10 Museums in Singapore that You Should Visit
10 Museums in Singapore that You Should Visit. Ask anyone to name the most popular museums in Singapore, and you’ll most likely get these common answers: the National Museum, National Gallery, and ArtScience Museum.
While these names have certainly earned their fame with their spectacular exhibits and architecture, there are many other museums in Singapore that truly deserve more recognition!
For example, think heritage galleries devoted to fire fighting and the maritime industry, or something unique like video game museums. We’ve rounded up 17 lesser-known museums in Singapore to explore!
Educational museums in Singapore
1. Civil Defence Heritage Gallery
Firstly, take a look at Central Fire Station, known for its iconic red-brick colonial structure. Besides being one of Singapore’s coolest buildings, did you know that the Civil Defence Heritage Gallery resides here too?
Certainly, it’s not every day that we get to learn about a profession not many of us can get a glimpse into. Thus, why not take a step inside to marvel at the displays of firetrucks, plus firefighting and rescue equipment?
Address: 62 Hill St, Singapore 179367
Opening Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10am–4pm (Reservation required)
Entry fee: Free
2. NEWater Visitor Centre
We’ve all been familiar with NEWater ever since attending the National Day Parades in primary school. But have you ever wondered how NEWater is produced, especially in a country that doesn’t have access to its own natural resources?
At the NEWater Visitor Centre, visitors get to learn about water sustainability in Singapore. You could, for example, join the interactive tours and educational workshops for a fun-filled and enriching afternoon. What’s more, it’s suitable for all ages! 10 Museums in Singapore that You Should Visit.
Address:20 Koh Sek Lim Rd, Singapore 486593
Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 9am–5.30pm
Entry fee: Free (Reservation recommended)
3. Singapore Maritime Gallery
Although popular for day trips to the Southern Islands, Marina South Pier is also home to the Singapore Maritime Gallery! Visitors can expect a plethora of exhibits showcasing the history and importance of the maritime industry in Singapore.
Not only are there colourful displays perfect for the young ones, but adults can also look forward to exciting and interactive exhibits like ship simulators!
Address: 31 Marina Coastal Dr, Level 2, Singapore 018988
Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 9am–6pm
Entry fee: Free
History museums in Singapore
4. Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall
Besides its declaration as a heritage institution by the National Heritage Board, Sun Yat-Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall dedicates its space to the history of the Singapore Chinese Community.
In particular, the centre of the exhibit on community leaders in the 20th century, Nanyang as a base for revolution, and the 1911 Chinese Revolution.
Not to mention, the facade of the museum is absolutely Insta-worthy!
Address: 12 Tai Gin Rd, Singapore 327874
Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10am–5pm
Entry fee: Free for Singapore Citizens, PRs, and children below 6 years old; S$12 (Foreigner adults); S$6 (Foreigner students & senior citizens)
5. NUS Baba House
While awaiting the reopening of Peranakan Museum (which is currently undergoing renovation), NUS Baba House is another museum in Singapore dedicated to Peranakan history, architecture, and heritage.
Situated along a row of shophouses, NUS Baba House stands out as a cerulean three-storey townhouse with a history of more than 100 years!
Address: 157 Neil Rd, Singapore 088883
Opening Hours: Tuesday–Friday, 10am–11am; Saturday, 1pm–4.30pm (Reservation required)
Entry Fee: Free for Singapore Citizens and PRs; S$10 for foreign visitors
6. The Cathay Gallery
Calling all film and photography buffs: The Cathay Gallery is the museum for you. Besides the massive cinema halls located in The Cathay, its second-floor exhibits allow guests to revel in the impressive world of the film industry. 10 Museums in Singapore that You Should Visit.
For instance, The Cathay Gallery traces the history of The Cathay movie empire, from its debut in the 1800s to its established pervasiveness today.
Besides learning about the Singaporean and Malaysian cinematic journeys, you can also look forward to exhibits of vintage cameras and movie posters!
Address: 2 Handy Rd, The Cathay, #02-16 Singapore 229233
Opening hours: Monday–Friday, 2pm–6pm; Saturday, 12pm–6pm
Entry fee: Free
7. Singapore Musical Box Museum
Established in 2015, Singapore Musical Box Museum is the first of its kind on our island. In the 19th and 20th centuries, these contraptions were celebrated as an important European symbol.
However, soon after, these antiques also became popular in Southeast Asia, with Singapore being one of the driving forces in cultivating an interest in these marvelous machines.
When you head over to this museum in Singapore, expect to not only see the usual tiny musical boxes but life-sized displays too!
Address: 168 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 068619
Opening Hours: Daily, 10am–5pm (Reservation required)
Entry Fee: S$12 (Adults); S$6 (Students & senior citizens); Free (6 years old and below)
8. Eurasian Heritage Gallery
Since it’s categorized as an “other” race in Singapore, admittedly not many people fully understand Eurasian heritage and culture. Thus, with the newly opened Eurasian Heritage Gallery, visitors can learn about the rich history and culture of the small but vibrant Eurasian community in Singapore!
Through artifacts, interactive exhibits, and multimedia installations, it’s an engaging experience for all ages to remind us of the multiracialism that Singapore is so widely known for.
Address: 139 Ceylon Rd, The Eurasian Association, Singapore 429744
Opening Hours: Tuesday–Friday, 10am–5pm
Entry Fee: Free for Singapore Citizens and PRs; S$5 for foreign visitors
9. Singapore Chinese Opera Museum
Singapore Chinese Opera Museum is one of the few (perhaps the only) museums in Singapore dedicated to the nation’s art form of Chinese opera. Besides chronicling the history of the traditional practice, there are also exhibits displaying Chinese opera costumes and props.
In addition, there’s also a cafe within the area where you can pick up a cuppa or slice of cake at!
Address: Sultan Plaza #01-27, 100 Jalan Sultan, Singapore 199001
Opening Hours: Tuesday–Friday, 11am–6pm (Reservation required)
Entry Fee: Free
War museums in Singapore
10. Changi Chapel and Museum
Changi Chapel and Museum is dedicated to the stories of the prisoners of war and civilians in the Changi prison camp during the Japanese Occupation. In order to ensure the authenticity of the museum, personal narratives were gathered from families of former internees. Thus, guests are encouraged to remember and reflect on the courage and resilience that these brave men and women showed in the face of hardship.
In conclusion, apart from the island’s breathtaking history and art galleries occupying the CBD area, there are plenty more museums in Singapore to explore. So, why not head over to these unique museums in Singapore instead to spend your day off? From learning about the maritime industry to exploring the world of gemstones, there’s truly so much to explore in the Little Red Dot!
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