The best way to describe Singapore is — spoilt for choice. Regardless of what activity you’d like to indulge in, the country always has a range of amazing options to choose from. We can say the same for museums in Singapore — from immersive VR galleries to wax statues of celebrities, explorations of famous artists and even rare dinosaur fossils, they certainly don’t hold back when it comes to creating unique exhibits through diverse and detailed storytelling.
In your itinerary, do take some time out to learn about the various cultures and religions that call Singapore home — either by visiting the stunning Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum or by making a pitstop at the Indian Heritage Centre. You can also visit the Civil Defence Heritage Gallery, where interactive sessions and guided tours allow you to gain a deeper insight into how Singapore’s firefighters respond to situations.
Go beyond the display rooms to find great dining options, such as Privé at the Asian Civilisations Museum. These venues are also great places to pick up souvenirs, so don’t forget to check out the shops at the National Museum and the Red Dot Design Museum with the latter being home to a fantastic range of design-driven products, such as unique stationery, quirky jewellery and more.
The icing on the proverbial cake certainly is that the country’s eclectic range of museums has something for everyone, from adults to children. So, in case you need a little help planning your itinerary, here are some museums that you’d definitely want to visit.
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When you think of museums in Singapore, the National Museum is certainly one that tops all lists. Upon arriving here, look beyond the imposing 19th-century colonial architecture to the decades of Singaporean history that lie within its walls. The exhibits cover a wide range of topics — from history to science and learning as well as modern and contemporary art.
Some of the permanent exhibits here are Wings of a Rich Manoeuvre, History of the National Museum of Singapore, Singapore History Gallery, Very Old Tree, An Old New World: Digital Edition and Story of the Forest. It is important to note that the museum will be undergoing restoration work from September 2023 onwards. Check the website for updates and timing changes.
Timing: Daily, 10 am to 7 pm
Entry Fee: SGD 15 onwards (INR 921)
(Image credit: National Museum of Singapore)
- Address 93 Stamford Road, Singapore, 178897
- Website More information available here
The first art museum in the Lion City, the Singapore Art Museum, also known as SAM, soon became a leader in Southeast Asian contemporary art. Known for its diverse and extensive collection, SAM is worth a visit even if you’re a newbie when it comes to learning about art. If anything, it’s the perfect place to do so, as it is home to works from China, India, Korea and Japan, allowing you to broaden your learning horizons. From multimedia installations to paintings, sculptures and more, it’s the perfect place to take time out and indulge in a sense of creativity.
Timing: Daily, 10 am to 7 pm
Entry Fee: SGD 10 (INR 614) for adults, with category-based concessions
(Image credit: Singapore Art Museum)
- Address 39 Keppel Rd, #01-02 Tanjong Pagar Distripark, Singapore, 089065
- Website More information available here
While you can spend a lot of time taking selfies with the stunning design outside, head inside to be amazed by this futuristic space that aims to be at the intersection of art and science. And that’s not an idle boast — the museum has hosted exhibitions on Leonardo da Vinci, Vincent van Gogh and Andy Warhol, as well as explorations of particle physics, marine biology and space. Once you’ve experienced the multi-sensory galleries, visit the VR Gallery where you get to dive into an immersive world like no other. You can easily spend a whole day here.
Timing: Monday to Sunday, 10 am to 7 pm
Entry Fee: SGD 66 (INR 4,054) for adults, with category-based concessions
(Image credit: ArtScience Museum Marina Bay Sands)
- Address 6 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore, 018974
- Website More information available here
If you’ve been to the Red Dot Design Museum in Germany, then you’ll know that the Singapore version is definitely worth visiting. The Red Dot Design celebrates all things design and is just the place for art lovers. This museum focuses on elevating one’s perception of good craftsmanship and composition through the over 500 design works on display. Expect to experience everything from works shaping consumer markets to brand and communication design and more. And don’t forget to visit the shop here, where you can buy some of the products to take home with you.
Timing: Monday to Friday, 11 am to 7 pm, Saturday to Sunday, 10 am to 7 pm
Entry Fee: SGD 10 (INR 614) for individuals 7 years and above
(Image credit: Red Dot Design Museum/Shutterstock)
- Address 11 Marina Boulevard Singapore, 018940
- Website More information available here
With its 11 galleries, the Asian Civilisations Museum gives visitors a glimpse of art and culture from various parts of the continent. The collection here is spread across three thematic floors, with the exhibits exploring the historical and cultural connections between Asia and the world.
Divided into three primary categories — Maritime Trade, Faith and Belief, and Materials and Design — these exhibits offer a closer glimpse into various aspects of pan-Asian history. Expect to see a wide range of diverse objects, from ceramics recovered from a shipwreck to vessels used in religious ceremonies and even a peacock belt studded with 75 carats of diamonds.
