Last Updated on May 21, 2021
There are these moments when we drop our “traveller” hat and slip on a “tourist” cap and do the obvious. Catch one of those “must-see” attractions in a “must visit” destination. And why not? If the destination is one as thoroughly enjoyable as Singapore and the attraction is the truly impressive Marina Bay Sands with breathtaking views of the city from atop its 57th floor, just why not?
We love Singapore. A great urban canvas dotted with the spectacular city sights, world-class transportation, friendly people, awesome on shopping and food and lots more.
You could have a nice time at ground level catching all of the above. But how about going up a couple of hundred metres in the sky and seeing it all in a breathtaking 360-degree view?
It’s not all touristy, this thing. To begin with, the area itself is many things interesting. The Merlion is right there, the Helix and Esplanade bridges, the Red Dot Design Museum, plenty of eating out options, brilliant views both in daylight and at night…
And then there is the three-towered Marina Bay Sands structure itself.
It’s actually three skyscrapers topped by a huge platform built directly overlooking Singapore’s historic bay area Towering over everything around it, it is a mini-destination in itself.
Besides the hotel itself that it houses, the 3 acres on which the complex stands are a hotbed of leisure and recreation. There’s everything a megamall could field with the best of global and local brands represented here. The Shoppes houses the best of retail outlets while premier restaurants, theatres and plenty of entertainment options abound within.
There are also elaborate facilities to house corporate events and exhibitions. The Sands Casino is state of the art and spans four floors. And the ten petalled ArtScience museum is a veritable treasure trove with its 21 galleries.
Today the Marina Bay Sands proudly stands tall, vying for an iconic status for Singapore even as its neighbours also do their competitive best. Sure, the Merlion has always been the face for the nation and the Flyer is the modern day mark on the horizon.
But for the wholesome Singapore experience of feasting on its great urban landscape from the city’s leading retail epicentre, Marina Bay Sands is an awesome few hours to savour.
Observation deck – Marina Bay Sands SkyPark
The Marina Bay Sands SkyPark is perched at the very top of the luxury complex. The SkyPark floats at 57 levels high and is the perfect viewpoint to capture Singapore in an obstructed view. Get a bird’s eye view of the bustling shopping lanes, the blue waters
How to reach Marina Bay Sands:
Marina Bay Sands is about 1 km walk from Marina Bay MRT – go out of Exit B, turn right – you can’t miss Marina Bay Sands as it’s visible as soon as you walk out of the station. There is a free shuttle bus available from the station to the Marina Bay Sands complex,
Another approach is to get the Metro to Esplanade and walk around the Bay Area from the Esplanade Theatres and then along the futuristic bridge that leads into the complex.
Entry fees: S$ 23 for the observation deck or S$ 20 for the bar. Seniors (above 65) have a discounted price of S$20, so do not forget to carry an ID card. No entry to infinity pool section. Eatery option is Ce La Vi that has a bar too. Reservation is SGD 200.
Views include the harbour, the bay, the Flyer, the gardens around it, the Esplanade, Singapore River and the CBD, the financial district, the city’s ubiquitous skyscraper skyline and the ever stretching expanse of the sea beyond the coastline. Sports lovers can even spot the F1 race track amidst the urbanscape.
Best time to visit Marina Bay Sands observation deck
Well, anytime really. If you want clear views of Singapore city, the daytime is great. But for those looking to see awesome sunsets, get up to the observation deck around. Get in a couple of hours before sunset and stay for a few hours till after sunset. This way you can catch the glorious sunset across the horizon and watch the lights flicker to life and light up the cityscape.
