Things to do in Geylang
Geylang might be known as a red-light district but true locals know that there’s more to this neighbourhood. Well we can’t deny its history, but look past its rep and you’ll find that Geylang has plenty to offer today – from museums and temples to retro shophouses. Dig deeper and explore the streets with these 19 things to do in Geylang, Singapore.
Table of Contents
- Things to do in Geylang
- What you need to know before visiting Geylang
- Is it safe to visit Geylang at night?
- -Where to shop in Geylang-
- 1. City Plaza
- 2. Secret thrift store in Tristar Complex
- 3. The Panic Room
- 4. Rugged Gentlemen Shoppe
- – What to eat in Geylang–
- 5. Geylang Serai Market
- 6. Lor 9 Beef Kway Teow
- 7. Geylang Lor 9 Frog Porridge
- 8. Fujiwara Tofu Shop
- – What things to do in Geylang-
- 9. KINEX
- 10. Geylang Adventures
- 11. Geylang Serai Heritage Gallery
- 12. The Buddhist Library
- 13. Geylang Park Connector
- – What to see in Geylang –
- 14. Lorong 24A & 34
- 15. The Intan
- 16. Sri Sivan Temple
- 17. Masjid Khadijah
- 18. Former Queen’s Theatre
- 19. NekoTown
What you need to know before visiting Geylang
As one of the pioneering neighbourhoods of Singapore, it’s no surprise that lots of well-known eateries and interesting heritage sites all have their roots stemming from here. It’s also where one of Singapore’s oldest Malay Settlements, Geylang Serai is located. During Ramadan, the annual Geylang Serai Bazaar happens here, a testament to the rich heritage of the place.
Despite its perceived reputation as a sleazy neighbourhood, Geylang is actually one of the holiest, with a large cluster of religious sites located throughout.
Is it safe to visit Geylang at night?
According to the Singapore Police Force, crime in Geylang has dropped by a whopping 66.4% over the last 10 years. So yes, Geylang is still definitely a safe place to visit. Plus, the streets are well-lit and regularly patrolled, especially on the busier streets. Even for the more sus looking roads, the presence of CCTVs in every nook and cranny are there to act as a deterrent for others and assurance for you.
Of course, it’s always better to play it safe and stick to the main areas like Geylang Road or Sims Avenue if you’re not comfortable navigating alleys. Alternatively, you could go in a group, which we’ll get into more detail about later.
-Where to shop in Geylang-
From preloved vintage clothes to a lifestyle for men, here’s a brief shopping guide in Geylang.
1. City Plaza
Pre-loved & vintage fashion at low prices
Image for illustration only.
If you judged City Plaza from its shabby exterior, you might not give it a second thought. Little did you know that the retro vibes are precisely what makes it unique – housed within the centre are rows of clothing stores selling secondhand items and new stuff from the likes of local blogshops at way more affordable rates.
This 5-storey mall in Geylang is perfect for lovers of vintage fashion and those who enjoy thrifting pieces to create their own looks. Right as you enter, you’ll find Fashion Scale (#01-110) – a store selling pre-owned clothes, accessories, and shoes. They have plenty of ongoing promos year-round too.
Apart from fashion retailers, the plaza also has old-school stores selling electronics and games from the 90s such as Discmans, film cameras, and the original Gameboy.
If you get a little hungry, check out Arnold’s Fried Chicken on level 2 – Singapore’s oldest Arnold’s outlet that opened almost 40 years ago. A la carte items start from just $3.70 for fried chicken pieces.
Sign Up with TSL Connect
2. Secret thrift store in Tristar Complex
Clothes from $2
Preloved is a secret thrift store in Tristar Complex with pieces ranging between $2-$10. Don’t expect any branded items here, but the store is full of cute secondhand batik shirts and traditional Malay costumes. There’s even a rack for preloved polo shirts and basics.
The owner actually owns the store beside Preloved as well, so if you notice that Preloved is locked up, it doesn’t mean it’s closed. Just hit up the owner at the store beside the escalator if you’d like to peruse the thrift shop.
Address: 970 Geylang Road, Tristar Complex, #02-04, Singapore 423492
Opening hours: Tue-Sun 10am-5pm (Closed on Mondays)
Contact: 97328284
3. The Panic Room
Old-school barber, record & photography store
A barber shop, photo studio, and a record store all at once, The Panic Room might just have the funkiest retail experience in Geylang. From vintage cameras to disposable film ones, this photography shop makes buying a camera accessible to all – even if you’re a novice.
