There are free study spots, and then there are free seating spots. What’s the difference, you ask? The latter, apart from having benches to sit on, are also in close proximity to other fun activities you can enjoy if you are out on a date.
While there are options of cafes and co-working spaces, they’re not exactly the most wallet-friendly places to visit. So, if you’re a couple looking for a quiet space to work and chill together, from picturesque rooftops to indoor seating areas with AC, we’ve saved you the trouble by compiling a list of free seating spots in Singapore you can try.
Table of Contents
It’s always better to know a location well and plan your dates in advance, so you can see what suits you best.
| Venue | Highlights | Opening hours |
| Suntec Sky Garden |
| 10am-10pm, Daily |
| JEM Park | 3-storey outdoor area with a playground | 10am-10pm, Daily |
| Capitol Singapore & Esplanade |
| 10.30am-10.30pm, Daily |
| VivoCity |
| 10am-10pm, Daily |
| SMU & National Gallery Singapore | Free entry to National Museum Singapore | 8.30am-5.45pm, Mon-Fri |
| City Sprouts (Henderson) | Study at an urban farm while eating strawberries | 9am-6pm, Daily |
| Changi Airport |
| 24 hours |
| National Library Building | Study pods & ebooks on touchscreens | 10am-9pm, Daily |
| Funan |
| 10am-10pm, Daily |
Image credit: True Cost SG via Facebook
The first location on this list is the Suntec Sky Garden. This rooftop area has wide benches and ventilated spaces, so you can have your HTHT sessions while enjoying the ambience of the nearby restaurants.
Image credit: Suntec City
The area is well-lit at night and surrounded by many skyscrapers, so you don’t have to worry about the area being too dim. There will also be buskers occasionally singing near the Fountain of Wealth below, adding to the vibes of a casual Sunday evening. Those feeling peckish can grab some snacks from Don Don Donki or Giant in the mall.
Image credit: Ivan Loh via Google Maps
If you are at Suntec during the day, there are also exhibition shows happening frequently at the Convention Centre, which is right below the Sky Garden.
Image credit: @skygardens.sg via Instagram
JEM Park is one for the Westies. The park can be found right outside Kopitiam on Level 5 of the mall, and covers a total of 3 storeys.
Image credit: Playpoint Singapore
On the 1st floor, you will find a playground with hammocks for you to take a short nap in between your jalan jalan sesh, if there aren’t kids running around. There are also seats on the 1st and 3rd floors, where you can have a quiet moment while enjoying a scenic view of neon-lit skyscrapers. JEM also provides free WiFi from Capitaland, so you’ll always have access to the internet.
Image credit: Ritesh Jha via Google Maps
If outdoor spaces aren’t ideal for you to study, Jurong Regional Library is also nearby, within walking distance from Jurong East MRT. It’s one of the largest public libraries in Singapore, with 4 floors and comfy sofa seats dotted throughout the space.
Grass patch area outside Capitol Theatre.
This sheltered grass patch spot outside Capitol Theatre is a great alternative to Marina Barrage for picnics. In addition to the wooden benches and tables, the area also has big fans and free WiFi provided by Capitol Singapore for your study or remote-working sessions.
Image credit: Esplanade
Another viable location located 3 bus stops away is Esplanade, where there’s an open rooftop garden and sheltered steps at the outdoor theatre, which is usually empty if there’s no show going on. Time your date perfectly and you just might catch one of the many free performances happening every day. Check out their programme listings to keep yourself updated on upcoming events.
Skyview point rooftop.
Image credit: VivoCity
While VivoCity might be quite a distance for some of us to travel to, the trip might just be worth it with its zen rooftop, library, and nearby beaches.
VivoCity Sky View Point is a rooftop on the mall with open spaces, benches, and water fountains. You will find this area near the Sentosa Express train station, or if you’re making your way to Sentosa through the connected walkway. As the rooftop is near Harbourfront Centre, you will also see ships sailing in the waters nearby.
library@habourfront.
Image credit: @dawisunayooo via Instagram
If the weather is too hot, drop by the library@habourfront that is conveniently located inside the mall and faces Sentosa for gorgeous harbour views.
