9 Things To Do At Marina Bay For Dates Under $15 Per Person

Last Updated on 2020-01-24 , 10:45 pm

So, you want to take your partner to one of Singapore’s most iconic areas for a day but don’t want to break your bank.

Marina Bay is known for its modern architecture, luxury hotels, celebrity restaurants and bars with panoramic views.

For below $15, you will not be doing any of that.

Instead here’s what you can experience with your significant other while on a tight budget.

1. Fun transportation: the River Taxi

You’ve definitely seen these bumboats cruising around the Singapore River but how many of us actually thought to try them out?

The River Cruises that take up 40 minutes of your time to show you sights you’re probably already familiar with probably isn’t as suitable for old and jaded locals.

But if you’re planning to travel between the following 5 stops anyway: Esplanade, Boat Quay, Clarke Quay, Clemenceau and Robertson Quay, why not take a slower more scenic route with your loved one by hopping on a River Taxi for $5?

More details here.

2. Gardens by the Bay

We cannot miss Gardens by the Bay if we’re talking about nice and affordable places to visit in Marina Bay.

You can take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful outdoor gardens like the Supertree Grove, Heritage Gardens, World of Plants at absolutely no expenses at all.

If you want a cooler environment though, visit the indoor, air-conditioned domes Flower Dome, Cloud Forest and the brand new Floral Fantasy!

More details here.

3. ArtScience Museum

It’s famous for its unique architecture, and its interior is definitely another spectacle.

Currently, the exhibits being shown are Wonderland, Future World: Where Art Meets Science and REWILD Our Planet and these are, oops, $19 each for Singaporean aduts.

But true to our word, there is a 4th exhibit, Into The Wild: An Immersive Virtual Adventure, that is under $15, specifically free.

More details on the exhibits here, and the prices here.

4. Merlion

This cheesy and overly patriotic statue is more of a tourist thing right but hear me out, there is a pleasant terraced seating area that serves as a good picnic spot for your date.

As a plus point, the view across the bay is pretty great. And so is the fact that it’s totally free.

And speaking of picnic spots…

5. Marina Barrage

Don’t forget this national-dam-turned-attraction. While people do go there to learn about its flood control scheme (like primary school children on excursions), the real star of the place is the rooftop park.

As mentioned, you can spread your mat and eat finger food here, or you can take advantage of the elevated platform, unobstructed skies and strong sea breeze to go kite flying with your partner. After all, many people do.

6. The Helix Bridge

For more spots to just sit or walk and enjoy each other’s company, check out this bridge.

It’s especially worth crossing at night when it’s all lighted up.

7. Spectra – A Light & Water Show

You could see this as an upgrade from the free picnic spots, bridges and fountains, here’s a free nightly show at the Event Plaza.

9. Digital Light Canvas

At basement 2 of Marina Bay Sands, there used to be a synthetic ice rink, where I suppose you could have bonded with your date like this.

(But probably not.)

Now there is an interactive circular digital light display on the floor and a light installation hanging from the ceiling.

You can interact with the light installation by scanning a QR code near the exhibit or logging in to the free Wi-fi in the mall and accessing a webpage that would allow you set off virtual fireworks or put up the ornaments by swiping them onto the light installation.

You can also pay $5 to walk on the LED floor, and watch the individually controlled LED lights sparkle with your footsteps and movement, painting flowers and fishes with your behaviour.

According to The Straits Times, the founder of the company which created the art installation hopes to transform the relationship between people in the same space with the Digital Light Canvas, which sounds apt for a date.

9. And Lastly, Sanpan Rides

Venice, the most romantic city is known for its gondolas rides along its canals. It’s a bucket list item for many couples.

But you, who is reading a list on how to stinge on your experiences within the country, probably shouldn’t be daydreaming about that.

Instead, meet the local knock-off:

You get to ride on a Chinese wooden boat along the Canal at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands.

You may think that sitting on a boat that is slowly making its way through a bustling mall as curious shoppers watch isn’t the most romantic thing. You’re probably right. But it’s also only $10 as compared to the real thing so it’s quite a steal.

More details here.

You don’t need money 

Really, all you need is good company and a walk through Marina Bay itself (without all the detours) can be a great night out. And…

Oh, who am I kidding, the company is good but what’s even better is having enough cash to enjoy those luxurious restaurants or rooftop bars with said company.

Have a great week ahead!