Marina Bay Sands Singapore Attractions: 9 Things To Do

Marina Bay Sands, a renowned integrated resort nestled on the picturesque Marina Bay border in Singapore, is an emblem of opulence and grandeur. Owned by the Las Vegas Sands Corporation, it stands as a testament to architectural marvel and extravagance. Notably, during its inauguration, Marina Bay Sands held the prestigious title of being the world’s most expensive casino property, boasting an astronomical price tag of $5.88 billion, which encompassed not only construction costs but also substantial land expenses.

The Marvelous Facilities of Marina Bay Sands

Marina Bay Sands Singapore is a multifaceted destination, encompassing a plethora of awe-inspiring amenities and attractions. Its expansive offerings include a colossal 2,561-room hotel, an expansive 120,000-square-meter (1,300,000-square-foot) convention and exhibition center, a sprawling 74,000-square-meter (800,000-square-foot) shopping haven known as Marina Bay Sands Mall, a captivating museum, and two grand theaters hosting world-class performances. The resort also prides itself on hosting a lineup of “celebrity chef” restaurants, promising a gastronomic experience of the highest order.

The Extravagance of the Atrium Casino and SkyPark

One of the most striking features of Marina Bay Sands is its claim to fame as the home to the world’s largest atrium casino. This opulent gaming destination boasts not only 500 gaming tables but also a staggering 1,600 slot machines, making it a haven for enthusiasts. The resort’s allure extends further with the presence of two floating crystal pavilions and captivating art-science exhibits.

Marina Bay Sands is also renowned for its awe-inspiring Skypark, perched atop the structure, extending for an impressive 340 meters (1,120 feet) and accommodating up to 3,900 visitors. At its heart lies a breathtaking 150-meter (490-foot) infinity swimming pool, setting a new benchmark as the world’s largest public cantilevered platform, surpassing the northern tower by a remarkable 67 meters (220 feet). This architectural marvel was meticulously designed by the esteemed Moshe Safdie Architects.

Inauguration and Phased Opening

Marina Bay Sands embarked on its journey with the goal of opening on May 20; however, the path to completion was not without challenges. Delays ensued due to a surge in material costs and labor shortages. In response, the resort’s owner adopted a phased opening approach, which received approval from Singaporean authorities. AirHelp: Helps passengers receive up to €600 in compensation for delayed or canceled flights

The casino welcomed its first guests on April 2, while the grand opening of the resort and Skypark unfolded with a two-day celebration on June 23 and 26. Shortly thereafter, the Skypark opened its gates to the public. The resort’s theaters commenced their operations on November 30, hosting a performance of Riverdance, while the indoor ice skating rink debuted on December 18 with a captivating performance by Michelle Cowan. The ArtScience Museum opened its doors to the public, and on February 25, a dazzling 13-minute light, laser, and water show titled “Wonder Flowers” marked the culmination of the integrated resort.

A Celebration of Culinary Excellence

February 7, 2017, was a milestone day for Marina Bay Sands as it celebrated its inauguration. The resort proudly introduced seven celebrity chef restaurants, further solidifying its reputation as a culinary haven.

Floating Pavilions and Future Expansion

The journey of Marina Bay Sands continued with the opening of its floating pavilions at the end of the complex. Louis Vuitton and Pangia Club, two prominent renters, made their debut on September 3 and 22, respectively, adding to the resort’s allure. Additionally, there are plans for the construction of a fourth tower in the near future, further enhancing the resort’s offerings.

Integrated Resorts in Singapore: Economic and Tourism Pillars

Marina Bay Sands Singapore is one of the two triumphant integrated resorts in Singapore, with the other being Resorts World Sentosa, featuring a family-friendly Universal Studios theme park (Universal Studios Singapore). These grand-scale resorts were conceived to align with Singapore’s economic and tourism objectives for the coming decade. Notably, they were granted an exclusive 30-year casino license for the initial ten years. The evaluation of bidders for these projects was based on four critical criteria: tourism impact and contribution, architectural concept and design, development investment, and the strength of the consortium and partners.

