Singapore is only a small city-state, yet it has garnered a massive reputation as an international tourist destination. Clean, safe, and exciting, it blends inspired modern architecture with a rich and diverse history, so perhaps it is easy to see why.
The city’s small size, which is less than half that of London, meant that during its development it mainly expanded upwards rather than outwards. It also means that it needs to make efficient use of the limited space that it has, and this is exactly what it has done. Even the roofs of many of the city’s skyscrapers have found use as venues for a variety of activities.
What follows are some favourite rooftop activities you can do while enjoying amazing views in Singapore.
- Wine and Dining
One of the most popular activities that visitors to Singapore enjoy is simply soaking up the city’s astonishing views while sipping a cocktail or enjoying some fine food. If you’re looking for a sky bar in Singapore where you can do this, you’ve got a large number of choices, but be aware that you will likely pay premium prices and a cover charge for taller bars and restaurants that overlook hotspots, such as the marina or gardens.
The most iconic locations for this are Ce La Vi on top of the Marina Bay Sands hotel, and 1-Altitude, which is the highest place in town at 63 storeys.
- Swimming
At this point, hotels in Singapore basically need an Instagram-worthy rooftop infinity pool just to compete. Pretty much all of the big hotels have them, although if you head to one you’re more likely to see people snapping selfies than actually swimming.
The iconic, ship-shaped infinity pool atop the Marina Bay Sands hotel is the world’s largest and widely regarded to be one of Singapore’s must-visits, but be warned that only the hotel’s guests are allowed to swim. As a visitor, you can still make use of their observation deck and restaurant.
This is the case with many other hotels too, although members of Classpass are able to access some pools if they have enough credits, such as the Park Royal Pickering near the Central Business District.
- Enjoying nature
Something you can find on many roofs in town that is often free to access is a park or small botanical garden. These are great spots for just chilling out and soaking up the views.
For this, there’s the People’s Park Complex in Chinatown, the National Gallery, the Marina Barrage, and many more.
- Attend a show or event
A number of roof spaces can be hired out for events such as movie screenings, concerts, fashion shows, parties, product launches, and more.
The city’s Esplanade entertainment complex regularly hosts events and performances on its rooftop garden.
- Workout
While the rooftop pools are mostly populated with tourists taking pictures, those serious about exercising can head to one of many gyms with a view in the city, such as the enormous Virgin Active Tanjong Pagar or Fitness First at One George Street.
Conclusion
No stay in Singapore would be complete without engaging with the city’s rooftop scene. Although known for its sky-high bars, there’s actually many more things to enjoy from above.
Comments