National Museum of Singapore, is a living archive of our nation's colorful history. Step through its historic doors, and you'll find yourself instantly transported back in time, as the vivid tapestry of our past unfolds right before your eyes. But this museum is more than a mere time capsule; it's a thriving hub where art and culture converge, offering a limitless realm for exploration and enlightenment. Join us as we embark on a captivating journey to unearth the top things to do within this cultural gem.
National Museum of Singapore Overview 🏢
Singapore's history is a captivating tapestry of cultures, traditions, and tales. A visit to the National Museum is a journey through time, unearthing the layers of history that have shaped this vibrant nation. The importance of preserving history becomes evident as we delve into the very roots of Singapore's identity.
National Museum of Singapore, is a revered institution with a rich history dating back to 1849. Previously known as the Raffles Library and Museum, this venerable establishment has been a guardian of Singapore's heritage for generations. Nestled on Stamford Road, the museum's present home since 1887, it stands as a testament to the nation's commitment to preserving and sharing its stories with the world. Here, history comes alive, weaving a captivating narrative of Singapore's past and its global connections. As we embark on our journey through this cultural treasure trove, we'll not only explore its remarkable heritage but also discover the vibrant tales that have shaped the nation we know today.
Starting in September 2023, some sections of the National Museum of Singapore will be undergoing restoration and upgrades to enhance your future museum experience. Don't worry; the museum will remain open during this period, offering a range of captivating exhibitions, engaging programs, and delightful dining and shopping options. So, even as the museum gets a fresh makeover, you can still explore and enjoy its rich cultural offerings. If you're curious about the National Museum of Singapore opening hours, you'll be delighted to know it welcomes visitors daily from 10am to 7pm. National Museum Singapore Free Entry is available for Singaporeans and PRs. However, for our international friends, there are some admission charges. You can find all the details about prices for foreign visitors right here. So, whether you're a local or a traveler from afar, the museum has something special to offer everyone.
|
1. Take a Journey Through Time: Must-See Exhibits 🎪
In the heart of the museum lies the Singapore History Gallery. Here, you embark on a walk through time, traversing centuries of history with every step. Key historical artifacts, meticulously preserved, offer a tangible connection to the past. Beyond this, the museum boasts other notable exhibits that showcase must-see historical collections, each with its own unique story to tell.
1. An Old New World: Digital Edition 🌍
Explore the exhibition at your own pace with two navigation modes: guided and self-exploratory. In the guided mode, curators Daniel Tham and Iskander Mydin provide insightful narrations about the artefacts, focusing on themes like Knowledge and Power and Seeing the Indigenous. A transcript function is available for those with hearing disabilities. For lower secondary students, an educator's commentary will soon be added, offering in-depth insights into pre-colonial Singapore, complementing the museum's educational resource "An Old New World: Investigating Singapore’s History from Pre-Colonial to the Present." It's an opportunity for students to delve deeper into this fascinating period of history. For more information, check here.
Date: Ongoing
Price: Free Admission
2. Every Body Plays A Part 🫁
Delve into a lesser-known chapter of Singapore's public health history with the National Museum's online showcase. Using the "body" as its focal point, this exhibition reveals the measures taken to combat contagious diseases from the late 19th century onwards. Explore the introduction of vaccines, the establishment of hospitals, and the significant roles played by local figures in shaping public health. Discover the captivating campaigns that promoted cleanliness and hygiene for a healthier society.
Date: Ongoing
Price: Free Admission
Remark: Online Exbition (Check Here)
3. History of the National Museum of Singapore 🇸🇬
Admire a mural that encapsulates the National Museum of Singapore's rich history and prized collections, beautifully painted over four days. The mural portrays the museum's evolution, from its roots as the Raffles Library and Museum to its current form. It features a selection of the museum's cherished artifacts, with a nod to the zoological collection, including a majestic Malayan tiger. The landscape pays homage to Percy Carpenter's iconic painting of Singapore from Mount Wallich, acquired by the museum in the 1950s. Discover the enchanting animals from the William Farquhar Collection of Natural History Drawings that make a delightful appearance in this masterpiece. Don't miss the chance to see the original painting by Percy Carpenter in the Singapore History Gallery and explore more about the William Farquhar Collection of Natural History Drawings in the A Voyage of Love and Longing exhibition and Story of the Forest. For more information, check here.
