Marina Bay Sands

Marina Bay Sands, Singapore

Marina Bay Sands is one of Singapore’s most iconic landmarks and a premier destination for tourists. Known for its stunning architecture, luxurious accommodations, world-class dining, and entertainment options, Marina Bay Sands offers a wide range of activities and attractions. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what you can expect at Marina Bay Sands:

 

1. Overview of Marina Bay Sands

  • Location: 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018956.
  • Features: Marina Bay Sands is a multi-functional complex comprising a luxury hotel, a massive shopping mall, a casino, several restaurants and bars, theaters, a convention-exhibition center, and the famous Sands SkyPark with an infinity pool.
  • Architectural Highlights: Designed by architect Moshe Safdie, the complex consists of three 55-story towers connected at the top by a unique SkyPark, which has an infinity pool, gardens, and a viewing deck offering stunning views of the city skyline.

2. Key Attractions at Marina Bay Sands

A. Sands SkyPark

  • Infinity Pool: The Sands SkyPark Infinity Pool, located on the 57th floor, is the world’s largest rooftop infinity pool and is exclusively accessible to hotel guests. It offers breathtaking views of the Singapore skyline and Marina Bay.
  • Observation Deck: The SkyPark Observation Deck is open to the public (for a fee) and offers panoramic views of the city, including the Gardens by the Bay, the Singapore Strait, and the downtown skyline.
  • Opening Hours: Typically from 9:30 AM to 10:00 PM daily, but hours may vary, so check ahead.
  • Cost: Admission to the Observation Deck is around SGD 25 for adults, SGD 20 for seniors (aged 65+), and SGD 14 for children (aged 2-12).

B. ArtScience Museum

  • Exhibitions: The ArtScience Museum, located at the entrance of Marina Bay Sands, features rotating exhibits that blend art, science, culture, and technology. Popular exhibitions have included collaborations with renowned institutions like the Museum of Natural History in New York and the Science Museum in London.
  • Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM (last admission at 6:00 PM).
  • Cost: Tickets vary by exhibition, typically around SGD 14-19 for adults and SGD 10-14 for children.

C. The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands

  • Overview: The Shoppes is a luxury shopping mall within Marina Bay Sands, featuring over 800,000 square feet of retail space. It houses high-end brands like Chanel, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and more.
  • Dining Options: The mall also offers a variety of dining options, from fine dining establishments by celebrity chefs (such as CUT by Wolfgang Puck and Spago by Wolfgang Puck) to casual eateries and cafes.
  • Unique Features: The mall includes a canal where visitors can take a sampan ride (traditional Chinese boat) through the mall, similar to Venice’s gondola rides.

D. Casino

  • Overview: The Marina Bay Sands Casino is one of the most popular in Asia, featuring over 2,300 slot machines and more than 500 gaming tables, including baccarat, roulette, blackjack, and poker.
  • Dress Code and Entry: The casino has a smart-casual dress code, and entry is free for foreigners but requires a levy for Singapore citizens and permanent residents. A valid passport is required for entry.
  • Operating Hours: Open 24 hours daily.

E. Spectra – A Light & Water Show

  • Overview: “Spectra” is a free nightly outdoor show featuring water fountains, light projections, and music at the Event Plaza along the promenade. The show lasts approximately 15 minutes and offers a stunning display of color and sound against the backdrop of Marina Bay Sands.
  • Showtimes: Two shows nightly at 8:00 PM and 9:00 PM, with an additional show at 10:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays.

F. Marina Bay Sands Theatres

  • Overview: The Marina Bay Sands Theatres host a variety of performances, including Broadway musicals, concerts, and other live entertainment.
  • Notable Performances: Past shows have included “The Lion King,” “The Phantom of the Opera,” and other international productions.

3. Accommodation at Marina Bay Sands Hotel

  • Room Types: The hotel offers over 2,500 rooms and suites, ranging from deluxe rooms to luxury suites with private butler service.
  • Amenities: Hotel guests have exclusive access to the Infinity Pool at the SkyPark, a 24-hour gym, a spa, and a variety of dining options.
  • Check-in/Check-out: Standard check-in time is 3:00 PM, and check-out time is 11:00 AM.

4. Dining Options

  • Celebrity Chef Restaurants: Marina Bay Sands is home to several celebrity chef restaurants, including:
    • CUT by Wolfgang Puck: A modern steakhouse offering a range of prime cuts of beef and a curated wine list.
    • db Bistro & Oyster Bar by Daniel Boulud: A French bistro with a focus on seafood and fresh oysters.
    • Waku Ghin by Tetsuya Wakuda: A fine-dining experience blending Japanese and European cuisines.
    • Bread Street Kitchen by Gordon Ramsay: A casual British-European restaurant offering comfort food favorites.
  • Casual Dining and Cafes: There are also numerous casual dining options and cafes throughout the complex, offering a wide range of international cuisines.

5. Key Tips for Visitors

  • Advance Booking: It’s advisable to book tickets for the SkyPark, ArtScience Museum, and any shows in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
  • Dress Code: For the casino and some fine dining restaurants, a smart-casual dress code is required.
  • Getting There: Marina Bay Sands is easily accessible by public transportation. The nearest MRT station is Bayfront MRT Station (CE1/DT16), which is directly connected to the complex.
  • Best Time to Visit: The evening is a great time to visit the SkyPark for sunset views, followed by dinner and the Spectra Light & Water Show.

6. Nearby Attractions

  • Gardens by the Bay: Just a short walk from Marina Bay Sands, this sprawling garden complex is home to the famous Supertree Grove, Flower Dome, and Cloud Forest.
  • Merlion Park: A popular spot for photos, featuring the iconic Merlion statue.
  • Singapore Flyer: A giant Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of Singapore’s skyline and Marina Bay.

Marina Bay Sands offers a wealth of experiences for tourists, from luxury shopping and dining to entertainment and breathtaking views. Whether you’re staying at the hotel or visiting for the day, Marina Bay Sands is a must-see destination that encapsulates the vibrancy and modernity of Singapore.