Planning A Fun Family Day At Esplanade PIP’s Playbox

When you think of Esplanade, world-class performances may be the first things that come to mind. But step inside and you’ll discover it’s also one of Singapore’s most family-friendly destinations, offering a full day of experiences for all ages. From imaginative play zones and child-friendly theatre to family dining and waterfront views, Esplanade transforms a day out with your children into a stress-free adventure filled with creativity, laughter and inspiration. With just a little planning, parents can make the most of both free and ticketed indoor activities.

Getting There

Reaching Esplanade is a breeze thanks to its central location by Marina Bay. Families can choose the route that best suits their needs. By MRT: Visitors can arrive through the direct underground link at Esplanade MRT, or walk to our venue from City Hall MRT through CityLink Mall. While both MRT routes can be managed with strollers, there are a few stair and escalator sections along the way. Parents may want to plan a little extra time to get through these comfortably. By Car: Drivers benefit from the convenience of well-planned drop-off points at Esplanade Mall. Better still, there’s free weekday parking from 12pm – 3pm with a minimum spend of $30 at Esplanade Mall—perfect if you’re planning to lunch and play! By Bus or On Foot: Several bus routes stop close to Esplanade. Families can enjoy a short, straightforward walk from the bus stops to the venue.

Timing Your Visit

To keep the day relaxed and enjoyable, plan it around your children’s energy levels.

Morning (10am – 12pm)

Begin your day while the kids are full of energy. A great starting point is the PIP’s Trail, an exciting way to get kids to discover Esplanade’s unique architecture and art installations. Keep in mind that some of the artworks are meant to be observed rather than handled, but the trail encourages children to look closer and see things from new perspectives. Alternatively, explore the outdoor spaces like the open rooftop terrace for fantastic photo opportunities

Midday (12pm – 2pm)

Recharge with lunch at Esplanade Mall. For a quick and easy lunch, Old School Delights serves up nostalgic comfort food with a retro twist that kids and parents alike will enjoy—just remember it’s closed on Tuesdays. For something more substantial, choose from various restaurants like Canopy, Red House Seafood and Straits Chinese Signatures, all of which offer spacious seating that’s perfect for families.

Afternoon (2pm – 5pm)

It's time to head indoors and beat the afternoon heat. This is where Esplanade truly shines with its selection of indoor kids' activities in Singapore. Our top recommendation? PIP's PLAYbox! This vibrant, creative space is a true highlight for young ones, offering a great indoor activity for toddlers in Singapore. Little ones can get lost in a world of imaginative play, interactive installations and a specially curated library of children’s books. It's an ideal spot for kids to unwind, create and be inspired. If a PLAYtime! show is running, it’s a wonderful way to introduce little ones to the theatre. Remember: every child, including infants, will need their own ticket.

Evening (5pm onwards)

As the sun sets, head to the Concourse or DBS Foundation Outdoor Theatre at Esplanade for a fantastic finale. With free programmes every evening at the Concourse and every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at DBS Foundation Outdoor Theatre at Esplanade, you can relax and enjoy a gentle breeze from the bay while listening to incredible artists in a casual, laid-back setting.

What to Pack & Prepare

A well-packed bag can save the day. Here’s a quick list of essentials to make your family outing at Esplanade even better. Essentials: Bring water bottles, hats and sunscreen if you’ll be outdoors, light snacks and a change of clothes for toddlers. For Shows: Remember that every child—yes, even babies—needs a ticket for PLAYtime! productions. Membership Perks: Sign up in advance for Esplanade&Me, the free membership that grants access to PIP’s PLAYbox and offers discounts on selected ticketed shows. Fun fact: Did you know that PIP (Playful, Imaginative and Polite) is the colourful mascot for Esplanade? With every sign up to Esplanade&Me membership, your child (12 years old and below) can receive a PIP’s Club badge!

Family-Friendly Facilities

Esplanade is thoughtfully designed with families in mind, offering everything you need for a smooth outing. Stroller Parking: Found on Level 4 near PIP’s PLAYbox, so you won’t have to juggle bags and buggies while your kids play. Nursing Rooms and Child Toilets: Located at the Mezzanine Level and Level 4, they provide convenience and comfort for parents with toddlers. Box Office & Visitor Centre: Stop here first to collect a PIP’s Trail flyer and speak with one of our customer experience officers if you need guidance. Our Box Office and Visitor Centre is open from 12 PM to 8 PM every day, including Sundays and public holidays. Accessibility: With wheelchair- and stroller-friendly routes throughout, no one is left out. We also host relaxed performances or some shows, creating an inclusive environment for kids with sensory sensitivities or who are on the autism spectrum.

Sample Family Day Plans

Need a starting point? Here are a few flexible itineraries you can adapt for your family day out.

Half-Day Plan

Perfect for a quick, impactful outing. Arrive in the morning for PIP’s Trail, followed by a delicious lunch at Makansutra. End your visit with an afternoon of creative play at PIP’s PLAYbox.

Full-Day Plan

Go all in for a day of discovery at Esplanade. Start with a morning of exploration via PIP’s Trail and an imaginative session in PIP’s PLAYbox. After a fun-filled afternoon, grab dinner at the mall and then find a spot at the DBS Foundation Outdoor Theatre at Esplanade to enjoy a free evening performance.

First Theatre Experience

Start the day in PIP’s PLAYbox, giving your child the chance to settle in and explore the arts in a relaxed setting.. Then, attend a PLAYtime! show, designed to be short, sweet and highly engaging for little ones. It’s one of the best indoor activities for kids on a relaxed weekend.

Why Choose Esplanade for Your Family Day

There may be plenty of indoor activities for kids in Singapore, but if you’re looking for a fun and non-intimidating way to introduce them to the arts, Esplanade is the place to be. Whether you’re searching for indoor kids' activities or simply want some creative indoor activity ideas on a hot or rainy day, we offer a wonderful mix of free and ticketed experiences that cater to every interest and age. Esplanade is more than just a venue; it's a creative playground where children can learn, play and be inspired.

Wrapping Up Your Visit

Ready to plan your next day out? We can't wait to welcome you. Check Esplanade’s calendar for family-friendly activities, check out our upcoming shows, and sign up for your free membership today!