Gardens by the Bay ranks among Singapore’s top attractions. Alongside Universal Studios, it’s a must-visit spot whether your trip is short or long. Having explored Gardens by the Bay multiple times, I’m excited to share some insights and tips to help you make the most of your visit. If anything’s unclear, feel free to ask—I’d be happy to clarify!
When to Visit Gardens by the Bay?
The indoor conservatories are open daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, while the outdoor areas welcome visitors from 5:00 AM to 2:00 AM the next day. That means you can drop by anytime that suits you. However, to align with key attraction hours and the evening light show, planning your visit carefully is key. Most folks spend an afternoon through evening here. If time’s tight, aim for 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM, though starting at 3:00 PM gives you a fuller experience.
For a full day, kick off at 9:00 AM with a visit to the Merlion statue near Marina Bay, then head up to the top of Marina Bay Sands across the water. Grab lunch at a nearby food court—there’s one close to the Marina Bay Link Mall that’s easy to find with a quick map search. If you’re coming from another spot, arriving by 3:30 PM works well.
Start with the conservatories—Cloud Forest and Flower Dome—since the last entry is at 8:30 PM. A shuttle to these domes saves energy, especially for families with kids, though walking back out is fine if you enjoy a stroll. Next, head outdoors to Supertree Grove, the iconic cluster of giant artificial trees. The OCBC Skyway, a walkway linking the trees, offers stunning views—get there before 7:00 PM to enjoy it. At 7:45 PM, stick around Supertree Grove for the Light and Music Show, where the trees glow and dance to tunes in a mesmerizing display.
How to Get to Gardens by the Bay?
The MRT (Singapore’s metro) is the easiest way to reach Gardens by the Bay. Here are some straightforward routes from popular areas to help you navigate.
From Chinatown to Gardens by the Bay
Take the Downtown Line from Chinatown MRT Station straight to Bayfront Station. From there, follow the underground signs to Gardens by the Bay—stick to the basement path to avoid confusion or extra walking above ground.
From Bugis to Gardens by the Bay
Hop on the Downtown Line at Bugis MRT Station and ride to Bayfront Station—simple and direct.
From Little India to Gardens by the Bay
Start at Little India MRT Station on the Downtown Line and head to Bayfront Station. Alternatively, take bus 67, then switch to bus 133, which drops you near Marina Bay Sands Hotel.
From Sentosa Island to Gardens by the Bay
From Sentosa, return to VivoCity first. The quickest option from there is bus 97, which stops at Marina Bay Sands Hotel, just steps from the gardens.
By Bus to Gardens by the Bay
Buses like 97, 97e, 106, 133, 502, 502a, 518, and 518a all stop at Marina Bay Sands Hotel, right by the gardens. Pick the route that fits your starting point. Note that Singapore’s traffic flows on the left (like in Thailand or the UK), so double-check your bus’s direction to avoid mix-ups.
Exploring the Gardens by the Bay Complex
Gardens by the Bay is a sprawling mix of indoor and outdoor wonders. Key highlights include the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome conservatories, the OCBC Skyway bridge, and the Supertree Grove. The site splits into two main parts: the outdoor gardens and the cooled conservatories.
The outdoor areas feature spots like Bay East Garden, Heritage Gardens, Dragonfly & Kingfisher Lakes, Sun Pavilion, Far East Organization Children’s Garden, and the World of Plants. The star attraction, Supertree Grove, boasts 18 towering artificial trees—12 clustered in the main grove—covered with 170,000 plants, including over 200 species of orchids, ferns, and tropical vines. The OCBC Skyway connects these giants, offering a treetop walk with postcard-worthy views.
The conservatories—Cloud Forest and Flower Dome—house rare plants in climate-controlled settings. Their displays shift with the seasons or themes like spring, summer, Halloween, Christmas, or New Year, ensuring a fresh experience every visit. A standout feature is Cloud Forest’s seven-story artificial waterfall, encircled by a walkway that’s a highlight of the gardens.
Highlights of Cloud Forest
The showstopper here is the seven-story (35-meter) man-made waterfall, cascading down a plant-covered, mountain-like structure. The conservatory’s chilly air—quite a contrast to Singapore’s heat—calls for a jacket or scarf. As you enter, the thundering falls demand a pause for a photo at their base. Singapore, lacking natural resources, has packed these domes with exotic plants from around the globe, turning them into living museums. Higher up, around the fifth or sixth level, you’ll find displays of stalactites, gemstones, and a cave-like setup that adds a touch of mystery.
The Vast Flower Dome
Flower Dome is a sprawling space with seasonal decor that changes throughout the year. Its temperate plants include cherry blossoms from Japan during bloom season or tulips for a vibrant spring vibe. It’s a botanical wonder that shifts with the calendar.
Supertree Grove
The Light and Music Show at Supertree Grove is a can’t-miss moment, but you might feel peckish beforehand. Pack a snack to tide you over, as nearby dining options are scarce and pricey. After the show, head to a food court for a proper meal—the one near Marina Bay Sands is a solid, affordable pick.
Gardens by the Bay blends nature, innovation, and spectacle into one unforgettable stop. With a little planning, you’ll catch its best sights and soak in its magic—day or night.
