Singapore Discovery Centre

As some of the interactive attractions are designed to be experienced as part of a group, it’s worth joining one of Singapore Discovery Centre’s guided tours – offered every hour between 10.30am and 4.30pm. The first section takes you on a journey through the history of Singapore and what makes the city and the people the way they are today.

There’s a fun Singlish test, an exquisite quilt displaying the heritage and harmony of the island, and a short ‘So Singapore’ video exploring the quirks and behaviours that make up Singaporean personalities. In the main hall you’ll find a giant colourful dome that offers a kaleidoscope of icons from around the city, with sounds that will be familiar to those who live here and fun for those who don’t to try and guess what they are!

More interactive displays include one where you can report from a TV studio on Singapore’s significant events, be part of a crisis team who are trying to prevent a disaster striking the city, and even simulate the role of a commander and go to battle in the immersive Battlefield Command simulation game – complete with headset and computer controls.

There’s plenty more outside Singapore Discovery Centre’s main exhibition hall. With one of the largest screens in the city, iWERKS show both 2D and 3D latest releases, but they tend to focus on movies for a younger audience. Older kids are more likely to enjoy the 4D simulation rides or battling each other at the outdoor paintball arena.

For calmer fun that suits the whole family, try the pedalos on the large lake fringing the centre. Or take a bus tour of Singapore’s Military Academy – though it’ll probably only please those with an interest in the armed forces. Feeling peckish from running around the centre? A food court and small selection of fast food restaurants are available.

You can find Singapore Discovery Centre on Upper Jurong Road, about 10 minutes’ walk from Joo Koon MRT Station, or 30 minutes’ drive from the city.