Her Asian Adventures Not sure what is free at Gardens by the Bay? Searching for some free things to do at Gardens by The Bay? Well, you’re in the right place!
If you’re planning your first trip to Singapore, Gardens by the Bay is a must-visit. But you might be wondering, “Is Gardens by the Bay free?” Well, some parts definitely are!
Having explored Singapore on a shoestring budget myself, I can assure you there are plenty of free things to do at Gardens by the Bay.
Whether it’s enjoying the mesmerizing light show, marveling at the iconic Supertrees, or discovering Instagram-worthy spots throughout the park, there’s something for everyone.
Let me help you travel Singapore on a budget and make the most of your visit to Gardens by the Bay!
Ready? Let’s dive in!
Is Gardens By The Bay Free? What You Need To Know
Is Entry to Gardens by the Bay Free?
Yes, indeed! Entry to Gardens by the Bay is completely free. There’s no admission fee to check out the amazing Supertrees or to catch the magical Garden Rhapsody light show.
Plus, the gardens are open from 5:00 AM to 2:00 AM, giving you plenty of time to wander around.
Pro Tip: The best time to visit Gardens by the Bay is early in the morning or around sunset to avoid the crowds and escape the peak heat of Singapore’s tropical weather.
What is Free At Gardens By The Bay?
Alright, let’s break it down. The outdoor areas, such as the Supertree Grove, Dragonfly Lake, and all the themed gardens like the Heritage Gardens and the World of Plants, are accessible to everyone at no cost.
Oh, and yes, the Garden Rhapsody light show is also completely free and a must-see on any Singapore itinerary.
Don’t worry, we’ll dive into each of these free things to do at Gardens by the Bay and more below.
How Much Does Gardens by The Bay Cost?
Although entry to Gardens by the Bay is free, some of the cool attractions inside do have admission fees.
Sure, some of these activities can be a bit pricey, but personally, I’d rather spend my money on unique experiences than on souvenirs or fancy accommodations when I’m traveling.
If you want to see absolutely everything, plan to budget around 80 SGD (about 59 USD).
Of course, you can always pick and choose the activities that match your interests and budget!
Looking to travel to Singapore on a budget? Be sure to check out the 9 Best Capsule Hotels in Singapore.
What Should I Pay For When Visiting Gardens By The Bay? My Honest Opinion
In my opinion, the Cloud Forest is a must-see, priced at SGD 32. This ticket also includes entry to the Flower Dome, so you get to explore both amazing attractions.
If you’re looking for a unique view of the Supertrees from above, consider paying for either the OCBC Skyway (SGD 14) or the Supertree Observatory (SGD 14). Honestly, there’s no need to do both!
As for Floral Fantasy (SGD 20), I think it’s only worth a visit if you’re a huge fan of flowers or if you’re after some Insta-worthy shots.
Can You Buy Tickets At Gardens By The Bay?
If you’re interested in exploring any of these five paid attractions at Gardens by the Bay, you can certainly buy tickets directly on-site.
However, I’d suggest purchasing them in advance through the official Gardens by the Bay Website or via Klook to skip the long queues and make the most of your time.
Gardens By The Bay Map
To help you save time and money, I’ve put together the ultimate map of Gardens by the Bay. It highlights both the paid and free attractions at Gardens by the Bay, as well as the top dining spots and most Instagrammable locations. Hope it helps!
Quick Tip: To explore different map layers, just click the small arrow in the top left corner.
15 Free Things To Do At Gardens By The Bay
Now that you know which parts of Gardens by the Bay are free and which are worth paying for, let’s dive into the details and explore all the free activities at Gardens By the Bay.
1. Walk Around The Supertrees
One thing you absolutely have to do in Singapore is take a walk around the stunning Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay. These amazing vertical gardens, some as tall as 50 meters, are home to over 162,900 plants from more than 200 species.
They’re not just beautiful—they provide shade, harness solar energy, and have a cutting-edge irrigation system for the garden.
