Novotel is synonymous with family-friendly holidays. Here, the team at Novotel Singapore Clarke Quay presents 10 novel places to explore Singapore with children.
For the sporty kids
1. AMPED Trampoline Park at River Valley
Hyperactive munchkins can channel their energy within a safe, netted space. This outlet at River Valley features a foam pit, parkour walls and a basketball zone.
46 Kim Yam Road, The Herencia Level 2, Singapore 239351
MRT: Fort Canning
2. Fort Canning Park
Fort Canning Parkboasts plenty of space for leisure walks. Soak in the beauty of nature and learn about this enormous landmark’s past as military barracks and the residence of Singapore’s founder, Sir Stamford Raffles. This sprawling Park is located just across the road from Novotel Singapore Clarke Quay(Free Entry).
River Valley Road, Singapore 179037
MRT: Fort Canning
3. Climb Central
Rock climbing is taken to a whole new level at this unconventional indoor gym. Techni-colour walls of varying heights will have you scaling peaks in no time. Located in a shopping mall, parents can run your errands while the kids have their fun.
1 Stadium Place, #B1-01 Kallang Wave Mall, Singapore 397628
MRT: Stadium
4. Sentosa’s Skyline Luge
Sentosa is the destination to go to for some fun in the sun. Besides beach time, don’t miss the many outdoor adventure attractions on this little island literally a stone’s throw from mainland Singapore. The Skyline Luge will give you the thrill you have been seeking. Think of a motorless go-kart racing downhill on the specially track.
45 Siloso Beach Walk, Sentosa, Singapore 099003
MRT: Harbourfront (then take the Sentosa Express)
For the artsy ones
5. National Gallery Singapore
The National Gallery houses a collection of Singapore and Southeast Asian art, where children can learn about the history of Singapore through an artistic lens. The Keppel Centre for Art Education is a kid’s space with free admission located on the ground floor. It offers child-friendly interactive installations, a print-making workshop, and a host of other family programmes throughout the year. Gallery fees apply.
1 St Andrew’s Road, Singapore 178957
MRT: City Hall
6. Haji Lane
Independent boutiques and trendy bars dot this hipster enclave where walls upon walls of street art, each one more vibrant than the one before greet you at every turn. This hipster enclave is bursting with art and cultural gems. You won’t get tired of exploring the graffitis along unexpected alleys and when you do, you won’t have to venture far for a snack.
MRT: Bugis
7. Art Zone
Instead of just looking at art, why not participate in one? Join a class to learn to paint, craft a collage or create a clay sculpture. Materials are provided. The school is located just 5 minutes by foot from Novotel Singapore Clarke Quay.
81 Clemenceau Avenue, #02-25 UE Shopping Mall, Singapore 239917
MRT: Fort Canning
For the book worms
8. Woods in the Books
This quaint spot is a treasure trove of gorgeous picture books, designed to stand out from the usual children’s reads. Linger around long enough and you might just find something parents will enjoy too. Ideal for toddlers and preschoolers.
3 Yong Siak Street, Singapore 168642
9. The Book Café
This is a place where you can eat and read at the same time. We love the cozy couches and tasty fries. Little ones can get lost in a multitude of books and adults can sit back and enjoy a hearty meal – a wide range of dining choices from Asian to Italian dishes is available.
20 Martin Road, #01-02 Seng Kee Building, Singapore 239070
10. National Library
Opened in 1923, this is the largest public library in Singapore with 16 floors. The extensive reference library spans seven storeys and is chock-full of rare books. A green library with a multi-sensory play wall for kids to learn about sustainability and energy conservation is a key highlight.
Address: 100 Victoria Street, Singapore 188064
MRT: Bugis or City Hall