Singapore Garden Escape
Ethan Sullivan
| 13-03-2026
· Travel team
When we step into Gardens by the Bay in Singapore, we enter a world where futuristic architecture blends seamlessly with lush greenery. This 105-hectare (260-acre) urban park stretches along the Marina Reservoir, just a short walk from the heart of downtown.
The park is divided into three main gardens: Bay South Garden in the south, Bay East Garden with the Founder’s Memorial in the east, and Bay Central Garden connecting the two. Bay South Garden is the largest at 54 hectares (130 acres) and features the world’s largest glass greenhouse.
A Vision of a Garden City
Gardens by the Bay is part of Singapore’s “City in a Garden” plan, announced in 2005 by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. The idea is to combine urban life with greenery, providing both locals and visitors with a unique outdoor leisure destination.
As we explore, we notice the innovative structures, beautiful plant collections, and sustainable technologies—making it not only a park but also an educational experience.
Bay South Garden: Supertrees and Glass Domes
Bay South Garden is home to the Supertree Grove, vertical gardens ranging from 25 to 50 meters high, covered in tropical plants. We can stroll along the OCBC Skyway, a 128-meter aerial walkway connecting two Supertrees for panoramic views.
The Flower Dome ($20 per person, $12 per child 3–12 years) showcases Mediterranean and semi-arid plants, while the Cloud Forest ($20 per person, $12 per child) simulates a tropical mountain environment with mist and a 35-meter indoor waterfall. Combined tickets for both domes are $28 per person and $17 per child.
- Opening hours: Domes 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily; last entry at 8:00 PM.
- Tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures inside the domes.
Bay East Garden & Founder’s Memorial
Bay East Garden offers a quiet waterfront park with jogging and cycling paths. The Founder’s Memorial honors Singapore’s founding leaders and provides a reflective, landscaped space.
- Access: Walking from Bay South Garden or TE22A (Founder's Memorial station, opening 2027).
- Best visiting time: Sunrise (6:00–9:00 AM) or late afternoon (4:00–6:00 PM) for beautiful skyline photography.
- Free admission: Bay East Garden itself is free, making it perfect for a peaceful walk or picnic.
Bay Central Garden
Bay Central Garden connects the other two gardens. We can stroll along scenic paths, enjoy seasonal flower displays, and photograph the Supertrees with the city skyline.
- Tips: Bring comfortable shoes and a water bottle; the full park takes several hours to explore.
Transportation & Fees
Gardens by the Bay is easily accessible:
- Bay South Garden: TE22 (Bay South station)
- Bayfront Station: CE1/DT16
- Bay East Garden: TE22A (Founder's Memorial, 2027)
Bus options: Multiple bus lines serve the Marina Bay area, fares $1.50–$2.00 per ride.
Parking: Paid parking is available near Bay South and Bay East, typically $0.60–$1.20 per 30 minutes.
Dining Options & Prices
We can enjoy a range of meals inside and nearby:
- Café options in Bay South: Sandwiches, pastries, drinks $9–$11
- Mid-range restaurants: Set meals or casual dining $20–$38
- Nearby Marina Bay Sands restaurants: Meals $25–$60 for a more premium experience
Tip: Bring light snacks and water if arriving early; some cafes open after 9:00 AM.
Accommodation Nearby
If we want to stay near Gardens by the Bay:
- Marina Bay Sands: Luxury rooms from $320/night
- The Fullerton Hotel Singapore: Classic rooms from $280/night
- Hotel G Singapore: More budget-friendly, rooms from $120/night
Tip: Booking in advance is recommended, especially during weekends or peak tourist seasons.
Best Times to Visit
- Months: February–April or August–October for mild weather and fewer crowds
- Hours: Gardens 5:00 AM – 2:00 AM; domes 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Evening shows: “Garden Rhapsody” light and sound show at 7:45 PM and 8:45 PM daily—free!
Visitor Numbers & Recognition
Since opening in 2012, Gardens by the Bay has grown in popularity:
- 2014: 6.4 million visitors
- 2015: 20 million visitors
- 2018: over 50 million visitors
In 2024, TripAdvisor ranked it the 8th best attraction globally and the top attraction in Asia.
Final Thoughts
Gardens by the Bay is more than just a park—it’s a unique blend of nature, innovation, and leisure. As we explore the towering Supertrees, wander through the cooled glass domes, and relax along the waterfront, we can feel both inspired and refreshed.
With clear information on tickets, transportation, dining, and nearby accommodation, we can easily plan our visit and fully enjoy everything this iconic Singapore destination has to offer.
Singapore Gardens by the Bay - Travel Guide (should you visit?)
Video by ReachingSingapore