time-lapse photography of road near buildings during nighttime aerial photo

 

Dhoby Ghaut
Singapore's most well-connected MRT hub

About this Place

Dhoby Ghaut sits at the junction of Orchard Road, Penang Road, and Bras Basah Road. It's most famous for the Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station, the first triple-line subway interchange in Singapore, connecting the North-South Line (NSL), North-East Line (NEL), and Circle Line (CCL) train lines.

Top Attractions around Dhoby Ghaut

National Museum of Singapore

The National Museum of Singapore is not just a museum—it’s a journey through the island’s fascinating history, culture, and transformation. As the oldest museum in Singapore, it combines cutting-edge technology with timeless artifacts to create an immersive experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or just curious about Singapore’s story, this museum is a must-visit.

Why Visit the National Museum of Singapore?
  • Historical Significance: Established in 1887, the museum is a national treasure and a stunning example of neo-Palladian and Renaissance architecture.

  • Interactive Exhibits: From multimedia displays to immersive storytelling, the museum brings Singapore’s past to life in a way that’s engaging and educational.

  • Central Location: Situated in the heart of the city, it’s easily accessible and close to other major attractions.

Visitor Information

Location: 93 Stamford Road, Singapore 178897 (Next to Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station)

Opening Hours: Daily: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM | Last admission at 6:30 PM

Admission Fees

  • Singaporeans and PRs: Free (for permanent galleries)

  • Tourists: Adults: SGD 15 | Students & Seniors: SGD 10 | Children (6 years and below): Free

Getting There

  • By MRT: Alight at Dhoby Ghaut Station (North-South, North-East, and Circle Lines) and take Exit B. It’s a 5-minute walk.

  • By Bus: Multiple bus services stop near the museum, including 7, 14, 16, 36, 64, 65, 111, 124, 131, 139, 147, 162, 166, 174, 175, and 190.

What to See and Do

The museum’s exhibits are divided into permanent and special galleries, each offering a unique perspective on Singapore’s history and culture.

Permanent Galleries

  • Singapore History Gallery

    Trace Singapore’s evolution from a humble fishing village to a bustling global city.

    Highlights: Ancient artifacts, historical documents, and interactive display

  • Life in Singapore: The Past 100 Years

    Explore the daily lives of Singaporeans across different eras, from the 1920s to the present day.

    Highlights: Recreated scenes of old-school kopitiams (coffee shops) and vintage fashion.

  • Goh Seng Choo Gallery

    Home to the William Farquhar Collection of Natural History Drawings, featuring stunning illustrations of flora and fauna from the region.

  • Special Exhibitions

    The museum regularly hosts rotating exhibitions that showcase art, culture, and history from Singapore and around the world. Check their website for the latest updates.

Fort Canning Tree Tunnel - An Instagram Gem in a Historic Park

Tucked away in the lush greenery of Fort Canning Park, the Fort Canning Tree Tunnel has become one of Singapore’s most Instagram-worthy spots. This enchanting underground passage, surrounded by towering trees and ivy-covered walls, feels like stepping into a fairytale. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a unique photo op, the Tree Tunnel is a must-visit when exploring Fort Canning Park.

Why Visit the Fort Canning Tree Tunnel?
  • It’s Magical: The tunnel’s natural beauty and serene atmosphere make it feel like a hidden world.

  • Historical Significance: The tunnel is part of Fort Canning’s rich history, once used as a storage space during World War II.

  • Perfect for Photos: The dramatic lighting and greenery create a stunning backdrop for photos.


What to Expect at the Tree Tunnel
  • The tunnel is a short underground passage with stairs leading down from the park’s surface.

  • Its walls are covered in ivy, and sunlight filters through the trees above, creating a dreamy, otherworldly vibe.

  • The tunnel connects to other parts of Fort Canning Park, making it a great starting point for exploring the area.


Nearby Attractions

While you’re at Fort Canning Park, don’t miss these other highlights:

  • Fort Canning Green: A spacious lawn often used for concerts and events.

  • Sang Nila Utama Garden: A tranquil garden inspired by traditional Javanese landscapes.

  • Battlebox: A WWII underground bunker turned museum (advance booking required).

  • Spice Garden: A replica of Singapore’s first botanical garden, established in the 19th century.

