Flower Dome at Gardens by the Bay
Singapore may be all about skyscrapers, but if you’re after a slice of nature without breaking a sweat, Flower Dome at Gardens by the Bay is where it’s at. As the largest glass greenhouse in the world, this cool-dry conservatory brings together plants from across the globe – think towering baobabs, vibrant tulips, and Mediterranean olive trees, all thriving in a humidity-free bubble.
With seasonal floral displays switching up the scenery, there’s always something new to check out. Whether you’re here for a chill stroll, to flex your photography skills, or to pretend you’ve been whisked away to the Italian countryside, here’s what you need to know before planning your visit.
What’s the difference between the Flower Dome & Cloud Forest?
Both conservatories are must-visits at Gardens by the Bay, but they offer totally different vibes.
If you’re into flowers and vibrant landscapes, the Flower Dome is for you. It’s the world’s largest glass greenhouse, featuring seasonal floral displays and plants from cool-dry climates like the Mediterranean and South Africa. Expect colourful blooms, themed gardens, and a fresh lineup of floral exhibitions throughout the year.
An exhibition at the Flower Dome (left) vs the Cloud Forest (right).
On the other hand, the Cloud Forest transports you right to the misty mountains. It’s home to one of the world’s tallest indoor waterfalls, a towering Cloud Mountain, and rare tropical plants from high-altitude forests. If you enjoy cool, misty atmospheres and learning about ecosystems, this is where you’ll want to be.
You can choose to purchase tickets for each attraction separately or as a bundle at $20/adult and $12/child for Singapore residents, and $32/adult and $18/child for foreigners.
Largest glass greenhouse in the world
Image credit: @ferraro127 via Instagram
Here’s a fun fact: Did you know that the Flower Dome is officially the world’s largest glass greenhouse? Yup, it’s even bigger than Brazil’s Botanical Garden of Curitiba and New York’s Enid A. Haupt Conservatory.
Image credit: Gardens by the Bay
Covering 1.2 hectares, this massive glasshouse is made up of over 3,000 glass panels and has a column-free design, which means you get completely unobstructed views of the stunning gardens inside.
But it’s not just about looking pretty – the dome’s specially designed glass panels let in just the right amount of sunlight while keeping the heat out, making sure the plants inside stay cool and happy.
Themed gardens with plants from around the world
Stepping into the Flower Dome is like taking a mini world tour – without actually having to deal with the airport madness. The conservatory replicates a cool-dry Mediterranean climate, creating the perfect home for plants from regions like South Africa, California, Spain, and Italy.
Image credit: @ferraro127 via Instagram
Inside, you’ll find themed gardens showcasing different ecosystems, from the Baobabs and Succulent Garden to the Mediterranean, Australian, and South American Gardens. Each section is packed with unique plants, including hardy succulents, and centuries-old olive trees. Keep an eye out for species like the Aloidendron barberae (tree aloe) and Olea europaea, which are basically olive trees.
If you’re lucky, you might even catch a free guided tour, where you can pick up fun facts and surprising tidbits about these fascinating plants.
Image credit: Gardens by the Bay
One of the biggest stars in the Flower Dome? The Baobabs, also known as bottle trees – and they’re impossible to miss. The African baobab (Adansonia digitata) is the heaviest tree in the conservatory, weighing over 32 tonnes. Native to semi-arid Africa, these upside-down trees store water in their swollen trunks, which can reach 11 metres in diameter, making them a vital survival tool in dry landscapes.
Dubbed the “Tree of Life,” baobabs have sustained communities for centuries. Their nutrient-rich fruit is packed with health benefits, their seeds can be pressed for oil, and their fibrous bark is woven into ropes and roofing material.
A rotating lineup of exhibitions
The Flower Dome isn’t just about permanent displays – it also plays host to rotating floral exhibitions that bring new landscapes and cultural themes to life throughout the year.
One of the most popular past exhibitions was Impressions of Monet, a multi-sensory showcase celebrating the life and art of Impressionist painter Claude Monet. Then there’s Tulipmania, an annual favourite that transforms the conservatory into a mini Netherlands, complete with vibrant tulip fields.
The Turkiye-themed Tulipmania 2023.
Right now, the Flower Dome is hosting the 10th edition of the Sakura floral display, featuring the largest variety of cherry blossom trees to date. Inspired by Fukuoka Prefecture, the exhibition includes a replica of Kokura Castle and authentic bamboo lanterns from the Takeakari Bamboo Lantern Festival in Kitakyushu.
Image adapted from: @gardensbythebay via Instagram
Come June, expect Lilytopia, which will transport visitors to the cobblestone streets of a picturesque Italian town, right in the heart of Gardens by the Bay.
When’s the best time to visit the Flower Dome?
With both the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest being major tourist hotspots, expect crowds, especially on weekends and public holidays. If you prefer a quieter experience where you can truly soak in the sights and get the best photos, weekday mornings are your best bet.
To make your visit even smoother, the Flower Dome is easily accessible via public transport, with Gardens by the Bay MRT Station just a short walk away.
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Cover image adapted from: @ferraro127 via Instagram