Image credit: @thebarbershopmusic via Instagram
If you’re just getting started on your vinyl game, this quaint little store is one to check out for its huge collection. Whether you’re a fan of rock classics like David Bowie or movie soundtracks like The Legacy, The Panic Room will have something for you. If you prefer cassettes and old tapes, there’s a section just for that too.
4. Rugged Gentlemen Shoppe
Timeless fashion for men
A lifestyle store focusing on classic and timeless fashion for men, Rugged Gentlemen Shoppe’s concept is inspired by the ruggedness and heritage of the American Midwest.
Find timeless apparel and accessories, such as leather goods, boots, and denim jeans. The shop also carries men’s grooming products like beard oil and pomade, as well as home decor items such as scented candles. Regardless of what you buy, you’re sure to get a glow-up either way.
If you’re into original and good quality clothing, you’ll be glad to know that they also have their own brand – Obbigoodlabel. Not only do their designs draw inspiration from Japanese high fashion, they also produce their clothing there.
One of their specialty creations is the Brave Series (from $458). This wallet purposefully takes on the shape of an ingot and is constructed using premium shell cordovan leather, a unique leather made from a horse’s bum.
This piece can only be made every 3-4 months in small batches, so it’s pretty exclusive. Plus, horse hide is particularly durable and doesn’t crease as easily as calf leather, so you don’t have to worry about your card sleeves cracking anytime soon.
– What to eat in Geylang–
If you’re wondering what to eat in Geylang, you can find plenty of good, affordable food. Here’s a round-up of our best picks.
5. Geylang Serai Market
Muslim food haven & hidden gems
Rojak & Mee Siam (#02-126).
When it comes to foodie things to do in Geylang, Geylang Serai Market is a must-visit. Affordable, authentic, and delicious Malay cuisine – what’s not to love?
Customise your own rojak at Rojak & Mee Siam for $0.80-$1.50/item. Pair it with their signature dipping sauce made from sweet potatoes and you’d have a delectable meal that hits the spot.
Sinar Pagi Nasi Padang (#02-137).
Perhaps, opt for some Nasi Padang at Sinar Pagi Nasi Padang. While it may not be the most affordable kind, its long queues even before lunch hour speaks volumes for itself.
With Indonesian roots and generously seasoned dishes, 1 takeaway portion including 1 meat and 2 vegetables, costs around $8.
If you intend to whip up your own meal, head down to their wet market section to find ingredients needed for traditional Malay dishes. Whether it’s cloves or blended tapioca flakes you’re looking for, Geylang Serai Market has got you covered.
6. Lor 9 Beef Kway Teow
Michelin-approved wok hey dishes
You haven’t truly visited Geylang if you’ve never eaten here. As one of the most famous eateries in the area, Lor 9 Beef Kway Teow serves up iconic Beef Kway Teow (from $8, $14, $30) – duh. If you’re worried that you’d be getting a lot of kway teow but a sparse amount of beef, we’re here to appease your woes. The amount of sliced beef put into their portions is generous but not overpowering.
To go along with this star dish, order a side of Coffee Pork Ribs (from $14) and Thai-style Chicken Wings (from $12) at this Michelin Plate restaurant.
If you’re not a fan of kway teow, switch it out for other noodles like bee hoon or you mian.
7. Geylang Lor 9 Frog Porridge
Legendary must-try delicacy
With a chain of outlets all over Southeast Asia such as in China and Cambodia, it’s surprising that it all started from this humble little store in Geylang. Geylang Lor 9 Frog Porridge has certainly made a name for itself over the years with its Dry Chilli Frog (from $13.50) and Traditional Frog Porridge (from $13.50).
The frogs are freshly procured and cleaned in-house, making their meat extra tender. Besides frog dishes, they also offer tze char classics like BBQ Stingray (from $22.50) and Fried Oyster Omelette (from $18). And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, try their Hot Plate Deer Meat (from $27) for some extra exotic-ness.
8. Fujiwara Tofu Shop
Initial D-themed eatery
Image credit: Eatbook
Teleport to the world of Initial D with Fujiwara Tofu Shop. In the anime, the shop was home to both Takumi, the main character, and his father. Most of the plot revolves around the shop, making it renowned in the series, and now it’s popped up in real life.
Image credit: Eatbook
Don’t be fooled by the name as tofu isn’t the only thing on the menu. Tweaked to align with Singaporeans’ taste buds, the menu features Singaporean-Japanese fusion bites like Mala Scallop Lips (from $8.90), Clam with Korean Chilli Sauce (from $8.90), and Fried Whole Garlic (from $6.90).
