15 Best Free Things to Do in Singapore for Frugal Fun!
When people say “Singapore is expensive,” I say, “Challenge accepted!” There are plenty of things to do here that don’t cost a single cent, and I’ve made it my mission to hunt them down.
Whether you’re travelling on a shoestring or just want to stretch your dollar further, this little island offers more than just luxury. From scenic trails to cultural gems, here’s a list of the best free things to do here—all fun, no splurging required!
Explore the Jewel at Changi Airport
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Location: Floors B5-5D
Contact: +6569569898
Hours: 24/7
Who knew an airport could be a destination on its own? Jewel at Changi Airport isn’t just a layover spot; it has the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, lush greenery in the Forest Valley, and enough photo ops to fill your camera roll, all for free.
Marvel at the Rain Vortex, stroll through tropical gardens, or unwind in open spaces. Jewel offers nature and culture at no cost!
Plus, getting there is a breeze with direct MRT access, making it a perfect pit stop on any budget itinerary.
Pro-tip: Head to the food courts on Level 3 for wallet-friendly local eats without sacrificing flavour.
Discover art at Gillman Barracks
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Location: 9 Lock Road
Contact: [email protected]
Hours:
Monday to Saturday, 11 AM–11 PM
Sunday, 11 AM – midnight
Gillman Barracks is where art and nature collide, offering a unique blend of contemporary galleries tucked within lush greenery.
Wandering through the galleries is free, and you’ll find exhibits ranging from thought-provoking installations to stunning visual art by local and international artists.
Whether you’re here for an art fix or just to soak in the peaceful atmosphere, the blend of galleries, cafés, and outdoor sculptures makes it a delightful (and wallet-friendly) escape.
Pro-tip: Just hop off at Labrador Park MRT and enjoy the short stroll through this arts enclave.
Pay a visit to the MacRitchie Treetop Walk
– Media from lynzbz
Location: MacRitchie Reservoir Park
Contact: +6518004717300
Hours:
Monday to Friday, 9 AM–5 PM
Saturday to Sunday, 8.30 AM–5 PM
If you think Singapore’s just about malls and skyscrapers, the MacRitchie Treetop Walk will prove you wrong. This 250-metre suspension bridge lets you walk among the treetops, with panoramic views of the forest canopy—and it’s completely free!
Getting there involves a bit of a workout, but hey, that’s part of the charm! The 4.5km trek through lush greenery adds to the adventure. Just take the MRT to Marymount or Caldecott Station, lace up your sneakers, and enjoy a day surrounded by nature without spending a dime.
Pro-tip: Visit the MacRitchie Treetop Walk early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and catch wildlife at its most active.
Watch the fireworks at Marina Bay
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Location: Singapore’s Central Area
Contact: +65 6688 8868
Hours: 24/7
Marina Bay’s fireworks are like a free front-row seat to the city’s dazzling nightlife—and who doesn’t love a little sparkle without the price tag?
Whether it’s New Year’s Eve or the National Day Parade, you’ll catch fireworks painting the sky over Marina Bay Sands and reflecting off the water for a jaw-dropping display.
Getting there is a breeze with multiple MRT stations like Bayfront, Marina Bay, and Raffles Place nearby.
Pro-tip: Arrive early at the promenade or The Lawn for the best views, and catch Marina Bay Sands’ light shows as an added treat if your timing’s perfect.
Explore Little India
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Location: Serangoon Road and surrounding streets
Contact: +65 6736 6622
Hours: 24/7
Little India is a vibrant sensory overload, from the colourful murals on its walls to the fragrance of spices wafting through the air. With the Little India MRT station right at the heart of it, you don’t have to worry about getting lost.
Just stroll along Serangoon Road, soak in the street art at every turn, and enjoy the cultural charm. You can explore the bustling Tekka Centre, marvel at Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, or wander through rows of jewellery and textile shops without spending a dime.
Pro-tip: Head to Tekka Centre for delicious, budget-friendly eats—from aromatic biryanis to hearty roti prata.
Walk the Southern Ridges
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Location: Telok Blangah Hill Park
Contact: +6518004717300
Hours: 24/7
The Southern Ridges is a hiker’s dream. Imagine a trail that connects lush parks and scenic bridges, all while offering panoramic views of the city and coast. Whether you’re soaking in nature or catching a hilltop sunset, the place offers a scenic, budget-friendly way to explore Singapore’s green side.
With highlights like the undulating Henderson Waves bridge and the canopy walk at Forest Walk, this 10-kilometre route is not just free but also packed with Instagram-worthy moments.
Pro-tip: To get there, hop on a train at either HarbourFront or Kent Ridge MRT stations.
Stroll along East Coast Park
– Media from dotzsoh
Location: East Coast Park Service Road
Contact: 1800-471-7300
Hours: 24/7
East Coast Park feels like Singapore’s backyard. With 15 kilometres of coastline, you can bike, jog, or just chill by the beach, all without spending a cent! From sandy shores to scenic picnic spots and even a jetty perfect for fishing, there’s plenty to enjoy here.
Whether you’re skating along the paths, flying kites, or just catching the sea breeze, East Coast Park offers the perfect escape from the city bustle without draining your wallet.
Pro-tip: Getting there is easy with several bus routes or a quick MRT ride to Bedok, followed by a short walk or bus transfer.
Marvel at the Helix Bridge
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Location: Marina Bay
Contact: +65 6736 6622
Hours: 24/7
The Helix Bridge is like a DNA strand brought to life—a stunning pedestrian bridge that winds gracefully over Marina Bay, offering unbeatable views for free.
