
Uncover These Top 10 Offbeat Activities to Explore On Your Trip To Singapore, The Lio City
Singapore, a sunny, tropical island in Southeast Asia, off the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula is often celebrated for its sparkling skyscrapers, bustling markets, and pristine gardens, and offers much more than the typical tourist attractions. If you’re someone seeking unique adventurous experiences, Singapore presents abundant offbeat activities.
While this place is renowned for its iconic landmarks and mainstream attractions, the offbeat activities also offer a different perspective on this dynamic city. From exploring eerie theme parks and serene mangroves to glamping by the beach and uncovering wartime secrets, there’s a lot of unique experiences waiting to be discovered.
Check out this list of unconventional ways to discover Singapore –
1. Explore the Haw Par Villa
Haw Par Villa, also known as the Tiger Balm Garden, is a surreal theme park filled with over a thousand statues and dioramas depicting scenes from Chinese mythology, folklore, legends, and history. The most famous section is the Ten Courts of Hell, offering a graphic representation of the afterlife according to Chinese mythology. This quirky park provides a fascinating, though eerie, glimpse into Chinese culture and moral lessons.
2. Kayak Through the Mangroves of Pulau Ubin
Escape the city’s hustle by kayaking through the serene mangroves of Pulau Ubin. This island offers a glimpse into Singapore’s past, with its rustic charm and abundant wildlife. Kayaking tours take you through narrow waterways, where you can spot kingfishers, monitor lizards, and if you’re lucky, even the elusive otter.
3. Discover the Southern Islands
Hop on a ferry and explore Singapore’s Southern Islands, including St. John’s Island, Lazarus Island, and Kusu Island. These islands offer pristine beaches, clear waters, and lush greenery, perfect for a day of picnicking, swimming, or simply relaxing away from the mainland’s crowds.
4. Go Glamping at East Coast Park
For a unique overnight experience, try glamping (glamorous camping) at East Coast Park. With comfortable tents equipped with beds, fans, and even Wi-Fi, you can enjoy the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort. Spend your day cycling along the coast, barbecuing, or just enjoying the sea breeze.
5. Visit the Live Turtle and Tortoise Museum
Situated within the Chinese Garden, the Live Turtle and Tortoise Museum is home to one of the world’s largest collections of turtles and tortoises. Here, you can interact with and feed various species, from the common to the exotic, in a charming and educational setting.
6. Cycle Through the Kranji Countryside
Discover Singapore’s rural side by cycling through the Kranji countryside. This area is home to several farms, including goat farms, vegetable plantations, and even a frog farm. Rent a bike and embark on a self-guided tour, stopping to sample fresh produce and learn about local farming practices.
7. Experience Art at Gillman Barracks
Gillman Barracks, a former military camp turned contemporary arts cluster, is an offbeat destination for art enthusiasts. The area has several galleries featuring modern contemporary art from around the world. Time your visit with the Art After Dark events for an evening of gallery hopping, live music, and food.
8. Go on a Nocturnal Wildlife Adventure at Night Safari
While the Singapore Zoo is well-known, the Night Safari offers a completely different experience. As the world’s first nocturnal zoo, it allows you to observe nocturnal animals in their natural habitats. Take a tram ride or walk along the trails to see creatures like leopards, fishing cats, and flying squirrels in action.
9. Uncover Secrets at the Battlebox
Delve into Singapore’s wartime history with a visit to the Battlebox, a former WWII British underground command center located in Fort Canning Hill. Guided tours take you through the bunkers, revealing the strategies and stories behind Singapore’s fall to the Japanese. It’s a fascinating, immersive way to understand a significant moment in history.
10. Enjoy a Floating Donut Boat Ride
For a quirky dining experience, try a floating donut boat ride along the Marina Bay. These circular boats, equipped with a central barbecue grill, allow you to enjoy a meal while cruising the scenic waters. It’s a fun and novel way to take in the city’s skyline, especially at sunset or night.