Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Merlion Park

Merlion Park: Discover Singapore’s Most Iconic Landmark

No visit to Singapore is complete without a photo with the Merlion—the mythical creature that represents the Lion City’s origins and maritime history. Located in the heart of the city at Merlion Park, this landmark is not just a photo stop but a symbol of Singapore’s unique identity. Facing the scenic Marina Bay waterfront, the park attracts millions of visitors annually who come to admire the cityscape, enjoy leisurely walks, and connect with the cultural essence of Singapore.
 

In this complete guide, we’ll explore the history of the Merlion, top things to do in Merlion Park, photo tips, nearby attractions, and how to make the most of your visit.

🦁 What is the Merlion?

The Merlion is a mythical creature with the head of a lion and the body of a fish. It was created as a marketing symbol by the Singapore Tourism Board in 1964 to reflect the country’s origins:

Lion head: Refers to Singapore’s ancient name “Singapura” meaning “Lion City”.

Fish body: Represents Singapore’s beginnings as a humble fishing village called Temasek.

The statue at Merlion Park stands 8.6 meters tall, weighs 70 tons, and spouts water from its mouth into Marina Bay. There is also a smaller Merlion statue nearby, often referred to as the “Merlion cub.”

📍 Where is Merlion Park?

Location: One Fullerton, near the mouth of the Singapore River in the Downtown Core.
Google Maps: Merlion Park Location

Nearest MRT Station:

Raffles Place MRT (EW14/NS26) – A 5-minute walk via Exit H or G

Merlion Park is centrally located and easily accessible from other Marina Bay attractions like Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, Marina Bay Sands, and the Fullerton Hotel.

🕒 Best Time to Visit Merlion Park

Opening Hours: Open 24/7 (outdoor public park)
Best Time to Visit:

Morning (7 AM – 10 AM): Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds

Evening (6 PM – 8 PM): Stunning sunsets and city lights

Night (after 8 PM): Dramatic skyline views and quieter ambiance

Weather Tip: Bring an umbrella or poncho during rainy seasons (Nov–Jan) and wear sunscreen on sunny days.

🎟️ Admission & Entry Fees

Entry to Merlion Park is completely free.
There are no admission charges or timed entries. It’s a public space open to locals, tourists, joggers, and photographers alike.

📸 Top Things to Do at Merlion Park

1. Take Photos with the Merlion

The park offers the most iconic photo opportunity in Singapore. Try these angles:

Front-facing shot with water spout

Side angle with Marina Bay Sands in the background

Night shot with illuminated skyline

2. View the Marina Bay Skyline

Enjoy panoramic views of:

Marina Bay Sands

ArtScience Museum

Singapore Flyer

Esplanade Theatres

Bring a camera or smartphone with night mode to capture the reflections on the bay after dark.

3. Visit the Merlion Cub

Just a few meters away from the main Merlion stands a smaller statue—2 meters tall and weighing 3 tons. This is a great spot if the main Merlion area is crowded.

4. Enjoy a Scenic Walk Along the Promenade

Stroll along the Marina Bay waterfront toward:

Jubilee Bridge (great for sunset views)

Esplanade Outdoor Theatre

Helix Bridge and Gardens by the Bay

5. Watch Light & Water Shows

From the Merlion Park, you can see the nightly Spectra Light and Water Show at Marina Bay Sands. The best viewing time is around 8:00 PM and 9:00 PM (check current show times).

🧭 History of the Merlion

Designed by: Fraser Brunner (British zoologist)

Unveiled in: 1972 by Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew

Original location: Mouth of the Singapore River

Relocated in 2002 to its current spot at Merlion Park due to urban development and bridge construction

The Merlion quickly became a national icon, appearing in tourism campaigns, logos, and souvenirs across the country.

🍽️ Dining Near Merlion Park

There are several restaurants, bars, and cafes nearby that offer great views of the Marina Bay skyline.

Top Picks:

The Fullerton Bay Hotel Restaurants (luxury waterfront dining)

OverEasy – American diner with outdoor seating facing the Merlion

Palm Beach Seafood – Famous for Singapore Chili Crab

LeVeL33 – Rooftop brewery with stunning views of the city

Budget options include local food courts like Lau Pa Sat and Satay by the Bay, which are within a 15–20 minute walk.

🛍️ Shopping Near Merlion Park

Marina Bay Link Mall – Underground mall with boutiques and cafes

The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands – Luxury brands and designer labels

Clifford Centre & Raffles Place – Affordable shopping for office wear, electronics, and souvenirs

🧒 Family-Friendly Tips

Safe, wide pedestrian zones suitable for strollers

Ice cream vendors and food kiosks nearby

Combine with a visit to Gardens by the Bay or the Singapore Flyer for a full family itinerary

🛥️ Boat Rides from Merlion Park

Take a Singapore River Cruise from nearby piers for a 40-minute heritage boat tour. This lets you see the city from the water, including Boat Quay, Clarke Quay, and Marina Bay.

Price: From SGD 25 per adult
Departure Point: Clarke Quay or One Fullerton Jetty

♿ Accessibility

Wheelchair Accessible: Ramps and elevators available

Tactile paving for the visually impaired

Public toilets with accessible stalls are located nearby at the Fullerton Hotel and One Fullerton building

🌳 Nature & Relaxation

While Merlion Park is in the heart of the city, it also provides:

Shaded benches and seating

Gentle breezes from the bay

Calming views of water and light reflections

It's an ideal break spot during a day of sightseeing in the Marina Bay area.

📸 Photography Tips

Early morning light is soft and natural

Golden hour (5:30 PM – 6:30 PM) for glowing skin tones and skyline hues

Use a wide-angle lens to capture both the Merlion and Marina Bay Sands

Bring a tripod for night shots with long exposure

🧳 Suggested Half-Day Itinerary (With Merlion Park)

Morning:

Breakfast near Raffles Place

Walk to Merlion Park for photos and sightseeing

Visit the Fullerton Hotel or take a river cruise

Afternoon:

Lunch at Marina Bay Link Mall or OverEasy

Visit Marina Bay Sands SkyPark

End at Gardens by the Bay

🗺️ Nearby Attractions (All Walkable)

🛑 Fun Facts About the Merlion

There are five official Merlion statues in Singapore, including the original at Merlion Park.

The former Sentosa Merlion was a towering 37-meter version (demolished in 2019).

The statue faces east—considered an auspicious direction in Feng Shui.

🗣️ Languages Spoken in the Area

Merlion Park is a popular international destination. Signage is available in:

English

Chinese

Malay

Tamil

Tour guides and vendors usually speak English fluently.

🌿 Sustainability Efforts

While not a "green park" in the traditional sense, Merlion Park promotes:

Public transport access to reduce emissions

Eco-friendly vendors

Recyclable waste bins around the area

📣 Final Thoughts: Why Merlion Park is a Must-Visit

The Merlion at Merlion Park is more than just a statue—it’s a symbol of Singapore’s identity and pride. With stunning views of the Marina Bay skyline, a central location, and easy access to other top attractions, the park offers a peaceful yet iconic experience for every traveler.

Whether you’re snapping that perfect Instagram shot, learning about Singapore’s history, or simply relaxing by the waterfront, a stop at Merlion Park is essential to truly experience the heart of the Lion City.