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The Latest Guide to Singapore’s Merlion Park That Will Make You Want to Revisit This Iconic Landmark over and over Again
Everybody knows that Singapore is practically synonymous with the Merlion. In fact, a trip to this country seems incomplete without a famous Merlion selfie.
It gets so busy with tourists though that I know some locals like myself are guilty of avoiding the park altogether. However, I recently came to the conclusion that it’s been too long since I last appreciated the park.
I dug deep and thought that if Singapore were a person, then Merlion Park would be its beating heart. So, like any upstanding citizen, I decided to embrace it and rediscover its charm.
And boy, did I find new reasons to fall in love with it. I was so moved that I decided to write this handy guide in the hopes that I can help fellow locals, repeat travelers, and even first-time tourists see what makes Merlion Park so special.
Where is Merlion Park?
Merlion Park is situated at One Fullerton Road, right next to Singapore’s Central Business District. The park is positioned between Marina Bay and its namesake Sands Hotel.
How to Get to Merlion Park
Via MRT: Catch the MRT to Raffles Place Station, which is on both the East West (EW 14) and North South (NS26) lines. From there, Merlion Park should be less than a 10-minute walk away.
Via Bus: The closest bus stop to Merlion Park is the Fullerton Square Bus Stop. Bus lines 10, 100, 131, and 167 can drop you off here.
Via Taxi or Ride-Sharing Service: Hiring a taxi or using a ride-sharing app like Grab or Gojek may be the easiest way to get there. Simply tell your driver that you wish to visit Merlion Park and they’ll surely know the route to Singapore’s most popular landmark.
What to Do in Merlion Park
Take the perfect picture with the iconic Merlion statue
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Just as the leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy has tourists raising their arms for pictures, you’ll see loads of tourists getting creative with their poses in front of the Merlion.
To be fair, the statue does lend itself to a lot of hilarious shots. One look around tells you the crowd-favorite though – mouth wide open to make it look like they’re catching the water coming out of the Merlion’s spout.
The choice of pose is totally up to you! You can stay classy and just have the Merlion and its glory in the background or think outside of the box and use it as a prop.
Personally, I think the pose is just half of the picture. To get the best shot, make sure you bring a dedicated cameraman who is willing to get the perfect angle to make your Merlion picture come to life.
Stroll along the picturesque Waterfront Promenade
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Apart from having picnics, the quintessential park activity seems to be a lovely little stroll around. If that sounds like your speed, just know that nothing compares to a walk around Merlion Park’s Waterfront Promenade.
I know that the 3.5-kilometer length of this promenade may seem daunting, but I’ve done this walk a couple of times and it never gets tiring. There’s always so much to see, including the Helix Bridge, Gardens By The Bay, and the city lights in the distance.
If you ever feel like taking a break though, pause near some of the street food vendors that are always in the area. Get the local favorite Singaporean Ice Cream Sandwich, which will liven you up to continue on your scenic walk.
Watch the vibrant Marina Bay Sands light show
Media credit: marinabaysands
Not only do the steps of the park lead to the Merlion statue, but they can also serve as free seats to a world-class light show. Be an audience to Spectra – a 15-minute multimedia show over the water courtesy of the Marina Bay Sands Hotel.
Every night at 8 PM and 9 PM, visitors of Merlion Park are treated to an unobstructed view of this attraction. Visual projections, fountain jets, lasers, and orchestral music all combine for a masterful production.
Although you may miss a bit of the projection and the music due to the distance, nothing beats seeing this show with the grand Marina Bay Sands as its background.
Join an educational cruise on the Singapore River
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Part of Merlion Park’s charm is its proximity to the splendid waters of the bay. So why not take a quick cruise and explore all of its beauty?
The Singapore River bumboat cruise is both educational and entertaining as it tells the history of the country. The tour guides are always knowledgeable and they make sure to inject humor fit for the whole family.