Timing: Daily, 10 am to 7 pm, Friday, 10 am to 9 pm
Entry Fee: SGD 25 (INR 1,535)
(Image credit: Asian Civilisations Museum)
- Address 1 Empress PI, Singapore, 179555
- Website More information available here
The Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum will leave you thoroughly impressed right from the get-go. With a deep commitment to showcasing Southeast Asian biodiversity, the museum houses over 5,60,000 catalogued lots and over a million specimens. The highlight here, however, is certainly the three sets of dinosaur bones, which have been identified as diplodocid sauropod fossils. Once the largest animals to walk the earth, their fossils are over 80 percent complete, with two of them even having skulls.
Timing: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am to 6 pm
Entry Fee: SGD 21 onwards (INR 1,289)
(Image credit: Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum)
- Address National University of Singapore, 2 Conservatory Drive, Singapore, 117377
- Website More information available here
One of the best free museums to visit in Singapore, the Civil Defence Heritage Gallery is rather unique compared to the other places on this list. Located at the Central Fire Station, you’re sure to be left in awe the moment you enter the building, on account of its grandeur. Here, you can check out the country’s antique fire engines, learn about their civil and defence systems as well and participate in interactive sessions where you get to know about fire drills and more. While walk-ins are allowed, opt for a guided tour instead — it certainly allows you to make the most of your visit.
Timing: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am to 5 pm
Entry Fee: Free, however, if you want a guided tour, you are required to make a booking in advance
(Image credit: Civil Defence Heritage Gallery)
- Address 62 Hill St, Singapore, 179367
- Website More information available here
Home to the Buddhas of the World Museum, this is one of the most unique museums in Singapore. Focussing on two primary themes, Buddha Shakyamuni and Buddha Maitreya, the teachings here are showcased through art and artefacts. An extensive collection of Buddhist art spans the 2nd to the 21st century, including various time periods as well as dynasties. Should you decide to make a trip here, visit the grand main temple before heading on to the museum. As this is a place of worship, there is a code of etiquette that should be followed. This includes appropriate attire, no non-vegetarian food on the premises and pets are not allowed either.
Timing: Daily, 9 am to 5 pm
Entry Fee: Free
(Image credit: @btrts_singapore/Instagram)
- Address 288 South Bridge Road Singapore, 058840
- Website More information available here
A four-storeyed building dedicated to research on the Indian and South Asian communities in Southeast Asia, the Indian Heritage Centre should certainly be on your travel list. Home to five permanent galleries and a range of programmes, here, you can learn more about Indian traditions and culture within the Southeast Asian context.
A permanent exhibit here is Indians in Singapore — Past & Present, which showcases art and artefacts from the 1st century CE to the 21st century. The interactive displays help visitors understand the history of the Indian communities in Singapore and Malaya during the colonial period and their contributions towards nation-building efforts in later years.
Timing: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am to 6 pm
Entry Fee: SGD 8 (INR 491) onwards
(Image credit: Indian Heritage Centre)
- Address 5 Campbell Lane, Singapore, 209924
- Website More information available here
Madame Tussauds needs no introduction — the wax statue museum is known for its celebrity replicas and virtual experiences. The Singapore chapter certainly has all that and some more — among the unique exhibits here include the Images of Singapore, where you can see how people lived 200 years ago. From a Malay Fishing Village experience to 1900s Chinatown, these exhibits are a fun way to brush up on your local history. Visit the Spirit of Singapore Boat Ride, as you cruise down a beautiful, tropical Singapore garden. And of course, be sure to snap a selfie or two with your favourite celebs while you’re at it.
Timing: Daily, 10 am to 6 pm
Entry Fee: SGD 42.50 (INR 2,479) onwards
(Image credit: Madame Tussauds)
- Address 40 Imbiah Rd, Sentosa, Singapore, 099700
- Website More information available here
Featured and Hero Image credit: Shutterstock
(All currency conversions are done at the time of writing.)
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What kind of exhibits can I expect to see in Singapore’s museums?
The exhibits at Singapore’s museums cover a wide range of topics and genres, depending on the museum you are visiting.
Are there any free admission days for museums in Singapore?
Some museums do offer free admission days. Do check the museum website to plan your visit accordingly.
Are museums in Singapore child-friendly?
Yes, museums in Singapore are child-friendly.
Can I take photographs inside the museums?
Do check with the administration of the museum regarding photography at the museum.
Are there guided tours available in the museums?
Yes, guided and self-guided tours are available. Check with the help desk for information and guidance.
Can I buy souvenirs or gifts at the museums?
Yes, museums have gift shops on site where you can purchase souvenirs and gift items.
Are the museums easily accessible by public transportation?
Yes, the museums are easily accessible via public transport.
Can I rent audio guides or multimedia devices at the museums?
Yes, you can rent audio guides or multimedia devices at the museums. Check with the help desk for information and guidance.
Written By
Aurelia Fernandes
Aurelia is a travel writer who has worked with publications like Femina and Lonely Planet Magazine India. When she isn't planning detailed itineraries for her next big adventure, she is usually sniffing out new restaurants in her city. On a lazy day, you'll find her drawing or binge watching every true crime documentary she can find.
