Heard of the phrase ‘East Side, Best Side’? One is either an advocate or a challenger of this claim. With plenty of attractions, good food, shops and activities, it’s no surprise why the former truly believes so.
To put it boldly, there’s almost nothing quite like the Changi Precinct.
Home to The Changi Museum, an emotional exploration of Singapore’s wartime history during the Japanese Occupation, Changi is rich in history. At the same time, this area embodies modernity and vibrancy with the majestic dome Jewel Changi Airport, and the world’s best airport – Changi Airport.
However, Changi Precinct is more than that. A huge area covering not only Changi, but Tampines, Bedok, East Coast and even Pulau Ubin, it is a haven for foodies, nature enthusiasts or anyone who’s ready for a day of fun and adventure.
We have uncovered some of the best gems in the East side of Singapore that are well worth your time and calories. If you’re looking for things to do in Singapore with the family, here’s what you can see, do, and eat around the Changi Precinct in a day (or more!)
Kick-start your day with a fun craft workshop
Children get to explore different art forms and techniques such as ceramic pottery at Artistori.
Start the day by getting in touch with your artsy side! Unleash your imagination and creativity at Artistori – a unique art studio for children. They encourage inquiry-based learning and self-expression through art with a wide range of classes suited for all age groups. The kiddos will be exposed to different art forms and techniques, and have the opportunity to work with various types of materials and mediums.
Get creative and start making your own cups, saucers, bowls and unique pieces at the Ceramic House.
You can learn a new hobby at the Ceramic House, a pottery studio in the heartlands of Singapore with over 40 years of experience in handmade ceramics. Bring home handmade pottery and craft you can proudly call your own!
Artistori
Address: No.11 Tampines Mart, Tampines Street 32 #02-01/02 Singapore 529287
Ceramic House
Address: Blk 9004 Tampines Street 93, #02-102 Singapore 528838
For lunch, those who appreciate a plate of ‘wok hey’ (hot wok) goodness is in for a treat. With Feng Shan Market, Tampines Round Market and Changi Village just a stone’s throw away, you can sink your teeth into some of the best hawker fare in Singapore.
Get some outdoor action at Singapore’s largest treetop adventure park
Go on an action-packed adventure with 6 ziplines and 69 other adrenaline pumping obstacles at Forest Adventure!
Fly across Bedok Reservoir and clear obstacles up on the trees! Located at Bedok Reservoir, the Forest Adventure guarantees 2.5 hours of exhilarating fun across 44 wobbly crossings and three breath-taking zip lines over the water. You can be assured of an unforgettable experience, packed with laughter and adrenaline pumping action. There are also the Junior Course and Kids Course for the little ones.
Address: Bedok Reservoir Park, Singapore 479244
Learn about the airport through an interactive tour
Ever wondered about the stories behind Changi Airport and its daily operations? Within 2 hours, discover little known insider stories and delve deeper into Changi Airport’s history and the inspiration behind Jewel Changi Airport on the Jewel Connection Changi Airport Tour.
After the tour, continue your learning through interactive exhibits and games at the Changi Experience Studio. If the energetic kiddos are still pumped for more action, you can head to Canopy Park. Afterall, where else in Singapore can you play under the sun while in an indoor air-conditioned environment?
View of HSBC Rain Vortex at Jewel Changi Airport.
End your fun-filled day with a scrumptious meal at Jewel Changi Airport. Find a restaurant that overlooks the HSBC Rain Vortex so that you can catch the light and sound show while you dine!
If you’re keen to spend more time exploring the Changi Precinct over a weekend, The A-mazing Weekend Getaway or the Fun-tastic Family Escapade are great stay options for you to play tourist in our own country. After a long day of activities, indulge in a relaxing soak in the tub, dream in the comfortable beds and wake up the next day refuelled.
Discover the beauty of Pulau Ubin on wheels
The next morning, head out for some fresh air for Day 2 of your Changi Precinct adventure! You may have heard of or visited Pulau Ubin, but have you been on a guided tour around the island? Instead of roaming around the island on your own, the Pulau Ubin Island Life Walk / Bike Tour allows you to explore the hidden and often forgotten side of Pulau Ubin.
Take a day away from the city to explore the off-the-beaten parts of Pulau Ubin.
Within a span of 4 hours, you’ll be guided to cycle past rural sights like fruit farms, mangroves and a treasure house of wild plants and animals while learning more about the importance and impact of ecosystems to our planet Earth from your personal nature guide.
The tour also includes a visit to Chek Jawa – a 100-hecture wetland teeming with wildlife. Take the famous 1.1km boardwalk to view the rich plant and marine life, and even visit House No.1, the visitor centre that showcases information panels and displays that depict the history and beauty of the natural heritage in Chek Jawa.
Tour Details:
Duration: 4 hours
Meeting Point: Changi Point Ferry Terminal
Price: S$160/group (1-2people), S$240 (3 people), S$300 (4-5people)
Includes:
- 4 hour guided tour of Pulau Ubin
- 1 way taxi van (walk option) or bicycle rental (bike option)
- Return ferry transfer to Ubin
- Local treats
Find out more here.
Enjoy a selection of fine coffee, food and artisanal products at Percolate Coffee. Image credits: Percolate.sg
After all the physical exercise, go for a mid-day perk me up at one of the most popular cafes in the East. Percolate Coffee, Chockfull of Beans, Coastal Settlement offer some of the most Instagrammable (and delicious, of course) coffee on the block.
There’s still so much more to explore in the Changi Precinct! The next time you think Singapore is boring, think again.
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