Hello mummies and daddies!
This May long weekend is a precious one – from 1st to 4th May 2025, we have FOUR full days to spend quality time with our little ones (and maybe sneak in a little couple time too!). Whether you’re a stay-at-home mum like me or a working parent juggling 101 things, I’ve rounded up 10 fun, meaningful and not-too-expensive activities you can do as a family right here in our little red dot!
Let’s make this long weekend count!
1. Explore the New Bird Paradise at Mandai
The new Bird Paradise is open and it’s absolutely stunning! With over 3,500 birds and themed aviaries, even the grandparents will enjoy this outing. Don’t forget to pack extra water and snacks – and bring a hat for the kids! You can even pre-book feeding sessions.
🕒 Tip: Go early in the morning to avoid the crowds and heat.
2. Have a Picnic at Marina Barrage
Kite-flying, breezy winds, and a picnic basket full of home-packed goodies – simple joys! Let the kids run around while you chill with some kopi and the latest K-drama soundtrack in your earbuds. Perfect for budget-friendly bonding.
🎒 Pack: Sunblock, insect repellent, wet wipes!
3. Check Out the Children’s Season at National Museum
Children’s Season 2025 is kicking off at several museums, and the National Museum usually goes all out with interactive exhibits and craft corners. It’s indoor, air-conditioned fun that also feeds their curious minds!
📸 Bonus: Great for taking those IG-worthy family shots.
4. Go Island-Hopping (Yes, You Can!)
Why not take a ferry and explore St. John’s, Lazarus or Kusu Island? Bring along some simple sandwiches, towels, and beach toys. Feels like a mini overseas trip – minus the passport!
🌊 Ferry from Marina South Pier. Remember to check return times!
5. Try a Family Pottery or Art Jamming Workshop
Studios like Arthaus or Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle offer family-friendly sessions. Kids love getting messy, and you get to bring home handmade keepsakes. Win-win!
🎨 Book early – long weekends get filled up fast.
6. Visit Gallop Extension at Botanic Gardens
Have you been to the Forest Discovery Centre and the Como Adventure Grove playground yet? Think nature play, rope courses and treehouses! End off with brunch at Bee’s Knees café.
🌳 Free entry and plenty of shaded areas.
7. Take a Staycation (without Leaving SG!)
Hotels like Village Hotel Sentosa and D’Resort @ Downtown East have family packages with kids’ activities, water play and even movie nights. Sometimes a change of sheets and not needing to cook = the best gift ever.
🏖️ Pack swimsuits and snacks!
8. Explore Hidden Trails with NParks
Join one of the free nature walks or go DIY with your own Bukit Timah or Windsor Nature Park hike. Many trails have boardwalks suitable for younger kids too. Teach them about monkeys, monitor lizards and native plants!
👟 Comfortable shoes and lots of water, please.
9. Try a Family-Friendly Cooking Class
Join a hands-on session at Palate Sensations or Little Cookhouse, where kids can learn to make bento boxes or cupcakes. It’s messy but memorable – and you don’t need to clean your kitchen after. 😅
👩🍳 Warning: They’ll want to “help” at home after this!
10. Just Stay Home and Have a Themed Family Night
If you don’t want to squeeze with crowds, have a “Japan Night” at home. Dress in yukatas, DIY some sushi rolls, and play Japanese music. Or go full “Movie Marathon” with popcorn, pyjamas and Pixar. It’s not where you are, it’s who you’re with.
📺 Tip: Let the kids plan the theme and decorate!
Whether you’re indoors or outdoors, I hope this long weekend gives you the breather you need – and the chance to build beautiful memories with your little ones.