Gardens by the Bay is a nature park spanning 101 hectares (250 acres) in the Central Region of Singapore, adjacent to the Marina Reservoir. The park consists of three waterfront gardens: Bay South Garden, Bay East Garden, and Bay Central Garden. The park is designed to showcase the diversity of plant life in a tropical climate and to provide a space for people to relax and enjoy nature.
The Merlion is a mythological creature with the head of a lion and the body of a fish. It is the national symbol of Singapore and is depicted on the country’s coat of arms and currency. The Merlion statue is located at Merlion Park, which is situated at the mouth of the Singapore River.
How to Get from Gardens by the Bay to Merlion
There are several ways to get from Gardens by the Bay to Merlion:
- By foot: The walk takes about 20 minutes and is a great way to see the city.
- By MRT: Take the MRT to Raffles Place station and then transfer to the North South Line. Get off at Marina Bay station and walk to Merlion Park.
- By bus: Take bus number 400 from Gardens by the Bay to Merlion Park.
- By taxi: A taxi ride from Gardens by the Bay to Merlion Park costs about SGD $10.
What to See and Do at Gardens by the Bay
Gardens by the Bay is home to a wide variety of plants and flowers. The park’s main attractions include:
- The Flower Dome: The Flower Dome is a glasshouse that houses a collection of flowers from all over the world. The Flower Dome is divided into different zones, each with its own unique climate and plant life.
- The Cloud Forest: The Cloud Forest is a glasshouse that recreates the conditions of a tropical rainforest. The Cloud Forest is home to a variety of plants and animals, including orchids, ferns, and monkeys.
- The Supertree Grove: The Supertree Grove is a collection of 18 artificial trees that are covered in plants. The Supertree Grove is a popular spot for visitors to take photos and enjoy the views of the city.
- The OCBC Skyway: The OCBC Skyway is a walkway that connects the Supertree Grove to the Flower Dome and the Cloud Forest. The OCBC Skyway offers visitors a unique perspective of the gardens.
What to See and Do at Merlion Park
Merlion Park is a popular tourist destination and is home to the iconic Merlion statue. The park also offers visitors the following attractions:
- The Merlion statue: The Merlion statue is a popular spot for visitors to take photos and enjoy the views of the city.
- The Marina Bay Sands: The Marina Bay Sands is a luxury hotel and casino complex that is located next to Merlion Park. The Marina Bay Sands is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions, including the Sands SkyPark.
- The Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay: The Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay is a performing arts center that is located near Merlion Park. The Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay hosts a variety of performances, including concerts, operas, and ballets.
Tips for Visiting Gardens by the Bay and Merlion Park
Here are some tips for visiting Gardens by the Bay and Merlion Park:
- Purchase a Gardens by the Bay ticket online: This will save you time and money.
- Arrive early: The gardens are most crowded during the afternoon.
- Wear comfortable shoes: You will be doing a lot of walking.
- Bring water and sunscreen: The gardens are mostly outdoors.
- Be prepared for the weather: The weather in Singapore can be hot and humid.
- Allow plenty of time: There is a lot to see and do at Gardens by the Bay and Merlion Park.
Conclusion
Gardens by the Bay and Merlion Park are two of Singapore’s most popular tourist destinations. The gardens offer a unique opportunity to see a wide variety of plants and flowers from all over the world. Merlion Park is home to the iconic Merlion statue and offers visitors stunning views of the city.
How much does it cost to enter Gardens by the Bay?
Admission to Gardens by the Bay is free. However, there is a charge for some of the attractions, such as the Flower Dome and the Cloud Forest.
What are the hours of operation for Gardens by the Bay?
Gardens by the Bay is open daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
What is the best way to get to Gardens by the Bay?
The best way to get to Gardens by the Bay is by MRT. Take the MRT to Bayfront station and then follow the signs to the gardens.
How long does it take to walk from Gardens by the Bay to Merlion Park?
The walk from Gardens by the Bay to Merlion Park takes about 20 minutes.
What are the hours of operation for Merlion Park?
Merlion Park is open daily from 24 hours.
| Attraction | Price | Hours of Operation |
|---|---|---|
| Flower Dome | SGD $12 | 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM |
| Cloud Forest | SGD $12 | 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM |
| Supertree Grove | Free | 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM |
| OCBC Skyway | SGD $8 | 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM |
| Attraction | Price | Hours of Operation |
|---|---|---|
| Merlion statue | Free | 24 hours |
| Marina Bay Sands | Varies | Varies |
| Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay | Varies | Varies |
| Month | Average Temperature (°C) | Average Rainfall (mm) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 26.2 | 245.3 |
| February | 27.1 | 169.3 |
| March | 27.6 | 174.8 |
| April | 28.1 | 167.3 |
| May | 28.5 | 131.3 |
| June | 28.5 | 131.3 |
| July | 28.3 | 155.4 |
| August | 28.3 | 169.3 |
| September | 28.1 | 174.8 |
| October | 27.9 | 182.4 |
| November | 27.4 | 255.5 |
| December | 26.6 | 310.4 |
| Feature | Gardens by the Bay | Merlion Park |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Marina Bay, Singapore | Marina Bay, Singapore |
| Size | 101 hectares (250 acres) | 0.5 hectares (1.2 acres) |
| Attractions | Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, Supertree Grove, OCBC Skyway | Merlion statue, Marina Bay Sands, Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay |
| Price | Free (except for some attractions) | Free |
| Hours of Operation | 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM | 24 hours |