Marina Bay Sands, with its breathtaking architecture, luxurious amenities, and world-class entertainment, stands as a symbol of Singapore’s commitment to excellence in the realm of integrated resorts and tourism.

The Vision Behind Marina Bay Sands Singapore

The Marina Bay Sands Singapore resort is an architectural marvel designed by the renowned architect Moshe Safadi. Safadi drew inspiration from an unconventional source – the card deck. The hallmark of this iconic design is the trio of towering hotel structures, boasting a staggering 2,200 rooms and suites, all linked by an expansive lobby at their base. The resort also features a captivating casino with a central atrium that spans four stories, offering an immersive gaming and entertainment experience in a single location. Qeeq: Fast-growing car rental platform, listing over 7 million rental cars in ~200 countries

Diverse Facilities Beyond Hotels and Casinos

The grandeur of Marina Bay Sands extends beyond hotels and casinos. The complex encompasses a sprawling 200,000-square-foot artisan museum, providing a rich cultural experience. Moreover, it boasts a colossal convention center with a staggering 1.2 million square feet of space, capable of accommodating up to 45,000 people. Interestingly, the resort’s architectural evolution was guided by Feng Shui consultants, the late Chong Swan Lake and Louisa Wong-li, who approved significant design changes along the way.

Collaborative Efforts and Key Players

The realization of Marina Bay Sands was a result of coordinated efforts by various professionals and firms. Aedus played a pivotal role in recruiting consultants and overseeing the development, coordination, and implementation of designs. Parsons Brinckerhoff, a prominent MEP engineering firm, managed the structural engineering aspects of the project. Sunseung Engineering and Construction took on the role of the main contractor, overseeing the construction process.

Architectural Challenges and Innovative Solutions

The distinctive design of Marina Bay Sands Singapore posed unique construction challenges. The three towers vary in width and taper at their bases, creating an intricate architectural puzzle. Each tower features two asymmetrical legs, with one curved anterior leg leaning against the other. Overcoming these complexities required innovative solutions, including the temporary support of structures during construction and real-time monitoring for ongoing assessment and analysis.

The Skypark Oasis Above the Towers

One of the most captivating features of the hotel is the Skypark, a sprawling three-acre park perched atop the building. This oasis includes a remarkable swimming pool, lush gardens, and a jogging path. Significantly, the Skypark bridges all three towers, with a cantilevered section extending from the North Tower. Its construction involved pre-fabricating the hull in 14 separate steel sections, which were then assembled on top of the towers. The Skypark also incorporates four movement joints under the main pools, designed to mitigate natural motion, each with a unique range of motion, totaling 500 millimeters (20 inches). In addition, custom jack legs were installed at over 500 points below the pool system to accommodate future adjustments, ensuring the proper functioning of the pool’s endless edge.

Phased Completion and Opening

Originally planned as a single-step project set to open in 2010, Marina Bay Sands faced challenges such as rising construction costs and the global financial crisis. As a result, the resort opened in phases. The first preview took place on April 27, 2010, with the official opening ceremony held on June 27. Subsequently, the rest of the complex was gradually completed and unveiled between February 17 and 21 in a grand opening celebration.

Events and Entertainment Galore

Marina Bay Sands Singapore swiftly became a hub for entertainment and events. Notably, it hosted the Inter-Pacific Bar Association’s first conference at its Convention Center in May 2010. However, disputes arose during the event, with Marina Bay Sands suing the IPBA over withheld payments. A counter-lawsuit followed, leading to an undisclosed settlement in August. i’way: Private car service to and from 600 airports worldwide

A Grand Two-Day Celebration

The resort’s “2 Day Celebration” officially marked its opening. This extravaganza featured a spectacular “World Championship Climb” on the Skypark’s glass facade, an evening concert with renowned rock climbers, international rapper Kelly Rowland, and national contemporary R&B artist Sylvia Ratonel. The Skypark itself was unveiled on the second day, offering visitors access to its attractions.

A Flourishing Cultural Scene

The cultural scene thrived at Marina Bay Sands, with the Sands Theater hosting captivating shows like Riverdance in November 2010 and the ArtScience Museum opening its doors to the public in February 2011. Notably, the highly anticipated musical “The Lion King” made its debut in March.

