GARDENS BY THE BAY

Singapore’s natural beauty comes to life at this spectacular garden, nestled quite literally by the bay. Spanning across 101 hectares, the three riverfront gardens here offer unique architectural marvels. The Flower Dome at the garden is the world’s largest greenhouse and displays flowering plants from across the world. The Cloud Forest is an artificial tropical forest within an airy dome, while the Supertree Grove is home to around 18 gigantic tree like structures.

Recreation with elements of nature is how this place can be defined. With intense greenery and gardens that unveil a variety of flora, this garden is a manifestation of how nature should be. Gardens by the Bay in Singapore has perennial vegetation; however, you will be wonderstruck as everything looks natural. It has two air-conditioned conservatories called the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest. It is here that you will see the perfect amalgamation of technology, management, flora, and other natural elements that transform together into this piece of visual craft. If you're planning to visit, consider exploring Singapore tour packages from India for a seamless travel experience.

The place is sprawled in about 250 acres of reclaimed land that has numerous unique attributes that are a hallmark of delightful series. No wonder this place has been awarded many accolades for its unique concept, structure, and the best-themed destination. This being distinctive from other Asian parks, it is often full of visitors, not just tourists but even the locals. The place attracts people from all over the world solely for its greenery and conservatories. 

The entry to the Supertrees and adjoining gardens is absolutely free; however, you have to pay for is the OCBC Skyline and conservatories (Flower Dome and Cloud Forest) this place has. The OCBC Skyline gives you an overview of entire Singapore and the conservatories situated in the Bay South Garden. The Supertrees and the skyline are the main attractions including the light show. The supertrees are something that you will feel overwhelmed about. They are large vertical trees providing shade and then spectacularly emanate light in the evenings. Trip to Singapore wouldn't be complete without visiting this originality.

Learn More: Restaurants in Gardens by the Bay

Highlights

• Spend a day out at the world-famous Gardens by the Bay, which is home to the world’s largest Glass Greenhouse.
• Get a unique chance to see umpteen species of plants, vegetations, and trees under one roof.
• Check out the four different themed spaces depicting the prime ethnic groups of Malay, Chinese, and Indian.
• Witness the Climate Control biomass resembling the shape of an orchid flower and having a size that is equivalent to four football fields.
• Be spellbound by the breathtaking Supertree Grove shrouded by umpteen species of plants, standing at a height of around 25 meters.
• Be enchanted by the magnificent tallest indoor waterfall in the world, cascading from an elevation of around 35 meters.
• See the brilliantly crafted, awe-inspiring glass sculptures.
• Take a leisurely stroll along the OCBC Skyway and soak in the mesmerizing views of the Marina Bay and the gardens.

How To Reach

- By Train: Take the Circle or Downtown train line and alight at the Bayford MRT Station. Take EXIT B, and continue across the Dragonfly Bridge or Meadow Bridge to reach the Garden. Alternatively, take the East-West line and alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit C and head towards the International Plaza Bus stop. From here, Hop on to bus 400 and alight at Marina Gardens Drive.

- By Road: The Gardens are directly connected to the rest of the city via Ophir Road, Ayer Rajah Expressway and East Coast Parkway.

- By Bus: The Gardens are well connected by bus routes. Some of the buses travelling to Marine Gardens Drive are 100, 400, 97 and 97E.

Further Read: Things to Do near Gardens by the Bay

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit the Gardens would be during the winter months, between November and January. Weekdays at noon would be the ideal time to avoid crowds, although one can also choose to visit at night to watch the Gardens get lit up.

Read More: Gardens by the Bay Attractions

Other Essential Information

Here is the list of Outdoor Gardens in the Gardens by the Bay:

a. Bay East Garden: Packed with tall trees and colorful flowers and oozing out peace and serenity, the huge lush Bay East Garden offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Spread across an approximate area of around 32 hectares, Bay East Garden happens to be the second-largest garden within the Gardens by the Bay.

