Hidden parks & gardens in Singapore

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With at least 13 new parks set to open across Singapore over the next few years, park lovers and pawrents alike will soon be spoilt for choice. In the meantime, you can still enjoy some much-needed R&R right at your doorstep.

Stretch those legs, rest them eyes and nourish yourself with a good ol’ dose of nature at these 20 hidden parks and destress after a long work week.

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– North –

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1. Woodlands Waterfront Park

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Coastal park in the North

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Image credit: Florence Leow via Google Maps

If you happen to be nursing serious beach feels, Woodlands Waterfront Park is the place to go, with 11 hectares of lush greenery to roam. Situated right by the Straits of Johor, you and your kids can frolic about in the area and breathe in the salty sea breeze while you’re at it.

To get even closer to the sea, head over to the 400m-long jetty for unobstructed views of Johor across the sea, or drop by in the evening to catch the sunset.

Nearest MRT: Woodlands North

Woodlands Waterfront Park Review: “A public park with some facilities for children’s recreation and a lot of sheltered rest areas. The long jetty is fantastic for walks and viewing across the straits. There is a restaurant on the jetty with a fair variety of dishes on the menu and reasonable prices.” – Thomas Lau via Google Maps

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2. Sembawang Park

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Seaside park with a ship-themed playground

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Image credit: @siewwantan via Instagram

Sembawang residents can hit up the nearby Sembawang Park for a short break away from the usual 4-walls. Footpaths are aplenty in this seaside park, making it a favourite for joggers and strollers alike.

Image credit: Forest BK via Google Maps

Parents, don’t miss the Battleship Playground, not too far from Car Park 1, a nod to the Sembawang Naval Base built by the British in the late 1920s.

Complete with slides, a monkey bar, fireman poles, and a kid-friendly rock wall, this play area should keep your little ones occupied while you get some quiet time.

Image credit: Meng Foo Choo via Google Maps

There’s also a decent–sized dog run just a 5-minute walk from Car Park 2 that’s perfect for pawrents with active pups. Be sure to bring your own bottle of water, as there doesn’t seem to be any water points around the area, according to some visitors.

Image credit: Xuanm like to eat via Google Maps

Nearest MRT: Sembawang

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3. Yishun Pond Park

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Boardwalks next to Khoo Teck Puat Hospital

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Yishun residents can refresh themselves at Yishun Pond Park. You’ll find it right beside Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, with sprawling marshlands and trees surrounding the huge pond in the middle.

Those of you looking to stretch your legs more can opt to climb up the Spiral Tower. You’ll be greeted with stunning aerial views of the entire park, giving you a much-needed dose of nature after those long hours stuck at the office.

There’s also a 1km loop around the pond with waterfront views, perfect for a casual stroll or slow jog. Those hoping to bump up their fitness score on Strava can also extend their route with the nearby Yishun Park Connector or Khatib Bongsu Park Connector.

Image credit: Ryan Teo via Google Maps

Nearest MRT: Yishun

Yishun Pond Park Review: “This is definitely one of my favorite places for a walk! There’s a lot of animals to look out for, like spotted otters, iguanas, wild chicken, birds, tortoises and fish. Tip: Watch out for bicycles & PMDs during peak hours, especially the path near KTPH.” – Eva Lim via Google Maps

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4. Woodlands Botanical Garden

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Community garden by residents

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Image credit: @woodlandsbotanicalgarden via Instagram

In the 5 years since Mr Ganesh, a former chemistry teacher, started Woodlands Botanical Garden, it has expanded into a 2,500sqm sanctuary for over 350 species of plants and flowers.

Passion flower (left) and leopard lilies (right).
Image adapted from: @woodlandsbotanicalgarden via Instagram

The community garden is also patronised by other wildlife, like sunbirds, flowerpeckers, bees, and a variety of butterflies. It has also served as the venue for outdoor exhibitions in collaboration with the Botanical Art Society (Singapore), featuring award-winning artworks from around the region.

If you live in Woodlands, or would like to support local green-fingers, come here for a piece of nature and a peace of mind.

