National Museum of Singapore

Visited the National Museum of Singapore and really enjoyed the experience. The exhibits were engaging, and I loved how history was brought to life through multimedia and design. Still feel like there’s more to explore—definitely planning to go back again soon.

I was here in 2007 and I was blown away by the quality of the display, the story, even the sheer amount of artifacts. And back then you were given this iPod like device that felt so high tech! It literally felt like alien technology back then. It guided you, you could input numbers of the exhibits in it and even get additional information. Was so amazing and I wish I had more time back then. But let’s go fast forward to today. It’s still marvelous on the outside. Nice and cool on the inside. But… the display is very well designed and I have to admit that is much less crowded than it was before. But it’s also almost empty because of it. I’d say there is probably 10% or less of what it used to be. Some of the displays are really great, don’t get me wrong. But they are like one amazing thing in the ocean of emptiness. Plus there is the renovations going on so it’s way smaller area. I really miss the old one. And it’s definitely not worth 24 dollars. Nope.

A truly impressive museum that beautifully captures the essence and history of Singapore. From its early beginnings to its rise as a modern global city, the exhibits are thoughtfully curated and rich with stories that bring the nation’s journey to life. A must-visit for anyone looking to understand Singapore’s cultural heritage and remarkable transformation.

This is a must for any visitors interested in the history of Singapore. Apart from a very short intro to the prehistory and pre-British history, the rest is well documented. Exhibits and sections mostly devoted to the British colonial era, the WW2 Japanese occupation, pre-independence years with Malasia then full independence. Allow several hours!

Only one exhibit was open when we went, but the Natural History Hall was well worth the visit to get a base understanding of the many historical influences and conflicts that have given rise to modern-day Singapore. It's a fascinating story of determination and vision. The Fort Canning Park across the street makes a visit to the museum a worthwhile "two for the price of one" bargain.

The National Museum of Singapore is more than just a museum—it’s a beautifully curated deep-dive into the soul of the nation. If you’re interested in understanding Singapore beyond its gleaming skyline, this is the place to begin. The highlight is undoubtedly the Singapore History Gallery, which charts the island’s transformation from a sleepy fishing village to a thriving global city. The exhibits are immersive and thoughtfully designed, weaving together personal stories, multimedia displays, historical artifacts, and interactive elements. From colonial rule to independence, the Japanese occupation to modern-day challenges, each section offers a nuanced perspective on the nation’s evolution. What sets this museum apart is how it balances historical depth with accessibility. Whether you’re a history buff or a casual visitor, the storytelling is compelling and clear. Audio guides and touchscreen kiosks enhance the experience without overwhelming it. Special attention is also given to pivotal moments like the 1965 separation from Malaysia and the rapid industrialization of the ’70s and ’80s.

Must visit in Singapore whether as a foreigner or local like myself. I have been coming here periodically since a child, and am always impressed each time especially as a history buff myself. The artifacts and exhibits are amazing, and bring life to the past. I’m glad this museum is still popular and should always remain the case. Staff are friendly and helpful. Excellent location beside Singapore Management University and well connected to many public transport options. Thank you and keep up the good work! 🙏🏻🇸🇬

I was impressed by the visit to this museum, it had a very thorough explanation of the history of Singapore and there were a lot of interesting things on display here. Halfway through the museum I bumped into the English speaking tour group and I found that the guide here was very interesting and engaging. I stuck around with that group throughout the rest of the tour and I found he had a lot of interesting points to make.