Clarke Quay

Clarke Quay is a riverside area on the Singapore River, a short walk from the city centre. Rows of old warehouses here have been restored and painted in bright colours. Today they hold restaurants, bars, shops and event spaces. It is free to walk around, and the riverside is pleasant by day and lively at night.

This guide covers what to see, how to get there, and where to eat and stay nearby.

What is Clarke Quay and why visit

A quay is a place where boats load and unload goods. In the 1800s and early 1900s, this stretch of the river was busy with trade. Small boats called bumboats carried goods between ships at sea and the warehouses on the banks. The area is named after Sir Andrew Clarke, a governor of the Straits Settlements in the 1870s.

As trade moved away from the river, the old warehouses fell quiet. They were later restored and turned into a place to eat and relax. Visitors come for the riverside setting, the evening lights and the wide choice of places to eat. It is also a good starting point for a walk along the river. See our list of free things to do for more ideas like this.

What to see and do at Clarke Quay

Most people simply walk, eat and watch the river go by. Here are the main things to enjoy.

• Riverside walk: Follow the paths along both banks. Walk upstream to Robertson Quay, or downstream towards Boat Quay and Marina Bay.
• River cruise: Boats stop at a jetty here. A Singapore River Cruise is an easy way to see the skyline from the water.
• Old warehouses: Look at the restored buildings, with their shuttered windows and colourful walls.
• Bridges: Several bridges cross the river here. Read Bridge, a footbridge, gives good views both ways.
• Evening lights: After dark, the buildings and the river are lit up. It is a popular time for photos.

Shops, restaurants and bars change over time. Check the official Clarke Quay website for current places and events.

Nightlife at Clarke Quay

This is one of the best-known nightlife areas in Singapore. There are bars, live music venues and restaurants that stay open late. Many places get busier as the evening goes on, especially on Fridays and Saturdays.

You do not need to drink to enjoy it. Plenty of visitors come just for dinner and a walk by the water. If you do go out, drink in moderation and plan how you will get back to your hotel. Our Nightlife page and guide to clubs and live music list more places to try.

How to get to Clarke Quay

The easiest way is by MRT. Clarke Quay MRT station on the North East Line is a short walk away. Fort Canning MRT station on the Downtown Line is also close. If you are new to the trains, read our guide on how to use the MRT in Singapore.

You can also walk along the river from Boat Quay or the Civic District. Taxis and ride-hailing cars can drop you off nearby.

Tips for visiting Clarke Quay

• Come in the late afternoon, walk by the river as it cools down, then stay for dinner.
• Bring an umbrella. Some walkways are covered, but rain showers are common.
• Weekends are the busiest. Visit on a weekday evening for a quieter time.
• Check menus and prices before you sit down, as they vary a lot between places.
• Wear light clothes and drink plenty of water, as it is warm and humid all year.

Food and things to do nearby

There are many places to eat in and around the area. In the wider City Hall area, try Wooloomooloo Steakhouse for steaks. For more choice, see our list of restaurants in City Hall and Clarke Quay.

Fort Canning Park is on the hill just behind. Visit Fort Canning Park for shady paths and history. Inside the park, The Battlebox is a former underground command centre from the Second World War.

To stay nearby, Hotel Fort Canning and Pullman Singapore Hill Street are both close. Browse more hotels in City Hall and Clarke Quay, or read our guide to Clarke Quay and Robertson Quay.

FAQs about Clarke Quay

Is Clarke Quay free to visit?

Yes. Walking around Clarke Quay is free. You only pay for food, drinks, cruises or other activities.

What is the nearest MRT station to Clarke Quay?

Clarke Quay MRT station on the North East Line is the closest. Fort Canning MRT station on the Downtown Line is also a short walk away.

When is the best time to visit Clarke Quay?

Late afternoon into the evening is best. It is cooler, the lights come on and the restaurants are open.

Is Clarke Quay good for families?

Yes, especially in the early evening. Children can enjoy the riverside walk and a boat ride. Later at night, the area is more about bars and music.