Nearest MRT: Marsiling

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– North-West –

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5. Kranji Marshes

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360 degree views atop the Raptor Tower

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Behind Kranji’s veneer of large unoccupied fields and rows of warehouses lies a hidden nature spot known as the Kranji Marshes.

While the main conservation area is only open to the public via guided tours, visitors can still experience a fruitful 1km walk to the Marsh Station, where you’ll find the Raptor Tower. Climb to the top, and you’ll find incredible 360 panoramic views of the surrounding marshes.

A Black Baza, spotted at Kranji Marshes.
Image credit: Alvin Wee via Facebook

Calling all bird-watchers, keep your eyes peeled for hideout shelters and blinds along the trails where you might be able to spot migratory birds like Black Bazas and Japanese Sparrowhawks from November to March.

Nearest MRT: Kranji

Kranji Marshes Review: “The walk from the main entrance to Raptor Tower is about 15 minutes. Not very crowded. Do carry a water bottle, sunscreen and insect repellant. Drinking water and toilets at the entrance.” – Harsh Saxena via Google Maps

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6. Bukit Batok Town Park

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Home to Little Guilin

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If you’re not heading overseas anytime soon, you can still mollify that wanderlust a little at Bukit Batok Town Park. After all, it’s home to Little Guilin – and standing in front of the dramatic rock formation, one could almost believe that they’re in Guilin, China, at that moment.

Whether you’re itching for a jog or a simple walk, the meandering trail through the forest will provide you with enough natural sights to fuel you for the rest of the day. Do bring an umbrella on your walk, as there’s not much shelter around.

Image credit: Imski via Google Maps

Nearest MRT: Bukit Gombak

Little Guilin Review: “Overall, the place is very calming and tranquil. It’s not so bicycle friendly, as the ground can be quite rough and uneven for someone to lug or ride their bicycle. There aren’t that many eateries nearby, so it’s advised to bring your own food if you’re planning to be there for some time.” – xihan via Google Maps

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7. Zhenghua Park

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Tall trees & Twilight vibes

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Image credit: @gdsamaritan via Instagram

Among the many things to do in Bukit Panjang, environmental enthusiasts wouldn’t want to miss out on Zhenghua Park.

As a result of its linkage to the Central Catchment and Bukit Timah nature reserves, and its diverse population of plants, it is the perfect animal crossing passage for our local inhabitants.

Hitting your daily 10,000 step goal will be easy as pie at this 2.5km linear park, but watch your footing – certain areas of the park have winding paths and steep slopes. If the sun’s got you beat, you can stop to catch your breath at the sheltered pavilions.

You’ll also pass by the pipeline trail.
Image credit: @gdsamaritan via Instagram

Plus, for all you loyal team Edwards, the park does have a certain Twilight quality with its tall trees and quiet atmosphere. Just make sure to bring mosquito repellant, as there are plenty of little bloodsuckers.

Nearest MRT: Bukit Panjang

Zhenghua Park Review: “The place doesn’t have a lot of ppl, so it’s nice to take a stroll or cycle there. There is a cool sand playground and fitness area, equipped with swings, slides, benches and dustbins. If you walk for a while, there’s actually a connector into Chestnut Nature Park in Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, but it’s a bit dark and the path isn’t really proper.” – Aykan Rajan via Google Maps

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– West –

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8. The Potter’s Garden

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Freshwater swamp in an industrial park

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Image credit: JTC via Facebook

Westies near Pulau NTU can head down to The Potter’s Garden, formerly Jurong Eco Garden, for some respite. Potterheads might love the new name, but The Potter’s Garden actually pays homage to Singapore’s last 2 remaining dragon kilns located near the park, Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle and Jalan Bahar Clay Studios.

Picture an area around the size of 7 football fields blanketed with lush greenery and a huge swamp, and that’s basically the park in a nutshell.

Image credits: Danny Heng via Google Maps

While you’re exploring, see if you can spot the pottery displays and stone sculptures scattered around the garden as nods to the area’s rich history. Fun fact: The boulders used in the sculptures were originally found in the Jurong Rock Caverns.

It’s not just scenic views either: there are 2 play areas for kids and a fitness corner for adults. One of the playgrounds features a rope bridge and winding slide, while the other has a sheltered merry-go-round.