I have to admit, Gardens by the Bay is a perfect mix of nature and technology like I’ve never seen before. It’s truly impressive, and I’m loving every moment of it!
Fun Fact: It’s actually illegal to litter in Singapore! For more quirky facts, check out my blog post on 23 Weird Laws in Singapore.
2. Watch The Gardens By The Bay Light Show
When the sun goes down, the Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay light up in an amazing light and sound show. It’s definitely one of the best free things to do at Gardens by the Bay.
The Garden Rhapsody lasts about 15 minutes and happens every day at 7:45 PM and 8:45 PM in the Supertree Grove area.
Personally, catching this light show was the highlight of my trip to Singapore. It’s an absolute must on any Southeast Asia bucket list!
3. Wander Through The Sun Pavilion
With over 1,000 desert plants from around 100 different species, the Sun Pavilion is a hidden gem at Gardens By the Bay that’s easy to miss.
Personally, I really enjoyed learning more about cacti there (fun fact: my first cactus lasted less than a month! Who knew you could even kill a cactus?).
My favorites were the Turk’s Cap and the Brain Cactus—seriously, it’s named perfectly!
But if you’re able to splurge a bit, I’d definitely recommend checking out the Cloud Forest and the Flower Dome. They’re totally worth the money!
4. Visit the Water Lily Pond
You’ve got to check out the Water Lily Pond for a peaceful nature escape right in the middle of the city. The best part? It’s totally free!
Personally, I love strolling around the pond and exploring the nearby pathways. It’s definitely one of my favorite free things to do at Gardens by the Bay.
If you’re into photography, don’t miss the iconic rock—it’s one of the most Instagrammable spots around!
5. Have A Picnic At The Rooftop Marina Barrage
Want a budget-friendly activity at Gardens by the Bay? Pack a picnic and head to Marina Barrage!
I recommend grabbing some local food at Satay by the Bay nearby—it’s the cheapest place to eat in Gardens by the Bay—and then settling in for a picnic with some amazing views.
Marina Barrage is also one of the best places in Singapore to watch the sunset. Plus, it’s one of the few spots in the city where you can fly kites, thanks to some unique Singapore laws.
6. Enjoy The Free Things To Do At Gardens By The Bay
So, is Gardens by the Bay free? Well, not completely, but they do offer some amazing free events throughout the year, each with its own unique theme or holiday celebration.
For example, you can’t miss this year’s Inside Out 2 themed outdoor carnival at the Supertrees—perfect for families visiting Singapore. And if you’re like me, you’ll absolutely love the famous Christmas Wonderland, where you can even experience snow in Singapore
I highly recommend keeping an eye on the events calendar to plan your visit and make the most of these unforgettable free attractions at Gardens by the Bay.
Read Next: Does It Snow in Singapore? Ultimate Guide to Singapore Winter
7. Relax In The Serene Garden
Visiting Gardens by the Bay is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Singapore, but it can get overwhelmingly crowded, especially on weekends.
That’s why I love the Serene Garden. With its minimalist Japanese zen garden style, this little oasis is the perfect place to escape the crows and find some peace and quiet.
Tucked away at the southern end of the park, it’s also somewhat of a hidden treasure compared to other free attractions at Gardens by the Bay. But, if you’ve got the time, it’s definitely worth a visit!
8. Take Photos At The Waterfront Promenade
Strolling along the Waterfront Promenade gives you stunning views of the Singapore skyline and the iconic Marina Bay Sands.
It’s an amazing place for photography, particularly at sunset. For the best shot, take a tip from one of my favorite bloggers, Globe Trotting Su: head to coordinates (1.284310, 103.866829).
9. Embark On An Adventure At Kingfisher Wetlands
For all you nature lovers, walking the entire Kingfisher Wetlands trail is one of the top free things to do at Gardens by the Bay.
As you wander along, you’ll come across mangroves, beautiful lakes, and even newly-created waterfalls.
