Gardens by the Bay: Supertrees, Domes & Evening Light Show

Where Nature Meets Futuristic Fantasy

The first time I stepped into Gardens by the Bay, I was completely blown away by this 101-hectare green miracle. It's not just Singapore's landmark, but a fascinating dialogue between future and nature. Amidst the concrete jungle of the city, this man-made garden pulses with the most authentic life force.

I've visited during both early morning and sunset, each offering completely different experiences. If you ask me when's the best time to go, I'd say: why not experience both?

Must-See Attractions

Supertree Grove: Life Blooming in a Steel Forest

When you first encounter these 50-meter tall giant "trees," they might seem like something out of a sci-fi movie. But as you get closer and notice hundreds of plant species climbing up their trunks, you'll discover the miracle created by engineers and horticulturists working together.

Tip: Don't miss the Garden Rhapsody light show in the evening! Shows run at 7:45pm and 8:45pm nightly, and the combination of music and lights is absolutely mesmerizing. Last time I watched it, I found myself standing there long after it ended, reluctant to leave.

Cloud Forest: Step into a Garden in the Clouds

The moment you push open the doors to the Cloud Forest, you're greeted by cool, moist air and the breathtaking sight of a 35-meter indoor waterfall. During my first visit, I was already awestruck just standing at the entrance.

This seven-story "cloud mountain" hides several treasures:

• Cloud Walk: Stroll along the elevated walkway with mist swirling below your feet and panoramic views of the entire conservatory—a perfect photo spot!
• Lost World: Plants here seem to transport you through time and space back to prehistoric eras
• Crystal Mountain: My personal favorite spot, where crystals shimmer brilliantly under the lights

Flower Dome: Botanical Wonders from Around the World

If the Cloud Forest is a vertical marvel, then the Flower Dome is a horizontal feast. As the world's largest columnless glass greenhouse, it maintains a comfortable Mediterranean climate year-round.

I always linger here during my visits:

• Marveling at peculiar plants from around the world, some with such bizarre shapes they make me chuckle
• That thousand-year-old olive tree has witnessed so much history!
• The cactus garden always reminds me of the American West's desert landscapes
• Don't forget to check the seasonal flower displays—each has a different theme!

Ticket Matters

Free Areas (Yes, You Read That Right!)

• Supertree Grove is completely free, including the evening light show
• Children's Garden: A must-visit when bringing kids
• Heritage Gardens: Great place to learn about Singapore's multicultural heritage
• World of Plants: Various fascinating flowers, a paradise for photography enthusiasts

Paid Attractions (Worth Every Dollar)

• Two Conservatories Package (Cloud Forest + Flower Dome)

  • Adults: $28
  • Children (3-12 years): $15
  • Seniors (65+ years): $20

• OCBC Skyway (elevated walkway between Supertrees)

  • Adults: $10
  • Children: $6

Psst! Booking on the official website usually gets you better prices, especially during peak seasons. If you're a Singapore citizen or permanent resident, there are special discounts too!

Visitor's Guide

Timing Your Visit

My first visit was planned for just 2 hours, which was nowhere near enough! I recommend setting aside at least half a day:

• Morning visit? Enter right when they open at 9am to avoid the midday heat and crowds
• Afternoon visit? Crowds start thinning after 4pm, and you can stay until the evening light show—two experiences in one!

Practical Tips

1. The conservatories maintain temperatures around 23°C year-round. Even in tropical Singapore, don't forget to bring a light jacket! I once got so excited I forgot mine and ended up shivering the whole time
2. Food inside is pricey with limited options. I usually bring some snacks for a picnic under the Supertrees
3. The gardens are vast, but don't worry about getting tired—there are free shuttle buses available
4. Too much luggage? Lockers are available for $4 per 4 hours, quite convenient
5. Want great photos? Try these perfect spots:
   • Standing on the OCBC Skyway looking down—the entire garden spreads out beneath you
   • In front of the Cloud Forest waterfall, where misty selfies look magical
   • Seasonal themed displays in the Flower Dome are always colorful and photogenic

Getting There

• By MRT: Take the Circle Line or Thomson-East Coast Line to Bayfront Station (CE1/TE20), then walk about 10 minutes from Exit B
• By Bus: Multiple routes serve the area; I usually take bus 400
• By Car: There's parking available, but spaces are hard to find on weekends—public transport is recommended

Special Events

Each visit to Gardens by the Bay brings new surprises, as they host special events year-round:

• During Chinese New Year, the gardens are festively decorated with red lanterns hanging high
• Tulip season makes me feel like I've been transported to Holland, with spectacular fields of colorful flowers
• Christmas Wonderland, even without snow in Singapore, still captures the holiday spirit

Remember to check the official website's event calendar! There's always something new to discover, which is why even after living in Singapore for so many years, I still find myself returning here regularly to unwind.