10 top spots to walk, cycle and ride along the North-South Line.

What are the first attractions that come to mind when you think of Singapore? Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay and Sentosa? That’s not all our sunny shores have to offer! The island is chock full of heritage spots, a variety of dining cuisine options and even nature areas—scattered from north to south—many of which are best explored by walking, cycling or riding public transport.

Here are some of the highlights found along the North-South Line (NSL), from the centre all the way to the far north of our island-state.

#1 The Southern Islands

From the white sandy shores at St John’s Island and Lazarus Island, to the ornate temples on Kusu Island, Singapore’s Southern Islands offer diverse recreational options for everyone in the family. Relax on the beach, kayak, go on an intertidal walk, or rent a bicycle to explore the islands—you’re spoilt for choice!

#2 Museum district

The Bras Basah.Bugis (BBB) precinct is known as the arts and heritage district of Singapore with its many highlights. From the National Museum, to the more obscure MINT Museum of Toys, these spots are easily accessible within a 10-minute walk from an NSL station. While you’re there, you can also pair the visit with a walk to see the churches, cathedrals and temples in the area.

#3 Orchard Road

From the luxury brands at ION Orchard to the budget shops at Lucky Plaza, Orchard Road is a shopper’s haven. Plus, the movie cinemas, dining options, and intricate decorations during festive seasons definitely don’t hurt your experience. You can spend hours there browsing the shops, people-watching, snacking and more—with the high cost of parking, ditch the car at home and take the bus or train instead!

#4 Newton Food Centre

Rather than traipsing around the island for good hawker food, why not pop over to Newton Food Centre? You’ll find a huge range of hawker favourites, including carrot cake, oyster omelette, satay, barbecued seafood and much more—all conveniently located near the centre of Singapore. And while some will no doubt argue these stalls aren’t the best in town, the fact that everything’s conveniently available in one spot is something to savour!

#5 Toa Payoh

As one of the oldest towns in Singapore, Toa Payoh offers a wealth of spots to explore for heritage lovers. Swing by the unique Y-shaped Block 53 to see the spot where Queen Elizabeth II visited in 1972, the sports village used for the South East Asian Peninsular (SEAP) Games in 1973, or even the iconic dragon playground.

#6 Bird Paradise

With over 400 species and 3,500 birds, Singapore’s newly revamped Bird Paradise is now one of the largest bird parks in the world! Take a trip through the African rainforest, South American wetlands and Southeast Asian paddy fields and more, to admire the unique landscape and the many different breeds of feathered creatures that call these places home.

#7 Yishun Dam

Looking for somewhere to watch the sunset or do a spot of stargazing? Yishun Dam offers sights that are comparable to other “seaside” spots in Singapore, but with far less of a crowd to jostle with. So pack some snacks and you’re all set for a relaxing stroll and picnic by the water. And for Studio Ghibli fans, don’t forget your cameras, because word on the street is that taking bus 103 past the dam offers a sight reminiscent of the train scene in Spirited Away!

#8 Woodlands Waterfront Park

With options for jogging, cycling and fishing, as well as the chance to catch some of Singapore’s native wildlife, Woodlands Waterfront Park offers plenty of recreational options for the entire family. But the biggest highlight? Probably the 400m-long Woodlands Waterfront Jetty. Steeped in maritime history, it’s the longest jetty in Singapore and offers gorgeous views of the Straits of Johor!

#9 Sungei Buloh Wetlands Reserve

Home to otters, kingfishers, crocodiles and much, much more, this 87-hectare ASEAN heritage park is the place to be for nature lovers. Explore the area through various self-guided walks or free tours. And if birdwatching is your cup of tea, definitely swing by with your binoculars between April to August for a sight of migratory birds like Whimbrels, Common Greenshanks and Pacific Golden Plovers!

#10 Bukit Batok Town Park

With majestic granite cliffs and tranquil waters at Bukit Batok Town Park’s Little Guilin, it is no wonder this abandoned quarry has become a favourite of nature photographers. Whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll or exploring on bike, this picturesque spot is one you won’t want to miss. It’s also a stone’s throw away from the park connector to Bukit Batok Nature Park if you’d like to clock in a few more active minutes on the trip or cycle around!

Share this with your family and friends to skip the drive and enjoy an adventure-filled day!