Top Museums in Singapore: Explore Culture, Art & History

Singapore is a city celebrated for its futuristic skyline, rich cultural heritage, and dynamic history. Among its many attractions, the museums in Singapore stand out as must-visit destinations for travelers seeking to understand the city’s diverse culture. From historical museums in Singapore that trace the island’s colonial past to tourist museums in Singapore offering interactive and modern exhibits, there is something for every type of visitor.

In this guide, we explore the best museums in Singapore, highlighting iconic collections, unique features, and insider tips to make your visit unforgettable. Whether you’re visiting a famous museum in Singapore or discovering lesser-known cultural gems, these museums provide a deep dive into the art, history, and traditions that make Singapore truly unique.

Image source

Museums in Singapore 

Singapore boasts a rich cultural heritage, reflected in its vast collection of museums. These institutions offer visitors an opportunity to explore art, history, and science through immersive exhibits. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or an art lover, the museums here provide insightful experiences and a deeper understanding of the nation’s diverse identity.

Suggested Read: Singapore in October: Your Complete Travel Guide

Top 5 Famous Museums in Singapore 

Here are the top 5 must-visit museums in Singapore, each offering a distinct experience that combines history, art, and culture. From exploring historical museums in Singapore to engaging with interactive exhibits at modern galleries, these institutions showcase the nation’s rich heritage and vibrant creativity:

National Museum of Singapore 

Image source

The National Museum of Singapore, the country’s oldest, presents its rich history and culture through dynamic exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentations. Its grand architecture and well-curated exhibitions make it an excellent destination for history lovers. Special programs and seasonal exhibits provide fresh, engaging insights into Singapore’s past and heritage. 

Characteristic	Details
Rating	4.6/5
Ticket Price	₹638 (Approx. SGD 11.50) (Standard Entry) or ₹549 (Approx. SGD 9.70) (Foreign Citizens)
Why Visit	As the oldest museum in Singapore, this iconic landmark is perfect for history enthusiasts. It showcases Singapore’s rich heritage through engaging exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentations.
Insider Tip	Visit during special exhibitions or events for a unique cultural experience.
Location	93 Stamford Rd, Singapore 178897
Open Time	10:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Suggested Read: Singapore in September: Monsoon, Sunflower Sojourn & Ghost Festival

Trick Eye Museum 

Image source

The Trick Eye Museum in Sentosa is a fun and interactive attraction featuring 3D art installations and augmented reality (AR) experiences. Visitors can step into the artwork for whimsical photos and videos. It’s a must-visit for families, offering endless creative opportunities for memorable and imaginative photo moments. 

Characteristic	Details
Rating	4/5
Ticket Price	₹1,659 (Approx. SGD 30.00)
Why Visit	The Trick Eye Museum offers fun, interactive 3D exhibits that make for great photo opportunities. Ideal for families and friends, it’s a playful experience where art comes to life.
Insider Tip	Bring your camera! Look out for hidden AR elements that add an extra layer of fun.
Location	26 Sentosa Gateway, Sentosa, Singapore 098138
Open Time	10:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Suggested Read: How To Check Singapore Visa Status In India

Indian Heritage Centre 

The Indian Heritage Centre is one of the best museums in Singapore for exploring the history and contributions of the Indian community. Located in Little India, this museum features artifacts, interactive exhibits, and storytelling that immerse visitors in Singapore’s rich Indian heritage, making it a must-visit destination for cultural enthusiasts.

Characteristic	Details
Rating	4/5
Ticket Price	₹510 (Approx. SGD 9.20)
Why Visit	This cultural gem highlights the contributions of the Indian community in Singapore through fascinating exhibits and artifacts.
Insider Tip	Join a guided tour to fully appreciate the history behind the exhibits.
Location	5 Campbell Lane, Singapore 209924
Open Time	10:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)

Suggested Read: Singapore in August: What Indian Travelers Need to Know

Mint Museum of Toys 

The Mint Museum of Toys boasts a fascinating collection of over 50,000 vintage toys from around the world. It’s a nostalgic journey through childhood, featuring rare memorabilia like Star Wars and Disney items. Both kids and adults will appreciate its charm and the stories behind the toys. 

Characteristic	Details
Rating	4.5/5
Ticket Price	₹682 (Approx. SGD 12.10)
Why Visit	A nostalgic journey through time, the Mint Museum of Toys showcases a vast collection of vintage toys from around the world.
Insider Tip	Look out for the rare Star Wars and Disney memorabilia!
Location	26 Seah Street, Singapore 188382
Open Time	9:30 AM to 6:30 PM

Suggested Read: Singapore With Kids: A Family-Friendly Travel Guide

Children’s Museum Singapore 

The Children’s Museum in Singapore is a top tourist museum in Singapore designed for young visitors to explore history, culture, and the arts interactively. With hands-on exhibits and engaging educational activities, it’s one of the best museums in Singapore for families, offering a fun and enriching experience that sparks creativity and curiosity in children.

