Spectacular Rooftop Bars: Cocktails with a View
Singapore's dramatic skyline serves as the perfect backdrop for some of Asia's most impressive rooftop bars. These elevated venues offer craft cocktails, gourmet bites, and unmatched panoramic views of the city.
1. CE LA VI
Perched atop the iconic Marina Bay Sands, CE LA VI delivers an unparalleled 360-degree view of Singapore's skyline, Marina Bay, and the South China Sea. The combination of a restaurant, club lounge, and sky bar makes it perfect for transitioning from sunset cocktails to late-night dancing. Their signature cocktails incorporate Asian flavors, and the regular DJ sets maintain a sophisticated party atmosphere. Arrive before sunset to witness the city transform as daylight fades and the urban landscape lights up.
2. Mr Stork at Andaz Singapore
Located on the 39th floor of Andaz Singapore, Mr Stork offers a whimsical garden-in-the-sky concept complete with teepee-shaped seating areas scattered around a circular rooftop. The relaxed atmosphere makes it perfect for casual evening drinks while enjoying panoramic views of the Bugis district and beyond. Their tropical cocktails complement the laid-back environment, and the outdoor setting makes it an ideal spot for stargazing on clear nights.
3. 1-Altitude
Claiming the title of Singapore's highest rooftop bar at 282 meters above sea level, 1-Altitude spans three levels offering different experiences: the rooftop Gallery & Bar with 360-degree views, ALT Café & Bar for casual dining, and Stellar for fine dining. The energetic vibe, live music, and talented mixologists create a sophisticated yet fun atmosphere. While it's popular with tourists, plenty of locals frequent it for special occasions, attesting to its enduring appeal.
Club Scene: Where to Dance the Night Away
Singapore's club scene is surprisingly diverse, from mega-clubs hosting international DJs to underground venues with cutting-edge electronic music. Here's where to find your groove:
1. Zouk Singapore
An institution in Singapore's nightlife since 1991, Zouk consistently ranks among the world's best clubs. Now located in Clarke Quay, this super-club complex houses multiple venues, including the main Zouk room focused on EDM and commercial dance music, and Phuture, which showcases hip-hop and R&B. The state-of-the-art sound system and lighting create an immersive experience, while regular appearances by world-class DJs like Hardwell, Tiësto, and Armin van Buuren keep the energy high. Wednesday's Mambo Jambo night, featuring nostalgic hits from the 80s and 90s, has become a beloved tradition.
2. Marquee Singapore
Located within the Marina Bay Sands complex, Marquee made a splash when it opened in 2019 as Singapore's largest nightclub. The three-story venue features a fully operational eight-armed Ferris wheel offering photo opportunities with views over the dance floor, and a three-story slide for a playful entrance. With its impressive 70-foot-high ceiling and state-of-the-art Funktion-One DJ console and sound system, Marquee attracts top international DJs and creates an unforgettable clubbing experience.
3. Headquarters (HQ)
For those seeking an underground electronic music experience away from the mainstream clubs, HQ in Boat Quay is a hidden gem. This intimate venue focuses on quality house and techno music, with both local and international DJs spinning in a stripped-back, industrial-style space. The unpretentious atmosphere and serious focus on music rather than glitz have earned it a loyal following among electronic music enthusiasts.
Cultural Nights: Evening Entertainment with Local Flavor
Singapore's cultural diversity comes alive at night through performances, heritage activities, and illuminated cultural precincts:
1. Night Safari
The world's first nocturnal wildlife park offers a unique after-dark adventure. Board the tram for a 40-minute journey through six geographical zones, or explore the walking trails to get closer to the animals. The Creatures of the Night show demonstrates the natural abilities of nocturnal animals, while tribal performances add cultural context. For a more comprehensive experience, combine it with the Thumbuakar Performance, a mesmerizing fire show that takes place at the entrance before the park opens.
2. Gardens by the Bay Light Show
The futuristic Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay hosts the mesmerizing Garden Rhapsody light and sound show twice nightly at 7:45pm and 8:45pm. The 15-minute spectacle features the 50-meter-tall vertical gardens illuminated in choreographed harmony with music. For special occasions and festivals, the show adopts themed performances. The best viewing spot is from the OCBC Skyway, an elevated walkway connecting several Supertrees, though the ground view is equally impressive.
3. Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay
Singapore's premier performing arts center, affectionately known as "The Durian" due to its spiky exterior resembling the tropical fruit, hosts a range of evening performances spanning traditional Asian arts, contemporary dance, classical music, and theatrical productions. Check their calendar for free performances at the outdoor stage, which often feature local musicians and cultural troupes. The nighttime view of the illuminated building against the Marina Bay backdrop is also a spectacular sight.
Night Markets and Supper Spots: Late-Night Dining Culture
Singapore's food-obsessed culture doesn't sleep, with many dining options staying open late into the night. Experience the local supper culture at these hotspots:
1. Lau Pa Sat
This historic Victorian-era market transforms in the evening when Boon Tat Street closes to traffic and becomes "Satay Street." Dozens of vendors set up satay grills, filling the air with the mouthwatering aroma of skewered meat cooking over charcoal. Open until late, it's a favorite among office workers from the nearby financial district and visitors seeking authentic local flavors. Beyond satay, the indoor hawker center offers a wide range of local dishes, making it a perfect introduction to Singapore's legendary food scene.
