Marina Bay Sands SkyPark – Worth the Price? Our Honest Take
- Jenn & Leon
- 34 minutes ago
- 9 min read
There are plenty of things you can do for free in Singapore. You can watch Spectra light up Marina Bay, wander through Gardens by the Bay, explore Chinatown, soak up Little India, or simply walk the waterfront.
But there is only one place that gives you the full, uninterrupted, cinematic view of it all.
Marina Bay Sands SkyPark is expensive by Singapore standards. And we still think it is absolutely worth it.
On our visit, luckily we made it to the top about 15 minutes before torrential rain rolled in. Dark clouds gathered over the skyline, the city shimmered below us, and just as we started heading back down, the skies opened.
We got soaked on the way out, but it only added to the drama of it all. If you are visiting Singapore, this is part of the experience!
In this guide, we share our honest Marina Bay Sands SkyPark review, including ticket prices, opening hours, how to get there, and the history behind this iconic Singapore landmark.
We also take a look at the best time to visit, what to expect at the top, and whether it's truly worth the price compared to Singapore’s many free attractions.
In This Post...
Our SkyPark Highlights
Nothing beats standing above the bay and seeing the city from this height. Singapore is impressive at ground level. From up here, it is on another level entirely.
● 360-degree views over Marina Bay, the CBD (Central Business District), and out toward the Singapore Strait
● Clear vantage point over the Singapore Flyer and Gardens by the Bay
● Elevated perspective of the iconic bay skyline
● Easy elevator ride to the top
● Open-air deck with uninterrupted photography angles
We don't do badly with heights, although standing close to the edge was a tad disconcerting, given just how high and exposed it is.
The railings are high enough for safety without blocking the view; however, it is definitely something to consider if heights aren't your thing.
Is It Worth the Price?
Let’s address it directly. Yes, it is expensive compared to many attractions in Southeast Asia. But Singapore itself is not renowned as a budget destination, in all honesty.
(That being said, there are a ton of awesome, affordable, and in most cases free things to do, which we will get into later.)
The SkyPark is not just another viewpoint. It is THE viewpoint. It dominates the skyline and the entire bay area. You cannot miss it, and once you are up there, you realize why.
We have visited many observation decks around the world on our travels. Some of these include the Tokyo SkyTree in Japan, the Eiffel Tower in France, and the Shard in England, to name a few.
Personally, none of them felt quite as integrated into the identity of the city as this one.
If you are deciding whether to skip it, our advice is simple. Do it.
Tickets & Prices
Tickets can be purchased:
● Online in advance
● On-site via ticket machines
● Through official vendors
We recommend booking online in advance, especially if you plan to visit at sunset or during peak periods.
Typical prices (subject to change):
● Adults: Around SGD 30 to 35
● Concessions: Available for children and seniors
Buying in advance removes uncertainty and avoids queues during busy periods.
For Singapore standards, the price is not outrageous. But it is not cheap either (especially for money-conscious travelers like us). That is why value matters.
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Opening Hours
Opening hours can vary, but generally:
● Daily from 10 am until 10 pm
● Peak time for visitor traffic is 5 pm onwards
● Last entry approximately 30 minutes before closing
● Spectra Light & Water Show can be viewed from the deck at 8 pm & 9 pm
Midday visits tend to be quieter. Sunset is the most popular time.
When we visited at midday, it was not crowded. The only consistently busy area was the limited seating section. There are not many benches or shaded rest areas, so those fill quickly.
There is also a small refreshment kiosk at the top where you can grab drinks and light snacks.
When Is the Best Time to Visit?
● Sunset is the most popular time. You get daylight views, golden hour, and then the city lights.
● Early afternoon can be quieter but hotter.
● Before a storm apparently makes for unforgettable photos, although we cannot officially recommend getting caught in torrential rain!
Singapore weather changes fast. Check the forecast before heading up.
How to Get There
Marina Bay Sands dominates the Singapore skyline, so visually finding it is never the problem. The key is knowing exactly where to enter and which MRT stop brings you closest to the SkyPark.
Getting to Singapore
Most travelers fly into Singapore Changi Airport (SIN), one of the easiest airports in Asia to land in and get moving quickly.
Marina Bay Sands By MRT (Best Option)
We travelled from Chinatown by MRT. The correct stop for Marina Bay Sands is Bayfront MRT (CE1/DT16), which connects directly to the complex via underground walkways.
We accidentally got off one stop early at Downtown MRT (DT17), which sits just before Bayfront on the Downtown Line. Instead of immediately realizing, we exited and found ourselves beside a large open lawn and seasonal flower installation with the DBS towers rising dramatically behind it. The area is often used for public art displays and landscaped floral installations.
It turned into a surprisingly pleasant 20-minute walk. From there, a straight pedestrian route leads you toward Marina Bay Link Mall, then the waterfront, and eventually to Marina Bay Sands. The skyline views along the way were impressive, and it felt like a softer introduction to the Bay Area.
If you want direct access without the detour, stay on the train and get off at Bayfront MRT. From there, follow signs for Marina Bay Sands or The Shoppes.
Walking Access
If you are staying around Marina Bay, Merlion Park, or the CBD, the waterfront promenade walk is beautiful and well signposted.
The Helix Bridge also offers pedestrian access directly into the Marina Bay Sands complex.
Taxi or Grab
Taxis and Grab rides drop you directly at the Marina Bay Sands main entrance. From there, enter The Shoppes and follow signage for the SkyPark Observation Deck.
⪢ Finding the Entrance Inside
Once inside Marina Bay Sands:
Enter through The Shoppes.