Seize this opportunity to meet like-minded fans to bond over the anime or just bond over some good food.
– What things to do in Geylang-
There are plenty of attractions and things to do in Geylang, so we’ve compiled a guide list to help you plan your trip there.
9. KINEX
Floral decor, family karaoke & a mystical cafe
Located just a 5-minute walk from Paya Lebar MRT, KINEX is the go-to mall for home decor and kids’ activities in the East. Most notably, there are 6 stores selling artificial flowers and plants as well as a Daiso (#01-01) for handy household items.
Image credit: Sing My Song Family Karaoke Kinex via Google Maps
It’s also one of the more family-friendly malls in Singapore with entertainment options such as Sing My Song Family Karaoke (#03-05). Head to level 2 and you’ll find all types of enrichment centres for kids including a ballet academy, an art studio, and a drumming school.
If you need to get a haircut, a massage or visit the dentist, plenty of options are available too with a number of clinics and salons scattered across the mall.
Mukshidonna on level 1 serves South Korean cuisine.
Finally, when it comes to filling your belly, you can find Japanese BBQ, hot pot, local food, as well as fast food chains like Burger King (#01-42/43/44) and Popeyes (#01-50/51).
10. Geylang Adventures
A deep dive into the neighbourhood
Image credit: Geylang Adventures via Facebook
Dive into the cultural history of Geylang with a local resident as your tour guide. With Geylang Adventures, you’ll be able to unpack the hidden stories behind this neighbourhood with your eyes and ears.
This tour is also a platform to kickstart conversations about the lives of lower-income individuals and migrant workers in Singapore at large. Expect deep discussions ranging from environmental impacts to social issues revolving around Geylang.
Price: $50/pax on weekdays | $55/pax on weekends
Address: 228 Changi Road, #01-05, Singapore 419741
Contact: Geylang Adventures website
11. Geylang Serai Heritage Gallery
Free community gallery
The best way to learn about a culture is to surround yourself with it. The Geylang Serai Heritage Gallery makes for a great educational hotspot for Malay heritage. With traditional costumes, textiles, and photographs on display, visitors can really get a sense of what life was like back in the day.
Interactive exhibits allow for more hands-on learning too. Many of the displays are also equipped with an audio device which makes it more convenient for visitors who prefer to learn auditorily. Hopefully, you’ll walk out of the gallery with greater appreciation for Malay traditions that are such an important part of our national identity.
12. The Buddhist Library
Singapore’s only non-sectarian Buddhist library
Image credit: siang hang lim via Google Maps
Located along the same lorong as the famed Chinese Baroque shophouses, The Buddhist Library also happens to be Singapore’s only non-sectarian Buddhist library. That means that anybody can attend things like dhamma talks, religious exhibitions, and even meditation classes, making it the perfect environment to learn more about Buddhism.
The library itself houses over 16,000 books in English and Chinese covering anything from the religion’s ethics to their art and architecture. Talk about a sanctuary of knowledge.
13. Geylang Park Connector
Scenic views of the Singapore city skyline
Image credit: @calvinxhw via Instagram
For more nature-like things to do in Geylang, get your daily dose of steps in at the Geylang Park Connector, located between Guillemard Road and Tanjong Rhu. Along the way, you’ll catch a scenic view of the Geylang River. Plus, the path also connects you to Gardens by the Bay via Tanjong Rhu Promenade, making it a great cycling route too.
– What to see in Geylang –
Snap your OOTD pic while learning about the history at these architectural and cultural attractions in Geylang.
14. Lorong 24A & 34
Pre-WW2 Chinese baroque shophouses
The shophouses along Lorong 24A & 34 are more than just another Instagrammable photo spot. Built in the 1900s, it was restored by different architects so that each one possesses a distinctive design. You can even rent one if you’d like to immerse yourself in Geylang’s atmosphere and live in the hood.
Contrary to the reputation of Geylang, this particular street never had any red-light activity and is home to many new and old businesses, one of them being Eng Tiang Huat Chinese Cultural Shop.
Specialising in cultural antiques, this store is filled with an assortment of vintage Chinese instruments from the likes of Hainanese and Teochew cultures.
Notable instruments include the Ye Hu or coconut Er Hu (from $280) that is inlaid with Mother of Pearl. The instrument also features a carved dragon head – perfect if you have a penchant for details.
