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Children's Museum Singapore: Singapore Philatelic Museum

Photo: Elisa.rolle, CC BY-SA 4.0, cropped

Ticketed · City Hall & Clarke Quay

Children's Museum Singapore

A hands-on museum for young children in the Civic District, set in a heritage building close to Fort Canning Park.

About Children's Museum Singapore

Children's Museum Singapore is a hands-on museum made for young children and their families. It is in the Civic District, close to Fort Canning Park. Kids can play, explore and learn about the world around them through games and interactive displays.

The museum is in the heritage building that was once home to the Singapore Philatelic Museum, a stamp museum that opened in 1995. It is a good choice for a half-day out with small children.

Why visit Children's Museum Singapore

Most museums ask children to look but not touch. Here, touching is part of the fun. Many displays invite kids to try things with their hands. Parents can join in or simply watch as children find their own way.

The galleries help children learn about Singapore and the wider world in a gentle way. The building is compact, so it is easy to get around with young children. Check the official website to see which exhibitions are on during your visit.

What to see and do

The galleries can change over time, so check what is on before you go. A typical visit includes:

Children's Museum Singapore: Philatelic Museum
Children's Museum Singapore: Philatelic Museum. Photo: Marcin Konsek, CC BY-SA 4.0
  • Hands-on galleries: rooms full of things to touch, open, move and try.
  • Play spaces: areas where younger children can build, explore and pretend.
  • Stories about Singapore: displays that show local life and history in a simple way.
  • Programmes and workshops: crafts, storytelling and family activities on some days.

Older children may move through the rooms quickly, while toddlers often want to stay in one space for a long time. Let your child set the pace. There is no need to see everything in one visit.

How to get to Children's Museum Singapore

The museum is on Coleman Street, next to the Armenian Church and close to Fort Canning Park. City Hall MRT station is within walking distance. See our guide on how to use the MRT in Singapore for help with cards and lines.

Taxis and ride-hailing cars can also drop you nearby. This is often easier if you are carrying bags or travelling with very young children.

Tips for visiting

  • Check the official Children's Museum Singapore website for opening hours and tickets.
  • Book ahead if you can, as entry may be by timed session and slots can fill up.
  • Pack water and a small snack for after your visit.
  • Go early in the day, when children have the most energy.
  • Plan a rest stop afterwards, such as a stroll in Fort Canning Park.

Food and things to do nearby

The museum sits among many of the city's top sights. Fort Canning Park has lawns, gardens and shady paths for a run-around after your visit. The Peranakan Museum and the National Museum of Singapore are both a short walk away. Later in the day, a Singapore River Cruise is a relaxing way to end the day.

For lunch, there are many choices in nearby malls and along the river. Browse restaurants in City Hall and Clarke Quay for more ideas. Families who want to stay close can look at Swissôtel The Stamford or other hotels in City Hall and Clarke Quay.

For more ideas, read things to do with kids in Singapore, our family travel guides, and our family fun list.

FAQs about Children's Museum Singapore

What ages is Children's Museum Singapore best for?

It is made for young children and their families. Toddlers and primary school children usually get the most out of it.

Do I need to book in advance?

It is wise to book. Check the official website for tickets, time slots and opening hours.

How long does a visit take?

Most families spend one to two hours inside.

Is it busy on weekends?

Weekends and school holidays tend to be busier. Weekday mornings are usually calmer.

Highlights

  • Hands-on galleries
  • Play spaces for kids
  • Stories about Singapore
  • Family workshops
  • Heritage building

Insider tips

  • Check the official website for opening hours and tickets.
  • Book ahead, as entry may be by timed session.
  • Go early in the day while children have the most energy.
  • Follow your visit with a walk in Fort Canning Park.
Children's Museum Singapore: The Singapore Philatelic Museum, along Coleman Street in Singapore

Photo: Gadrian7604, CC BY-SA 3.0, cropped

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