Date: Ongoing
Price: Free Admission
Location: Grand Staircase, Level 1
4. Singapore History Gallery 💁♂️
Step into the revamped Singapore History Gallery and embark on a captivating journey through the island's evolving identity, spanning centuries and various names - from Singapura to a Crown Colony, Syonan-To, and ultimately, Singapore. This gallery weaves a compelling narrative, tracing Singapore's path from its early origins 700 years ago to the colonial era, the challenging days of the Japanese Occupation, post-war resilience, and the vibrant global city we cherish today. Discover the intricate layers of history that have shaped Singapore into the dynamic and diverse metropolis it is now. For more information, check here.
Date: Ongoing
Price: Free Admission (Singaporeans, Permanent Residents and visitors aged 6 years and below)
Location: Level 1, Singapore History Gallery
5. Singapore, Very Old Tree 🌳
Uncover the profound bond between Singaporeans and their local trees through the "Singapore, Very Old Tree" exhibition. Renowned artist Robert Zhao invites you to explore 17 captivating images of Singapore's trees, inspired by an age-old postcard from 1904 found in the National Archives of Singapore. Originally commissioned as part of the Singapore Memory Project and later featured in the SG50 celebrations, this exhibition unveils the unique narratives behind each tree. It offers a fresh perspective on Singapore's history and the intimate relationships Singaporeans share with these natural treasures. Don't miss the opportunity to connect with the heartwarming stories of these local trees in the Glass Rotunda, offering a unique glimpse into the nation's heritage. For more information, check here.
Date: Ongoing
Price: Free Admission (Singaporeans, Permanent Residents and visitors aged 6 years and below)
Location: Level 1, Glass Rotunda
6. Story of the Forest 🍃
Step into the enchanting world of "Story of the Forest," a mesmerizing creation by the esteemed Japanese digital art collective, teamLab. This immersive installation breathes life into 69 drawings from the William Farquhar Collection of Natural History Drawings, transcending them into captivating three-dimensional animations. As you navigate this virtual and visual landscape, you'll journey through the layered histories of the site and the inspiring muses behind the artwork. In a striking contrast between Singapore's colonial past and its present-day modernity, this larger-than-life digital art installation invites you to explore, interact, and engage with the captivating narratives it unfolds. It's an unmissable experience, all inspired by the museum's treasured William Farquhar Collection and brought to life through the cutting-edge technology of teamLab. For more information, check here.
Date: Ongoing
Price: Free Admission (Singaporeans, Permanent Residents and visitors aged 6 years and below)
Location: Level 1, Glass Rotunda
7. Wings of a Rich Manoeuvre 🪽
Experience the captivating spectacle of "Wings of a Rich Manoeuvre" by Singaporean artist Suzann Victor. This art installation features eight kinetic chandeliers, each meticulously crafted from stainless steel and adorned with precision-cut Swarovski crystals that glisten in harmony with LED light. These chandeliers come alive with mid-air choreography, performing an enchanting aerial calligraphy that transitions between mesmerizing patterns. Suspended high above the bridge connecting the National Museum's historic colonial structure with its modern glass wing, this installation is a breathtaking fusion of art, motion, and light, leaving visitors in awe of its beauty and grace. For more information, check here.
Date: Ongoing
Price: Free Admission (Singaporeans, Permanent Residents and visitors aged 6 years and below)
Location: Glass Atrium, Level 2
8. Now Boarding: Experiencing Singapore through Travel, 1800s – 2000s 🤩
Embark on a journey through time with the National Museum of Singapore's captivating exhibition, "Now Boarding: Experiencing Singapore through Travel, 1800s – 2000s." This travel-themed showcase unveils the fascinating transformation of Singapore into a sought-after travel destination, as experienced by those who arrived on our shores from the past to the present. Against the historical backdrop of colonial Singapore and its journey into the post-independence era, "Now Boarding" serves as both a travel guide and a visual exploration of Destination Singapore, promising an enriching experience for all. For more information, check here.
