball at the basketball field. You could create your own name tag from scratch. Notice the acupuncture stones you often see at your HDB block? Use it. Skip on it. Run on it. Just make sure it’s not occupied by some elderly.
Please, only proceed if you don’t mind getting weird looks.
With these 20 wildly fun activities to do in Singapore for the cheap, we hope you’ll never complain of being bored! Adventure belongs to those to seek it. So go forth and have an adventure!
Note: Price does not include parking fees and transport fares.
Featured image credit: Gardens by the Bay YouTube screen grab