Make sure to stop at the new Wildlife Lookout deck; you might catch a glimpse of one of Singapore’s nine Kingfisher species. And if you’re really lucky, you might even spot an otter! Personally, I haven’t had that kind of luck yet, but I know they’re out there!
Read Next: 13 Beach Bag Essentials For The Perfect Day At The Beach
10. Explore Dragonfly Lake
On your way to Marina Bay Sands or the Bayfront MRT station, you might pass right by Dragonfly Lake and bridge without even noticing—I almost missed it myself!
But seriously, if you have a little extra time, definitely add this spot to your list of free places to visit at Gardens by the Bay.
The views are absolutely breathtaking, with stunning sights of Singapore landmarks like Marina Bay Sands and the Singapore Flyer.
While you’re there, I highly recommend taking a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk and enjoying the sculptures scattered around. Trust me, it’s worth it! More on this below!
Can’t afford Marina Bay Sands? Check out these Top 9 Budget Hotels In Singapore
11. Visit The Heritage Gardens
Step back in time and immerse yourself in Singapore’s rich cultural heritage at the Heritage Gardens.
Here, you’ll find four unique gardens, each representing one of Singapore’s main ethnicities: Malay, Chinese, and Indian, along with a special garden dedicated to colonial plants.
No matter which garden becomes your favorite, one thing’s for sure—the Heritage Gardens rank high among the top free attractions at Gardens by the Bay!
12. Spot Sculptures Around The Gardens
Is Gardens by the Bay free? Yes, indeed! One fun way to visit Gardens by the Bay without spending a dime is to go on a sculpture scavenger hunt.
With over 200 sculptures scattered throughout the gardens, it’s a top pick for art lovers or families looking for free things to do at Gardens by the Bay while exploring Singapore with kids.
Some of my personal favorites include:
- The Planet: A white baby sculpture that seems to float in mid-air.
- The Trash-Sure: A stunning Sumatran Tiger sculpture made entirely from recycled materials collected all over Singapore.
- Floral Clock: True to its name, this sculpture features floral arrangements shaped like a clock that actually tells the time.
- Magnificent Bull: A bronze bull sculpture symbolizing Singapore’s strong economy.
13. Have Fun At The Children’s Garden
If you’re traveling to Singapore with kids, you absolutely have to visit the Far East Organization Children’s Garden.
It’s right next to the Sun Pavilion and the Water Lily Pond, and it’s filled with interactive play areas and educational exhibits that’ll keep your little ones entertained for hours while you take a well-deserved rest.
I’ll admit, watching the kids splash around in the fountains made me wish I could join them to cool off!
Bonus Tip: Dress the kids in swimwear and pack spare clothes. Not sure what else to pack? Check out my 13 essentials for water activities.
14. Discover New Plant Species At The World Of Plants
Explore the World of Plants and discover species from around the globe! You’ll learn how plants spread their seeds, the symbiotic relationships between mushrooms and rainforest communities, and the incredible ways plants adapt to harsh environments.
Honestly, if I had to skip one free activity at Gardens by the Bay, it might be this one. But for those of you who love botany, it’s definitely worth a visit.
Pro Tip: There’s not much shade here, so try to avoid visiting around midday. Make sure to bring a hat, water, or an umbrella to avoid the heat, even if you’re visiting Singapore in winter.
15. Take Advantage of The Active Garden
The Active Garden is one of Singapore’s newest attractions, designed to bring people of all ages and backgrounds together.
With features like the outdoor gym, interactive musical playground, communal garden, and pet-friendly café, there’s something here for everyone.
Whether you’re up for a workout, looking to relax, or just want to enjoy some good company, I highly recommend checking out the Active Garden.
Is Gardens By The Bay Free? FAQs
Is Gardens By The Bay Free?
Yes, entry to Gardens by the Bay is free. You don’t have to pay to walk around the gardens, visit the Supertrees, or enjoy the Gardens by the Bay Light Show. However, there are admission fees for certain attractions like the Flower Dome and the Cloud Forest.
