Reach Out For The Skies is one of my favourite National Day songs of all time. And yes, I’d also love to be as close as possible to the skies to catch this year’s NDP fireworks. But truthfully, not everyone’s willing to stand in the heat and massive crowds of Singaporeans waiting for this very moment. What if I told you that you can skip the crowd and still get your Disney-like fireworks moment?
Psst, here’s a little secret for all fireworks lovers out there: there’s a hidden rooftop at Marina Square with some of the best views to watch the sky light up. Bookmark it for the upcoming National Day Parade this 9th August and the 2 preview shows on 22nd and 29th July 2023.
While many might know Marina Square as the mall for all things family-friendly, it has a lil’ hidden space on the 3rd floor that leads to an outdoor rooftop. You’re immediately met with a spacious garden terrace when you step out.
Image credit: Shimzu Corporation
If you’ve been to the usual spots around Marina Bay Sands during NDP, you’ll know that the Singaporean kiasu-ness kicks in and everyone rushes to the front the moment the fireworks begin. Well, at Marina Square’s rooftop, there’s a lower chance of this happening – and you get unblocked views of the pyrotechnic display from all parts of the rooftop.
Since it’s a garden after all, the space is filled also with some greenery to give you some zen. There are also wooden benches for you to take a seat while enjoying the ambience.
You can catch other segments of the NDP from the rooftop.
Image credit: @dahliadaudneo via Instagram
Come early to chope your seats, and you’ll get a chance to catch other segments of the National Day Parade such as the iconic State Flag Flypast. Feel free to pack some food and drinks to enjoy while “catching” the parade. Just remember to take your trash with you when you leave.
Fireworks view from Marina Square rooftop garden.
Image credit: @i_s_ky via Instagram
So the main question is, how does one get to the rooftop? There are a few routes that you can take, but we’ve found the simplest one. From Marina Square’s main entrance, take the escalator up to level 3 and you’ll see Beyond Pancakes. Keep walking straight until you see Tenkaichi – and then make a right turn.
After turning, walk past Tenkaichi Japanese BBQ and SOFRA Turkish Cafe & Restaurant.
Image credit: Marina Square
Continue walking straight until you see a sign pointing to “The Roof Garden”. You’ll know you’re in the right direction.
If, like us, the idea of crowds puts you off from trying to catch the NDP fireworks, it’s not too impossible this time round. The hidden rooftop at Marina Square is super accessible, with plenty of dining options and things to do around the area.
For those with some time to spare before catching the fireworks, check out Kiztopia Marina Square and Rave Karaoke.
For more things to do this National Day, check out:
Image cover adapted from: @i_s_ky via Instagram, Shimzu Corporation
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