Certain buildings around the world are so synonymous with a city, that you can recognise where in the world you are from just the outline of them. Think about it: London has Big Ben, Paris has the Eiffel Tower, Sydney has the Opera House – and Singapore has the Marina Bay Sands resort. Designed by architect Moshe Safdie, since opening in 2010 it has dominated the skyline of the city, and entertained countless locals and guests in the years since as one of Singapore’s best tourist attractions. With an upgrade on the horizon, we’ve picked out some of our favourite things to do at Marina Bay Sands that are as memorable as the resort itself!
1. Immerse yourself in the life of Frida Kahlo
Marina Bay Sands’ ArtScience Museum is currently home to “Frida Kahlo: The Life of an Icon,” an immersive digital experience featuring 360-degree projections, interactive installations, and virtual reality across nine spaces. Visitors can explore Kahlo’s artistic journey, cultural significance, and personal struggles through stunning visuals, archival photographs, and digital art. Adult tickets start at $27, with kids, concessions, and family tickets all available too – find them here.
2. Relax in the Marina Bay Sands infinity pool
The chance to swim in one of the highest infinity pools in the world shouldn’t be sniffed at – even if you will need to be a guest of the hotel to use it. Perhaps it’s one to save for a truly special staycation, or if you’re visiting the city, spending a little more for an unforgettable swim?
3. Catch amazing views from the SkyPark Observation Deck
57 floors above the ground, SkyPark Observation Deck is the first place you’ll want to head for incredible views of Singapore. There’s 360 degrees of city views to soak in here, looking across Marina Bay or the Singapore Strait, and taking in landmarks such as the Singapore Flyer or Gardens by the Bay.
4. Create art at Digital Light Canvas
Digital Light Canvas, a permanent attraction at Marina Bay Sands, offers an immersive and interactive digital art experience created by Japanese art collective teamLab. The installation combines a 14-meter-tall light sculpture suspended from the ceiling with an interactive LED floor, creating a multi-sensory environment that responds to visitors’ movements. It evokes wonder through the use of light, nature, and technology, making it a spectacular experience for all ages. You can book your tickets to Digital Light Canvas here.
5. Check out the latest productions at Sands Theatre
Musicals, concerts, and comedy shows are on a regular rotation at Sands Theatre, and there’s usually a star name attached. Before 2024 is out, you’ll be able to catch productions of the classic musical Miss Saigon and modern hit Six, music from Asia’s ‘King of Rock’ Wu Bai and Taiwan’s talented hitmaker Lin Shu Rong, and a tribute show to Olivia Newton-John, amongst other shows. See all upcoming shows here.
6. Browse the range of designer stores
Singapore does luxury like few other places, and the presence of stores including Versace, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Balenciaga and many more just prove this. Tech-lovers can check out arguably the coolest Apple store in the world (and certainly one of the best-looking), but whatever you’re shopping for, you’ll want to come with a full bank account.
7. Sip cocktails on the 57th floor at CÉ LA VI
One of our favourite rooftop bars in Singapore for a special night out, CÉ LA VI plays host to day parties, DJs, and brunches. The range of cocktails is pretty special, and the bar’s mixologists aim to capture both the lively spirit of Singapore as well as the flavours of Asia in their creations. With a drink in hand and the lights of the city below you, there’s few better places to be.
8. Marvel at a fabulous, free water and light show
When night falls and the crowds gather by the water’s edge, you can be sure they’re here to see Spectra – A Light & Water Show. Using a complex choreography of water jets, projections, and an orchestra soundtrack, this spectacular tribute to Singapore takes place every night between Thursday and Sunday, with two shows per evening at 8 & 9pm, as well as a third show at 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Best of all, it’s entirely free to enjoy!