How Much Is Gardens By the Bay?
Here’s the cost for some of the best things to do at Gardens by the Bay:
- Cloud Forest & Flower Dome: Adults $32 SGD, Children (3-12 years old) $18 SGD
- OCBC Skywalk: Adults $14 SGD, Children (3-12 years old) $10 SGD
- Supertree Observatory: Adults $14 SGD, Children (3-12 years old) $10 SGD
- Floral Fantasy: Adults $20 SGD, Children (3-12 years old) $12 SGD
You can buy tickets directly at Gardens by the Bay, online at the official website, or through third parties like Klook.
Is There Free Parking at Gardens by the Bay?
Unfortunately, there’s no free parking at Gardens by the Bay. You’ll need to pay for parking if you drive, but I recommend using public transport to save on parking fees. For the latest parking rates and options, be sure to check the official Gardens by the Bay website.
Is There Free WiFi at Gardens by the Bay?
Yes, there is free WiFi at Gardens by the Bay! You can connect to GBTB-FreeWifi at the Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, Supertree Grove, Golden Garden, Far East Organization Children’s Garden, and Floral Fantasy.
Are There Free Concerts at Gardens by the Bay?
Yes, there are occasionally free concerts at Gardens by the Bay. Keep an eye on their event schedule to catch a live performance during your visit.
Is There a Free Shuttle in Gardens by the Bay?
Absolutely, there’s a free shuttle service at Gardens by the Bay that operates daily from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm. However, there’s a $3 fee for a round trip. The shuttle makes stops every 10 minutes at Bayfront Plaza (Exit B from Bayfront MRT), Active Garden, and Flower Dome.
Final Thoughts: Is Gardens By The Bay Free?
Wrapping up our list of the 15 free things to do at Gardens by the Bay, I hope you’re as excited as I am to explore all these amazing attractions without spending a dime.
From strolling through the beautiful Supertree Grove to catching the mesmerizing Garden Rhapsody Light Show, there’s so much to see and do.
Now, I’d love to hear from you! Which of these free activities are you most looking forward to experiencing? Or if you’ve been to Gardens by the Bay, do you have any favorite spots or tips to share? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!
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I enjoyed my visit to the Gardens by the Bay. I’d love to see one of the concerts in the park when they have them.
We love a botanical garden, and it looks amazing to visit. I love that it’s free!
Singapore is such a lovely destination. And love that there are so many free things to do at Gardens by the Bay especially the super trees and Garden Rhapsody light show.
I have to agree that the Gardens by the Bay are definitely worth visiting when you get to Singapore. They are one of the key iconic sights. And so great that it is free to visit. We were so glad we saw the night light and sound show. We didn’t pay for any of the activities so glad to get your view on what might be worth the cost.
This is definitely one of the best places to visit while in Singapore. And if it is your first visit it is a good idea to spend the extra money to visit and see all the best bits of it.
I always love visiting botanical gardens anywhere I travel!
Then you should visit Gardens by The Bay or the botanical gardens in Singapore! I´m sure you’ll love them!
It’s pretty mad how many things you can do for free at Gardens by the Bay! I looove the look of the light shows and all the flowers! These were just being built when we visited, so I have been. They are all so flipping pretty!
I know righttt? and they are so easy to misss!! If I hadn´t read about them in advance I would just have visited the Supertrees and the paid attractions in Gardens by the Bay!
This looks so pretty! I would love to visit Singapore one day!
I´d say Singapore is absolutely worth a visit! Yes, it´s expensive but there are so many free things to do!
Botanical gardens are so nice and I love exploring them. I have never been to Singapore before but it sounds amazing. One day, I’ll make a trip!
You really should! It´s one of my favorite cities in Asia!
I only spent one day in Singapore a few years ago, and I’m so sad I missed this! the photos are beautiful. thanks for such a helpful guide, I’ll have to go back someday!
Then you have a reason to go back!! I need to revisit some of these places myself! Thanks for reading!