Like us, you may have heard that Singapore can be expensive. Indeed it can be for accommodation, but when it comes to activities, this city-state has it covered! We were shocked to be able to see not one but TWO absolutely FREE light shows in Singapore, that you can see within an hour of each other, for the perfect romantic night out!

The evening starts off at the incredible Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay, getting there nice and early to secure a spot lying down beneath the giant trees. The Garden Rhapsody Light Show starts at 7.45pm, lasts around 15 minutes, giving you an hour to get a good spot on the bay for the incredible 9pm Spectra Light Show at Marina Bay Sands. In between that you get to cross a highway on an incredible bridge, walk through the famous MBS Resort, including its impressive The Shoppes Mall, complete with its own Changi Airport style 'mini Jewel' water fountain.

In this post, we will tell you a little bit about Singapore's incredible Gardens by the Bay, which is a must-see in itself, and also offers many free activities. We will then show you some of our Garden Rhapsody Light Show highlights, along with how to get to the Spectra Light Show from there, and what to expect once you get to Marina Bay Sands. Oh and just so you know, if you prefer video highlights, we have that covered too!

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Explore Gardens by the Bay with Klook

Enter directly with your Klook voucher and have access to waterfront gardens and the cooled conservatories. Get discounts and combo deals for other park attractions including Dream Forest and Flower Garden.

What is Gardens by the Bay in Singapore?

Gardens by the Bay's story is one of vision, innovation, and a deep love for nature. It's a tale that stretches back to 2005, when Singapore's Prime Minister, Lee Hsien Loong, dreamt of transforming the city from a "Garden City" to a "City in a Garden." He envisioned a green oasis amidst the urban jungle, a space that would boost environmental sustainability, enhance quality of life, and become a national icon.

In 2007, the seeds of this futuristic Eden were sown. Supertrees, the now-iconic vertical gardens, rose from the ground, their steel skeletons soon adorned with a vibrant tapestry of plants. Cooled conservatories, the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome, were constructed, promising journeys into fantastical ecosystems. Every element, from the cascading waterfalls to the intricate walkways, was meticulously designed to celebrate nature and its vital role in a thriving city.

At the heart of Gardens by the Bay lies the iconic Supertree Grove, a mesmerizing forest of 18 steel giants reaching towards the heavens. These aren't your average trees, though. These are marvels of innovation and beauty, blending nature and technology like a futuristic fairy tale. Supertrees range from 25 to 50 meters tall, dwarfing visitors and offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Gardens and beyond.

But these titans aren't just empty shells. Their "skin" is adorned with a breathtaking vertical garden, housing over 162,900 plants of more than 200 species. Bromeliads, orchids, ferns, and flowering climbers weave a tapestry of life across the steel skeleton, creating a stunning ecosystem in the sky.

These aren't just aesthetic marvels; they're champions of sustainability. Seven of the Supertrees are equipped with photovoltaic cells, harvesting solar energy to power the Gardens' lighting and irrigation systems. Others function as air exhausts for the cooled conservatories, contributing to the Gardens' efficient climate control.

The best part is that much if the site is completely FREE to walk around, relax and chill! There are a plethora of monuments, themed parks, exhibits and leisure areas too. This is THE place to be in Singapore, especially if you only have limited time and a tight budget!

Interested to know more? Take a closer look at Gardens by the Bay with all you need to know including our highlights, find out how to get to the Gardens by the Bay, a bit of its history, the things you need to know before visiting, and our experience rating.

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The Garden Rhapsody Light & Sound Show

So now that you know about Gardens by the Bay, lets get to know the epic Garden Rhapsody Light Show. A breathtaking display of lights, music, and technology set amidst the lush greenery of one of Singapore's most iconic attractions, this is a must-see. Here's everything you need to know about this enchanting spectacle!

⪢ Location: The Garden Rhapsody Light Show takes place at Gardens by the Bay, a sprawling nature park located in the heart of Singapore. The show specifically occurs in the Supertree Grove, where towering vertical gardens known as Supertrees stand.

⪢ Schedule: The show typically runs twice nightly, with the first showing starting around 7:45 PM and the second around 8:45 PM.

⪢ Duration: Each performance of Garden Rhapsody lasts for approximately 15 minutes, during which the Supertrees come alive with a dazzling display of lights and music.

⪢ Themes: The show features different themes throughout the year, ranging from seasonal celebrations to collaborations with renowned artists and musicians. These themes often incorporate elements of nature, technology, and Singaporean culture, creating a visually stunning and immersive experience for the audience.

⪢ Technology: The Garden Rhapsody Light Show utilizes cutting-edge lighting and projection technology to illuminate the Supertrees in a mesmerizing array of colors and patterns. Synchronized to an evocative soundtrack, the lights dance across the Supertrees, creating a harmonious blend of music and visual artistry.