Characteristic	Details
Rating	4.6/5
Ticket Price	₹800 (Approx. SGD 14.50)
Why Visit	The Children’s Museum Singapore provides an interactive space designed to engage young minds with creative exhibits, activities, and educational experiences.
Insider Tip	Don’t miss the educational workshops that offer kids the chance to explore their creativity!
Location	23-B Orchard Road, Singapore 238800
Open Time	9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Suggested Read: Singapore Visa Extension – Step-by-Step Guide

Historical Museums in Singapore 

Find the historical museums in Singapore, where you can delve into the nation’s past. From colonial history to ancient cultures, these museums give a rich look at the events and stories that have shaped Singapore’s identity.

Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum 

The Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum is home to Singapore’s largest natural history collection, featuring a diverse range of exhibits on biodiversity, paleontology, and conservation. Visitors can explore fascinating displays of fossils, animal specimens, and plants, gaining insights into the region’s rich natural heritage.

Characteristic	Details
Rating	4.6/5
Ticket Price	₹1,000 (Approx. SGD 18.00)
Why Visit	A must-visit for nature and science lovers, the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum is home to over 15,000 specimens, including rare fossils and exhibits on biodiversity in Southeast Asia.
Insider Tip	Don’t miss the massive dinosaur fossils and the preserved giant squid!
Location	2 Conservatory Drive, Singapore 117377
Open Time	10:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Suggested Read: How to Check Singapore Visa Status In Pakistan

Asian Civilisations Museum

The Asian Civilisations Museum shows a rich collection of art, artifacts, and exhibitions from diverse cultures across Asia. Focused on Southeast Asia’s history, the museum showcases ancient art, textiles, and religious objects, helping visitors understand the region’s cultural evolution. It’s a must-see for history and culture lovers. 

Characteristic	Details
Rating	4.8/5
Ticket Price	₹900 (Approx. SGD 16.50)
Why Visit	A rich exploration of Asian cultures and history, the museum features exhibits on ancient art, Southeast Asian cultures, and the history of trade in Asia.
Insider Tip	Take time to explore the museum’s stunning Chinese ceramics and Indian textiles collection.
Location	1 Empress Pl, Singapore 179555
Open Time	10:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Suggested Read: 10 Reasons for Singapore Visa Rejection for Indian Nationals

Peranakan Museum 

The Peranakan Museum is one of the famous museums in Singapore, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Peranakan community. Through detailed exhibits on their lifestyle, customs, and artistry, it highlights the unique blend of Chinese and Malay influences, making it a must-visit historical museum in Singapore for culture enthusiasts.

Characteristic	Details
Rating	4.5/5
Ticket Price	₹550 (Approx. SGD 10.00)
Why Visit	Dive into the fascinating culture of the Peranakans, a unique blend of Chinese and Malay traditions. The museum showcases intricate textiles, antique furniture, and stunning artifacts.
Insider Tip	Don’t miss the chance to explore the traditional Peranakan wedding attire!
Location	39 Armenian Street, Singapore 179941
Open Time	10:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Suggested Read: Singapore Visa Rejection Reasons & Approval Tips

National Gallery Singapore

The National Gallery Singapore is home to Southeast Asia’s largest collection of modern art. Housed in two national monuments, it showcases masterpieces by Singaporean and Southeast Asian artists. The gallery offers an extensive journey through the evolution of art, with exhibits that reflect the region’s cultural and artistic diversity. 

Characteristic	Details
Rating	4.7/5
Ticket Price	₹1,200 (Approx. SGD 22.00)
Why Visit	Explore Southeast Asia’s largest collection of modern art, with masterpieces by renowned artists like Raffles and local Singaporean painters. The National Gallery is a celebration of art and culture in Singapore.
Insider Tip	Make sure to visit the rooftop garden for panoramic views of Singapore’s skyline!
Location	National Gallery Singapore
Open Time	10:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Cultural Museums in Singapore 

Discover the cultural museums in Singapore, where art, traditions, and diverse heritage come to life. These museums provide a deeper understanding of the country’s multicultural roots and showcase the richness of Singapore’s cultural landscape. Here are some cultural museums in Singapore:

ArtScience Museum 

Image Source

The ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay Sands is one of the best museums in Singapore, celebrated for its iconic lotus-shaped architecture. It merges art, science, and technology through interactive displays and immersive exhibitions like Future World. Ideal for visitors of all ages, this tourist museum in Singapore sparks creativity and curiosity with its innovative and educational experiences.

