Things to Do On Orchard Road Singapore: Ultimate Guide to Shopping and More

If you’re looking for a fun and exciting place to visit in Singapore, look no further than Orchard Road.

Known for its world-class shopping and dining, Orchard Road is also home to various other activities that make it a must-visit destination.

Whether you’re a local or a tourist, there’s always something new and exciting things to do on Orchard Road. We create this guide to answer your questions like: ‘What to do in Orchard Road?’

Of course, one of Orchard Road’s ample charms is shopping. With over 20 shopping malls and countless boutique stores, you’ll find everything from high-end luxury brands to affordable fashion and accessories.

Yet Orchard Road offers more than shopping. From cultural attractions to outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you’re interested in exploring the local history and culture, trying new foods and drinks, or simply taking in the sights and sounds of the city, Orchard Road has plenty to offer.

So why not book a trip now to see everything this interesting area of Singapore has to offer?

Best time to visit Orchard Road and Notable Events

The best time to visit Orchard Road would be all year round.

The notable events are in December when the famous Christmas lights are on display and how excited to see the shopping malls competing to showcase their best Christmas decorations.

Other notable events take place in the area, such as the Singapore Food Festival and the Great Singapore Sale, held between July and October.

Map of Orchard Road

Things to do On Orchard Road: Shopping

Orchard Road is famous for its shopping scene, with many options to suit all budgets and tastes. There is something for everyone, whether you want high-end brands or reasonable prices.

List of the best Shopping Malls on Orchard road

ION Orchard

ION Orchard is one of Singapore’s most popular shopping malls known for its luxurious shopping experience. It has many international brands, including Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Dior.

The mall also offers a unique shopping experience with its ION Sky observation deck, which offers panoramic views of Singapore’s skyline. Furthermore, you will find various restaurants and cafes, making it a perfect place for a quick bite or a leisurely meal.

You can find more details about ION Sky entry fee here: ION Sky observation deck

ION Orchard is the home of Orchard MRT, and you have to experience the night look of this architectural masterpiece in glass, marble, and steel.

Wheelock Place

Most people associate Wheelock Place with the recognizable conical glass roof – Christmas tree look-alike architecture.
Throughout the years, it has transformed itself and is now home to several dental and cosmetic clinics, local brands, and accessory shops. At the same time, it is maintained as a home of Mark & Spencer’s Food Hall and office towers.

Want a little break?
In Prive’s outside patio, you may stretch your legs and observe people. It can be a decent alternative if you confuse on what to do in Orchard Road at night.

Ngee Ann City

This legendary shopping center, frequently referred to as Takashimaya because of its flagship department store tenant, features a distinctive blood-red building appearance.

Shopping is available here, and affluent people regularly visit stores like Goyard and Loewe for leather goods and purses or Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels for jewelry.

Don’t miss the Takashimaya Food Hall at the basement level, which is full of various cuisines, from the small bites, food court, restaurants, and Japanese souvenirs.

Mandarin Gallery

Mandarin Gallery is connected with Hilton Singapore Orchard, next door and contains premium brand flagship stores, including Michael Kors, Rimowa, and Victoria’s Secret, lining a high-traffic pedestrian promenade.

It’s the place to go if you want to see and be seen.

Orchard Central

Orchard Central is a shopping mall known for its unique architecture and design.

Orchard Central goes over and beyond to merge shopping with aesthetic statements, with one iconic escalator designed with digital art gracing the facade and a plethora of exhibits interspersed throughout.

The mall’s lower floors include many high-street designer names, while the upper levels have a lot of restaurants and bars.

You probably didn’t know that you can see the fireworks from Orchard Central’s roof garden during the National Day season.

The highest retail mall in Singapore also offers a diverse range of food options, including Japanese, Chinese, Korean BBQ, Western, and fine cuisine.

There’s also Don Don Donki, a popular 24-hour Japanese grocery shop.

Knightsbridge Mall

Jewellery and fashion are extensively featured at the four-level of this shopping mall.
Retail businesses have double façade frontages here.

Pullman Orchard Hotel and the massive Apple Store have nestled here.

Paragon

The Paragon shopping mall is well-known for its international luxury fashion labels, such as Gucci, Prada, Miu Miu, and Salvatore Ferragamo.

The Spanish fashion house Loewe has launched Southeast Asia’s first Casa Loewe concept shop.

Paragon is well-known for its specialized medical facilities, with a full tower dedicated to high-end medical care.

At Paragon, a change of scenery is only a few minutes away.
The luxury mall is well-known for its gorgeous interior design and wonderful holiday lighting.
This location is mainly known for its high-end products and luxury art galleries.

If you notice that you need milk when shopping at Miu Miu, you may stroll downstairs to CS Fresh Gold. That Paragon is for you.

Do you have children?
Level five is where you’ll find boutiques like Seed Heritage and a playground.

313 Somerset

The young, hip, frequent shopping mall is connected to the Somerset MRT station.

Come with the food hall in the basement and a Food Republic outlet (a modern hawker center-style eating alternative) on the fifth level.

