10 Best Museums In Singapore

Singapore’s cultural landscape is far underappreciated, far more than most people realize. This is especially true given that it is home to some of the region’s greatest museums and galleries. This October, get out of your comfort zone and spend your free time reacquainting yourself with Singapore’s art and culture scene. Visit a museum to discover more about the untold stories and historical events that have shaped our identity. What’s the best part? It’s a terrific activity for two people.

If you’re not sure where to begin, we’ve compiled a list of the most important museums to see. But if you’re looking for something else than the usual artsy hangouts, keep scrolling to see our round-up of toys, vintage cameras, optical illusions, and more.

The Best Museums in Singapore

1

Singapore Musical Box Museum

Even those who are familiar with Singapore’s museums may not know about the hidden gems there. One such gem is located in the Heritage district, situated to the left of the Thian Hock Keng temple, which is Singapore’s oldest temple, established in 1839.

This particular museum focuses on musical boxes from the 18th and 19th centuries, preserving the history of their development and decline, as well as Singapore’s role in the transfer of this technology to Asia.

Visits to this museum are by guided tours only, and reservations are required. However, the experience is well worth it, as the director, Takumi Minami, and his team will present a live demonstration of the amazing collection. In addition to this, the museum houses a workshop for handmade musical boxes and a Peranacan café, making it a delightful place to visit time and again.

2

Mint Museum of Toys

MINT Museum of Toys is the world’s first purpose-built museum for vintage toys and collectables. ‘MINT’ as part of the museum’s brand name, acts as an abbreviation for their tagline ‘Moment of Imagination and Nostalgia with Toys’ as well as represents ‘mint condition’ as all the museum’s vintage toys in their collection and on display at the museum are in its mint condition! The museum was founded in 2007 and till date, remains the largest vintage toy museum in Asia, with an ever-growing collection of 50,000 vintage toys and collectables, including various types of:

• Action Figures
• Advertising Enamel Signs
• Confectionary Biscuit Tins
• First-edition Comic Books & Novels
• Newspaper & Photograph Archives
• Collectible Card & Board Games
• Clothings, Costumes & Accessories
• Movie Posters & Vinyl Records
• Bicycles & Pedal Cars

Also, keep an eye on their Instagram page (@mintmuseumoftoys) for interesting content about toys, events and exhibitions! 

3

Battlebox

This fascinating museum, located in the heart of the city at Fort Canning Hill, replaces a former British underground command center from WWII. While exploring the bunker, get a glimpse of history. For a more realistic historical experience, there are 30-minute guided excursions available.

4

Indian Heritage Centre

This enterprise, which combines a cultural center and a museum, honors Indian Singaporeans’ heritage. While you’re there, sign up for a walking tour of the vibrant Little India neighborhood, visit the permanent exhibit tracing the history of the Indian community through artifacts and displays, and enjoy traditional Indian games.

5

National Gallery Singapore

The National Gallery had a huge impact on the art world when it first opened. It is home to the world’s greatest public collection of Singaporean and Southeast Asian art! The structure itself is stunning, and the facilities are cutting-edge. It has several fantastic eateries, and probably most significantly, the stories spoken there reflect Singapore’s history, values, and ambitions. For some amazing fun, visit the rooftop garden or the rooftop bar Smoke & Mirrors.

6

Red Dot Design Museum

This design museum seems like it belongs in a science fiction film. Despite its small size, the museum is Singapore’s innovation hub. It features award-winning concepts and prototypes in product design, communication design, and creative notions.

7

National Museum of Singapore

The National Museum of Singapore is the place to go if you want to learn more about our little red dot. The city’s oldest museum, founded in 1887, presents our history and culture through live performances and innovative multimedia exhibitions. The Singapore History Gallery, which charts the city’s development, is one of the permanent galleries to visit.

8

Asian Civilisations Museum

This huge museum will require an entire afternoon to explore. It features a diverse collection of Asian artifacts, including detailed Buddha and Gandhara culture sculptures, that span over five thousand years of recorded history. Oh, and the museum is located along the Singapore River, so you can unwind with a drink at one of the nearby pubs.

9

ArtScience Museum

ArtScience Museum, which combines art, science, design, media, architecture, and technology, has hosted major exhibits and works by artists such as Andy Warhol, Salvatore Dali, and Leonardo da Vinci. Future World, which incorporates interactive digital installations and is refreshed every few months, is a must-see permanent exhibit.

10

Trick Eye Museum

We’re not trying to pull the wool over your eyes; this museum is dedicated to mind games. Six themed zones in the world-famous four-dimensional attraction will enable you to make unique images to boost your Instagram feed. Explore and interact with the installations to become a part of the artworks.

In conclusion, Singapore is home to some of the world’s top museums, providing tourists with an unrivalled chance to discover and learn about the history, culture, and art of the area. There is something for everyone in this city-state’s remarkable museum culture, from the famous National Museum of Singapore, which highlights the nation’s rich past, to the colourful and diversified collections of the ArtScience Museum. The Peranakan Museum, the Asian Civilizations Museum, and the Singapore Art Museum are three further noteworthy museums in Singapore that each provide visitors with a special and interesting experience. Singapore’s museums are a must-visit location whether you are a history fan, an art enthusiast, or just seeking for a fun and instructive day out.

If you ever need souvenirs from your trip to Singapore, be sure to take a look at our list of souvenir shops.