





Singapore: Merlion Park
Operating Hours:Monday - Sunday: Open 24 hours
The Vibe:Seaside icon with skyline backdrop 🌅
A half-lion, half-fish fountain that became Singapore’s enduring national icon, spouting water across the bay since 1972. Locals and travelers alike flock here for that quintessential skyline photo-op by the water.
Waves gently lap against the quay as the Merlion’s water jet splashes into the bay. Tourists chatter in many languages, selfie sticks in hand, while a warm sea breeze mingles with the scent of the marina.
- TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice attraction
- One of Singapore’s most photographed landmarks 📸
- Free and open 24/7, beloved by visitors of all budgets
Persona Fit
- Families: Open space for strollers and kids love the giant fountain (just mind them near railings)
- Couples: Romantic waterfront strolls with the city skyline twinkling at night
- Seniors: Flat, easy paths and plenty of benches to rest while enjoying the view
- Photographers: Iconic angle with MBS in background; best shots at sunrise or after dusk
Highlights
- Merlion statue — 8.6m half-lion, half-fish monument spouting water into the bay
- City skyline — unobstructed views of Marina Bay Sands and downtown skyscrapers across the water
- Evening lights — the Merlion and surrounding skyline illuminate beautifully after dark
- Jubilee Bridge — Hidden Gem: nearby footbridge offers a wide-angle view of Merlion with the entire bay
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Things To Do Nearby
Asian Civilisations Museum — just across the river, showcasing pan-Asian arts and history
Esplanade Theatres — the durian-shaped arts centre nearby, often with free performances and a rooftop view
Boat Quay — a short stroll along the river leads to a stretch of waterside dining and nightlife
Asian Civilisations Museum — just across the river, showcasing pan-Asian arts and history
Esplanade Theatres — the durian-shaped arts centre nearby, often with free performances and a rooftop view
Boat Quay — a short stroll along the river leads to a stretch of waterside dining and nightlife
TJ's Guide - Merlion Park
Know Before You Go
Insider Tips
Visit at sunrise for tranquil photos with soft light and almost no crowd
Mid-day can be very hot – bring water and a hat, as shade is limited on the promenade
For the classic "drinking from the Merlion" photo, stand on the right side of the statue’s mouth stream at a distance
Visit at sunrise for tranquil photos with soft light and almost no crowd
Mid-day can be very hot – bring water and a hat, as shade is limited on the promenade
For the classic "drinking from the Merlion" photo, stand on the right side of the statue’s mouth stream at a distance
Know Your Facts
- Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (NS26/EW14) – a 10-min walk via Fullerton Road to the park
- Bus: Several touristic hop-on/off buses stop at Fullerton Hotel, right next to Merlion Park
- The park is open and unfenced – you can approach the Merlion freely from the riverside promenade at any time
Once You Reach
Internal Navigation
Layout: The park consists of a main plaza around the Merlion statue and a smaller terrace where the Merlion Cub is located
Crowds: It can be very crowded around the main statue – be patient and take turns at the prime photo spot directly in front
Connecting Paths: A pedestrian bridge (Jubilee Bridge) links the park to the Esplanade side; also walkable to Marina Bay Sands via Helix Bridge in about 15–20 minutes
Safety: The promenade has railing by the water. At busy times, watch your footing near the steps and edges, especially when taking photos
Food & Coffee Shops
Starbucks (One Fullerton) – a few steps away, for a cold drink or coffee with a view of the Merlion
Makansutra Gluttons Bay – a nearby outdoor hawker food centre (~5 min walk) to taste local satay, chili crab and more after visiting
Starbucks (One Fullerton) – a few steps away, for a cold drink or coffee with a view of the Merlion
Makansutra Gluttons Bay – a nearby outdoor hawker food centre (~5 min walk) to taste local satay, chili crab and more after visiting
Photography Tips
Come at night for a stunning long-exposure shot: use a tripod to capture the Merlion with silky water and city lights
Try creative angles – for instance, from across the bay (at Esplanade) you can frame Merlion with MBS in the background
If shooting close-up, watch for water spray on your lens from the fountain
Come at night for a stunning long-exposure shot: use a tripod to capture the Merlion with silky water and city lights
Try creative angles – for instance, from across the bay (at Esplanade) you can frame Merlion with MBS in the background
If shooting close-up, watch for water spray on your lens from the fountain
Explore Deeper
Merlion Park isn’t just a photo spot – it’s packed with symbolism and history. Here are some deeper insights into its significance and features:
National Symbol
The Merlion (lion head + fish body) represents Singapore’s origins (lion city and fishing village). It was designed in 1964 as a tourism logo and later became an icon
Historical Relocation
The Merlion was originally at the mouth of the Singapore River (1972). In 2002 it was moved 120m to this current purpose-built viewing spot due to urban development
By the Numbers
The main Merlion statue is 8.6m tall and weighs 70 tons, constructed from concrete. Water spouts from its mouth powered by pumps, cycling ~1520 liters per minute
Cultural Impact
The Merlion appears in countless souvenirs, artworks and even local folklore. Its image is officially protected as a national personification of Singapore
National Symbol
The Merlion (lion head + fish body) represents Singapore’s origins (lion city and fishing village). It was designed in 1964 as a tourism logo and later became an icon
Historical Relocation
The Merlion was originally at the mouth of the Singapore River (1972). In 2002 it was moved 120m to this current purpose-built viewing spot due to urban development
By the Numbers
The main Merlion statue is 8.6m tall and weighs 70 tons, constructed from concrete. Water spouts from its mouth powered by pumps, cycling ~1520 liters per minute
Cultural Impact
The Merlion appears in countless souvenirs, artworks and even local folklore. Its image is officially protected as a national personification of Singapore
Did You Know?
Mythical Origins – The Merlion’s design was inspired by the Malay legend of a prince sighting a lion (Singapura means Lion City) and Singapore’s humble beginnings as a fishing village (the fish tail)
Rainbows – On sunny late afternoons, the Merlion’s spray sometimes creates a faint rainbow – a delightful surprise in photos
Name – The word “Merlion” combines “mer” (meaning sea) and “lion,” reflecting its hybrid form