313@Somerset has become a trendy mall that sells a wide range of high-end streetwear, footwear, jewelry, and bags.

One of the main reasons for its appeal, particularly among fashion-conscious people, is its year-round promotions and offers.

Far East Plaza

Far East Plaza has been associated with stylish clothing and Singapore’s different subcultures since 1982.

Go lost in the 600-plus boutiques, brimming with fashionable clothes and lovely accessories at reasonable rates.

On top of that, there are places where you can tailor outfits and even tattoo parlors.

Pro tip: because many of the stores are poorly organized and crowded from floor to ceiling, this is an excellent mall to get lost in.

Like Bangkok’s Platinum Mall, Far East Plaza has several inexpensive to mid-range stores in the blogshop style.

On the fifth level, a second-hand bookstore sells literary treasures at a discount.

Lucky Plaza

Lucky Plaza features seven stories of retailers selling anything from electronics to furnishings and food establishments specializing in Filipino cuisine.

You haven’t truly experienced Singapore until you’ve rummaged through pre-loved goods at a secondhand shop at Lucky Plaza.

You may get cheap cosmetics and perfume knock-offs (we won’t tell), souvenirs (magnets and coasters, anyone? ), and electronics at this old yet classic structure.

It’s no surprise to find authentic Filipino eateries in this refuge for local Filipinos. There is even a Jollibee shop in the mall.

So, if crowds aren’t your thing, avoid going on Sundays.

Design Orchard

Design Orchard is a retail location highlighting Singapore designers and local companies and is located near the lively T-junction across the H&M building and Mandarin Gallery.

There’s also a designer incubator, a public amphitheater for events, a cafe, and – wait for it – a calm rooftop to rest your legs.

The local brand selection constantly changes, so there’s always something fresh to swipe your cards for.

Things to do on Orchard Road: Lifestyle and Entertainment

Orchard Road offers more than just shopping and dining experiences. Here are some lifestyle and entertainment options that you can enjoy:

Art Jamming at Café de Paris

Conveniently located at 313@Somerset, Café de Paris is an aesthetic cafe where customers can enjoy afternoon tea or an Art-Jamming session to unwind!

​Café de Paris is known for its Art-Jamming, Cakes, Coffee & Specialty Korean Bonbons – Eiffel Tower-inspired desserts topped with delicious fresh fruit. ​

Art jamming is a unique & fun offering where you unleash your inner Picasso as you enjoy a complimentary drink during this free-&-easy 3-hour session & take home your masterpiece!

Pottery Experience at Taoz Ceramics Studio

Taoz Ceramics Studio offers pottery classes for individuals of all skill levels. They have affordable wheel-throwing experience classes and full-blown courses for beginner, intermediate, and advanced potters.

Choose between a cup, bowl, or vase, and take your craft home as decoration. It can be alternative activities from the shopping routine that are typical parts of things to do on Orchard Road.

Movie Theaters

If you’re looking for a break from shopping and want to catch a movie, Orchard Road has two movie theaters to choose from:

• Shaw Theatres Lido
• Cathay Cineplexes at The Cathay

These theaters offer the latest blockbusters and comfortable seating, making it a great way to unwind after a long shopping day.

Parks and Gardens

Escape the hustle and bustle of Orchard Road by visiting one of the many parks and gardens in the area.

The Singapore Botanic Gardens is popular, with over 60 acres of lush greenery and various plant species.

Another great option is Fort Canning Park, which offers stunning views of the city skyline.

No matter your interests, there’s something for everyone in Orchard Road.

You’ll never run out of things to do in this vibrant area of Singapore, from art galleries to museums to parks and gardens.

The closest one to Orchard Road is Istana Park. It is a unique park with several features not found in other parks in Singapore. It was designed and built to extend the main entrance of The Istana, Singapore’s presidential palace.

The park offers visitors an opportunity to learn about Singapore’s rich culture and history through its Civic District Trail.

Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk through the park’s lush greenery and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

The park is bounded by Orchard Road, Penang Road, Penang Lane, and Buyong Road.

It’s conveniently located in Singapore’s central area, making it easily accessible for locals and tourists.

Hidden Gems in Orchard Road

Orchard Road is known for its glitzy shopping malls and luxury boutiques, but some hidden gems are worth exploring.

Here are a few of my favorite lesser-known spots on Orchard Road.

1. Emerald Hill

Emerald Hill is a charming street behind Orchard Road’s shopping malls. It’s lined with colorful Peranakan-style shophouses that date back to the early 20th century.

Stroll down this picturesque street and admire the architecture, or stop by one of the bars or restaurants for a drink or a bite.

2. The Istana

The Istana is the official residence of the President of Singapore, but it’s open to the public on certain days throughout the year.

Visitors can explore the sprawling grounds, which include a Japanese garden, a spice garden, and a variety of other landscaped areas.

It’s a peaceful oasis in the city’s heart and a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of Orchard Road.

3. Skaters Park

Somerset Skate Park is a popular skateboarding spot located in Singapore. The park is at 1 Somerset Road, Singapore 238162, and open daily from 7 am to 10 pm.