Retail and Nightlife Evolution

The resort’s retail and nightlife offerings continued to evolve. Luxury brands like Louis Vuitton found a home in the retail spaces, and The Pangia Club completed its renovation in September. Floating pavilions, adding to the resort’s allure, were also opened in September.

A Bittersweet Farewell to “The Lion King”

“The Lion King” concluded its run at Marina Bay Sands with its last show in October. This marked the end of a remarkable chapter in the resort’s cultural and entertainment history, leaving behind a legacy of world-class performances and events.

Marina Bay Sands Hotel Towers and Rooftop Terrace

Marina Bay Sands stands as an architectural marvel with its three imposing 55-story hotel towers. A significant milestone in its construction journey was reached on July 27 when the towers were successfully topped. These three towering structures are seamlessly connected to a sprawling one-hectare rooftop terrace known as Sands Skypark, which forms a breathtaking visual spectacle against the Singapore skyline.

Diverse Facilities Within the Towers

The frontage of these three impressive towers encompasses a range of facilities. This includes a theater block, a convention and exhibition facility block, and a casino block, which boasts an extensive gaming area housing up to a thousand gaming tables and a remarkable 1,400 slot machines. Adjacent to this, the unique ArtScience Museum, designed with a distinctive puddle-like shape, draws attention.

Innovative Features of the ArtScience Museum

The ArtScience Museum adds an extra layer of intrigue to Marina Bay Sands. Its retractable roof is a remarkable feature, allowing it to harness rainwater during the daytime and create a stunning waterfall effect. Furthermore, at night, the museum treats visitors to a captivating laser show when its retractable roof is open, providing a mesmerizing spectacle.

Wonder Flowers Light and Water Show

In front of the event plaza, the “Wonder Flowers” light and water show captivates audiences. Produced by LaserVision, this show was a record-breaker in Southeast Asia. The show, along with the ArtScience Museum, was unveiled to the public on February 17, 2011, marking a significant moment in the history of Marina Bay Sands. Aviasales: A trusted service for buying flight tickets from reliable agencies at the lowest possible rates

Skypark’s World-Famous Infinity Pool

Skypark, a prominent feature of Marina Bay Sands, boasts one of the world’s tallest swimming pools. This infinity pool, with its edge extending 6 meters out from the structure, creates a gravity-defying visual illusion. It sits at an elevation of 79 feet (7 meters) above the ground and is constructed using a staggering 422,000 pounds (191,000 kg) of stainless steel. The pool can hold a staggering 376,500 gallons (1,425 cubic meters) of water.

Public Observatory Deck and Lush Gardens

The Skypark offers more than just a pool. It houses a public observatory deck on a cantilever, providing sweeping panoramic views of the Singapore skyline. Alongside this, you’ll find dining establishments such as Lavo (inspired by its New York counterpart) and Si La Vie, as well as lush gardens adorned with hundreds of trees and shrubs. However, it’s important to note that, for security reasons, access to Skypark is exclusively reserved for hotel guests.

Retail Extravaganza at Marina Bay Sands

Shopping enthusiasts are in for a treat at Marina Bay Sands. The shopping precinct at Marina Bay Sands, known as The Shops, spans a vast area of approximately 93,000 square meters (1,000,000 square feet). It encompasses over 300 stores and a diverse range of F&B outlets. Luxury brands like Ralph Lauren, Chanel, Cartier, Prada, Gucci, Hermes, and many more find a home here, creating a shopping experience par excellence.

Venetian-Inspired Canal and Sampan Ride

A charming canal runs through the Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, reminiscent of the Venetian canals in Las Vegas. Visitors can enjoy the Sampan Ride on this canal, a delightful experience for shoppers and guests, akin to the Gondola Ride found in the Venetian resort. Among the notable features of the Shoppes are six out of the ten celebrity chef restaurants, including Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen, Wolfgang Puck’s Kat, Tatsuya Wakuda’s Waku Xin, and more.