Head down to the nearby Lorong 34 which features 2-storey terraces built pre-WW2. Located equidistant from Aljunied MRT and Paya Lebar MRT, it houses lots of small businesses in the area such as Eventually Tarot and Royal Blooms. This particular shophouse is both a temple and a home, adding an extra tinge of personality to Lorong 34’s premises
15. The Intan
Peranakan museum with home-grown collections
A key difference between the Peranakan Museum and The Intan is that the latter is actually a home museum; which means you’ll actually be touring someone’s crib.
Upon entering, you may be greeted by a familiar setting. We’re sure you’ve seen the famous Singapore Airlines safety video featuring various prominent sites of Singapore. Well, notice that in one of the scenes, the airplane seat is actually an antique Peranakan chair. Surprise surprise – it was actually filmed at The Intan.
Carefully collected over 3 decades, there are more than 1,000 artefacts featured here. Expect to see an impressive array of Peranakan antiques and heirlooms, including porcelain, furniture, jewellery, and textiles.
After the tour, relish in some traditional prune lapis at the souvenir shop or even bring home a Peranakan tingkat with you. For those who want a trinket that’s a little more dazzling, you’re in luck. Cop a pair of traditional hand-sewn beaded shoes (from $300) to wear a piece of heritage for special occasions.
16. Sri Sivan Temple
One of Singapore’s oldest Hindu temples
In Geylang, you can visit one of the most beautiful Hindu temples in Singapore. Dating back to the 1850s, the Sri Sivan Temple was built by immigrants who came to Singapore to work as labourers. Whether you’re enthralled by religious affairs or love admiring unique architecture, you’re always welcome to visit.
Believed to bring good luck and success to its worshippers, this temple remains an important spiritual destination to the Hindu community in Singapore. They perform daily rituals, usually in the mornings and evenings, such as bell ringing and flower offerings as a form of respect to the deities there.
Pro tip: Entry to the temple is barefoot only, so you may want to consider wearing socks as you will be walking a fair bit on concrete floors. Also, remember to dress modestly.
17. Masjid Khadijah
Inspired by the holy mosque in Medina
Image credit: Asp Bala via Google Maps
1 out of only 2 mosques in Singapore to be named after a benefactress, Masjid Khadijah’s design was influenced by another mosque all the way in Medina: Masjid An-Nabawi, the second holiest Islamic site in the world. As for its name, it was done to honour Madam Khadijah Mohamed, who in 1915, made the first donation of $50,000 for the mosque’s construction.
The mosque also houses Singapore’s only Religious Rehabilitation Group (RRG), an institution that aims to set radicalists – who have been influenced by the extremist ideologies of Islam – back straight. Plus, it’s also a part of the Geylang Serai Foot Trail, with the next stop having an even older history.
Pro tip: Avoid entering the mosque on Fridays from 12.30pm and 2.15pm, as that’s when every mosque in Singapore will be crowded, due to Friday prayers.
18. Former Queen’s Theatre
Iconic theatre back in the day
Image credit: Roots
Travel back in time to the past at the Former Queen’s Theatre, which back in its heyday, was one of the most bustling movie theatres in Singapore up until its closure in 1982. Fortunately, the facade of the old theatre has been retained, with its colonial design injecting a breath of fresh air amidst the buildings of today.
While you can’t enter the building, you’ll find that there are many cool photo ops available. The black spiral staircase at the side is a staple in many couples’s pre-wedding photoshoots. Meanwhile, the 6 gas lamp posts in front will make you feel like you’ve actually been transported back to the Victorian London era.
19. NekoTown
Cheapest cat cafe from $9/hour with unlimited drinks
Satisfy your urge to play with cats at NekoTown, one of the most affordable cat cafes in Singapore with rates at $9/hour. It also comes with free flow drinks for you to quench your thirst however much you want. To elevate your interactions with the felines, you’ll find cat toys to help with the bonding process, as well as wet cat treats ($1) for them to nibble on.
(Closed) Geylang Drip City
Geylang Drip City was a unique hip coffee shop that closed on 30th November 2023.
Explore the different things to do in Geylang, Singapore
From exploring the vibrant culture and history of the area to indulging in delicious local cuisine, Geylang definitely has more than meets the eye. So, next time you find yourself in the area, solo adventuring or not, be sure to check out this mix of popular things to do and hidden gems in Geylang.
More neighbourhood guides:
- Things to do in Joo Chiat and Katong
- Things to do in Hougang and Buangkok
- Things to do in Bukit Purmei
- Things to do in Marsiling-Woodlands
Photography by Emilyn Cheng.
Originally published on 31st March 2023. Last updated by Syahiran Sean on 1st July 2025.