Characteristic	Details
Rating	4.5/5
Ticket Price	₹1,482 (Approx. SGD 26.50)
Why Visit	The ArtScience Museum is a perfect blend of art, science, technology, and culture. It hosts world-class exhibitions that captivate visitors of all ages. From interactive displays to immersive experiences, it’s a must-visit for curious minds.
Insider Tip	Don’t miss the Future World exhibit for stunning digital art and interactive installations.
Location	6 Bayfront Ave, Singapore 018974
Open Time	10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Last entry at 6:00 PM)

University Asian Art & Culture Museum 

The University Asian Art & Culture Museum features an extensive collection of Asian art, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the rich cultural traditions and contemporary expressions of the region.

Characteristic	Details
Rating	4.7/5
Ticket Price	₹720 (Approx. SGD 13)
Why Visit	This museum shows a deep dive into Asia’s artistic and cultural legacy, featuring rare artifacts, traditional textiles, and ancient sculptures. Perfect for history and art enthusiasts.
Insider Tip	Check out the rotating special exhibitions for rare artifacts and limited-time displays.
Location	National University of Singapore, 50 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore 119279
Open Time	10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)

Suggested Read: Singapore Visa Appeal For Indians

Singapore City Gallery

The Singapore City Gallery offers a fascinating look into the city’s urban transformation, planning, and future development. Visitors can explore interactive models of Singapore’s skyline and learn about sustainable architecture, innovative urban solutions, and the nation’s growth into a global metropolis. 

Characteristic	Details
Rating	4.6/5
Ticket Price	₹450 (Approx. SGD 8.00)
Why Visit	Explore Singapore’s urban transformation and city planning at the Singapore City Gallery. The gallery offers a deep dive into the city’s innovative architecture, sustainability efforts, and future urban plans.
Insider Tip	Make sure to check out the interactive models of Singapore’s skyline!
Location	45 Maxwell Road The URA Centre, Singapore 069118
Open Time	9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Singapore Discovery Centre 

The Singapore Discovery Centre is one of the famous museums in Singapore, offering an interactive journey through the nation’s history and cultural evolution. With immersive, hands-on exhibits, this tourist museum in Singapore provides visitors a deeper understanding of Singapore’s progress, making it an engaging experience for families and history enthusiasts alike.

Characteristic	Details
Rating	4.2/5
Ticket Price	₹600 (Approx. SGD 10.80)
Why Visit	The Singapore Discovery Centre offers a fun, immersive experience that highlights the nation’s history, culture, and future. Through multimedia exhibits, visitors learn about Singapore’s transformation into a global city.
Insider Tip	Don’t miss the interactive experiences like the virtual reality simulations!
Location	510 Upper Jurong Road, Singapore 638366
Open Time	9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Suggested Read: Singapore Visa Appeal For Indians

Free museums in Singapore 

Explore Singapore’s free museums that showcase a rich tapestry of culture and history. These venues provide a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in local traditions, contemporary art, and fascinating exhibits. Here is a list of some free museums to visit. 

• NUS Museum 

• The General Co 

• Flower-shaped Design & Technology Museum

• Peranakan Museum 

• Hell’s Museum 

• Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum

Each museum offers its unique take on art, history, and culture, making them essential stops on a tour of Singapore! 

FAQs

What are the top-rated museums in Singapore?

The top-rated museums include the National Museum of Singapore, ArtScience Museum, Asian Civilisations Museum, and National Gallery Singapore, showcasing history, art, and innovation.

Which museums in Singapore are must-visit?

Must-visit museums in Singapore include the National Gallery Singapore for art enthusiasts, the ArtScience Museum for innovative and futuristic exhibits, and the National Museum of Singapore for rich cultural insights.

What are the top-rated museums in Singapore? 

Top-rated museums in Singapore feature the National Museum of Singapore, ArtScience Museum, Asian Civilisations Museum, National Gallery Singapore, and the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum, all known for their immersive exhibits and cultural significance.

Which are the best museums to visit in Singapore? 

For those wondering about the best museums to visit in Singapore, highlights include the Singapore Art Museum for contemporary art, the Peranakan Museum for cultural heritage, Changi Chapel and Museum for WWII history, and the MINT Museum of Toys for nostalgic vintage collections.

What are the must-visit museums in Singapore? 

The National Museum of Singapore, ArtScience Museum, and Asian Civilisations Museum are must-visit museums in Singapore. Other highlights include the Red Dot Design Museum for innovation and the Civil Defence Heritage Gallery for a unique perspective on Singapore’s civil defence history.