Discover Singapore’s Iconic Performing Arts Venue – The Esplanade

Rising gracefully along Singapore’s glittering Marina Bay, Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay is much more than an architectural landmark. It is the beating heart of Singapore’s performing arts scene, offering a dazzling array of music, dance, theatre, film, and visual arts.
 

Nicknamed the “Durian” by locals for its spiky dome design, the Esplanade is not only one of the most iconic buildings in Singapore — it’s also a vibrant cultural space that showcases world-class performances, free concerts, and community events all year round.

Whether you're a seasoned theatre lover or a casual traveler, Esplanade is a must-visit cultural hub where creativity thrives and artistry is celebrated.

📍 Where is Esplanade?

Address: 1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore 038981

Nearest MRT Stations:

Esplanade (CC3) – 5-min walk via Exit D

City Hall (NS25/EW13) – 10-min walk via underground link

Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – late night (varies by event)

Admission: Free access to public areas; ticketed events in theatres

🏛️ A Brief History of the Esplanade

Opened in 2002, Esplanade was developed to establish Singapore as a regional hub for the arts. Designed by DP Architects and Michael Wilford & Partners, it was inspired by traditional concert halls like the Sydney Opera House, with a bold Southeast Asian twist.

Its two spiked domes house a 1,600-seat Concert Hall and a 2,000-seat Theatre, while other spaces include:

Outdoor amphitheatres

Rehearsal studios

Art galleries

Black box theatres

Recital rooms

Today, it stands as a national icon that attracts over 3 million visitors annually.

🌟 What to See and Do at Esplanade

1. 🎶 Attend a World-Class Performance

Esplanade hosts an eclectic mix of events — from grand operas to street-style dance, indie theatre to international jazz.

Types of Shows:

Classical concerts

Ballet and modern dance

Theatre and musicals

World music and pop concerts

Film screenings and literary events

🎟️ Where to book:

www.esplanade.com

Tickets can also be purchased at the Esplanade Box Office

Pro Tip: Book early for major events like the Singapore Symphony Orchestra or Baybeats Festival.

2. 🎤 Enjoy Free Performances

You don’t have to spend a cent to enjoy the arts here.

Esplanade regularly hosts free outdoor concerts at its Waterfront Stage and Concourse, featuring:

Local bands

Student orchestras

Multicultural dance troupes

Acoustic soloists

🕒 Daily performance slots typically at 6:30 PM & 7:30 PM.

📍 Head to the Concourse inside for cozy, air-conditioned shows.

3. 🎨 Explore the Visual Arts

Esplanade also champions visual artists through rotating exhibitions in:

The Community Wall

The Tunnel (between MRT and main building)

Jendela Visual Arts Space (Level 2)

Themes often highlight Southeast Asian identity, social issues, and modern expressionism.

🖼️ Great for culture lovers and photographers alike.

4. 🌅 Catch Sunset Views at the Roof Terrace

Head up to the Esplanade Roof Terrace for stunning panoramic views of:

Marina Bay Sands

Singapore Flyer

ArtScience Museum

CBD skyline

This is a favorite sunset and evening hangout spot, perfect for a peaceful moment or photoshoot.

🌿 It’s landscaped with greenery and open to the public free of charge.

5. 🍽️ Dine at the Esplanade Mall

You’ll find a variety of dining options here, from elegant riverside restaurants to quick bites.

Top Picks:

Makansutra Gluttons Bay – Singaporean hawker-style street food with a view

Alter Ego – Hip café bar with local fusion dishes

NOX Dine in the Dark – Sensory dining experience in pitch darkness

Whether pre-show dinner or post-show drinks, there’s something for every taste.

📸 Best Instagram & TikTok Spots

Esplanade domes at night – lit beautifully with the city skyline

Waterfront promenade – iconic Marina Bay backdrop

Roof terrace views – unobstructed skyline views

Esplanade Tunnel murals – colorful art walls for reels

Outdoor Theatre steps – often animated with street performers

🗓️ Annual Festivals & Must-See Events

🧡 Esplanade celebrates diversity, making space for both emerging and established artists across genres and languages.

🕰️ Suggested Itinerary (2–3 Hours)

👪 Family & Accessibility Info

👧 Suitable for all ages (including family-friendly performances)

♿ Wheelchair-accessible

🚼 Baby changing facilities available

🛍️ Gift shops on-site with art-themed souvenirs

🛑 Note: Some ticketed events may have age restrictions, check ahead.

🧭 How to Get to Esplanade

🚇 MRT (Recommended):

Esplanade Station (CC3): 5-min walk underground via Exit D

City Hall (NS25/EW13): 10-min walk through CityLink Mall

🚌 Bus:

Alight at Esplanade Bridge or One Fullerton

Bus Services: 36, 70M, 97, 106, 111, 133, 162, 195

🚗 By Car:

Basement parking available (charges apply)

🧳 Why Visit Esplanade?

If you want to experience Singapore’s soul, this is where it lives — in the rhythm of a jazz solo, the sweep of a ballet, the harmony of multicultural expression.

Esplanade is:

A hub of creativity for locals and tourists alike

An inclusive space that welcomes everyone

A feast for the senses — visual, musical, culinary

From its free outdoor shows to glamorous theatre nights, this is one of the best cultural experiences in Southeast Asia.

✅ Quick Summary Table