4 places in Singapore to view science in action

Singapore has become known as a center for education and learning. There are so many places to push your knowledge boundaries and widen your intellectual horizon. Here are our picks of where to go.

The World of Energy exhibit at Singapore Science Centre.

Science Centre Singapore

There are over 1,000 hands-on exhibits at the Science Centre Singapore, one of the earliest attractions developed by Singapore. See everything from nanotechnology to genomes. Witness how science and art collide in the Kinetic Gardens, Asia's first outdoor interactive garden of science. You'll also have a blast at Waterworks, a quirky playground that teaches you all about water.

The only one of its kind locally, the Omni-Theatre lets you immerse yourself in panoramic IMAX movies on a five-storey high dome-shaped screen. It also houses a virtual simulation theatre where you can visually and physically experience scientific phenomena. The Singapore Observatory, one of the few located at the Equator, is just next door, with star-gazing sessions open to the public on Friday nights.

The Science Centre also brings science to the masses via many programs including an annual science fest lasting six weeks. One of the highlights in 2009 was Dr Bunhead, a UK stunt scientist who entertains and educates audiences with mind-blowing yet comical experiments.

Science Centre Singapore, 15 Science Centre Road Singapore. tel +65 6425 2500. 
Open daily from 10am to 6pm. Admission at S$6 (adults), S$3 (children aged 3-16), and S$3.60 (senior citizens aged 55 and above).

The pavillion at Singapore Botanic Gardens.

Singapore Botanic Gardens

With international accolades like 'Asia's Best Urban Jungle' and a three Michelin star rating in Michelin Green Guide, the 150-year old Singapore Botanic Gardens is the grand dame of all parks in Singapore. Its outstanding plant collections include many rare specimens.

The 63-hectare garden is divided into many zones, like The Evolution Garden, the National Orchid Garden, The Ginger Garden, Bonsai, and the Sun Garden (mainly cacti). Check out the visitor center roofed with turf and set amidst lily ponds to keep visitors cool during the day (see photo). There's also the playfully designed Jacob Ballas Children's Garden to perk up the kids' interest in nature and the environment. Workshops and tours are plentiful for adults, educators and children alike.

Singapore Botanic Gardens, Cluny Road Singapore. tel +65 6471 7361. 
Open daily from 5am to 12 midnight. Admission is free.

Eco-conservation at the Sustainable Singapore Gallery.

Sustainable Singapore Gallery

Environmental awareness and sustainability is all the rage these days. Take a look at Singapore's efforts via six highly interactive and multi-sensory sub-galleries.

This small but visually stunning showcase also illustrates the benefits and workings of the Marina Barrage. As you take in the sights and sounds, enjoy the panoramic view offered by the viewing decks.

Sustainable Singapore Gallery, 8 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore.
Open daily except Tuesday, from 9am to 6pm on weekdays and 10am to 9pm on weekends and public holidays. Admission is free.

Underwater World.

Underwater World Singapore

Take a dip in marine biology at the Underwater World Singapore. This oceanarium features 2,500 examples of marine life for visitors to experience in fun-filled yet educational ways. Swim with the pink dolphins, or be mesmerized by bright corals and exotic eels, sea dragons and jelly fish.

An 83-meter long moving travelator brings you through an underwater tunnel where you can view rays, sharks and entire shoals of fish. Say hello to resident dugong Gracie. UWS is also committed to conservation and runs many educational programs along with environmental projects.

Underwater World, 80 Siloso Road, Sentosa, Singapore. tel +65 6275 0030. 
Open daily from 9am to 9pm (last admission at 8.30pm). Admission at S$22.90 (adults) and S$14.60 (children aged 3-12 years old). Free admission for children below 3 years old.