With the many things to do at Sentosa like visiting the SEA Aquarium, it’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Siloso Beach is another option for your weekend plans, offering free admission to the island if you walk across the boardwalk, and sandy beaches for a different atmosphere.
Okay, okay. The SMU campus isn’t a mall but being in the smack middle of town sure makes it feel like one.
Image credit: Work Horry via Google Maps
Even if you’re not a student from SMU, you can still take advantage of the seats and tables found outside the campus. You will find charging ports around and also connect to the Eduroam Wifi as long as you’re studying in an educational institution. Additionally, there are many food options nearby, such as Gong Cha and The Tea Party Express for your coffee breaks.
Tables outside and inside the SMU Campus.
Image adapted from: Andy Chiu via Google Maps
Situated directly opposite SMU is the National Museum of Singapore, where you can view ongoing art exhibitions for free.
Image credit: City Sprouts
What was once known as Henderson Secondary School has since been revamped to City Sprouts urban farm.
The canteen that was previously here is now a comfortable dining space open to the public with plenty of seats and free WiFi. The space is well-ventilated with ample fans and a water cooler, so you can comfortably work here for a while. You’ll also find a Thai bistro selling seafood tom yum soup ($16.80) and green papaya salad ($13.80) if you’re feeling hungry.
Go Green 2024 Sustainability Event.
Image credit: @city_sprouts via Instagram
Take a break from studying and stroll around the nearby strawberry farm or learn how mushrooms are grown. If you have a green thumb, you can get hands-on experience at the sustainability workshops. Currently, Plantopia: Back From The Dead Edition is an ongoing event where you can purchase a $20 coupon for activities and workshops like painting plant pots. More information on these events can be found on their website.
Changi Airport is another ideal location for your dates. From free movie screenings to 24/7 cafes, this iconic landmark has also served as a study spot for generations of Singaporeans.
The Amphitheatre at Terminal 3 screens movies of various genres from comedy to action, including Pitch Perfect and High School Musical. Information about the movie timings can be found in their schedule.
Image credit: Changi Airport
Upon exiting the foot of the Amphitheatre, you will find tables and cushioned seats located right in front of KOI Thé. This space is available 24/7, so you can have your overnight mugging sessions here. The Starbucks upstairs on level 2 is also 24/7, but, of course, you will have to buy a drink to use the space.
For something more serene, make your way to Jewel Changi, which also has free seating in the Walking Trails of Shiseido Forest Valley. At this indoor forest simulation, you can admire the sky during the day, then admire the nighttime light shows at the Rain Vortex waterfall from 8pm-9pm on Mondays to Thursdays.
Image credit: National Library Board
Most of us would think of the library when asked about free places to study in Singapore, but not many of us know of the full range of facilities places like the National Library Building have to offer. Apart from the Central Public Library at Basement 1, you can also book study tables with power outlets from levels 7 to 11 of the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library.
And while libraries are often quiet spaces, this one occasionally holds free live music performances by local artists. Plus, it’s right opposite Bugis Junction if you need to grab a bite.
Yishun Public Library.
Image credit: National Library Board
Punggol Regional Library also has soundproof study pods that you can book, and there are even touchscreens for you to read ebooks if you’re visiting Yishun Public Library. Both these libraries are next to malls too – Waterway Point and Northpoint City.
Image credit: David Yeo via Google Maps
Out of all the malls in Singapore, Funan is one of the most conducive places to relax and wind down after a long day. It has multi-level seating areas surrounded by plants, grass patches, and charging ports. There are also affordable food options such as McDonald’s, Wingstop, and a food court here.
Additionally, you can head to the rooftop garden for some fresh air. While you’re there, don’t forget to check out the urban farm, which has free seating all around.
Image credit: National Gallery Singapore
National Gallery Singapore is right opposite the mall, offering free exhibitions displaying artworks from local and international artists.
With the recent inflation and price surge, we are constantly on the search for date ideas that are more forgiving on our wallets. These free seating spots are budget-friendly and offer a wide range of amenities, so give them a chance and you might just find your new favourite hangout place.
For more guides on activities in Singapore:
Cover image adapted from: Esplanade
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