Follow signage toward the SkyPark Observation Deck.
Continue walking through each section of the complex.
The entrance is located toward the end of the retail area.
It feels like a long walk at first, but simply keep following the signs. The elevator ride to the top is smooth and efficient.
💡 Good to know: Allow an extra 10 to 15 minutes to navigate through the complex, especially if visiting for the first time.
What to Expect at the Top
● Large open wooden deck
● Glass safety barriers
● Limited seating
● Photo opportunities in every direction
There is no shade across much of the deck, so bring water and prepare for heat if visiting midday.
Seating is limited, so do not expect to lounge for long during busy times. Most people circulate, take photos, and move on.
The infinity pool is only accessible to hotel guests. The observation deck is separate.
The History of Marina Bay Sands
Marina Bay Sands officially opened in 2010, but its story is tied to Singapore’s rapid transformation.
Singapore gained independence in 1965. In just a few decades, it evolved from a trading port into one of the world’s leading financial hubs.
The Marina Bay area itself was reclaimed land, part of a long-term urban expansion strategy that allowed the city-state to grow beyond its original coastline.
The government launched an international design competition for an integrated resort that would redefine the skyline and elevate Singapore’s tourism appeal.
Architect Moshe Safdie won the bid with a bold concept: three hotel towers connected by a 340-meter SkyPark perched on top.
At the time of opening, it was one of the most expensive standalone casino properties in the world.
The SkyPark became symbolic of Singapore’s ambition. It represents engineering precision, economic confidence, and forward-thinking urban design.
Today, it is not just a hotel feature. It is one of the most recognizable architectural landmarks in Asia.
When you stand on the deck, you are looking at a city that built itself into a global powerhouse in under 60 years.
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Practical Tips
Visit slightly earlier than peak sunset for easier access
Bring minimal belongings for smoother security checks
Stay hydrated, especially at midday
Check the weather radar before heading up
Avoid leaving it until your final day in case of poor weather
💡 Good to know: In heavy rain, strong winds, or lightning, access may temporarily close for safety.
How It Compares to Singapore’s Free Highlights
Singapore delivers a lot without spending much. Spectra is free. The outdoor areas of Gardens by the Bay are free.
Chinatown and Little India cost nothing to explore. Even the waterfront promenade feels like an attraction.
But none of those experiences give you the full, uninterrupted perspective of Marina Bay from above.
SkyPark does not replace those experiences. In our humble opinion, it completes them.
Other Things to Do in Singapore
Singapore offers an incredible mix of paid attractions and free experiences. Here are some of our favorites, all aligned for easy comparison.
Chinatown
Perfect for temples, street scenes, markets, and quick snack stops. Add Cafe Monochrome here.
Little India
Color, energy, and some of the most interesting streets for wandering. Great for food, photos, and culture.
Gardens by the Bay
Iconic, and even if you do not pay for the domes, the outdoor areas and general atmosphere are worth it.
Spectra Light Show
An easy evening win, simple to slot into a Marina Bay night. Plus, it is totally free.
Clarke Quay Riverside
Lively riverside dining and nightlife along restored heritage shophouses.
These experiences are fantastic and free (unless you indulge in food at the Hawker Center, which we highly recommend).
Still, none provide the same panoramic view as the SkyPark!
For more top things to do and tours in Singapore, we recommend GetYourGuide, a trusted resource we have used many times on our travels.
Where to Stay Nearby
Staying around Marina Bay keeps everything walkable, including Gardens by the Bay, Merlion Park, and the waterfront promenade.
Below is a live map showing available hotels around Marina Bay so you can compare prices and locations easily.
Our Experience Rating
Marina Bay Sands SkyPark
Singapore offers incredible free experiences. You can watch Spectra light up the bay, wander through Gardens by the Bay, explore Chinatown’s hawker centers, or spend hours simply walking the waterfront.
And you absolutely should do those things.
But none of them give you the panoramic sweep of the entire city in one frame.
Marina Bay Sands SkyPark is not the cheapest attraction in Singapore. Seating is limited. Weather can change quickly. And yes, we even got caught in torrential rain on the way out.
Still, standing above Marina Bay, looking across the skyline, watching the city stretch toward the Singapore Strait, it felt like we were seeing the full story of Singapore in a single view.
It completes the experience. If your budget allows, we would not skip it. For us, it was worth every dollar.
FAQs: Marina Bay Sands SkyPark
Before you book, here are the most common questions about visiting Marina Bay Sands SkyPark, including tickets, timing, weather, and what to expect at the top.
Is the infinity pool included?
No. The infinity pool is reserved for hotel guests only.
How long should you spend there?
Allow 45–90 minutes depending on weather and photo time.
Is midday too hot?
It can be warm, but views are typically clearer and less crowded.
Was it crowded when you visited?
Midday was not crowded overall, but seating areas remained busy.
Can you buy tickets on the day?
Yes, but sunset slots may sell out.
Is it accessible?
Yes. Elevators provide step-free access.
Is there food or drink available?
Yes. A small refreshment kiosk is located at the top.
What happens if it rains?
Heavy storms may temporarily close access for safety. It reopens almost immediately once conditions ease.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, though supervision is advised.
Should you prioritize this over free attractions?
If your budget allows, yes. It ties the skyline experience together.
Related Reads
● Gardens by the Bay (our experience and tips)
● Spectra light show at Marina Bay
● Cafe Monochrome (Singapore's first 2D cafe)
● Singapore Travel Guide (the full hub with planning info)