Crystal Pavilions and Luxury Boutiques

Marina Bay Sands boasts two crystal pavilions, each with its unique attractions. After a brief legal dispute, it was decided that one pavilion would house two nightclubs – Avalon and Pangia. The second pavilion is home to the world’s largest Louis Vuitton boutique, sprawling across 1,900 square meters (20,000 square feet). Interestingly, this pavilion is located on a floating island, connected to the Shoppes through an underground tunnel. Both pavilions opened during the Formula One season in 20, just before the debut of the Marina Bay Street Circuit.

Entertainment Extravaganza at Marina Bay Sands

Marina Bay Sands offers a vibrant entertainment scene, featuring world-class theaters. The Sands Theater and Grand Theater, with seating capacities of 1,680 and 2,500 respectively, host acclaimed productions such as “The Lion King,” “Sirkolowitz and A.K.,” and international performances like Rahman’s “Joy Ho.” The musical “Weekend” also made its debut in 2011, adding to the diverse range of entertainment options. Additionally, a synthetic ice skating rink measuring 600 square meters (6,500 square feet) complements the theaters.

Dragonfire Boxing and Art Integration

Sporting events also have a place at Marina Bay Sands, with Dragonfire boxing events regularly taking place since May 7, 2012. Hotellook: A platform for comparing hotel prices around the world (250,000 properties in 205 countries). Designed by renowned architect Moshe Safdie, the resort features an art path that integrates installations by five artists, including Zhang Chongbin, Anthony Gourley, and Sol LeWitt. These installations bridge the realms of art and architecture, interacting with environmental elements such as light, water, and air, creating a unique and immersive experience for visitors.

Things to do at Marina Bay Sands Singapore

What are some of the things to do at Marina Bay Sands Singapore while you visit? You will be glad that there are some adventurous things to do around Marina Bay Sands. These activities will help you realize why is marina bay sands important to Singapore! Let’s learn below some things to do around Marina Bay Sands:

1. Explore the Singapore Flyer

The Singapore Flyer stands as an iconic observation wheel nestled within the heart of Singapore’s bustling Downtown Core. Comprising 28 air-conditioned capsules, each capable of accommodating 28 individuals, this architectural marvel is housed within a striking three-story terminal structure.

Officially unveiled to the public on the 15th of April, 2008, the Singapore Flyer has garnered widespread recognition in both local and international media, as well as in popular culture. This engineering marvel soars to a towering height of 165 meters, effectively securing its place as the world’s tallest Ferris wheel at the time of its inauguration, a title it held until it was surpassed by the 167.6 meter High Roller, a mere 2.6 meters higher.

2. Visit Gardens by the Bay

Nestled in the Central Region of Singapore, adjacent to the Marina Reservoir, Gardens by the Bay is an expansive 101-hectare natural park. Within its sprawling expanse, three distinct waterfront gardens beckon visitors to explore their beauty: Bay South Garden, Bay East Garden, and Bay Central Garden. The crown jewel of this horticultural haven, the Bay South Garden, occupies a vast 54 hectares.

Notably, the Flower Dome nestled within the Gardens by the Bay is acclaimed as the largest glass greenhouse on the planet. This ambitious project was conceived as part of Singapore’s visionary plan to transform the city-state from a “Garden City” into a “City in a Garden.” The overarching aim was to enhance the quality of life in the city by intensifying the presence of lush greenery and flora.

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong unveiled Gardens by the Bay at the 2005 National Day Rally, envisioning it as Singapore’s premier urban outdoor leisure destination and a defining national landmark. Testament to its allure, the park has become a magnet for tourists, attracting 6.4 million visitors in 2014, crossing the 20 million milestone in November 2015, and ultimately welcoming over 50 million visitors in 2018.

3. Enjoy Painting Art

For a unique artistic experience, delve into the world of painting art with your feet through a digital light canvas. The concept of “painting art with your feet” comes to life as you step onto an LED floor that responds to your every movement and footfall.

