man in white dress shirt and black pants riding on black bicycle near body of water

Merlion Park

Singapore, Singapore
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man in white dress shirt and black pants riding on black bicycle near body of water

Photo by Amos Lee

Majestic and oddly enchanting, the half-lion, half-fish statue at Merlion Park stands at the heart of a waterfront scene that almost buzzes with anticipation. Here, city views gleam across Marina Bay, dazzling crowds with iconic silhouettes and tropical sunlight. Yet, beyond its postcard perfection, this public space unfolds as a gathering spot filled with color—blending exuberant travelers with local joggers, smartphone photographers, and street musicians. Discovering Merlion Park means stepping into a space where modern Singapore meets the magic of myth, with new sights and small surprises around every turn.

Visiting Info

Currency
Entrance fee
Free
Hours
Opening hours
Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours

Contact Information

Location
Address
1 Fullerton Rd, Singapore 049213

Planning your visit

Organizing a stop at Merlion Park is refreshingly simple. This open-air landmark, accessible day or night, welcomes everyone with gentle bay breezes and plenty of walking space. Most visitors come for the statue, but linger for striking views and lively energy. Early morning or late evening hours offer cooler air and fewer crowds—a smart trade-off for anyone hoping to snap a serene photo or just soak up the atmosphere. No admission fees or tickets mean last-minute stops work just as well as carefully planned outings. Public transportation and walkways funnel guests straight to the park from all directions, setting up an easy, low-stress adventure for families, solo wanderers, or tight schedules alike.

  • Best time to visit: Early morning (7–9 AM) or after sunset (7–10 PM) for cooler weather and thinner crowds.
  • How to get there: The Raffles Place MRT station lies a ten-minute walk away, while buses and taxis serve Fullerton Road near the entrance.
  • Accessibility: Wheelchair- and stroller-friendly walkways lead from the main road to park areas; gentle ramps and curb cuts make navigation easy for all.
  • Average visit duration: Most visitors spend 30 to 60 minutes, with more time set aside for photographers or picnic fans.

Must see stuff

Every trip to Merlion Park naturally gravitates toward the towering Merlion statue—Singapore’s legendary mascot, spouting water with theatrical charm into Marina Bay. But there is more here than just an iconic selfie. Curved promenades reveal shifting perspectives of the city, from the high-class Fullerton Hotel’s graceful façade to the futuristic petals of ArtScience Museum across the bay. Watch locals perform tai chi at dawn or catch impromptu musicians filling the air on weekend evenings. Wandering along the water’s edge, one might stumble across smaller statues or photographic moments rarely featured in tourist guides. Sometimes, live events or small outdoor festivals spring up with street food vendors and musicians, adding that extra note of lively unpredictability.

  • Key sights or features: The original 8.6-meter Merlion statue, plus a smaller cub statue nearby perfect for families with kids.
  • Unique experiences: Sunset strolls facing the Marina Bay Sands skyline; impromptu live music (especially near weekends); nighttime cityscape lit up by laser shows.
  • Photo-worthy locations: Merlion with Marina Bay Sands in the background; reflection shots on the curved platform; the riverbank lined with bumboats.
  • Cultural or historical facts: The Merlion design—fish for sea roots, lion for “Singapura”—was created in 1964 and relocated to its current park in 2002.

Tips for your visit

A Merlion Park outing moves best with a little preparation. Singapore’s sun gets intense, so hats and water bottles go a long way toward comfort. Photo enthusiasts should visit on cloudy days or at the golden hour for softer light and dramatic skies. Travelers aiming to dodge selfie crowds will find tranquil moments just after sunrise or during weekday afternoons. While open areas invite leisure, brief rainstorms roll through quickly—an umbrella or light jacket packs easily. Eating on benches is welcome, but littering draws quick attention. The area feels safe, though keeping an eye on small children near the water’s edge is practical. With friendly park staff and thoughtful design, every visitor gets a chance to see the city’s spirit shine.

  • Best times to avoid crowds: Weekday mornings and late evenings are quietest.
  • What to bring: Sunscreen, a refillable water bottle, camera or smartphone with wide-angle ability, light snacks.
  • Local etiquette or rules: Respect marked footpaths; avoid blocking others, especially during busy periods; dispose of trash properly.
  • Safety or comfort advice: Be cautious around uneven pavement by the riverbank; supervise young children; seek shaded seating if the afternoon heat builds.
Merlion Park – Tickets, Hours & Visitor Guide