A Guide to Gardens by the Bay in Singapore

Costing over SG$1billion to build, this impressive nature park spans across 101ha of reclaimed land in Central Singapore. The idea behind Gardens by the Bay originated by Dr Kiat W. Tan, a botanist and former CEO of GBTB. He envisioned transforming unused, barren wasteland into a world-class garden in the tropics. And in 5 years, alongside a specialised team of experts, he made it possible.

Consisting of three waterfront gardens, Gardens by the Bay is home to over 1 million plants, from every continent – except Antartica. From the iconic Supertrees, plant conservatories, well-maintained gardens and numerous eateries, this is the perfect day out in Singapore.

How to get to Gardens by the Bay

The closest MRT station to the Gardens is Bayfront (circle line and downtown line). If you’re coming by foot, walk through the Shoppes at Marine Bay Sands, following signs for Gardens by the Bay. This will take you up a series of escalators, across a bridge through Marina Bay Sands itself and out the other side to the gardens.

If you’re coming by bus, you’ll be dropped at the back of Marina Bay Sands hotel. You’ll be able to use an elevator, from street level, that will take you up to the walk way. As with the Shoppes route, you’ll have to walk through Marina Bay Sands hotel and come out the other side.

Things to Do at Gardens by the Bay

Supertree Grove

Likely one of the most iconic sights in Singapore, the Supertree grove comprises of 18 steel-clad concrete structures, covered with 162,900 plants. Standing up to 16 storeys tall, these man-made structures are not only captivating to look at, but they play a crucial role in the Gardens. 11 of the Supertrees have capabilities to harvest solar energy, whilst others behave like a chimney stack or act as an air exhaust for the two conservatories. Very energy efficient.

The OCBC Skyway is one of the best ways to enjoy the Supertrees, and gardens in general. Connecting 6 supertrees, this 22m high walkway provides incredible panoramic views of the trees and the surrounding area.

Not for the faint hearted (i’m terrified of heights and just about survived), the walk is short but you can spend as much time as you like.

Entrance for the OCBC Skyway costs SG$8 for adults and SG$5 for children.

There’s also a bar worth checking out at the top of one o

Gardens by the Bay Light Show

During the evening, the supertrees come to life with a light and sound show – Garden Rhapsody. Twice every evening, 12 of the 18 supertrees come alive in a fun 15-minute light and sound show. There is no entry fee and it takes place daily at 7:45pm and 8:45pm. The music and lights change periodically throughout the year, so check out watch is currently on here.

Get here early for a prime location…it get busy quickly! It might sound odd, but I would recommend lying down if you can find a spot, as that’ll give you the best view of the light show.

Cloud Forest Dome

The Cloud Forest Dome and Flower Dome, are two separate conservatories within Gardens by the Bay, that collectively home 217,000 plants from over 800 species!

The Cloud Forest Dome replicates the cool climate found in regions between 1000m and 3000m. With it’s iconic 42m cloud mountain and 35m waterfall, it’s certainly not something to miss whilst in Singapore.

Once in the Dome, you’ll take an elevator/lift to the top and slowly make your way down the mountain via a circular path. Crossing underneath the powerful waterfall, you’ll pass through stunning greenery and plants typically found in East Asia and Central & South America.

Note – bring a jumper/jacket for this as it’s a harsh contrast to the warmth outside. Very cold!!

The best time to visit the cloud dome is during there ‘misting’ periods. This takes place daily at 10.00 am, 12.00 pm, 2.00 pm, 4.00 pm, 6.00 pm, and 8.00 pm. To keep the dome at the best humidity levels, they have ‘misting’ sprays every 2 hours which makes the dome really atmospheric! Be sure to get there 15 minutes before the misting session starts so you’re fully in the dome when it’s happening.

Flower Dome

The Flower Dome was given Guinness Book of World Record status in 2015, for being the largest greenhouse in the world at 1.2ha. Replicating a Mediterranean climate, this impressive dome is home to a large number of exotic flowers and plants.

Throughout the year, there are different themes within the Flower Dome. In October 2022, the Flower Dome hosted a ‘Spanish Serenade with Sunflowers’, with the most glorious sunflower display.

Tickets for the conservatories will cost SG$28/15 adult/child – allowing you into both domes.

Where to Buy Tickets

You can either buy tickets online via the official Gardens by the Bay website, or in person! There’s a ticket counter in the central hub of the gardens where you can buy tickets. You’ll also find basic amenities here like toilets, refreshments and a souvenir shop.

When is the Best Time to Visit Gardens by The Bay

I have been to GBTB many times and I always recommend going in the afternoon! This way you can enjoy everything the gardens has to offer in one go. Start by visiting the supertrees and walk around the gardens – this will let you enjoy them in the daylight. Following this, visit the various domes. Once you’ve finished at the domes head to one of the eateries on site for dinner. After eating go back to the supertrees, see them lit up at night and wait for the free light show!

Where to Eat at Gardens by the Bay

There are several food options to choose from at the Gardens. My go-to whenever i’m here is the hawker centre Satay by the Bay. With a number of different food stalls, from Thai to Satay, there’s something for everyone here. It’s also reasonably priced. But expect to pay more than typically hawkers given the location.

Outside of this, there are a few other establishments on the site. From fast food chain giants, Shake Shack and McDonalds, to the Mediterranean inspired Hortus.

GBTB On a Budget

It’s very possible to visit Gardens by the Bay on a budget. For one, the gardens themselves are free for you to walk around and explore. Only the conservatories (flower and cloud domes) and the OCBC skywalk require tickets. The super trees, gardens and light show are all free.

For cheap food options, check out the Satay by the Bay hawker centre. The food is here is very reasonably priced, and some stalls offer lunch discounts. Alternatively, there are a number of benches dotted around the park, where you could sit with packed food.

You can also skip the OCBC skywalk and opt to take photos at the Marina Bay Overpass Viewing Point and at the Dragonfly Bridge.

Other Things to See in Bay South Garden

There is also a Children’s Garden which consists of trampolines, treehouses, adventure trails, hanging bridges and more. It’s open between 10am-7pm from Tuesday-Friday and 9am-9pm on weekends. It’s closed on Mondays.

There are also two different themed horticultural themed gardens which focus on different cultural groups within Singapore. They’re primarily there as part of an educational programme to bring more understanding of plant knowledge to the public.

FAQS

What are the opening hours for Gardens by the Bay?

The outdoor gardens are open daily from 5:00 AM to 2:00 AM. However, the indoor conservatories and attractions, such as the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome, are typically open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Is there an entrance fee for Gardens by the Bay?

Admission to the outdoor gardens is free. However, the indoor conservatories and OCBC Skyway have an entrance fee. Ticket prices may vary based on promotions or resident status.

What should I wear when visiting Gardens by the Bay?

As the park is located outdoors in Singapore’s tropical climate, wear light and comfortable clothing. I would also suggest bringing sunscreen and water (although you can buy water on site). Be sure to bring a light jacket if you’re visiting the conservatories – particularly the cloud dome. Singapore’s aircon is often set to arctic temperatures!

Can I bring my own food and drinks?

Yes, you are allowed to bring your own food and have a picnic in the outdoor gardens. However, food and drinks are not permitted inside the conservatories.

Is Gardens by the Bay wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the park is designed to be wheelchair-friendly. Most paths and attractions, including the conservatories, have wheelchair access, and wheelchair rentals are available on-site.