singapore | travelforkids

Merlion Park - Kids won't want to miss this incredibly cute statue of the Merlion, half lion, half fish, the mascot of Singapore. In the 13th century, a Malay prince was shipwrecked on the island. Thinking he saw a lion, the prince dubbed the island "Singa pura," or "lion city."

Singapore Flyer - Take a spin on this brand-new gigantic observation ferris wheel. Ride in glass capsules for the ultimate "bird's eye" view of Singapore. On a clear day you say see all the way to Malaysia. The 30 minute ride is perfect for kids of all ages, and the perfect way to get oriented in the city.

Supertrees Grove - Visit the Supertrees Grove, 16ft gardens in the sky, connected by a skyway. The tree structures are artificial, but create a living home for hundreds of different kinds of orchids, bromeliads and ferns. At night, the trees have a lightshow.

Far East Organization Children's Garden - Delightful play area for kids 12 and under, climbing tree houses, water play, special toddler water play area. Bring swimsuits, or extra clothes after kids get soaked.

Cloud Forest - Huge indoor dome with cooling waterfalls, and a moist environment that showcases amazing plants of the cloud forests, such as carnivorous pitcher plants, orchids, bromeliads, ferns.

World of Plants - Not just the amazing diversity of plants of Southeast Asia, such as the double coconut palm which has the largest seed in the world, but kids can learn how bugs and mushrooms work together and seeds are dispersed by animal pool. And check out the topiary of pangolins and other Asian animals.

Bay East Garden - Open grassy areas, views of the Singapore Flyer, bring a picnic.

Sands SkyPark (Marina Bay Sands) - This private skypark, which resembles a surfboard, sits atop the Marina Bay Sands hotel, 40 stories above the ground. It has an observation deck, gardens, restaurants, and an "infinity" swimming pool that's longer than the Eiffel Tower is high. Admission fee for the observation deck, and pool is for hotel guests.

ArtScience Museum - A new, state-of-the-art museum, kids will want to make a beeline for the temporary exhibits, such as Tang treasures from a 9th century Arab dhow, dredged upon from a shipwreck, or the life of Genghis Khan. There are also three permanent galleries that feature objects combining art and science, such as Leonardo da Vinci's flying machines, robotic fish, as well as plenty of hands-on exhibits.

Also, at the Marina Bay Sands, an indoor skating rink, sampan rides through the shopping complex, and nightly laser light water shows.

Marina Barrage - Budding samurais of sustainability shouldn't miss this sea dam (barrage) in the heart of the city. Built across the mouth of the Marina Channel, the barrage is engineering feat, designed to convert the sea basin into a freshwater reservoir, and help flood control.

Here kids can learn about water, in a fun way. The visitor center has a solar park, "green roof," and regular guided tours.

At the water play area, younger kids can play with jets of filtered water - feels great on a tropically warm day. Bring a change of clothing, and everyone is likely to get wet.