Image credit: Henning Larsen website

The 5-hectare park is also home to a bunch of wildlife like kingfishers and lizards, as well as a newly expanded butterfly garden with over 26 species, but even if you can’t spot any, taking a long stroll through the place is more than enough to keep you occupied.

Nearest MRT: Boon Lay

The Potter’s Garden Review: “Be cautious of wild boars in the area, and watch your step on rocky or gravel paths, as they can be slippery or uneven. There are also some fallen branches along shaded areas that may be easy to miss, so take care while walking. The toilets are clean, and there’s a water filter station available along the walking path. Overall, a lovely place to relax and enjoy nature.” – Melaka83 via Google Maps

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9.  967 Pioneer rooftop garden

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Park your car & chill upstairs

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No more gatekeeping this after-school hang out spot near NTU. Perched above the multi storey carpark at Block 967 on Pioneer Road North is a wholesome little rooftop garden with stone benches and ample shade.

You can tapao food from home or from the coffee shops inside the estate, and head up for a chill, breezy meal.

Nearest MRT: Pioneer

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– South –

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10. Pearl’s Hill City Park

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Hidden atop a 45-metre hill

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Image credit: @iliveintiongbahru via Instagram

You may think Chinatown a pure concrete jungle, but look a little closer, and you’ll find Pearl’s Hill City Park tucked away in its midst.

Image credit: Jean-Luc Riou via Google Maps

This is one of the lesser-known parks on the list, so you can enjoy some peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of Chinatown below without being disturbed. The panoramic view of the CBD is hard to beat too.

Fitness enthusiasts would love the challenges this park will pose for them. Between the numerous steps and the steep inclines, you’ll be working off that desk job belly in no time.

Nearest MRT: Outram Park

Pearl’s Hill City Park Review: “A peaceful park with big trees and several amenities, including gym equipment, several park benches, a small fish pond (not for fishing), and a children’s play area.” – PutSar via Google Maps

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11. Berlayer Creek

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Boardwalk next to the sea

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Located just a stone’s throw from Labrador Park MRT, Berlayer Creek is 1 of only 2 remaining mangroves in the south and perhaps the spot for the nature lovers amongst us.

The picturesque 960m-long trail will bring you through 3 different habitats that include mudflats, rocky shores, and mangroves.

Image credit: Norbert Ritter via Instagram

On your trek, you might even be lucky enough to spot furry friends like monkeys and otters, alongside more colourful creatures like peacocks and Stork-billed Kingfishers.

Image adapted from: Hari Kumar via Google Maps, Fong Jeck Meng via Facebook

Nearest MRT: Labrador Park

Berlayer Creek Boardwalk Review: “You can walk over from Labrador Park MRT Station Exit A. Vegetation is adequate so I don’t feel too warm, and there are a couple of covered resting points along the way.” – T greensake via Google Maps

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12. Kent Ridge Park

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An alternate Treetop Walk

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Image credit: @legozai via Instagram

For a less-crowded alternative to the famed Treetop Walk, folks living in the CBD area can swing by Kent Ridge Park.

Image credit: Stephen Dua Modest via Google Maps

With numerous paths in its midst, head over to the Canopy Walk, where you’ll be traipsing through the blanket of trees and be treated to aerial views of the Alexandra area.

Image credit: Nope Thanks via Google Maps

Nearest MRT: Kent Ridge

Kent Ridge Park Review: “It’s much less busy than the other sections of the Southern Ridges. It has lovely shaded areas, a great section of elevated canopy walk, and extensive views of the Pasir Panjang port area as well as back towards Queenstown. There’s also ample parking at the hilltop if you don’t fancy walking up from Hort Park.” – Renny Toh via Google Maps

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– Central –

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13. Thomson Nature Park

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Old ruins of a Hainanese village

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Those familiar with the Central Catchment Nature Reserve would know that the area encompasses multiple parks. But if you’re up for a history lesson to go along with your walk, be sure to hit up Thomson Nature Park.

Embark on a walk down the Ruin and Figs Trail, and you’ll eventually come across the remnants of an old Hainan village, frozen in time after it was abandoned in the 1980s.