The Digital Light Canvas at Marina Bay Sands offers an array of captivating features:
Creating Personalized Messages: Craft your personalized messages on the LED floor, transforming it into a medium for your artistic expression.
Simulated Fireworks: With the aid of your smartphone, trigger simulated fireworks displays on the luminous canvas, adding an element of spectacle to your artistic endeavors.
Calligraphic Art with Your Feet: Unleash your creativity by using your feet to generate calligraphic art on this interactive canvas, allowing your movements to manifest as visually stunning creations. aRes Travel: Discounted Vacation packages & Travel Planning

For a more serene and immersive experience, consider visiting between Sunday and Thursday when there are fewer visitors. You can find this intriguing installation at Marina Bay Sands, precisely at The Shoppes, Canal Level, B2, Singapore 018956. Operational hours range from 11:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Sundays through Thursdays and extend from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays, and Public Holiday Eves. Admission for adults is SGD5, while children below 2 years old can enter for free, making it an inclusive and accessible artistic adventure.

4. Enjoy The Spectra Light & Water Show

The Spectra Light & Water Show is a dazzling and captivating experience that should not be missed when visiting Marina Bay Sands. This remarkable show combines the enchantment of colorful lasers and stunning visual projections that dance gracefully across the surface of the water. It serves as a fantastic way to conclude your evening at Marina Bay Sands, leaving you in awe of the breathtaking display of lights and water.

As the show unfolds, you may be treated to an orchestral soundtrack that enhances the sensory experience, provided you are close enough to hear it. One of the remarkable aspects of the Spectra Light & Water Show is its accessibility; you can enjoy it from virtually any vantage point around the Marina Bay Sands complex, making it a convenient and must-see attraction.

For those interested in attending, the show takes place at 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018956. The showtimes are as follows:

Sunday through Thursday: 8:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.
Friday and Saturday: 8:00 p.m., 9:00 p.m., and 10:00 p.m.
Best of all, admission to the Spectra Light & Water Show is free, making it an accessible and delightful experience for all.

5. Ride on a Sampan

Embarking on a Sampan Ride is a delightful and tranquil excursion that takes you along the charming canal within The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands. These traditional Chinese wooden boats offer a serene and leisurely way to unwind after a day of shopping and exploration.

As you glide along the water, take in the picturesque views of the gleaming storefront displays that line the canal, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere. The Sampan Ride also includes a special feature as it circles around Rain Oculus, an environmentally conscious installation that collects rainwater to fill the canal. For a unique perspective, you can even observe the magnificent 22,000-liter hourly water cascade from a skylight located two floors above.

You’ll find the Sampan Rides located at B2, within The Shoppes, making it easily accessible to visitors looking to add a touch of tranquility to their Marina Bay Sands experience.

6. Visit ArtScience Museum

The ArtScience Museum, situated within the iconic Marina Bay Sands integrated resort, is a one-of-a-kind institution that seamlessly melds art, science, culture, and technology. It proudly holds the distinction of being the world’s first ArtScience museum, setting the stage for groundbreaking exhibitions that challenge conventional boundaries. Compensair: A service that helps customers receive compensation for flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding

This unique museum, inaugurated on February 17, 2011, by Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, offers visitors an extraordinary array of exhibitions. These exhibitions often represent a harmonious fusion of diverse disciplines, creating thought-provoking and enlightening experiences. While the museum occasionally hosts permanent displays at the ArtScience Gallery, it primarily showcases visiting exhibitions curated by other esteemed institutions from around the world.

A visit to the ArtScience Museum promises a journey of discovery and enlightenment, where you can explore the intersection of creativity, science, and culture within the striking architecture of Marina Bay Sands.

7. Light Canvas Digital

Light Canvas Digital is a captivating digital playground that beckons visitors with its mesmerizing fusion of art and technology. This immersive experience allows you to become an active participant in a dazzling display of creativity and innovation.

As you step onto the LED floor, you have the opportunity to create calligraphic art using your feet, watching in wonder as virtual flowers bloom and transform beneath your every step. Additionally, you can relax and gaze downward as hundreds of digital fish swim gracefully beneath your feet, while flocks of birds soar majestically through a 14-meter-high light sculpture overhead.

One of the unique features of Light Canvas Digital is the ability to craft personalized messages that can be displayed on the LED floor, creating a special and memorable experience for special occasions. What’s more, these messages are often accompanied by a breathtaking display of fireworks within the captivating light sculpture.

