Singapore is becoming a popular travel destination, and with tourism one of its top businesses, the country has made itself extremely kid-friendly. Fun activities for children abound here. No matter what the child's interests are, Singapore has something in store.
There are several places to see animals in Singapore. For marine life, visit Underwater World, a conservation and breeding sanctuary. It sports an underwater tunnel, where you can watch sharks and eels; a Touch Pool; and more than 2,500 fish species.
Reptile fans have a couple of choices. The Singapore Crocodilarium numbers more than 1,000 crocodiles. The Jurong Reptile Park has reptile shows (including crocodile wrestling) and showcases more than 50 reptile species.
The Singapore Zoo is another great way to see animals. More than 80 percent of the zoo's collection are endangered, and the zoo is involved in breeding programs for many of its animals.
Adjacent to the zoo is the Night Safari, a conservation center. Here, a nighttime tour through lands populated by African, South American and Asian animals provides an unforgettable experience. Food, walking trails and entertainment are also provided.
Singapore has many museums focusing on everything from art to Asian culture, many of them free. Two of the best kid-friendly ones are the Singapore Discovery Centre and the Science Centre.
The Singapore Discovery Centre lets children play games and paintball, and participate in neighborhood-building activities.
The Singapore Science Centre is one of the top 10 science museums in the world. Here, children engage in hands-on activities in subjects ranging from biotechnology to the human body. There is also a theater, a virtual voyages ride, and a water play area.
Many opportunities to hike in nature are available. One of only two tropical rainforests within the city limits of Singapore is the Bukit Timah Natural Reserve. Here, there is abundant wildlife (including monkeys) and diverse plant species. There are also a kid's play area and restrooms.
Another reserve is the Sungei Buloh Wetlands Nature Reserve. Hiking trails make it easy to observe animals, especially the many birds here. The reserve also conducts a children's program.
A tamer option is the Jacob Ballas Children's Garden. Here, children can pot plants, wander through a maze and hang out in a treehouse. Adults are not allowed unless they are accompanied by a child up to age 12, and admission is free.
Singapore has popular beaches, including Central Beach, where famous pink dolphins swim. Other choices are Siloso Beach and Tanjong beach. Bike rentals are available at most beaches.
Singapore also has the other extreme: indoor snow. You can ski, play in snow, and snowboard at Snow City. Instructors also teach novices how to ski and snowboard.
Fuji Ice Palace offers indoor ice skating, with lessons and birthday parties available.
Children of all ages enjoy playing mini-golf at Lilliput's indoor-course. Miniature Singapore landmarks are located at each hole.
For the more athletic and adventurous older children (mid- to late teens), everything from go-karts to indoor rock climbing to bungee jumping can be found around the city.
