Singapore might be a small island, but it’s brimming with cultural treasures, and its museums are some of the best ways to experience the city’s rich heritage, art, and innovation. Whether you’re fascinated by history, contemporary art, or quirky niche collections, Singapore’s museums offer something for everyone. Here’s a closer look at the must-visit museums in 2025.
1. National Museum of Singapore
📍 93 Stamford Road, Singapore 178897
☎️ +65 6332 3659
As Singapore’s oldest museum, the National Museum of Singapore is a stunning blend of colonial architecture and modern design. It houses exhibitions that tell the story of the nation’s history, from pre-colonial times to independence and beyond. Visitors love the immersive storytelling, with multimedia installations and well-curated permanent galleries like the “Singapore History Gallery.” Special exhibitions often bring in international displays, making each visit unique. For anyone looking to understand Singapore’s identity and evolution, this museum is the perfect starting point.
2. Asian Civilisations Museum
📍 1 Empress Place, Singapore 179555
☎️ +65 6332 7798
Located by the Singapore River, the Asian Civilisations Museum celebrates Asia’s diverse heritage with a special focus on Singapore’s ancestral cultures: Chinese, Indian, Malay, and Southeast Asian. Visitors will find breathtaking collections of ancient artifacts, textiles, and religious sculptures. Its permanent galleries cover trade, faith, and art across the region. The riverside setting also makes it a beautiful stop before or after exploring the civic district. Reviews often highlight the museum’s balance of scholarly depth and accessibility for casual visitors.
3. ArtScience Museum
📍 6 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018974
☎️ +65 6688 8888
One of Singapore’s most iconic museum buildings, shaped like a lotus flower, the ArtScience Museum combines cutting-edge design with equally forward-thinking exhibitions. Known for blockbuster shows like “Future World,” developed with teamLab, it blends art, technology, and science into dazzling interactive installations. Families particularly love this museum, as kids can learn and play at the same time. It’s a place where creativity and innovation come alive, and its central location at Marina Bay Sands makes it easy to pair with other attractions.
4. National Gallery Singapore
📍 1 St Andrew’s Road, Singapore 178957
☎️ +65 6271 7000
Housed in the beautifully restored former Supreme Court and City Hall buildings, the National Gallery is home to the world’s largest collection of Singaporean and Southeast Asian modern art. The architecture itself is a reason to visit, with grand colonial-era spaces seamlessly connected by modern glass and steel bridges. The galleries feature works by legendary artists like Georgette Chen and Cheong Soo Pieng. With rotating exhibitions, guided tours, and rooftop restaurants offering stunning skyline views, the Gallery is as much an experience as it is a museum.
5. Peranakan Museum
📍 39 Armenian Street, Singapore 179941
☎️ +65 6332 7591
After a major revamp, the Peranakan Museum reopened with vibrant new galleries that showcase the unique culture of the Peranakans—descendants of Chinese, Malay, and Indian communities. The museum displays exquisite beadwork, jewelry, traditional costumes, and even entire room settings to illustrate Peranakan life. Visitors often praise its storytelling approach and intimate feel. It’s a fantastic cultural stop if you want to dive into one of Singapore’s most colourful and distinctive heritage communities.
6. Singapore Art Museum (SAM)
📍 39 Keppel Road, #01-02, Singapore 089065 (Tanjong Pagar Distripark)
☎️ +65 6697 9730
Currently located at Tanjong Pagar Distripark while its main building undergoes redevelopment, the Singapore Art Museum continues to champion contemporary art. Its exhibitions feature bold, thought-provoking works by regional and international artists, often sparking conversations about modern life, politics, and identity. Visitors love the experimental and immersive installations, and SAM’s programming also includes artist talks and workshops. It’s the go-to spot for anyone who wants to see what’s new and edgy in the art world.
7. Indian Heritage Centre
📍 5 Campbell Lane, Singapore 209924
☎️ +65 6291 1601
Tucked away in Little India, the Indian Heritage Centre is a striking modern glass building that reflects the vibrant culture around it. Inside, exhibits trace the history of Indian communities in Singapore and Southeast Asia, featuring jewelry, textiles, and multimedia installations. The centre also frequently hosts cultural events, from Deepavali celebrations to traditional dance showcases. Reviews highlight how approachable and informative it is, even for those unfamiliar with Indian culture.
8. Malay Heritage Centre (reopening in 2025)
📍 85 Sultan Gate, Singapore 198501
☎️ +65 6391 0450
Located in the historic Kampong Gelam district, the Malay Heritage Centre has been undergoing renovations and is slated to reopen in 2025. This cultural gem showcases the rich heritage of Singapore’s Malay community, with exhibitions covering everything from traditional arts and crafts to the role Malays played in the nation’s development. When open, it’s a must-visit for its blend of history, heritage, and cultural performances.
Singapore’s museums are more than just places to look at artifacts—they’re immersive cultural hubs that tell the story of the nation while connecting it to the wider world. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or a family looking for an educational day out, these museums offer rich experiences worth exploring in 2025.
Leave a Reply