⪢ Free Admission: Similar to the Spectra Light Show, Garden Rhapsody is free for all visitors to Gardens by the Bay, making it accessible to both locals and tourists.

⪢ Crowd Experience: The Supertree Grove can get quite crowded during the show, especially on weekends and holidays. Arriving early can help you secure a good spot for viewing the spectacle, whether you prefer to watch from directly beneath the Supertrees or from a distance.

⪢ Best Viewing Spots: While the entire Supertree Grove offers excellent vantage points for viewing the show, some of the best spots include the viewing deck at the OCBC Skyway, which provides a bird's-eye view of the illuminated Supertrees, as well as the ground-level viewing areas surrounding the grove.

⪢ Additional Tips: It's a good idea to arrive at Gardens by the Bay well before the showtime to explore the park's other attractions, such as the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest conservatories.

The Garden Rhapsody Light Show at Gardens by the Bay offers a magical experience that combines nature, art, and technology in a unique and unforgettable way. Whether you're a first-time visitor to Singapore or a seasoned traveler, this enchanting spectacle is sure to leave you awestruck!

If, like us you go for the 7.45pm showing, you will be able to comfortably make the Spectra Light Show at 9pm, via The Shoppes Mall in Marina Bay Sands. Much of the crowd will most likely be doing the same thing! It is an impressive walk, with plenty of awesome photo opportunities taking the bridge out of Gardens by the Bay, over the highway that cuts across the lit skyscrapers of the Singapore cityscape, and into the architectural marvel that is the famous hotel itself.

Take a closer look at our walk through the mall in the next section, before we get to the marvel that is the Spectra Light and Water Show!

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Dive into Luxury & Dazzling Delights: Exploring The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands

Imagine strolling through a shopping paradise bathed in the glow of Singapore's skyline. Picture iconic luxury brands lining opulent avenues, all accessible from the comfort of a world-class resort. That's the magic of The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, a retail wonderland that is every bit as fashionable as the stores themselves.

The bridge over the highway leads straight into the mall, and the entrance is impressive. It brings you out at the upper level, so you get to see the full spectacle of the mall itself. It has been designed to impress, and will have you looking all over the place at the sparkly signs and interesting features, such as the canal that runs through the middle of it!

While only here for a short time as we were passing through to grab a good spot for the light show, we immediately knew it was worth coming back to check out further! We hope you do too. Here are a few things you can expect at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands:

⪢ Step into a Fashion Fairy-tale: Prepare to be dazzled by over 170 luxury boutiques, each housing the crème de la crème of fashion. Think Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton – the list goes on! Witness the architectural marvel of the world's only floating Louis Vuitton Island Maison, or marvel at the unique Apple store, entirely surrounded by water. It's a feast for the eyes, even if your wallet begs to differ!

⪢ Beyond Retail Bliss: The Shoppes is more than just designer labels. Indulge in a culinary adventure with over 200 restaurants and cafes, from Michelin-starred delights to casual bites. Craving dim sum with a view? Or perhaps a sky-high cocktail overlooking the city lights? The Shoppes caters to every palate and mood.

⪢ A Jewel of a Fountain: Before you enter the shopping haven, don't miss the mesmerizing Jewel, a captivating rain vortex cascading through a seven-story atrium. It's a free, Instagram-worthy spectacle that sets the stage for your luxurious adventure. If you are coming from Gardens by the Bay entrance, you will find it at the opposite end as you walk in.

⪢ Effortless Connectivity: The Shoppes seamlessly connects to the Bayfront MRT station, making it easily accessible from anywhere in Singapore. No need to worry about taxis or navigating traffic – just hop on the train and be whisked away to your shopping haven.

⪢ Foodie Paradise: From casual food courts to celebrity chef restaurants, The Shoppes caters to every craving. Indulge in Michelin-starred delights at Beni Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar, savor authentic Italian fare at Spago by Wolfgang Puck, or grab a quick bite at the many food courts offering local and international cuisine.

Oh and a quick shout out to TWG Tea on the Bay for this epic store! We both love tea, and when we saw this place we were hugely impressed with its stunning appearance! What a great store! If you are a tea lover like us, you are going to want to check this place out.

The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands is more than just a shopping mall; it's an experience. It's a chance to indulge in luxury, savor world-class cuisine, and marvel at architectural wonders. So pack your bags (and your credit card!), and get ready to embark on a shopping adventure you'll never forget!

Bonus Tip: Check out The Shoppes' website for exclusive deals, events, and a directory of all the amazing stores and restaurants waiting to be explored!

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Spectra - A Light & Water Show

The Spectra Light Show in Singapore is a captivating audio-visual extravaganza that takes place along the iconic Marina Bay waterfront. It's one of the city-state's most popular tourist attractions, drawing visitors from around the world to witness its mesmerizing display of lights, music, and water effects.