There are also 4 other trails to explore, but wildlife enthusiasts should definitely check out the Langur Trail for a chance to spot the elusive Raffles’ Banded Langur. If luck is on your side, you might just see one swinging across the aerial bridges up in the forest canopies.

Singapore was teeming with Langurs back in the 1920s.
Image credit: Wildlife Reserves Singapore

Nearest MRT: Lentor

Thomson Nature Park Review: “Quiet, scenic park with less foot traffic and clean washrooms. Trails are clearly marked and easy to tread with mostly flat surfaces. Explored the Stream & Ferns Trail, the Langur Trail and the Macaque Trail that are near the main entrances. I loved the bird calls and sightings of insects, squirrels and macaques.” – Harriot NN via Google Maps

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14. Hindhede Nature Park

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Gentle inclines perfect for even beginners

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Hiking beginners who are too afraid to take on the steep hike to the Bukit Timah summit can find a simpler alternative at Hindhede Nature Park.

Image credit: Tan Han Jet via Google Maps

Other than a few gentle inclines, the trail is an easy one for everyone to follow. The trail will eventually lead you past the Hindhede Quarry, where you’ll find dramatic cliffs and tranquil waters next to you as you sweat it out.

While the quarry’s off limits for wannabe climbers, your little ones can still channel their inner Indiana Jones at the playground, fitted with a mini rock wall, a snake-inspired spiral slide, and even a zipline.

Snap some Insta-worthy pics at the lookout point towards the end of the 15-minute trail.
Image credit: @hana94csh via Instagram

Nearest MRT: Beauty World

Hindhede Nature Park Review: “On weekends, you can expect many visitors and you’ll have to take turns for a Birds Eye view at the top at the Viewing Point. I would recommend visiting on weekdays, either in the morning or evening. It takes about an hour to finish walking the park.” – Richard Tan via Google Maps

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15. Chestnut Nature Park

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Separate trails for bikers and hikers

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Those dwelling in the Central area can also opt to visit Chestnut Nature Park to stretch their legs. Beginner hikers can opt for the Northern or Southern trails, both of which will take around 2 to 3 hours to complete altogether.

If that’s not enough cardio for you, there’s also the winding Observation Tower situated along the Northern Hiking Loop with a scenic 360 view of the park as a reward for the gruelling climb up.

Image credit: Shi H Cheong via Google Maps

Adventurous mountain bikers can take their bikes out for a spin at the designated biking trails here. They’re completely separate from the hiking trails, so you can ride freely without the fear of bumping into anybody.

Nearest LRT: Pending

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– East –

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16. Pasir Ris Park Mangrove Boardwalk

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A trail through a mangrove forest

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Image credit: @rachellegen via Instagram

A 15-minute walk from Pasir Ris MRT is the 6-hectare Pasir Ris Mangrove Boardwalk. Expect to see extensive amounts of knobbly roots and twisty branches throughout this mangrove forest, making it akin to a Martian habitat.

Image adapted from: @hengbok & @picto_max via Instagram

Along the way, you’ll be able to spot various mud-dwelling creatures like the mudskipper and mud crabs, so keep your eyes peeled for them.

Nearest MRT: Pasir Ris

Pasir Ris Park Mangrove Boardwalk Review: “Don’t miss the old jetty, it’s a great spot to pause and maybe do a bit of birdwatching. The trail conveniently leads right into Pasir Ris Park, where you can continue exploring the Maze Garden or visit Gallop Stable for some horsey fun. A perfect mini escape from city life — highly recommended!” – Peggy Phor via Google Maps

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17. Tampines Eco-Green

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Eco-friendly garden with a hidden swamp

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Not many Easties know about Tampines Eco-Green – and truly, without the sign next to the highway, finding this secluded space is almost a feat by itself.

But once you actually do set foot in it, you’ll be greeted with 36.5 hectares of natural wonders and 3 easy trails to follow.

Tucked further within the green expanse is a small swamp. While it’s not nearly as huge as the one at The Potter’s Garden, it’s still something you won’t find at most of the other spots on this list. Before you head down, it might be a good idea to wear your sports shoes, since your flip flops and sandals probably won’t survive the muddy soil.

Fun fact: All man-made items like information panels are made out of recyclable goods. They’ve even got an eco-toilet that uses wood shavings to break down everything.