Lying on the waterfront, this garden offers you the chance to indulge in a number of recreational activities, such as picnicking, cycling, and jogging.

b. Sun Pavilion: The ecosystem and vegetation of the Sun Pavilion offer you the experience of a desert. The Sun Pavilion is also famed to be home to the largest collection of succulent plants in the entire country. This place shelters some rare species of cacti that are found in various parts of the globe, including Africa, Turkey, and Mexico.

c. Heritage Gardens: Standing true to its name, the Heritage Gardens showcase the role of plants in the rich heritage and history of Singapore. This garden is divided into four themed parts with each one depicting an individual ethnic culture of the country. With its stunning sculptures and art, Malay Garden showcases life in a traditional village.

Chinese Garden is inspired by artists, poets, and writers. Indian Garden is inspired by the traditional lotus flower motif, known as Kolam. The Colonial Garden tells the story of plants, spices, and crops.

d. The Canyon: The Canyon is famed to be home to the largest collection of rock formations in the country. This place presents a very interesting amalgamation of rocks and plants. These rock formations are said to have been brought here from China.

e. World of Plants: Packed with umpteen varieties of plants, this botanical garden tells about the history and evolution of each one. The World of Plants is categorized into different theme parks, namely "Secret Life of Trees", "World of Palms", "Understorey", "Fruits and Flowers", "Discovery Garden", and "Web of Life".

"Secret Life of Trees” offers an insight into the inception and role of trees in the ecosystem. "Understorey" tells various tales about the jungle plants. "World of Palms" lets you see the shapes and diversity of tropical palms. "Web of Life" depicts the relationship between rainforest flora and fauna.

"Discovery Garden" tells about the evolution of the plants that once bloomed on this planet. "Fruits and Flowers" is packed with breathtaking fruits and flowers.

f. Dragonfly & Kingfisher Lake: Dragonfly & Kingfisher Lake happens to be a man-made lake ecosystem, sheltering marine flora and fauna. A number of stunning art sculptures, including that of dragonflies, adorn this spectacular ecosystem. One of the most attractive sculptures here is the floating infant, which is known as ‘Planet’.

In spite of having a weight of 7 tons, this sculpture floats freely amidst the garden. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the 440 meters long path along this lake and witness the umpteen varieties of vegetation found here.

g. Serene Garden: The beautiful lush Serene Garden offers the experience of the Japanese Zen Gardens. This picturesque outdoor garden is inspired by minimalist Japanese concepts. Flaunting stunning rock and water features, this breathtaking garden takes you to a dreamy world.

Read More: Parks in Singapore

Places to Visit near Gardens by the Bay 

Not just the Gardens by the Bay, but also places near it are a wonderful attraction for the visitors. Let us know some of the exquisite ones:

1. Marina Bay Sands: With tickets, you may enter this place and enjoy the massive architecture that is bound to dazzle you. So now you can click the same pictures that urged you to be here. The pictures at this place come out so beautiful that the visit is absolutely worthwhile.

There are a plenty of activities to do which you may not want to miss the Marina Bay Sands Skypark, the Art Science Museum, Singapore Flyer, Spectra light show, and the Marina Bay Sands Casino if you enjoy the nightlife in Singapore. Amuse yourself to the fullest and go home enthusiastic to be back again.

2. Merlion: A classic statue of half lion and half fish is a place where perhaps everyone who has visited Singapore has a picture with. The statue is a fountain too depicting how Singapore rose from being a fishing village to current urban Singapore.

The name Singapore is taken from the original name ‘Singapura’, meaning Lion City. Around this place is a Merlion park where you can click some flawless pictures.

3. Kent Ridge Park: See the nature in its native form at this amazing place that is nestled between Singapore Science Park and the National University of Singapore. This park is a popular place for bird watchers, ecological tourists and for the ones who seek peace. The ambiance is so quaint that it becomes one the best retreat from urban life.

4. Sands Theatre: Nostalgia would set in when you hear a sublime tribute to none other than ABBA. There is much more in store for you than this. You can enjoy music and entertainment extravaganza at this amazing theatre that is about 10 minutes distance from the Gardens by the Bay. Various shows for kids and elders continue taking place one after the other. 

5. SpringLeaf Nature Park: If you ever wondered where the place that has road amidst tall trees exist, it is here in Singapore. Begin your walking

expedition here as this is a tailor-made path with ideal romantic settings. When with kids, you can freely walk with them and enjoy the trees around. This place was earlier a village which is now nature’s walk amidst various species of plants.

