As a wildlife enthusiast visiting Singapore, I was eager to spend a day immersed in the world-class Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum.
Occupying a sleek modern building on the National University of Singapore campus, this museum brings diverse flora and fauna to life through thousands of specimens and imaginative exhibits spanning geology, zoology, and botany. I left thoroughly impressed by this celebration of biodiversity.
Impressive Dinosaur Skeletons
Stepping into the soaring main atrium, I was awestruck by the towering skeletons of ferocious prehistoric creatures on display. Getting up close to a towering Tyrannosaurus Rex fossil skeleton and fearsome Stegosaurus made me feel tiny imagining these Jurassic giants roaming Southeast Asia.
Equally giant displays profiled creatures like the herbivorous Diplodocus and armor-plated Euoplocephalus. These dinosaur anchors provided big welcomes to the museum!
Storytelling Through Specimens
Beyond the grand dinosaur exhibits, I discovered the museum uses its over 1,000 specimen collection to artfully tell stories about evolution, conservation, and Singapore’s natural heritage across two expansive floors.
Highlights included showcases explaining adaptations like the mammalian evolution of whales using skillful arrangements of skeletons, videos, and fossils. Equally intriguing displays depicted the diversity of native Singaporean species found in forests, mangroves and marine environments over time.
Majestic Three-Story Kinetic Wall
The absolute highlight was the breathtaking three-story Kinetic Wall featuring over 700 stunning preserved butterflies and insects from Borneo. I watched in awe as the giant panels rotated to display thousands of exquisite specimens playfully “flying” across a lit canvas. This centerpiece encapsulated the museum’s ingenuity and majesty.
When Singapore’s heat becomes stifling, the refreshing Natural History Museum provides a perfect indoor nature retreat.
FAQ
Where is the Natural History Museum located?
The museum is located on National University of Singapore’s campus at 2 Conservatory Drive.
What are the museum’s opening hours?
Opening hours are 10am to 7pm daily. Closed some public holidays. Last entry 6pm.
How much does admission cost?
Admission is $12 for adults, $8 for students and seniors 60+, and $8 for children ages 6-12. Free for kids under 6.
What are some highlights of the museum?
Highlights include towering dinosaur skeletons, wildlife dioramas, mineral stones, preserved specimens like butterflies, and the Kinetic Wall.
Does the museum have guided tours?
Yes, complimentary guided tours of the exhibitions led by volunteer docents are available daily.
Is the museum suitable for young children?
Yes, with interactive displays and dinosaur exhibits, the museum offers a child-friendly experience. Strollers accommodated.
Is food allowed in the museum?
No food is allowed but visitors can enjoy drinks and snacks at the onsite café or outside picnic areas.
Are group discounts offered?
Yes, group booking discounts are available for groups of 20 or more purchasing tickets together.
Is the museum handicapped accessible?
Yes, the museum is wheelchair friendly and accessible for those with disabilities.
How can I get there via public transit?
Take the shuttle from Kent Ridge MRT station bus stop, or buses 95, 200 to the bus stop outside the museum.
Zhuang Jia Wen serves as the chief reviewer for Singaporeairport.com, leveraging her passion for travel and aviation.
A native Singaporean, Zhuang draws upon her extensive experience exploring her home country to provide authoritative reviews and travel tips. She holds a bachelor’s degree in tourism management from the National University of Singapore.
Prior to becoming Singaporeairport.com’s review expert, Zhuang worked for five years as a travel agent helping organize personalized itineraries. When not visiting Singapore’s latest attractions, she enjoys cuisine from across the Lion City’s dynamic culinary landscape.
Zhuang hopes her insider perspective helps travelers make the most of their visits to her country.
