How to spend 48 hours in Singapore with kids

One of Asia’s most beguiling cities, a Singapore stopover is always a good idea, writes Aleney de Winter.

From its unique East-meets-West vibe to its immaculate stroller-friendly sidewalks, surplus of family attractions and English-speaking locals, Singapore is one of the world’s most intriguing and exciting cities. And it’s full of fun for families.

While it would take weeks to uncover the countless layers that lie beneath its shiny surface, a 48-hour stopover can offer a tantalising taste of this vibrant and culturally diverse destination. Safe, organised and easy to navigate, here’s how we’d spend 48 hours with kids in Singapore. Staying for longer? Check out the 45 best things to do.

DAY ONE: Urban wonders of Singapore

Morning

Start your day at a local hawker centre, such as Maxwell Food Centre or Lau Pa Sat, where you can savour delicious and affordable Singaporean breakfast dishes like sticky kaya toast or Hainanese chicken rice, Singapore’s national dish. Once you’re fuelled up, explore the lotus-like ArtScience Museum at the Marina Bay Sands Resort complex. An unmissable stop where the wondrous worlds of art and science collide, the museum is renowned for its interactive exhibits, fascinating exhibitions, and family-friendly displays.

Mid-morning

Head to the eye-popping Gardens by the Bay, a futuristic oasis of towering Supertree Groves and two conservatories filled with exotic plants and flowers. Kids will especially enjoy the Cloud Forest Conservatory, with its indoor waterfall and mist-shrouded walkways.

Lunch

Enjoy a family-friendly lunch at Satay by the Bay, where the kids can sample local dishes like satay, laksa, and chilli crab, if they’re feeling adventurous.

Afternoon

Head to Mandai Wildlife Reserve, a unique wildlife and nature destination comprising several world-class wildlife parks which connects visitors to the fascinating world of wildlife. The world-class Singapore Zoo is home to over 300 species of animals, including orangutans, elephants, tigers, and pandas, and revered the world over for its innovative enclosures and ethical practices. Bird Paradise at Mandai is Singapore’s newest bird park, and it’s already a hit with families and bird lovers alike. The park is home to over 3,500 birds from 400 species from all over the world. Or embark on a river adventure at River Wonders, Asia’s first and only river-themed wildlife park. Along with aquatic and river birds and animals, you’ll also meet Kai Kai and Jia Jia, a couple of adorable giant pandas. Back in town be sure to make a pit stop at Merlion Park to snap a family photo with the iconic Merlion statue, which overlooks Marina Bay.

Sleep

Located near Marina Bay, Pan Pacific Singapore places families in the thick of urban adventures with many iconic attractions located nearby. The hotel has also just launched jungle-themed family suites and an epic indoor play area for little ones. The Urban Jungle Village boasts seven activity zones, along with a host of kids’ programs to enrich their stay.

Keep reading:

• Singapore’s Best Family Hotels & Resorts
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• Singapore family-friendly travel guide

DAY TWO: Tropical Paradise on Sentosa Island

Morning

Begin your day with breakfast at one of Sentosa’s charming cafes. At Coastes on Siloso beach the kids can dig their toes in the sand between bites of their Spam Benedict. Once bellies are full, it’s time to tackle Universal Studios Singapore. Explore the theme park’s six zones, where the kids can meet their favourite characters from the mischievous Minions to the high-kicking Kung Fu Panda crew and enjoy cutting-edge rides, shows and attractions.

Mid-morning

After a morning of excitement at Universal Studios, cool off at Adventure Cove Waterpark, where the kids can float along lazy rivers, snorkel with fish, and slip down thrilling water slides.

Lunch

Head to Central Beach Bazaar, a new family-friendly attraction that offers a day-to-night carnival beach experience. After lunching at one of the international street food outlets that line the beach, visit the iconic Sentosa Musical Fountain, and the tallest fountain in Southeast Asia, the Sentosa SkyJet.

Afternoon

Marvel at the diverse marine life, including sharks, rays, and colourful fish as you dive into the wonders of the ocean at S.E.A. Aquarium, home to more than 100,000 marine animals. The kids will love the bold new spectacle of lights and marine wonder in the aquarium’s all-new VibranSEA experiential space.

Spend the rest of your afternoon soaking up the sun and swimming at one of Sentosa’s beautiful beaches, such as Siloso Beach or Palawan Beach. Or, if you’re toting teens, head to Asia’s first indoor gamified electric go-kart circuit, HyperDrive, the three-level track, boasts 14 exciting turns with novice karts racing up to a speed of 30km/h.

Evening

As the sun goes down head to the Wings of Time show, a mesmerising multimedia display featuring water fountains, lasers, and pyrotechnics. Then end your Sentosa day at Resorts World Sentosa where a wide range of dining options, from international cuisine to local delicacies at Malaysian Food Street.

This article originally appeared in Holidays with Kids magazine. Subscribe to the latest issue here.

Keep reading:

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