Visitor Information

Location: Fort Canning Park, Singapore 179618 (The Tree Tunnel is located near the Fort Canning Arts Centre.)

Best Time to Visit

  • Early Morning or Late Afternoon: The lighting is perfect for photos, and the park is less crowded.

  • Weekdays: Avoid weekends if you want a quieter experience.

Getting There

  • By MRT: Alight at Dhoby Ghaut Station (North-South, North-East, and Circle Lines) or Clarke Quay Station (North-East Line). It’s a 10-15 minute walk from either station.

  • By Bus: Take bus services 2, 12, 33, 54, 147, or 190 and alight at the nearest bus stop.

  • By Car/Taxi: Limited parking is available at Fort Canning Park’s carpark.

4. Plaza Singapura - Your One-Stop Destination for Shopping, Dining, and Entertainment

Located right next to Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station, Plaza Singapura is one of Singapore’s most popular shopping malls, offering a mix of retail therapy, delicious food, and entertainment options. Whether you’re a shopaholic, a foodie, or just looking for a place to unwind, this mall has something for everyone. Its central location and wide variety of offerings make it a must-visit spot for tourists and locals alike.

What to See and Do
Shopping

Plaza Singapura is home to over 200 stores, including:

  • Fashion: Popular brands like Uniqlo, H&M, and Cotton On.

  • Beauty & Wellness: Sephora, Watsons, and The Body Shop.

  • Electronics: Challenger and Gain City for tech gadgets and appliances.

  • Specialty Stores: Unique finds at Miniso, Typo, and local boutique

Dining

From quick bites to sit-down meals, the mall offers a wide range of dining options:

  • Food Courts: Food Republic and Kopitiam for affordable local dishes like Hainanese chicken rice and laksa.

  • Cafes: Starbucks, % Arabica, and Tiong Bahru Bakery for coffee and pastries.

  • Restaurants: Din Tai Fung for dumplings, Pizzeria Mozza for Italian, and Swensen’s for desserts.

Entertainment
  • Golden Village Cinema: Catch the latest blockbusters in comfort.

  • Kiddy Palace: A one-stop shop for kids’ toys, clothing, and accessories.

  • Events & Promotions: Check out seasonal events, pop-up markets, and sales throughout the year.

Visitor Information
Location

68 Orchard Road, Singapore 238839 (Next to Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station)

Opening Hours
  • Daily: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

  • Restaurants and cinemas may have extended hours.

Getting There
  • By MRT: Alight at Dhoby Ghaut Station (North-South, North-East, and Circle Lines) and take Exit C. The mall is directly connected to the station.

  • By Bus: Multiple bus services stop nearby, including 7, 14, 16, 36, 64, 65, 111, 124, 131, 139, 147, 162, 166, 174, 175, and 190.

  • By Car/Taxi: Parking is available at the mall, but it can get crowded during peak hours.

By Erwin Soo. - Plaza Singapura Shopping Mall., CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=37135077

3. Istana Park - A Peaceful Oasis in the Heart of Singapore

Nestled in the bustling Orchard Road shopping district, Istana Park is a serene green space that offers a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Named after the nearby Istana (the official residence of Singapore’s President), this park is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists looking to relax, unwind, and enjoy a slice of nature. Whether you’re taking a break from shopping or exploring Singapore’s landmarks, Istana Park is a must-visit for its tranquility and scenic beauty.

Why Visit Istana Park?

  • Central Location: Just a short walk from Orchard Road and Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station, it’s easily accessible and perfect for a quick retreat.

  • Tranquil Atmosphere: With lush greenery, shaded pathways, and a calming fountain, it’s an ideal spot to recharge.

  • Historical Significance: The park’s proximity to the Istana adds a touch of heritage to your visit.

What to See and Do
  • The Fountain Plaza - The centerpiece of the park, this elegant fountain is a popular spot for photos and quiet reflection.

  • Lush Greenery - Stroll along the shaded pathways surrounded by trees, shrubs, and flowering plants.

  • Art Installations - Look out for sculptures and art pieces that add a creative touch to the park.

  • Relaxation Areas - Benches and open spaces are perfect for sitting back, reading a book, or people-watching.

What to see
Where to stay
How to reach
DHOBY GHAUT MRT STATION
National Museum
Fort Canning Tree Tunnel
Istana Park
Plaza Singapura

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