A day trip is a quick way to get that much needed break and unwind, and the upcoming long weekend is the perfect time for one. Have a look at our pick of new or revamped venues that are worth spending a day exploring for the whole family!
Brickosaurs @ Singapore Zoo & River Wonders
Visitors to both parks will be treated to the sight of brick displays which range from a massive T-Rex to the mighty plesiosaurs to tiny raptors on interactive digital trails. The Brickosaurs on these self-guided trails will lead explorers on journeys to discover animals on the brink of extinction, what can be done to save them and learn the importance of actions to conserve the wildlife and biodiversity that exist today.
Families can also identify lost dino “fossils” together and take part in craft workshops to make their very own dino masks and mini figurines using recycled materials and origami techniques. The focus of these activities is to highlight ways we can reuse, recycle and reduce our impact on the environment every day.
SAFRA members enjoy 20% off prevailing admission rates to Singapore Zoo, River Wonders and Jurong Birdpark with promo code: SAFRA4ONL. More info at www.safra.sg/promotions/mandai
Till May 2022; more info at www.mandai.com/brickosaurs
SkyHelix Sentosa
SkyHelix Sentosa is Singapore’s highest open-air panoramic ride and will be the first carbon-neutral attraction on Sentosa.
Located within the collection of attractions at Imbiah Lookout, SkyHelix Sentosa offers panoramic views as it rotates 35 m above ground along a vertical helix-like structure. Guests will enjoy unparalleled sights of Sentosa and the developing Greater Southern Waterfront while dangling their feet in the air with a cool drink in hand. The ride’s apex is 79 m above sea level, making it one of the highest vantage points on Sentosa.
More info at www.mountfaberleisure.com/attraction/skyhelix-sentosa
Reflections at Bukit Chandu
Housed in an Art Deco bungalow dating back to the 1930s, this interpretive centre pays tribute to the Malay Regiment, who engaged in a heroic last stand against the Japanese army at the Battle of Pasir Panjang.
First established in 2002, the centre has been revamped with new artefacts, displays and exhibitions, giving visitors deeper insights into this tale of valour. The second floor of the centre houses galleries that tell the history of Bukit Chandu and its surroundings during the more peaceful period predating the war, including its history as an opium packing plant and the pineapple plantations that dotted the vicinity.
More info at www.nhb.gov.sg/bukitchandu
Kingfisher Wetlands @ Gardens By The Bay
The latest attraction at the Gardens, this new freshwater sanctuary boasts a diversity of exotic flora and fauna. With its recent makeover, the Kingfisher Wetlands is now more than ever the perfect haven. Newly-created water cascades and streamlets create microhabitats for biodiversity to flourish. Divided into three zones and spanning 15,000 sqm , over 200 native true mangrove trees and mangrove associates have been planted, contributing to sustainability by storing “blue” carbon.
More info at www.gardensbythebay.com.sg/kingfisherwetlands
Smart Nation PlayScape @ Science Centre
Smart Nation is a series of government initiatives and policies that are set to transform the way Singapore deploys digital technology now and in the future.The Smart Nation Playscape at Science Centre Singapore is an interactive and immersive look at upcoming Smart Nation initiatives, and a glimpse of the future.
The exhibition consists of eight zones: Sensors, Geospatial, Biometrics, Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence (AI)/ Data Analytics, Robotics, User Experience (UX) & Services, and Augmented/Virtual Reality/Mixed Reality (AR/VR/MR). Each zone includes key game interactives for guests to explore and experience these technologies in a fun and engaging way.
More info at www.smartnation.gov.sg/community/showcases/playscape
Ice Hotel Gallery @ Snow City
The Ice Hotel Gallery replaces the Arctic Snow Playground at Snow City, and features impressive sculptures and furniture carved entirely out of ice.
Stretching across a 17m snow field, it boasts five thematic ice and snow art installation zones that have been carefully crafted by Singapore’s well-known ice sculptor veteran, Jeffrey Ng. Guests will get to enjoy craft beers at the Ice Bar, experience a “daycation” at the Hotel Room, and snap beautiful shots at the Dining Room and Ice Throne. Take the opportunity to rediscover the rest of Snow City, as the entry to the Ice Hotel Gallery includes access to the rest of Snow City’s attractions.
More info at www.snowcity.com.sg/about-us/ice-hotel-gallery-2
ABC Waters
Jurong Lake Gardens’ latest attraction is the largest man-made floating wetlands in Singapore. With a total area of 3,850 sq m, the floating wetlands improve the water quality of the reservoir and also serve as a natural habitat for wildlife. Located along the northern shore of Jurong Lake, the newest ABC Waters can be accessed via Jurong Park Connector along Yuan Ching Road, just next to Lakeside MRT station.
More info at www.pub.gov.sg/abcwaters
Jews of Singapore Museum
The Maghain Aboth Synagogue in Waterloo Street, whose name means “Shield of Our Fathers”, is Asia’s second-largest and South-east Asia’s oldest synagogue. Built in 1878, the then one-storey building has expanded to become the unofficial centre of Jewish activity in Singapore.
Recently opened, the Jews of Singapore Museum traces the 200-year history of Jews here. From traders and industrial barons, to Singapore’s First Chief Minister and top legal representation, learn more about how the Jews of Singapore have contributed to nation-building.
More info at: singaporejews.com/museum/visit-us
BONUS:
Children’s Museum Singapore
The Children’s Museum Singapore is slated to open at the end of 2022. As Singapore’s first national children’s museum, it will serve as a ‘starter’ museum to introduce young visitors and their families to the museum-going experience.
More info at childrensmuseum.gov.sg
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