This immersive digital playground is a collaborative creation with teamLab, the renowned Japanese art collective responsible for the captivating “Future World: Where Art Meets Science” exhibition at the ArtScience Museum. To embark on this mesmerizing journey, head to The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, specifically B2-50, and prepare to be enchanted by the wonders of Light Canvas Digital. Travel essentials, accessories, kit & items on Amazon

8. Singapore’s Gardens By The Bay: A Nighttime Extravaganza

Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay is an enchanting destination that beckons visitors to explore beyond the renowned Marina Bay Sands. Nestled in the heart of Marina Bay, this park is a testament to human creativity and innovation, boasting a stunning array of attractions that promise to captivate your senses.

Supertree Grove: Towering Marvels of Greenery

One of the park’s most iconic features is the Supertree Grove, a collection of imposing tree-like structures that soar to staggering heights of up to 50 meters. These man-made marvels are not just visually striking but also serve vital environmental functions by housing a diverse range of plants and showcasing sustainable design.

Flower Dome: A Botanical Wonderland

Step into the captivating world of the Flower Dome, a glass greenhouse brimming with an astounding variety of flowers and plants. This botanical paradise offers a sensory feast, with a kaleidoscope of colors and fragrances that transport you to different corners of the globe.

Cloud Forest: A Tropical Oasis with a Twist

Marvel at the awe-inspiring 35-meter man-made waterfall in the Cloud Forest, an indoor wonderland that replicates a high-altitude tropical forest. This immersive experience takes you on a journey through misty landscapes, lush vegetation, and an otherworldly ambiance.

Dazzling Light Show: Nighttime Splendor

Make sure to time your visit right, as every evening from 7:45 p.m. to 8:45 p.m., the Gardens by the Bay treats visitors to a captivating light display. As the sun sets, the Supertrees come to life with a mesmerizing symphony of lights and music, turning the park into a fairy-tale wonderland.

OCBS Skyway: A Bird’s-Eye Adventure

For an elevated perspective of this enchanting garden, don’t miss the OCBS Skyway, a 22-meter-high walkway that allows you to stroll amidst the towering Supertrees. The panoramic views of the cityscape and the illuminated Supertrees are truly breathtaking, making this a must-visit attraction.

The Best Time to Visit: Nighttime Magic

While the Gardens by the Bay is a captivating destination at any time of day, the true magic comes alive at night. The bright lights, the enchanting atmosphere, and the surreal beauty of the Supertrees illuminated against the night sky make a nighttime visit the ideal choice. Traveloka: Southeast Asia’s Leading Travel Platform. Best prices for hotels, flights, buses, trains, & attractions

Practical Information:

Address: 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953.
Operating Hours: The park is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., while the outdoor gardens welcome visitors daily from 5:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.

9. Visit Merlion Park: the Iconic Symbol of Singapore

Merlion Park is a quintessential Singaporean landmark and a must-visit destination located near One Fullerton in the heart of Singapore’s bustling Central Business District. This park is synonymous with Singapore’s identity, proudly showcasing the iconic Merlion statue, which has become a symbol of the city-state.

The Merlion: A Legendary Creature

At the heart of Merlion Park stands the majestic Merlion, a mythical creature that features a lion’s head and a fish’s body. This remarkable sculpture serves as both Singapore’s emblem and its national personification, embodying the spirit of this vibrant metropolis.

Two Merlion Statues: A Tale of Two Icons

Merlion Park is home to not one, but two Merlion sculptures. The original Merlion, standing at a towering 8.6 meters in height, gracefully spouts water from its mouth into the picturesque Marina Bay. Its iconic presence has long been a symbol of Singapore’s unique blend of nature and modernity. Joining this legendary figure is the Merlion cub, a charming sculpture standing at a more modest 2 meters in height. The cub adds a delightful touch to the park and pays homage to the Merlion’s enduring legacy.

A visit to Merlion Park is not only an opportunity to witness a national icon but also a chance to take in breathtaking views of the city’s skyline and the tranquil waters of Marina Bay. Whether you’re capturing the perfect photograph, taking a leisurely stroll along the promenade, or simply basking in the symbolism of this extraordinary creature, Merlion Park offers a quintessential Singaporean experience.