2. Chinatown Food Street
Located on Smith Street in the heart of Chinatown, this sheltered food street features stalls serving local favorites like chili crab, Hainanese chicken rice, satay, and barbecued seafood. The vibrant atmosphere, with its red lanterns and heritage shophouses, provides a cultural backdrop to your meal. Many stalls stay open until midnight, making it a perfect stop after exploring Chinatown's night market, which operates until 11pm with vendors selling souvenirs, clothes, and trinkets.
3. Geylang Serai Night Market
During the month of Ramadan, Geylang Serai hosts Singapore's most vibrant night market, transforming the Malay cultural district into a bustling bazaar. While this is a seasonal event, the area's food establishments serve authentic Malay and Middle Eastern cuisine year-round, with many open late into the night. Signature dishes include nasi padang (rice served with multiple side dishes), murtabak (stuffed folded pancake), and sup tulang (bone marrow soup).
Quirky and Unique Nighttime Experiences
Beyond the typical bars and clubs, Singapore offers several unconventional evening activities:
1. Cocktail Adventures at Hidden Bars
Singapore's speakeasy scene has flourished in recent years, with hidden bars offering creative cocktails in secretive settings. Native in Amoy Street celebrates Asian spirits and ingredients in their innovative drinks, while The Other Room at Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel specializes in cask-finished spirits. For a truly hidden experience, seek out Operation Dagger, concealed in an unmarked basement with only an enigmatic overhead sign marking its location. Their avant-garde approach to mixology includes house-fermented ingredients and unexpected flavor combinations.
2. Late-Night Museum Visits
Several times a year, Singapore's museums extend their hours for special night events. The National Museum of Singapore's Night Festival typically occurs in August, featuring interactive installations, performances, and projection mappings on the museum's facade. Similarly, the Singapore Art Museum and ArtScience Museum occasionally host evening events with special programming. These night openings offer a different perspective on the exhibitions and often include additional entertainment and food options.
3. Marina Bay Night Cycling
Experience Singapore's iconic skyline on two wheels with a guided night cycling tour around Marina Bay. Companies like Let's Go Bike Singapore offer evening tours that take you through Marina Bay, Gardens by the Bay, and the Singapore Flyer area when the temperatures are cooler and the city is illuminated. The relaxed pace allows for photo opportunities, and guides provide insights into Singapore's remarkable urban development.
Practical Tips for Singapore Nightlife
Make the most of your evenings in Singapore with these helpful suggestions:
Transport Options
- MRT (subway) services run until approximately midnight, with the last train times varying by line and station
- Night buses (NightRider) operate on Friday, Saturday, and eve of public holidays, running from 11:30pm to 4:30am
- Taxis are plentiful but may apply a late-night surcharge of 50% from midnight to 6am
- Ride-hailing apps like Grab are widely used and often more convenient than hailing a street taxi
Dress Codes and Entry Policies
- Upscale clubs and bars often enforce dress codes (no shorts, flip-flops, or sleeveless shirts for men)
- Many exclusive venues prioritize a balanced gender ratio in groups
- Legal drinking age in Singapore is 18, but some venues have a 21+ or 23+ entry policy
- Cover charges typically apply at major clubs, especially on weekends and for special events
Safety and Etiquette
- Singapore is exceptionally safe, even at night, but standard precautions should still be observed
- Public intoxication is frowned upon and can result in fines
- Tipping is not expected at most venues as service charge is typically included
- Smoking is prohibited in enclosed public spaces, including bars and clubs (designated smoking areas are provided)
- Drug laws are extremely strict in Singapore, with severe penalties including capital punishment for trafficking
Seasonal Nightlife Highlights
Singapore's event calendar features several spectacular night festivals worth planning your trip around:
Singapore Night Festival (August)
This annual festival transforms the Bras Basah.Bugis precinct into an open-air gallery of light installations, interactive art, and performances. Historic buildings become canvases for projection mapping, while streets and public spaces host local and international artists. The festival typically runs for two weekends and offers a magical way to experience Singapore's cultural district.
i Light Singapore (January/February)
Asia's leading sustainable light art festival illuminates Marina Bay with environmentally conscious installations created by artists from around the world. The festival promotes sustainability while transforming the waterfront into a captivating nighttime attraction. Interactive elements and workshops complement the light displays, making it engaging for visitors of all ages.
Deepavali Celebrations (October/November)
The Hindu Festival of Lights brings spectacular illuminations to Little India, with the entire district adorned with colorful lights and decorations. Night bazaars sell traditional goods, street food, and handicrafts, while cultural performances showcase Indian heritage. The festive atmosphere continues well into the night, offering a glimpse into Singapore's vibrant Indian community.
New Year's Eve at Marina Bay
Singapore welcomes the New Year with one of Asia's most impressive countdown celebrations. The Marina Bay area hosts a spectacular fireworks display, drone shows, live performances, and carnival activities. Multiple countdown parties take place at venues around the bay, with the festivities continuing into the early hours of the new year.
Planning Your Singapore Nights
At StachinGES Travel Agency, we can help you navigate Singapore's diverse nightlife options with personalized recommendations based on your preferences. Our evening tour packages can include:
- VIP club access with table reservations
- Guided bar hopping experiences in neighborhoods like Ann Siang Hill and Keong Saik Road
- Tickets to cultural performances and night attractions
- Private transportation for hassle-free nighttime exploration
- Food tours focusing on Singapore's vibrant supper culture
Whether you're seeking a sophisticated evening with skyline views, an energetic night of dancing, or a cultural immersion after dark, Singapore delivers world-class nightlife experiences in a safe, accessible environment. Contact us to add these unforgettable evening activities to your Singapore itinerary!