In this 45-minute ride, you’ll get to see landmarks besides Merlion Park, such as Clarke Quay and The Esplanade. Plus, tours are available until 10 PM daily so you can opt to see the bay while the sun is out or when the city lights are dancing upon the waves.
Where to Eat near Merlion Park
The Courtyard
Media credit: fullertonhotelsg
Address: 1 Fullerton Square
Phone: +65 3129 8167
Pricing: $$$
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Dining in The Courtyard is what I imagine getting transported into Bridgerton is like. Just listening to their live harpist is enough to convince anyone that they’re getting picked as Diamond of the Season.
In all seriousness though, the Courtyard exudes refinement and sophistication from every corner. It’s an elegant dining experience through and through, especially because it’s located within the historical Fullerton Building.
Go in for high tea and try their staples, most especially their fluffy scones. If you appreciate the finer things in life, then these exquisite sweets might just end up being the highlight of your trip.
PS.Cafe One Fullerton
Media credit: pscafe
Address: 1 Fullerton Road, #02-03B/04
Phone: +65 6708 9288
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
At this point, every single local has probably been to PS.Cafe. I’m even willing to bet that a number of them would confess to being regulars.
This beloved cafe has, no doubt, become a classic among those who frequent the Marina Bay area. The pleasant atmosphere is heightened by the tranquil views of the Bay and the mouthwatering scent of truffle lingering in the air.
Any of their truffle dishes are a must-have but if your sweet tooth is calling, make sure to try their chocolate cake and sticky date pudding. These are the perfect treats to indulge in and they’re sure to make your visit more than worth it.
Maxwell Food Centre
Media credit: eatbooksg
Address: 1 Kadayanallur Street
Phone: +65 6225 5632
Pricing: $
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 2 AM
A notice for tourists out there: you can’t say you’ve had Singaporean cuisine until you’ve eaten at a hawker center. Although there may be a bit of debate among the locals, plenty would tell you that Maxwell Food Centre is the one to go to.
Firstly, the meals you’ll have in this hawker center are guaranteed to be the most affordable AND the most unforgettable during your trip. Locals love it too, and that’s why hawkers have been around since the 1800s (Seriously, look it up).
With more than a hundred stalls and a variety of cuisines, you’re absolutely spoiled for choice on your next meal. These world-famous hawkers are also open up until 2 AM so you’re free to crave any time of day.
Where to Stay near Merlion Park
Marina Bay Sands
Media credit: marinabaysands
Address: 10 Bayfront Avenue
Phone: +65 6688 8868
Pricing: $$$
Operating Hours:
- Open 24 hours
Undeniably a Singaporean landmark in and of itself, the Marina Bay Sands hotel is in a league of its own. From the moment you step within its walls, you’ll learn what the true definition of luxury is.
Anyone who’s ever stayed at Marina Bay Sands is well acquainted with its phenomenal service. Their attentive staff is equipped to cater to all of your requests – just say the word and it’s done.
The architecture is resplendent, and its crown jewel is the renowned infinity pool from which you can see the best views of Singapore. And that’s not even scratching the surface.
With shops of the world’s most distinguished brands and wellness amenities to pamper all of their guests, the hardest part of staying at an oasis-like Marina Bay Sands is that you’ll never want to leave.
Peninsula Excelsior
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Address: 5 Coleman Street
Phone: +65 6337 2200
Pricing: $
Operating Hours:
- Open 24 hours
If you’re looking for a friendly face in the hustle and bustle of this country, the Peninsula Excelsior will welcome you with its arms wide open.
This hotel is a breath of fresh air, considering how busy its surrounding areas are. In fact, it’s within walking distance of several very popular attractions such as the Gardens by the Bay, Suntec City, and the National Gallery, to name a few.
What elevates it from just being “your home away from home” is its approachable personnel. They’ll happily impart you with tips on how to navigate the country or any information about its landmarks.
You can rest assured that your comfort and convenience are of the utmost priority at the Peninsula Excelsior.
