Making an airport into an unmissable tourist attraction isn’t an easy feat, but Singapore has done it.
As the most awarded airport globally, Singapore’s Changi Airport is definitely one of the best places to be in during a long layover. Kids will love the fun slides and playgrounds, while the adults will enjoy the endless shopping and dining options. There are also plenty of artworks to capture and tranquil lounges, perfect for people who just want to relax and destress.
Here are some of the unique things to do at Changi Airport to make time fly before your flight:
1. Marvel at the Rain Vortex
Take IG-worthy pics by the famed Rain Vortex Credit: @changiairport
See the best of technology and nature at Singapore Changi Airport’s HSBC Rain Vortex. The world’s tallest indoor waterfall is housed in a glass and steel dome, letting the natural light in to create the perfect backdrop for photos. It’s also surrounded by thousands of trees and plants, plus the Skytrain track that connects Terminals 1, 2, and 3. The waterfall is near the Arrival Hall in Terminal 1 and can be reached through pedestrian walkways from Terminals 2 and 3.
2. Taste the local cuisine
Enjoy affordable and delicious eats before a long flight Credit: @leenthefoodie
Craving for local snacks, but don’t have enough time to leave the airport? No problem at the Singapore Airport Transit area in Terminal 3. The Singapore Food Street gives you a feel of the '60s with its vintage-style booths and eateries serving some of the best local dishes, from Hainanese chicken to roasted duck.
3. Take a yoga class at Canopy Park
The great people at Singapore Airport understand how exhausting long flights can be, so this is one of the best ideas we've come across. You can take up a yoga class, pilates, or even a Barre-less Barre class during your layover all in the beautifully designed Canopy Park.
4. Play immersive games at the Experience Studio
Have a blast playing different games at the studio Credit: @sengjhp
Ever wondered what makes the Singapore Changi Airport tick? Learn all about the history and operations of the airport at Experience Studio in Jewel. People of all ages will love the interactive features that show the challenges of running an airport. The kiddos will especially enjoy playing runway races and collecting airport trolleys on the screens!
5. Enjoy a Cocktail-Making Workshop
Step into the world of mixology and learn a thing or two before your next flight! You can learn how to craft cocktails or enjoy a guided tasting session! We'd say this is more fun than drinking up in the air – more choices and less dehydrating!
6. Join a free Singapore city tour
See the popular Merlion up close for free! Credit: @ono_gtv
Just passing through the country? Why not go on a tour to see the best of what the island nation has to offer in just under 3 hours. Perfect for people with layovers between 5.5 and 24 hours, Singapore Changi Airport offers free tours to the most iconic attractions. You can choose from three different itineraries, whether you want to visit natural wonders, colonial history, or modern monuments.
7. Reach for the stars at the Sky Net
What’s more exciting than jumping up and down on a giant net? Credit: @empiresoflove
Have a fun time bouncing as high as you can when you visit Sky Net. With its highest point at 8 meters above the ground, it’ll give you a great view of the trees and shops below. If you don’t feel like jumping, you can walk and take in the vistas from up high. It’s a perfect activity for families with small kids!
8. Slide your way down the Play Area
Kids will have a blast sliding down to their heart’s content at the Play Area Credit: nik radzi on Unsplash
The great thing about Changi is that there’s something for everyone. In fact, one of the Singapore Airport facilities’ for transit passengers is the Play Area. Kids ages 12 and below will enjoy going through the different obstacles and slides at the air-conditioned playground in Terminal 3.
9. Cross the Canopy Bridge
Fantastic views await at the top of Jewel Changi Credit: @ana_vvt
Enjoy uninterrupted views from the top as you cross Singapore Changi Airport’s Canopy Bridge. From 23 meters above, you’ll get to take in the Rain Vortex, Control Tower, and everything in between. It also features glass floors and fog machines to make it seem like you’re walking on cloud nine.
10. Take a dip in the rooftop pool
Soak up some sunshine at the rooftop pool in Changi Credit: @guerinsophiey
Who says you can’t have fun under the sun at the airport? Located at the Singapore Airport transit hotel in Terminal 1, the swimming pool is where you can relax, cool off, and get a tan before your flight. It also boasts a jacuzzi for the perfect slice of paradise.
11. Get a free massage
Tired from all the walking? A few minutes on a foot massage chair will do the trick!
Whether you’ve just arrived from an exhausting trip abroad or simply want to rest your feet, Changi Airport is the place to be. There are plenty of foot massage chairs scattered throughout Terminals 1, 2, and 3 that can help soothe your aches away. The best part is that they operate free of charge!
12. Catch a movie for free at the theatres
Watch a fun movie with the entire fam at the airport Credit: Erik Witsoe on Unsplash
Want to keep the kids entertained for a couple of hours? Look no further than the airport’s movie theatres! With two locations at Terminals 2 and 3, you and the rest of the family can watch the latest films from different genres free of charge. Plus, it’s open for 24 hours every day, so there’s no need to worry about the schedules.
Transit Hotels & Lounges in Singapore's Changi Airport
Have an even longer layover? Check out some of these transit hotels so you can fully rest between flights.
🇸🇬 Singapore Travel Essentials 🇸🇬
Top things to do in Singapore
- Attractions: Gardens by the Bay | ArtScience Museum | Marina Bay Sands Skypark | Universal Studios Singapore | Singapore Zoo | Night Safari | Bird Paradise
- Visiting multiple attractions in Singapore? Get the Klook Pass Singapore and enjoy!
Getting around
- Airport transfer: Car transfer
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