Rainy Day Guides

Things to do in Singapore when it rains

Rain is part of daily life in Singapore, so the city is built for it. There are plenty of things to do in Singapore when it rains, from large museums to cooled indoor gardens. Many malls link straight to MRT stations, and covered walkways connect much of the centre. With a little planning, a storm is just a reason to head indoors for a while.

How the rain works

Singapore gets rain in every month. Showers are often short and heavy, with thunder and lightning. Afternoon and early evening storms are common. The wettest months are usually November to January, around the start of the northeast monsoon. A monsoon is a seasonal wind pattern that brings more rain. Long wet spells do happen, but many rainy days still have dry breaks.

Museums and galleries

Museums are the classic rainy-day choice. Several sit close together in the Civic District, the old colonial centre near the Singapore River.

• National Museum of Singapore: the country's story told through objects, photos and displays.
• National Gallery Singapore: Singapore and Southeast Asian art in the former Supreme Court and City Hall buildings.
• Asian Civilisations Museum: art and trade objects from across Asia, beside the river.
• Peranakan Museum: Peranakan culture, a local blend of Chinese, Malay and other traditions.
• ArtScience Museum: changing exhibitions in a lotus-shaped building at Marina Bay.

With children, try the Children's Museum Singapore or the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum, known for its dinosaur skeletons. For more ideas, see Museums & Galleries.

Indoor attractions and gardens

• Jewel Changi Airport: a glass-domed mall at the airport, with the Rain Vortex indoor waterfall and an indoor forest. Entry to the main area is free.
• Gardens by the Bay: the Flower Dome and the Cloud Forest are cooled glass domes, so the weather does not matter. Both need a ticket.
• The Battlebox: a former underground wartime command centre, shown on guided tours.
• Madame Tussauds Singapore: a wax figure museum on Sentosa.
• Singapore City Gallery: a free gallery about how the city is planned, with a large model of the city.

Malls, markets and food

Shopping malls are where many locals wait out a storm. Orchard Road is lined with malls, and several around Orchard MRT station link to each other underground. Mustafa Centre in Little India is a large department store that sells almost everything. For more, see Shopping Malls.

Food is the other easy answer. Hawker centres have roofs and fans, so you can eat well while the rain falls. A hawker centre is a large food court of small, low-cost stalls. Try Tekka Centre in Little India or Chinatown Complex Food Centre. Many malls also have large food courts in their basements.

Getting around in the rain

• Use the MRT. Trains run in all weather, and many stations link into malls. Read How to Use the MRT in Singapore: A Tourist Guide.
• Follow covered walkways. See Singapore Areas With Covered Walkways to the MRT.
• Carry a small umbrella. It also helps in strong sun.
• Bring a light layer. Air-conditioning indoors can feel cold.
• Book taxis early. Ride-hailing apps get busy in heavy rain, and fares can rise.
• Respect lightning warnings. Pools, beaches and some outdoor rides may close until a storm passes.

FAQs about rainy day activities in Singapore

What can I do in Singapore when it rains?

Visit a museum, the domes at Gardens by the Bay, Jewel Changi Airport or the malls on Orchard Road. Hawker centres are covered, so you can still try local food.

How long does rain usually last in Singapore?

Many showers last an hour or less, though some storms run longer. Check the rain map from the Meteorological Service Singapore to see what is coming.

Which months are the rainiest in Singapore?

November to January are usually the wettest months. Rain falls all year, though, so pack an umbrella whenever you travel. Also see Weather & Best Time to Visit.

Are Singapore attractions open when it rains?

Indoor attractions stay open. Some outdoor rides, shows and pools pause during lightning, then reopen once it passes.

Is Jewel Changi Airport worth visiting on a rainy day?

Yes. It is fully indoors, the main area is free, and the Rain Vortex is easy to reach from the airport terminals.