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6 Hidden Gems To Explore In Singapore (with Nearby Halal Restaurants)

6 Hidden Gems To Explore In Singapore (with Nearby Halal Restaurants)

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Farah Fazanna •  May 07, 2024

We all know Singapore for its well-known skyscrapers and modern marvels, but the city-state is also brimming with lesser-known treasures waiting to be explored! From quaint kampongs to art enclaves, each of these gems promises a unique and enriching experience. Plus, with an exclusive $20 discount from Drive lah (from April 25th to May 20th) for our HHWT audience, you can drive to any of these places and make the most of your adventure!

Add some adventure to your school holidays and take advantage of Drive lah’s exclusive $20 discount from April 25th to May 20th just for our HHWT audience!

Just use the code "FAMILYFUN20" when booking your ride and get a flat $20 discount when you book between April 25th to May 20th. Do take note that it is limited to one booking per user.

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1. Kampong Lorong Buangkok

Credit: Kampong Lorong Buangkok on Facebook

Kampung Lorong Buangkok

Step back in time with a visit to Singapore's last remaining kampong village, Kampong Lorong Buangkok. Amid the modern cityscape, this charming neighborhood will transport you to a different era with its traditional wooden houses and serene atmosphere. Wander through the village, chat with friendly residents, and snap photos of a Singapore that feels worlds apart from the skyscrapers downtown.

Halal Restaurant Nearby:
Nasi Lemak Ayam Taliwang

This Muslim-owned has been on the Michelin Guide since 2021 and is set to bring your taste buds on a culinary adventure where fragrant coconut rice meets the fiery kick of their Taliwang-style grilled chicken. Love spicy food? You’ll be happy to know that this dish is topped with a medley of tantalizing spices and sambal!

Opening hours: 9am - 9.30pm

Address: 723 North Bridge Road, Yishun, Singapore, Singapore

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2. Joo Chiat Peranakan Shophouses

Marvel at the pastel-colored Peranakan shophouses along Joo Chiat Road, known for their intricate architecture and rich cultural heritage. These well-preserved buildings are an Instagrammer's dream and provide a glimpse into Singapore's multicultural history.

Halal Restaurant Nearby:

Zam Zam Restaurant
Stop by Zam Zam Restaurant near Joo Chiat Complex. This iconic eatery serves up delicious murtabak and nasi biryani, bringing a delightful Indian-Muslim flavor to your day out.

Address: 697-699 North Bridge Road, Singapore 198675

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 7:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Website

3. Bukit Brown Cemetery

For history buffs and nature lovers alike, Bukit Brown Cemetery is a tranquil sanctuary with roots going back over a century. It offers fascinating insights into Singapore's early Chinese community through intricately carved tombstones surrounded by lush greenery. Join a guided tour to fully appreciate the stories behind the graves.

Halal Restaurant Nearby:

MD Noor Hakim Chicken Rice

Touted by Google reviewers as ‘the chicken rice that belongs in the Premier League!’ this humble halal chicken rice stall is guaranteed to satisfy your chicken rice cravings with its fresh and succulent meats paired with warm, aromatic rice.

Opening hours: 7.30am - 8pm

Address: 168 Lor 1 Toa Payoh, Singapore 310168

Remember to take advantage of our reader exclusive deal with Drive lah and use "FAMILYFUN20" when booking your ride to get a flat $20 discount when you book between April 25th to May 20th.

4. Gillman Barracks

Gillman Barracks is an eclectic mix of contemporary art galleries, cool cafes, and trendy shops. Once a British military barracks, this art hub now attracts creative minds from all over. Wander through the exhibitions or attend an event to immerse yourself in Singapore's thriving art scene.

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Halal Restaurant Nearby:

Royz et Vous
Drop by Royz et Vous for Western cuisine with a halal twist. Their smoked duck and beef short ribs are a big hit, perfect after absorbing Gillman Barracks' artistic vibe.

Address: 8, 8A & 10 Jalan Pisang, Singapore 199075

Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM; closed on Mondays

Website | Instagram

5. Pulau Ubin

Escape to Pulau Ubin, an island where rustic charm meets natural beauty. Rent a bike and explore the lush trails, spot rare wildlife at Chek Jawa Wetlands, or simply revel in the nostalgia of village life. It's an adventure just a ferry ride away from the bustling city.

Halal Restaurant Nearby:

Andes by Aston is a well-loved halal steakhouse, with an extensive menu includingeverything from Prime Ribeye to Hickory BBQ Chicken to Chargrilled Salmon Fillet. (Don’t forget to check out our list of other halal eateries around Changi Village!)

Opening hours: Open daily; 11.30AM - 10PM

Address: 5 Changi Village Road #01-2001, Singapore 500005

Contact: +65 65420302

Website | Facebook

6. The Live Turtle and Tortoise Museum

Hidden within the Chinese Garden, The Live Turtle and Tortoise Museum is a quirky attraction that houses over 50 species of these gentle creatures. Feed them, learn about their natural habitats, and discover myths and stories about them from around the world.

Halal Restaurant Nearby:

Rasa Istimewa Restaurant
After exploring the museum, hop over to Rasa Istimewa Restaurant in Woodlands Waterfront Park. Their BBQ seafood platter and Malay-style fried rice will complete your unique day out.

Address: 6A Admiralty Road West, Woodlands Waterfront Park, Singapore 757445

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM

Website | Instagram

Don't forget to plan ahead and explore these hidden gems around Singapore by renting a car. Don't forget to use your Drive lah’s exclusive $20 discount from April 25th to May 20th!

Just use the code "FAMILYFUN20" when booking your ride and get a flat $20 discount when you book between April 25th to May 20th. Do take note that it is limited to one booking per user.

Discover these hidden gems around Singapore and pair each adventure with delicious halal cuisine to make your exploration truly memorable!