Here's a breakdown of what you can expect from the Spectra Light Show:

⪢ Location: The show is staged at the Event Plaza along the promenade of Marina Bay Sands, next to the Apple Store on the bay.

⪢ Schedule: Spectra typically runs nightly, with multiple showings at 8pm and 9pm each evening.

⪢ Duration: The show lasts for approximately 15 minutes, immersing the audience in a spellbinding journey through a symphony of lights, water jets, and music.

⪢ Themes: Spectra weaves together various themes, including Singapore's rich cultural heritage, its modern skyline, and themes of harmony and unity. The show's narrative unfolds through a seamless fusion of light, water, and sound elements, creating a multisensory experience.

⪢ Technology: The show employs state-of-the-art lighting, projection, and water fountain technology to create stunning visual effects. Marina Bay's skyline becomes the canvas for a dynamic display of colors, patterns, and imagery, synchronized perfectly with an evocative soundtrack.

⪢ Free Admission: One of the most appealing aspects of Spectra is that it is entirely free to attend, making it accessible to locals and tourists alike. This makes it a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Singapore, offering a world-class entertainment experience without any cost.

⪢ Crowd Experience: Given its popularity, the area around Marina Bay Sands can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons or on weekends. Arriving a bit early can help secure a good viewing spot.

⪢ Best Viewing Spots: Optimal viewing spots for Spectra include the Event Plaza itself, as well as the adjacent Helix Bridge and the promenade along Marina Bay Sands. Each vantage point offers a unique perspective on the show, allowing visitors to enjoy it from different angles.

⪢ Weather: It's advisable to check the weather forecast before heading out, as the show may be canceled in the event of adverse weather conditions, or you may need an umbrella.

⪢ Food & drinks: Bringing along some snacks and drinks is a good idea, as there is not a great deal of options for buying food that in this area. Plus you won't want to lose your spot!

The Spectra Light Show in Singapore offers a captivating blend of artistry, technology, and storytelling, providing visitors with an unforgettable sensory experience against the backdrop of one of the world's most stunning urban landscapes. And the fact that it's free makes it all the more appealing, especially if you are budget-conscious traveler looking to make the most of your time in the Lion City!

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How to get from Gardens by the Bay to Spectra Light Show in Singapore

For some reason we could not get the map to go through The Shoppes Mall at Marina Bay Sands, but as you can see you can walk across the Marina Bay Overpass Viewing Point and through the mall to get to the Spectra Light & Water Show. This only takes around 15 minutes, so you will have time to browse around the mall if you want to.

Note that the city metro runs right beneath The Shoppes, so getting home after is just as smooth sailing!

Show Start Times: Garden Rhapsody Light & Sound Show happens twice nightly, at 7.45pm and 8.45pm. The show lasts around 15 minutes.

The Spectra Light Show also happens twice nightly, at 8pm and 9pm. The show lasts around 15 minutes.

Websites:

gardensbythebay.com.sg | marinabaysands.com/attractions/spectra

Explore Gardens by the Bay with Klook

Enter directly with your Klook voucher and have access to waterfront gardens and the cooled conservatories. Get discounts and combo deals for other park attractions including Dream Forest and Flower Garden.

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Our first impressions of Singapore on YouTube (including light show highlights)

In this video, we show you our first impressions of Chinatown, eat at the famous Hawker Chan at the Chinatown Complex Hawker area, we take the MRT and learn the transport system in Singapore and of course we had to walk along the water and explore Gardens by the Bay.

We also check out the city at night! We visit the tree light show AND the epic water fountain show! A must-do when in the city! We did SO much in our first day! Come and explore with us!

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Our Garden Rhapsody & Spectra Light Show experience rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5

Both of these events are absolutely worth seeing in their own right! Lying under the stars and trees of Supertree Grove, watching the dazzling lights and soaking up the carefully choreographed lights for fifteen minutes along with hundreds of other people. What is not to like! Then to walk on through the dazzling Marina Bay Sands hotel, only then to watch a free water light and laser show that almost felt like a concert. Honestly, we could have paid for both and still been happy! Absolutely a must-see in Singapore. The pair of them!

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Your FREE interactive map of Singapore

Check out all of the places we visited in Singapore courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more.

Wanderlog is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use!

Explore Singapore with special offers from Klook

Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of Singapore. Whether you're looking for a river cruise, a zip line adventure or even an iFly experience, Klook has it all. In addition to their wide selection of tours, Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities.

All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of Singapore. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience!

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First time in Singapore? Check out our comprehensive guide with all you need to know including our latest posts, must-see places, and key information about health & safety, transport, local customs, connectivity, visa information, useful links and much more!