Recommended Read: Fun Things to Do in Singapore for Couples

Places to Eat near Gardens by the Bay 

1. Pollen: Pollen is a sophisticated and classy restaurant offering elegant fine dining experiences. Spread across two floors, this stunning restaurant by the very talented Chef Michael Wilson serves interactive contemporary cuisine.

On the first floor, guests can relish fine multi-course menus, while soaking in the breathtaking views of the Marina Bay waterfront and skyline. The restaurant has the capacity to accommodate a total of 60 gourmands at a single time.

2. Majestic Bay Seafood Restaurant: Lying below the beautiful Flower Dome, Majestic Bay Seafood Restaurant serves some of the classic recipes of Singapore. The prime highlights of this elegant restaurant include Black Pepper Crab, Chili Crab, and other experimental modern Chinese delicacies by the experienced and reputed Chef Yong Bing Ngen.

The Baked Rice with Seafood in Chef's Recipe Sauce and the signature "Kopi" Crab are perfect options to try for all occasions. Offering a seating capacity of 190 pax, Majestic Bay Seafood Restaurant is suitable for gatherings with friends and family.

3. McDonald's: The iconic McDonald's is the place where you can enjoy your all-time favourite tastes, while soaking in the mesmerizing views of the stunning golden supertrees. You can bond over the iconic Big Mac® or just unwind and sip your Mocha Frappe.

Whether you come here for breakfast or dinner, you will find amazing readily available options. You can take a delicious Egg McMuffin® for breakfast, savour a McSpicy® meal for lunch, and pick your favorite McWrap® for dinner.

4. Satay by the Bay: If you want to taste Singapore just like a local, head to Satay by the Bay, where you can savour some of the authentic delicious delicacies of the country. Satay by the Bay is the most ideal place to bond with your loved ones over flavourful local cuisine, while basking in the spellbinding views of the gorgeous waterfront.

The restaurant has the capacity to accommodate 200 pax for outdoor seating and 650 pax for indoor seating.

5. Fennel Cafe Active Garden: The Fennel Café Active Garden happens to be the perfect pitstop for the diet conscious and fitness freaks. Set along the stunning Waterfront Promenade, this place serves energy boosters and healthy and tasty snacks. With a seating capacity of 90 pax, this cozy, relaxed cafe is pet-friendly and lets you dine with your furry buddies. 

6. Cafe Crema: Cafe Crema is a cozy Italian cafe that serves amazing espresso-based drinks handcrafted skillfully and passionately as per the orders of the guests. Their coffee is made of 100 percent freshly roasted Arabica beans. The cafe also serves artisanal sandwiches, bread platter, salads, soups, pancakes, and excellent Japanese delights.

7. The Social Kitchen: The Social Kitchen works with its various partners to let guests enjoy tasteful food, while soaking in the spectacular views of the Supertree Observatory. You can enjoy delicious no-meat options from The Vegetarian Butcher like NOMEATBALL Tomato Pasta and Curry NOCHICKEN.

You can also relish some flavourful sweet delicacies from Boufe Café. Do not forget to order specialty drinks from The Chambers by Cask and The Ginger Pantry.

If you are planning a trip to Singapore, Checkout the Singapore Travel Guide which will help you plan a hassle-free trip

Tips for Visiting Gardens by the Bay

- If you want to explore the Gardens by the Bay peacefully without the crowd, consider visiting this place on a weekday.

- Gardens by the Bay gets a heavy influx of tourists and you have to wait in long queues for the tickets to its various attractions. So, consider buying your tickets well in advance.

- You can shop for amazing souvenirs at any of the three gift shops inside the Gardens by the Bay, namely Conservatory Gift Shop, Arrival Gift Shop, and Canopy Gift Shop.

- There are a host of attractions to see at the Gardens by the Bay. So, you are recommended to plan your visit accordingly and reach the place early.

- The ice creams and special teas available here are worth trying.

- There are a bunch of good restaurants at the Gardens by the Bay, serving delicious delicacies across various cuisines. So, do plan to dine in at one of the many restaurants here.

Recommended Read: Brunch Places in Singapore