https://www.instagram.com/p/B9zz9asj5Qb/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_linkFor those of us who are not lucky enough to get tickets to this year’s National Day Parade but still want to catch a glimpse of the fireworks display, there are three options: watching from the comfort of a hotel room, enjoying a meal at a dining establishment with a good view, or camping near the Padang.
If you are not keen on shelling out money, or missed out on making reservations in advance, don’t fret: here are the top 12 locations to watch NDP 2019 fireworks for free, recommended by experienced photographers:
1. Merlion Park
The Merlion Park at Fullerton Road is estimated to have the best view of the firework display. Coupled with the fact that it’s a tourist hotspot with none other than the iconic Merlion statue located there, it is little wonder that this place is always so popular with locals and tourists alike on National Day.
Tip: Most photography enthusiasts and professionals go early in the morning to secure a good spot and camp there until the night descends. Even if you just want to be able to catch a glimpse of the lights and don’t need first-row seats, it is still recommended that you come around mid-afternoon to get a decent viewing spot.
Address: 1 Fullerton Rd, Singapore 049213
Nearest MRT station: Raffles Place MRT
2. Esplanade Roof Garden
While this location is usually a quiet spot for couples to hang around at night, it gets swamped on National Day – simply because it offers such panoramic views of the fireworks.
The roof garden also offers dining options for those who reach early and want to grab a bite before waiting for the fireworks. But for those who prefer to eat out and enjoy the scenery unbarred, you can also pack food and beverages for a scenic picnic at the garden.
Address: 8 Raffles Ave, Singapore 039802
Nearest MRT stations: Esplanade MRT, City Hall MRT
3. Esplanade Waterfront
Esplanade Waterfront offers one of the best views of the fireworks up in the sky, so you can also expect a sizeable crowd here that will be growing since the morning.
That being said, you should still take the chance to enjoy all the activities nearby if you are okay with squeezing a little at the back of the crowd. Take the time to shop in Esplanade mall, enjoy outdoor music shows, and of course, fill your bellies with good food from the many eateries located in the area.
Address: 1 Esplanade Dr, Singapore 038981
Nearest MRT station: Esplanade MRT, City Hall MRT
4. Esplanade Bridge
If you realise that you have reached the Merlion Park too late and can’t find anywhere to even stand, you can shift camp and head instead to Esplanade Bridge.
This pedestrian offers an impressive view of the Marina Bay area, and is said to be slightly less packed than the other photo spots.
Address: Marina Bay
Nearest MRT stations: Esplanade MRT, City Hall MRT
5. Jubilee Bridge
Jubilee Bridge is a favourite location for many people who want to catch the fireworks, because it is famous for its unhindered views of the night sky in the city area.
Here’s another reason for you to celebrate the nation’s birthday at this landmark: Jubilee Bridge was actually the brainchild of the late Mr Lee Kuan Yew, who wanted to construct a barrier-free access pedestrian bridge to link with the Marina Bay waterfront pedestrian loop!
Address:1 Esplanade Dr, Singapore 038981
Nearest MRT stations: Esplanade MRT, City Hall MRT, Raffles Place MRT
6. Queen Elizabeth Walk
Queen Elizabeth Walk is a seafront promenade located at the Esplanade Park, which makes this one of the most ideal spots to stand at, or even sit down and watch the fireworks for free.
While less popular with the fireworks-watching crowd, you also have to take note that space here is much more limited, especially if everyone decides to sit down. Our advice, as always, is to make sure you come early to secure a good spot.
Address: In Esplanade Park, along Connaught Drive, 179682
Nearest MRT stations: Esplanade MRT, City Hall MRT, Raffles Place MRT
7. The Promontory
This is another spot where you are free to set up your own picnic, sit back, and chill with food & drinks as you wait for the fireworks to go off at around 8pm at night.
While this is definitely much closer to the action than Marina Barrage (another picnic site), there are other payoffs you should consider while evaluating which works better for you. The Promontory is certainly going to be much, much more crowded, in part due to the fact that it is a smaller space and closer to the CBD area.
Address: 11 Marina Blvd, Singapore 018940
Nearest MRT stations: Downtown MRT, Bayfront MRT, Raffles Place MRT
8. Marina Barrage
Although it may be a distance away from the Padang, the Marina Barrage looms over the city from across the Marina Channel so that you get an extensive view away from the immediate crowd. You’ll get to see the colourful lights against the Singapore Flyer and Marina Bay Sands, with the business towers in the background.
This spot is popular not only with photographers, but also families and couples who come here to relax on their day off, so we recommend heading there early to get a good spot. It helps that you get to sit down and have a picnic while you are waiting for the celebrations to begin!
Address: 8 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018951
Nearest MRT stations: Bayfront MRT, Marina Bay MRT
9. Bay East Garden
Another spot close by that is great for watching the NDP fireworks from is Bay East Garden.
While it can be rather inaccessible and far from the actual fireworks, it is a great alternative if you prefer to watch the fireworks without having to jostle through or get squashed by the crowds.
Plus, you could even have a scenic picnic and a peaceful bicycle ride around the area before settling down to watch the fireworks – what’s there not to love?
Address:11 Rhu Cross, Singapore 437440
Nearest MRT stations: Stadium MRT
10. Benjamin Sheares Bridge
While often used as a race route for marathons, Benjamin Sheares Bridge is actually another highly-recommended spot for catching (and taking photographs of) the NDP fireworks show.
You should definitely expect this place to be filled with spectators on National Day due to its close proximity and fantastic cityscape views. However, not all spectators may appreciate having cars zooming past behind them, hence you are more likely to get a decent spot here even if you are not planning to come early.
Address: Sheares Ave
Nearest MRT stations: Promenade MRT
11. Helix Bridge
Singapore’s longest pedestrian bridge is frequently photographed for its unique structure; this time round, you stand on the bridge itself to take the best photographs of the NDP fireworks bursting over the city area.
It is a considerably long stretch, so you should be able to find a good spot without needing to squeeze so much with people all around you. Just be sure to stand on the correct side of the bridge, or you’ll end up missing the show even when you are camping there!
Address: Marina Bay, linking Marina Centre with Marina South
Nearest MRT stations: Bayfront MRT, Esplanade MRT
12. The Lawn @ Marina Bay Financial Centre (MBFC)
This grass patch that lies between The Sail and Marina Bay Financial Centre is an expansive space that you can eat out and play games at while waiting for the light show.
It is also extremely convenient for you to get to if you happen to be working overtime in one of the office buildings on National Day – though we sincerely hope that it won’t happen to you!
Address: 8A Marina Blvd, Singapore 018984
Nearest MRT stations: Raffles Place MRT, Bayfront MRT, Downtown MRT
You may also like these articles:
- Celebrate Singapore’s 54th birthday with these National Day menus
- 10 best restaurants and bars to watch NDP 2019 fireworks from
- 38 creative date ideas to shake up the usual dinner-and-movie date night routine
LATEST PRIVILEGES