It is a great place for new and experienced skateboarders to practice their skills.

Somerset Skate Park has also been featured in news articles, such as one from CNBC, which discusses how the park has come to represent Singapore’s cultural spirit.

The article explains that the park became a vital gathering place for Singapore’s youth after the National Youth Council Skate Park closed in 2004.

Overall, Somerset Skate Park is a popular destination for skateboarders in Singapore and has become an essential part of the country’s cultural landscape.

Things to do on Orchard Road: Photography and Instagramable Spots in Orchard Road

Orchard Road is a shopper’s paradise and a photographer’s delight.

With its stunning architecture, colorful street art, and green spaces, there are plenty of photo-worthy spots to capture your memories.

Here are some of the best photography spots in Orchard Road that you should add to your things to do on Orchard Road itinerary.

1. ION Orchard Sky Deck – Take the elevator to the 56th floor of ION Orchard Mall to get a bird’s eye view of the city.

The Sky Deck offers a panoramic view of Singapore’s skyline and is perfect for capturing stunning sunset shots.

2. Emerald Hill – This charming street is lined with colorful Peranakan-style houses that create a great backdrop for your photos.

The houses’ vibrant colors and intricate details will make your Instagram feed pop.

3. National Museum of Singapore – This colonial-style building is a cultural hub and an excellent spot for photography.

The museum’s grand entrance and beautiful architecture make it a popular spot for wedding and graduation photoshoots.

4. Singapore Botanic Gardens – Just a short walk from Orchard Road, the Botanic Gardens offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The gardens’ lush greenery, tranquil lakes, and colorful flora make stunning nature shots.

5. Orchard Central Rooftop Garden – Located on the 11th floor of Orchard Central, this rooftop garden offers a stunning view of the city skyline.

The garden’s unique design and colorful murals make it a great spot for capturing unique shots.

6. Library @ Orchard – Library@Orchard is a popular destination for book lovers in Singapore, but it is also a great spot for photography enthusiasts.

The library boasts several unique and picturesque spots perfect for taking photos.

One popular spot for taking photos at Library@Orchard is the staircase leading up to Level 4, which provides a great vantage point for capturing the library’s beautiful interior design.

The staircase is also well-lit, making it an ideal spot for taking photos even in low-light conditions.

7. The Tube at Orchard Gateway – The Tube at Orchard Gateway is an excellent spot for photography enthusiasts looking for a unique and visually appetizing location.

The walkway’s curved steel tubes and colorful LED lights create a dynamic and futuristic photo backdrop.

One of the best times to take photos at The Tube is at night when the LED lights are in full effect.

The colorful lights create a vibrant and energetic atmosphere and can be used to create exciting and creative compositions.

Another great time to take photos at The Tube is during the day when the natural light streams in through the walkway’s skylights.

The light creates exciting patterns and reflections on the curved steel tubes, providing a unique and abstract photo backdrop.

8. The Linkway bridge from Paragon Mall to Masjid Al-Falah Mosque – is a unique and convenient architectural feature in Singapore’s bustling Orchard Road shopping district.

The bridge provides a pedestrian walkway that connects the mall to the mosque, offering shoppers and visitors an easy way to navigate the area.

What sets the Linkway bridge apart is its beautiful design. The walkway is mainly made of metal structurals and features a series of curved beams that create a visually striking and elegant aesthetic.

The bridge also offers stunning views of the surrounding area, including the nearby Bideford Road.

Things to do on Orchard Road: Dining

Orchard Road is a food lover’s paradise with many dining options, from casual cafes to high-end restaurants.

Whether you’re in the mood for local cuisine, international fare, or fusion dishes, there’s something for everyone.

In this bustling area, you can find everything from street food stalls to Michelin-starred restaurants, making it a must-visit destination for foodies.

We have made a unique guide for our handpicked dining choices on Orchard Road, from budget and casual to high-end dining places; find it below.

Things to do on Orchard Road: Accommodations

It is also home to a wide range of accommodation options that cater to every budget and preference. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel, a cozy boutique hotel, or a budget-friendly hostel, Orchard Road has something for everyone.

There are many options, from the iconic Four Seasons Singapore Hotel to the trendy YOTEL Singapore. Many of the hotels in Orchard Road offer stunning views of the city skyline and easy access to the area’s many attractions.

So, whether you’re visiting Singapore for business or pleasure, Orchard Road is the perfect place to stay.

We have compiled our best accommodations on Orchard Road for you, everyone. Find it below.

Things To Do On Orchard Road – Conclusions

Orchard Road is more than just a shopping destination. This bustling district in Singapore offers a wide range of attractions, dining options, and accommodation choices that cater to every interest and budget.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day out with your family, a romantic evening with your partner, or a fun night out with friends, Orchard Road has it all. With its vibrant atmosphere, rich culture, and diverse offerings, Orchard Road is a must-visit destination in Singapore.

So, whether you’re a local or a tourist, be sure to explore all that things to do in Orchard Road has to offer beyond shopping.