Stroll along its spiral paths at night when it’s all lit up, with lookout points perfectly positioned for snapping photos of the glittering skyline. You can soak in the sights, enjoy the sea breeze, or marvel at the futuristic architecture on this unique bridge.
Pro-tip: Nearby MRT stops like Bayfront and Promenade can get you there in no time.
Relax at the Esplanade Roof Terrace
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Location: Theatres On the Bay, 1 Esplanade Drive
Contact: +6568288377
Hours: Daily, 10 AM – 9 PM
Want a romantic date but don’t have a lot of money? The Esplanade Roof Terrace feels like a hidden oasis for lovers, where couples can escape the city buzz and soak in panoramic views of Marina Bay without spending a dime.
Lush greenery, cosy benches, and the perfect sunset backdrop make it ideal for unwinding or sneaking in a photo op with Singapore’s skyline. Visit during the day for some quiet reflection or at night when the skyline sparkles.
Pro-tip: Esplanade MRT is just a short stroll away, making it easy to reach the roof terrace hassle-free.
Birdwatch at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
– Media from dotzsoh2
Location: 301 Neo Tiew Crescent
Contact: +6567941401
Hours: Daily, 7 AM–7 PM
Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is where you can channel your inner nature enthusiast and spot everything from migratory birds to shy mudskippers. The mangrove boardwalks and lookout points offer the perfect setting to observe wildlife in action, all while enjoying the peaceful sounds of nature.
Whether you’re snapping photos of herons or just enjoying a tranquil walk, Sungei Buloh is a budget-friendly escape into Singapore’s wild side. Plus, the Kranji MRT and a quick bus ride will take you straight to the entrance.
Pro-tip: Bring a handy pair of binoculars to spot exotic birds!
Visit the Singapore Botanic Gardens
– Media from josephinethama
Location: 1 Cluny Road
Contact: +6564717138
Hours: Daily, 5 AM – midnight
The Singapore Botanic Gardens is a sprawling 160-year-old green paradise where you can picnic, stroll, and spot wildlife—all without spending a cent!
With highlights like Swan Lake, the Rainforest Trail, and the Ginger Garden, there’s always something new to explore, plus you’ll often catch free outdoor performances at Symphony Lake.
This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a refreshing escape on a budget, so enjoy a leisurely nature walk, photograph orchids (in the free sections), or just unwind under a shady tree.
Pro-tip: Enter the Botanic Gardens easily via Botanic Gardens MRT or any of the access points along Cluny Road.
Explore the Gardens by the Bay (Outdoor Gardens)
– Media from gardensbythebay
Location: 18 Marina Gardens Drive
Contact: +6564206848
Hours: Daily, 5 AM–2 AM
Gardens by the Bay’s outdoor gardens are like a living postcard, where you can wander through themed gardens and admire the iconic Supertrees for free. Accessibility is a breeze with Bayfront MRT connecting directly to the gardens.
When you’re there, you can relax under the Supertrees or discover exotic plants in the free-access areas, Gardens by the Bay offers a lush and scenic escape that’s easy on your wallet.
Pro-tip: Make the most of this free nature immersion: wander through the Heritage Gardens, marvel at unique cacti in the Sun Pavilion, and soak in serene views along the Dragonfly Lake trail.
Take a self-guided tour at Kampong Gelam
– Media from visitkamponggelam
Location: Arab Street and Haji Lane
Contact: +65 6736 6622
Hours: 24/7
A self-guided tour of Kampong Gelam feels like a treasure hunt through time. One moment you’re marvelling at the grand Sultan Mosque, and the next you’re snapping photos of vibrant street art along Haji Lane!
From heritage-rich spots like the Malay Heritage Centre to quirky indie boutiques and cafes, every corner here has a story to tell, and it’s all free to explore.
Whether you’re browsing through Persian carpets or catching live music along Bali Lane, Kampong Gelam offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and modern flair.
Pro-tip: With Bugis MRT just a short walk away, accessibility is a breeze.
Wander through Chinatown’s Heritage District
– Media from chinatownsingapore
Location: Pagoda Street
Contact: +6562243928
Hours: 24/7
Chinatown’s Heritage District is like a journey through Singapore’s past, where historic temples stand alongside trendy bars and markets.
You can explore the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, wander through the lively Chinatown Complex, and uncover murals that bring old stories to life without spending a cent.
Accessibility is a breeze with Chinatown MRT just around the corner. Once there, savour the vibrant street atmosphere, visit Sri Mariamman Temple, or just get lost in its charming alleys for a perfect blend of culture and history on a budget-friendly adventure.
Pro-tip: Visit Chinatown during Chinese New Year for the most festive experience, with streets lit up, lion dances, and bustling markets.
Catch the Spectra Light & Water Show
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Location: Marina Bay Sands, 2 Bayfront Avenue
Contact: +6566888868
Hours:
Sunday to Thursday, 8–8.15 PM and 9–9.15 PM
Friday to Saturday, 8–8.15 PM, 9–9,15 PM and 10–10.15 PM
The Spectra Light & Water Show at Marina Bay is a free 15-minute spectacle where lights, water jets, and music dance together over the bay.
You’ll find yourself mesmerised by laser beams bouncing off Marina Bay Sands, with water fountains swirling to a soundtrack that makes the whole thing feel magical.
Getting there is easy with Bayfront MRT just steps away, and the show runs twice on most nights. It’s a soothing way to end a long day or kick off a night out and is the perfect budget-friendly way to soak up Marina Bay’s charm.
Pro-tip: The best spot to catch the Spectra show is from the Event Plaza at Marina Bay Sands, offering an unobstructed, front-row view of the spectacle.