The best rooftop gardens in Singapore

Beyond the captivating exhibitions housed within the National Gallery of Singapore, there is a hidden gem awaiting discovery atop its rooftop. Make your way up to this serene and elevated space, where occasional exhibitions showcase the works of invited artists from around the globe. This tranquil rooftop is a platform for creative expression, offering a unique and immersive art experience under the open sky. Else, simply ascend to the rooftop to take in the breathtaking views of Singapore. 

Perched on the third level of Vivo City, this rooftop garden offers a vantage point overlooking the picturesque island of Sentosa. Little ones can enjoy the interactive water play area, while the expansive deck beckons visitors to gather, spread out picnic blankets, and enjoy the company of loved ones while basking in the open air.

Unveiling a hidden treasure high above the cityscape, this majestic HDB (Housing and Development Board) structure hides an accessible rooftop garden on its 47th floor. It grants you a privileged birds' eye view of Singapore whether you visit at sunrise or sunset. Grab a coffee, book, and chill out with the panoramic scapes that are truly quite a sight.

Enjoy sweeping views of the city from CapitaSpring, Raffles Place’s newest skyscraper. Atop this 51-storey integrated development is a rooftop sky garden where you get to enjoy unrivalled views of Marina Bay Sands and the CBD. This open-air terrace offers breathtaking scenes of Marina Bay and 360-views of the surrounding area. The Sky Garden is also home to the highest urban farm, where edible plants such as turmeric, radish and spinach are grown. These plants will be part of a farm-to-table initiative for two new F&B concepts opening at CapitaSpring’s rooftop later in the year. 

While the Sky Garden is set to open later this year, there is also another green oasis in the building. Sprawling across levels 17 to 20 of the CapitaSpring, this 35m-tall open area is home to 38,000 plants from over 70 species. Stroll through the lush landscaped garden with twisting aerial pathways if you wish to take a quaint respite from the scorching sun and CBD district.  

Next time you're all stuffed from fare at the food court, simply hop over to the adjacent rooftop garden for some fresh air and good views. Called the Sky Terrace, this green oasis has multiple pillars cladded in lush, green foliage, framing an expansive view of the hustle down on Orchard Road. If you have your little tots in tow, there's even a mini playground here to keep them occupied. 

The two-and-a-half storey concrete building in the heart of Orchard Road is home to a fresh selection of Singaporean designers and makers like Kydra, Onlewo, The Animal Project, Pinksalt Swim and more. But climb to the second storey and you'll find a sprawling open space with seats and an open-air amphitheatre. The café-hopping crowd can enjoy a cuppa at the minimalist café Alchemist which is pretty hidden atop the amphitheatre stairs. 

The largest art gallery in Singapore also houses one of the prettiest rooftop gardens in town. The concrete space is also an urban jungle, with green walls all around, a water feature, views of downtown Singapore, benches for pensive thinking and plenty of ferns lending to the lush vibes of the garden. On display at the rooftop garden from January 17 to October 25 is the stunning kinetic sculpture by contemporary artist Cao Fei. The installation comprising a five-metre tall structure of a swinging wooden ship is accompanied by soundscapes.

Nestled on the top of Orchard Central lies an unsuspecting garden overlooking the city. The rooftop garden provides a panoramic view of Singapore, coupled with the soothing sound of waterfalls at the background. It is a great place to seek respite from a humdrum day of work and an optimal place for some alone time. It even has Yayoi Kusama sculptures if you're a fan. 

Take a breather from the retail jungle of Funan and step out (and up) to the Urban Farm operated by Edible Garden City – who has long championed the grow-your-own-food movement in Singapore. Located on the seventh storey of Funan is an 18,000sq ft Food Garden where you can find more than 50 types of fruits and vegetables including mushrooms, edible flowers, okra, basil, mint, watermelon, lemongrass and passionfruit. The urban farm is also open to the public (one of the few!) and is a space where visitors can learn how vegetables are produced and harvested. 

Located in the heart of Tanjong Pagar, OUE is a bustling lifestyle hub. With several eateries, shops, a hotel, offices and other lifestyle concepts, this building is constantly busy. It's not exactly a rooftop garden but its the highest you can get when it comes to public access. Head to the outdoor garden on the 5th floor for some respite. A minimalist water feature flows through the garden which overlooks the other skyscrapers in the area. Make this new spot for lunch!

The huge rooftop field at Marina Barrage attracts couples and families all year round thanks to its breathtaking 360º view of the bay area. Bring your own kite to sail in the bay’s gusty winds or pick one up from among the cavalcade of colourful creations in the kite shop on the grounds. Besides flying kites, the park is a popular venue for yoga, jogging and kayaking – and there are even a few restaurants nearby.

Located in the CBD, the SCCC collaborates with arts and cultural groups, community partners and independent parties to help promote and develop Chinese culture in Singapore. You'll find many exhibitions, fairs, performances, workshops and more happening here throughout the year but for some respite, head to the rooftop garden that overlooks the sea and the city.