Esplanade’s Best Photo Spots for Families

Families come to Esplanade to enjoy performances, exhibitions, and creative play. But beyond the arts, our waterfront home is also one of Singapore’s most photogenic places—perfect for capturing memories together. From sweeping rooftop views to playful indoor corners, every space here tells a story through light, architecture, and joyful connection. Here’s how to make the most of your next family photo day at Esplanade.

Capture the skyline from Esplanade’s rooftop terrace

High above the city, our rooftop terrace offers a panoramic view of Marina Bay and the Singapore skyline. The open-air deck is spacious and stroller-friendly, giving children room to explore while parents frame their shots.

The best time to visit is during the golden hour, around 5.30pm to 6.30pm, when the setting sun casts a warm glow over the bay. For a dramatic evening look, stay until the city lights up. Frame your photo with Marina Bay Sands or the ArtScience Museum in the background for that unmistakably Singaporean view. The breeze can get cool in the evening, so bring along a light cardigan for the children.

Pose by the waterfront steps

Our wide, terraced steps facing Marina Bay have become a favourite for family photos. They offer plenty of space for group shots, as well as candid captures of children climbing, laughing, and taking in the view.

Late afternoon is a lovely time to visit, when the light softens and the crowds thin. However, joggers and cyclists are common in the late afternoon and evening, so keep toddlers safely in their strollers during those hours. On weekends or during special events, the area can also get busy, so keep a watchful eye on young children near the water. Sitting together on the lower steps makes for a natural, relaxed photo that keeps everyone at eye level with the city skyline beautifully in frame.

Snap candid shots at the Esplanade Concourse

If the weather turns warm or wet, step into our Concourse, a bright, open space filled with light and movement. Its modern design and soaring ceiling create a clean, dynamic backdrop for photos, whether your children are dancing, exploring, or simply being themselves.

The Concourse is fully sheltered and air-conditioned, making it a comfortable alternative to outdoor locations. Natural light streams in from the glass panels, so mid-morning and early afternoon are ideal for crisp, clear photos. You might even catch a live performance or installation, adding energy and colour to your family shots.

Frame the iconic “durian” spikes

No visit to Esplanade is complete without a photo with our famous “durian” domes. Their distinctive spiked roofs are one of Singapore’s most recognisable sights, and a playful talking point for children.

For the best angle, head to the waterfront promenade or Jubilee Bridge, where you can capture both domes in one shot. Early morning or dusk brings out softer reflections on the glass, creating a striking yet gentle composition. Turn the moment into a little game — ask your children to spot the “spikes” before you take the photo, and you might catch a few delightful expressions along the way.

Discover indoor gems

Inside Esplanade, you’ll find plenty of hidden corners perfect for portraits. If you have tickets to enter the Concert Hall or Theatre, the airy foyers on Levels 3 and 4 are lined with glass panels and artistic details that lend a creative touch to your photos.

Families with young children will love PIP’s PLAYbox, a colourful, safe, and welcoming space designed for kids to explore art through play. Its vibrant interiors make a lively backdrop for spontaneous, joy-filled photos. Early mornings are usually quieter indoors, making it easier to take photos without waiting for crowds to clear.

Before heading home, don’t miss a final shot beside our “Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay” signage near the Mall entrance, a cheerful reminder of your day together. All these spaces are stroller- and wheelchair-accessible for a smooth visit from start to finish.

Capture the magic at night

When the sun sets, Esplanade transforms. The lights along the waterfront shimmer on the bay, and our iconic domes glow against the night sky.

For families who enjoy evening strolls, the rooftop terrace, waterfront steps, and Jubilee Bridge offer breathtaking views. To get clear night photos, use your phone’s “night mode” or rest it on a steady surface to reduce blur. You can even experiment with silhouettes by standing between the camera and the light, or capture reflections on the water for a beautifully atmospheric effect.

Tips for great family photos

Beautiful photos often come from simple choices. Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for soft, flattering light, and dress in complementary colours that stand out against Esplanade’s neutral tones of silver, glass, and stone. Encourage natural interactions—laughter, curiosity, and play always photograph better than posed smiles.

Take short breaks between shots so children stay happy and engaged. Keeping a small water bottle or snack handy also helps everyone stay comfortable, which makes for brighter, more genuine expressions in your pictures.

Make memories that last

At Esplanade, we believe every family story deserves to be beautifully told. With our mix of art, architecture, and natural light, every visit becomes an opportunity to capture moments that matter, from a child’s first dance at the Concourse to a shared sunset on the rooftop terrace.

So bring your camera, your creativity, and your loved ones. Take time to see the world through your children’s eyes, and let Esplanade be the canvas for your family’s memories.

Plan your next family visit and discover new corners of Esplanade to explore, enjoy, and remember together.