Esplanade for Tourists: Guide to SG's Performing Arts Centre

At the heart of Marina Bay stands one of Singapore’s most recognisable landmarks—Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay. With its distinctive twin domes clad in over 7,000 triangular aluminium sunshades, Esplanade has become affectionately known as the “durian-shaped” building. Beyond its striking silhouette, we are Singapore’s national performing arts centre, home to world-class performances, free daily programmes, and a vibrant mix of culture, food, and design.

Whether you have an hour to spare or a full evening to explore, Esplanade welcomes everyone, from art lovers to curious travellers, to experience the city’s creative pulse. Here’s how to make the most of your visit.

Explore Esplanade’s iconic architecture

Esplanade’s design captures attention from every angle. While not built with the durian in mind, its spiky durian-like aluminium shades serve an essential function—shielding our glass façades from Singapore’s tropical sun while allowing natural light to fill the interior.

Architecture enthusiasts will enjoy viewing the building from the Jubilee Bridge or along the waterfront promenade, where the domes are perfectly framed against the skyline. Inside, our performance halls and public spaces showcase thoughtful engineering that balances acoustics, aesthetics, and accessibility.

Enjoy free arts and performances every day

Esplanade is one of the few arts centres in the world to offer free daily programmes. The Esplanade Concourse hosts intimate performances featuring music, dance, and community arts, and most shows take place in the evenings, making it a perfect stop after sightseeing around Marina Bay.

Or step outdoors to the DBS Foundation Outdoor Theatre, where weekend performances come alive with Marina Bay as a glittering backdrop. From indie bands to traditional dance troupes, it’s an easy and delightful way to experience Singapore’s diverse arts scene.

Festival seasons bring even more activity, with afternoon showcases, talks, and workshops. You can check our online calendar to see what’s happening during your visit.

Catch a world-class show

Beyond free programmes, Esplanade presents a rich calendar of ticketed performances throughout the year. Our line-up spans theatre, dance, classical music, jazz, and contemporary works from around the world.

Annual highlights include Huayi – Chinese Festival of Arts, Pesta Raya – Malay Festival of Arts, and Kalaa Utsavam – Indian Festival of Arts. Many feature leading international acts alongside Singaporean and regional artists. Dance and music lovers can also catch quality acts all year round under Esplanade's da:ns and Mosaic Music Series respectively. Whether you enjoy large-scale productions or intimate recitals, you’ll find a performance that inspires.

Discover public art around Esplanade

Art lives beyond our stages. Throughout Esplanade, visitors can discover a collection of public artworks that reflect the region’s creativity and diversity.

Start with Han Sai Por’s Seeds, a sculptural reminder of artistic growth and renewal, located near the waterfront entrance. Inside, explore rotating visual art exhibitions at the Jendela (Visual Arts Space) and the Concourse, where installations change throughout the year.

If you enjoy slow exploration, take a self-guided “art walk” around the building to see how each piece interacts with its surroundings.

Take in sweeping views from the roof terrace

For a moment of calm, head up to Esplanade’s Roof Terrace. This open-air garden offers panoramic views of the city’s financial district, the waterfront, and Marina Bay Sands.

It’s a favourite spot for sunset photography or a quiet rest between performances. Best of all, it’s free and open to the public — simply take the lift at Esplanade Mall to level 4.

Wander the waterfront promenade

Our location along the Marina Bay waterfront makes Esplanade a natural part of any walking route around the bay. As day turns to night, the skyline transforms into a glowing display of light and reflection.

The promenade connects easily to Merlion Park, Jubilee Bridge, Marina Bay Sands, and Helix Bridge, making it one of the most scenic and effortless sightseeing paths in Singapore. Stop by for an evening stroll or linger by the steps to watch the skyline sparkle.

Explore Esplanade Mall

If you enjoy browsing unique finds, Esplanade Mall offers a quieter, more curated shopping experience compared to the larger malls nearby.

Within our mall, you’ll find boutique stores offering arts-themed products, local brands, and design-forward items perfect as souvenirs. It’s a pleasant place to cool down, enjoy a coffee, and discover something distinctly Singaporean.

Where to eat: dining with a view

Food lovers will find plenty of dining options at Esplanade. Many restaurants overlook the waterfront, offering both great meals and memorable views.

For authentic local flavours, head to Makansutra Gluttons Bay, a beloved hawker-style food court serving Singapore classics like satay, BBQ stingray, and fried carrot cake. It opens in the late afternoon and is ideal for supper after a show or a stroll.

For something more relaxed, Canopy Café serves brunch and lunch in a serene setting, while Supply & Demand offers Italian comfort food with both indoor and outdoor seating. For light bites and quick meals, Toast Box and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf are convenient options within Esplanade Mall.

Suggested itineraries for tourists

1-hour visit:

• Take a short walk along the waterfront promenade.

• Explore the Esplanade Concourse and its current exhibitions.

• Capture photos of the building from the Jubilee Bridge.

2–3 hours:

• Enjoy a self-guided art walk through our public art spaces.

• Visit the Roof Terrace for sunset views.

• Have dinner at Makansutra Gluttons Bay and stay for a free evening performance at the DBS Foundation Outdoor Theatre (if it’s a Friday, Saturday or Sunday).
  
  

Half-day experience:

• Explore our galleries, Concourse, and public art collection in depth.

• Dine at one of our restaurants overlooking the bay.

• End your visit with a ticketed performance in our world-class theatre or concert hall.

Make Esplanade part of your Singapore trip

Esplanade is more than a performing arts centre—it’s a celebration of creativity, architecture, and everyday life by the bay. From free evening performances to spectacular skyline views, we invite you to experience Singapore’s cultural heartbeat with us.

Whether you’re here to see a show, enjoy a leisurely stroll, or simply take in the scenery, there’s always something to discover at Esplanade. Explore our upcoming shows and free programmes, and make Singapore’s national performing arts centre a highlight of your visit.