Image credit: Ivy Choo via Google Maps

As serene as the view may be, it’s best not to stay too long, as the park doesn’t have much lighting and gets quite dark in the evenings.

Nearest MRT: Tampines

Tampines Eco-Green Review: “You can park in the area around Block 408 and walk across the road to reach Eco-Green. If you want to keep going, you can also continue your walk along the park connector. There’s also a kopitiam nearby.” – Frankie Lim via Google Maps

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18. Tampines Changkat Butterfly Garden

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Eastside “Fragile Forest”

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Image credit: Paul L via Google Maps

And then, on the other side of Tampines, there’s a Tampines Changkat Butterfly Garden hidden behind Block 124. While the garden is relatively small, it can host up to 50 butterflies of seven different species in a day.

Image credit: @mrsjoyful via Instagram

If you’d like to learn more about our fluttery friends, there’s a nifty information board outside that can help identify the types of butterflies found in the garden.

Image credit: @janrcp via Instagram

There are also several colourful swings, unique terraced benches, and wide gravel paths for you to enjoy.

Nearest MRT: Simei

Tampines Changkat Butterfly Garden Review: “You can walk there from Simei MRT Station, Tampines Interchange, Tampines Hub or Tampines East MRT Station. There are also bus services but they won’t help you save much time.”  – Aykan Rajan via Google Maps

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– North-East –

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19. Punggol Promenade Nature Walk

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Serene riverside park

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Image credit: @aryannie1604 via Instagram

Nestled between Punggol Point Walk and Riverside Walk, the Punggol Promenade Nature Walk is the most convenient riverside escape for all North-Easties.

Considering that it’s pretty far from any HDB estates, it’s thus the perfect location to recharge away from Punggol’s concrete jungle. With the 2.4KM trail past the breathtaking Punggol coastline, it’s a screensaver come to life.

Image credit: VanGarrett James Lee via Facebook

Besides sweeping waterfront views and lookout points where you can spot the Serangoon East Dam and even Coney Island, the area also has a few fishing platforms and rest shelters.

Joggers and bikers can also access the nature walk via nearby park connectors including Punggol Promenade Punggol Point Walk, Punggol Promenade Riverside Walk, and Punggol Waterway.

Nearest MRT: Punggol Coast

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20. Sengkang Floating Wetland

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Fruit-themed park

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Drive along the Tampines Expressway, and chances are, you would’ve spotted the Sengkang Floating Wetland located within Sengkang Riverside Park.

For those looking to level up their Instagram game, the life-size mangosteen doubles as a fun photospot and a handy shelter from the blazing sun.

Image credit: @kingkhong.ws via Instagram

Apart from simply strolling around the place, take some time to appreciate the biodiversity in the area. It’s home to various fruit trees like star fruits and chiku, and the planted marshlands also attracts a horde of wild birds that aren’t the mynahs or the famous yellow bulbul.

Nearest LRT: Kupang

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(Temporarily closed) Clementi Woods Park

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Jogging trails with shaded footpaths

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Image credit: @tsansiang via Instagram

With tons of wide, open spaces, Clementi Woods Park has long been a hotspot for dogs and dog-owners alike. Step into the park, and the first thing you might see are puppers of all shapes and sizes gambolling around like they own the place.

Image credit: @hanleehaha via Instagram

It’s not just for the dog-owners, though – nearby residents can also pop by for a short jog. The numerous trees lining the paths make for a shady area, so you can go for lunchtime jog without fear of the ruthless midday sun.

Clementi Woods Park is undergoing redevelopment till March 2027.

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Hidden outdoor parks in Singapore to recharge at

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So if you’ve grown tired of doomscrolling on the weekends, drop a visit at any of these hidden parks in Singapore for a bout of fresh air.

And while you’re at it, try out these easy exercises and stretches that your body will thank you for.

More outdoorsy articles:

• Free nature tours by NParks 
• Bulim Park in Jurong West
• Picnic spots near hiking trails

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Cover image adapted from: JTC via Facebook
Originally published on 9th April 2020 and updated by Faith Leong on 12th August 2022. Last updated by Tricia Teong on 23rd April 2026.