Date: 27 May 2023 - 25 Feb 2024
Price: Free for Singaporeans and PRs. Tickets will be on sale from 22 May onwards.
Location: Exhibition Gallery, Basement
9. Semangat yang Baru: Forging a New Singapore Spirit 🇸🇬
Experience the essence of Singapore's spirit through "Semangat yang Baru: Forging a New Singapore Spirit" exhibition, beautifully captured from the national anthem's chorus, "Majulah Singapura." This showcase takes you back to the 1950s-1970s, a time when the leaders and people united to shape the fledgling nation. Discover the lesser-known challenges faced by the founding generation as they worked to build a society founded on justice and equality, guided by core values of multiculturalism, integrity, and openness. For more information, check here.
Date: 21 Apr 2023 - 13 Nov 2023
Price: Free for Singaporeans and PRs
Location: Basement, Exhibition Gallery 1
2. Enjoy A Gourmet Experience 🍽️
Imagine enjoying your meals with a scenic backdrop that transports you to another time. The atmosphere and ambiance of the museum café elevate dining to an unforgettable experience.
1. Flutes 🍛
Nestled in the National Museum's historic section, first inaugurated to celebrate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee in 1887, Flutes restaurant introduces a delightful array of European-inspired dishes with a contemporary flair. Their smart-casual dining experience promises fresh and exciting flavors, artfully prepared and accompanied by a selection of award-winning wines from both old and new world vineyards. It's a culinary journey that combines tradition and innovation, offering a memorable dining experience in a setting steeped in history.
Opening Hours: Tue – Fri: 11.30am – 2pm (Last order) | 6pm – 10.30pm Sat: 11am – 2.30pm (Last order) | 6pm – 10.30pm
Tel: (65) 6338 8770
Location: Level 1, Rotunda
Email: flutes@flutes.com.sg
Remark: Flutes will cease operations from 8 October 2023
2. Food For Thought ☕️
Step into Food For Thought, where a museum café brimming with tales awaits both the young and the young at heart. Here, the restaurant's design and culinary creations strike a harmonious balance between cherished nostalgia and enticing innovation. It's a place where you can savor not only delectable dishes but also a taste of history in every bite.
Opening Hours: Mon - Sun: 10am – 6pm (last order 5.30pm)
Tel : (65) 6338 9887
Location: Level 1, Concourse
Email: nms@foodforthought.com.sg
3. Café Brera at Reunion 🥗
Café Brera at Reunion, a partnership between Bakery Brera and Fine Foods and the National Museum of Singapore, offers a delightful dining experience designed with seniors in mind. Situated within the museum's Reunion space, it's the first dedicated social hub for seniors in a local museum. Explore an array of treats, from authentic French Viennoiseries and European bread to heritage-inspired bakes, international brunch options, and dysphagia-friendly food for those with swallowing difficulties.
Opening Hours: 9am – 5pm
Location: Level 1
3. Shop at Supermama, The Museum Store 🛒
Before you leave, don't forget to explore the museum shop. Here, you'll discover unique finds and gifts that serve as mementos of your visit. By supporting local artisans and designers, you take a piece of Singapore's culture with you. Supermama, a proudly Singaporean design and lifestyle brand, opened its doors in 2010 with a unique vision. Their store aims to be a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, offering visitors a delightful museum-like experience. What began as a couple's quest to spend more quality time with their young children has blossomed into a local treasure trove of beautifully designed homeware and souvenirs. For those seeking a piece of Singapore's creativity and craftsmanship, Supermama is the ultimate destination.
Opening Hours: Mon - Sun: 10am – 7pm
Tel: (65) 9615 7473
Email: info@supermama.sg
Conclusion 👋
We truly hope your day at the National Museum of Singapore is a day well spent. The experience of diving into history, art, culture, and interactive learning is one that leaves a lasting impression. As we sum up this enchanting journey, we encourage you to explore, learn, and be inspired by the wonders that this cultural gem has to offer.
Planning a visit to Singapore? Don't miss out on the best experiences. Explore our blog for a comprehensive guide about Science Centre Singapore. Make your trip unforgettable with these incredible attractions, activities, and hidden gems. Start your Singapore adventure now!
