Best Free Activities for Kids and Families at Esplanade

At Esplanade, we believe the arts belong to everyone, including our youngest visitors. While we’re known for our world-class performances and festivals, there’s also a world of free experiences waiting to be explored. From cosy reading corners to outdoor concerts, Esplanade offers families a place to play, discover, and create, all without spending a cent.

Our playful mascot, PIP, sometimes makes special appearances during family festivals like March On and Octoburst!, but even when he’s not around, there’s plenty for children to explore. Here’s how families can enjoy arts and culture together, completely free.

A cosy arts hideaway: PIP’s PLAYbox

Tucked away on Level 4, PIP’s PLAYbox is a bright, child-sized creative space where imagination takes centre stage. Think of it as a secret clubhouse rather than a commercial playroom. Inside, little ones can curl up with storybooks by Singaporean authors, craft their own paper creations, or explore corners designed to spark imaginative play.

Parents will appreciate the calm, contained environment—perfect for toddlers and young children to unwind and express themselves freely. Entry is free for Esplanade&Me members with a PIP’s Club badge.

Practical tips:

• The space opens daily from 11am to 6pm, with a cleaning break between 2pm – 3pm.

• Capacity is limited, so we recommend visiting early to secure your spot.

• For an extra-convenient morning outing, free weekday parking (12pm – 3pm with a $30 spend at Esplanade Mall) makes Esplanade an easy stop between errands or lunch.

Everyday encounters with the arts: free Concourse performances

Our Concourse is an open indoor space where live performances take place most evenings. Families passing through after sundown can catch everything from music to movement pieces, featuring local and regional talents. It’s usually quieter in the afternoons, though you might hear sound checks if you’re nearby, with daytime performances happening mainly during festivals like March On and Octoburst!.

Families can enjoy an informal, drop-in experience—no tickets, no queues, just genuine discovery. You might catch a youth string ensemble performing contemporary classics one day, and a community choir singing original songs the next.

The Concourse is air-conditioned and easily accessible, making it a great option for spontaneous family stops, especially on rainy afternoons.

Arts under the stars: DBS Foundation Outdoor Theatre

For many families, Esplanade’s DBS Foundation Outdoor Theatre has become a weekend ritual—a chance to enjoy live performances beneath the open sky, framed by Marina Bay’s skyline. These free weekend shows bring families together in a relaxed, picnic-like atmosphere.

Bring along a mat if you’d like to relax on the grassy patch, or simply enjoy the performance from the amphitheatre seats. Performances run every Friday to Sunday (and on public holidays), with monthly themes spanning classical, jazz, pop, spoken word, and more.

It’s the perfect way to end a day out in the city, with children dancing to the rhythm and parents soaking in the breeze, against the backdrop of a twinkling skyline.

Turn the building into a playground: PIP’s Trail

If your little ones love a challenge, PIP’s Trail transforms Esplanade into a playful treasure hunt. This self-guided activity combines art, architecture and storytelling, turning the building into an interactive playground.

Kids can solve puzzles, play digital mini-games, and uncover fun facts about Esplanade’s iconic design, from the “bird poop” roof-cleaning system to the hidden sculptures tucked around every corner.

To begin, pick up a trail flyer at the Visitor Centre at Mezzanine Level. Complete all six stations and your child can redeem a small prize. The best part? You can explore at your own pace, whether in one go or across multiple visits.

How to plan your visit

Esplanade offers a variety of experiences that families can enjoy together, making it easy to plan a day that balances fun and comfort.

Suggested pairings for different moods:

• Rainy afternoons: Start with PIP’s PLAYbox, then catch a Concourse performance indoors.

• Energetic weekends: Take on PIP’s Trail in the morning, then relax at the Outdoor Theatre as the sun sets.

Our family-friendly amenities include nursing rooms, child-sized toilets, and stroller parking areas. You’ll also find a range of casual dining options and cafés nearby for quick breaks.

To make the most of your visit, sign up for our Esplanade&Me membership. It’s free, and members enjoy access to spaces like PIP’s PLAYbox, priority updates on family programmes, and special discounts at selected outlets at Esplanade Mall. You can also browse upcoming free events on our website before your visit.

Your next family day out

At Esplanade, we see the arts as a playground for creativity. One that welcomes every child, regardless of age or background. Whether it’s through imaginative play, discovering local talent, or embarking on an architectural adventure, every visit brings a chance to learn and connect.

So pack your curiosity (and maybe some snacks), and let your family’s next day out be one filled with stories, laughter, and inspiration.

Plan your visit to Esplanade today and discover how arts and play come alive, all for free.