Merlion Park Singapore: Free Entry, Best Photo Spots & Travel Tips (2026)

You can visit one of Singapore’s most famous landmarks without spending a single rupee on entry. Merlion Park is free to enter, open 24 hours, and gives you one of the city’s most famous photo views, with the Merlion and Marina Bay skyline in the same frame.

Located beside One Fullerton, the park is ideal for a short visit, especially if you are exploring Marina Bay on foot. For the best experience, go early in the morning for fewer crowds and softer light, or just after sunset for a glowing city skyline. Travellers can reach it in minutes from Raffles Place MRT and usually see the main sights in 30 to 60 minutes.

In this guide, you will find everything you need to plan your visit, including the Merlion Park entry fee, opening hours, best time to visit, how to reach it, photo spots and nearby attractions. This will help you plan your Singapore package with ease.

Merlion Park at a Glance

Detail	What You Need to Know
Address	1 Fullerton Road, Singapore 049213
Entry fee	Free
Opening hours	Open 24 hours, every day
Nearest MRT	Raffles Place (East West and North South lines)
Time needed	30 to 60 minutes
Best time	7:00 to 8:00 AM, or just after sunset
Big statue	8.6 metres tall, about 70 tonnes
Small statue	About 2 metres tall (the Merlion cub)
Unveiled	15 September 1972 (moved to its present spot in 2002)

What Is Merlion Park?

Merlion Park is a free waterfront attraction in Singapore, located at 1 Fullerton Road beside Marina Bay. It is home to Singapore’s famous Merlion statue, a half-lion, half-fish figure that represents the city’s identity and history. The park features the 8.6-metre main Merlion statue and a smaller Merlion cub nearby. The main statue faces Marina Bay and is one of Singapore’s most recognisable photo spots.

The park is open 24 hours a day, every day, so you can visit at almost any time. The nearest MRT station is Raffles Place MRT and is about a 5- to 7-minute walk away.

What Is the Merlion?

The Merlion is a mythical creature with the head of a lion and the body of a fish. It is one of Singapore’s best-known national symbols. 

• Lion head: The lion represents Singapura, meaning “lion city”.
• Fish body: The fish represents Singapore’s early history as a fishing village called Temasek.

Together, these two parts of the Merlion represent different parts of Singapore’s history.

Merlion Park History: From 1972 to Today

Merlion Park has changed location since the first Merlion statue was unveiled in 1972. The statue originally stood at the mouth of the Singapore River. It was moved to its present home at the waterfront in 2002, where it now faces Marina Bay. 

Here are the key moments in the history of Merlion Park:

• 1972: The original 8.6-metre Merlion was completed in 1972. Local sculptor Lim Nang Seng built the statue from a design by Kwan Sai Kheong. It was officially unveiled by Singapore’s first Prime Minister, Lee Kuan Yew, on 15 September 1972. 
• 1997: The completion of the Esplanade Bridge changed the view of the Merlion from the waterfront. This led to plans to move the statue to a more visible location.
• 2002: The Merlion and its smaller Merlion Cub were moved to a new waterfront site overlooking Marina Bay. The new location became the present-day Merlion Park.
• 2009: Lightning struck the Merlion during a thunderstorm, damaging part of its mane and creating a hole near its base. The statue was subsequently repaired.
• 2022: The Merlion celebrated its 50th anniversary on 15 September 2022.

Merlion Statue Singapore: Height, Weight & Design

The Merlion cub stands nearby and is much smaller than the main statue. Its body is covered with small pieces of Chinese porcelain plates and bowls. Look closely to see the different colours and patterns.

Merlion Statue: Height, Weight & Design

The main Merlion statue is 8.6 metres tall and weighs about 70 tonnes. It has a lion’s head and a fish-shaped body, while the smaller Merlion Cub stands nearby.

Feature	Main Merlion	Merlion Cub
Height	8.6 metres	About 2 metres
Weight	About 70 tonnes	About 3 tonnes
Design	Lion head and fish body	Smaller version of the Merlion

Merlion Park Entry Fee & Opening Hours

Merlion Park is free to enter and open 24 hours a day, every day. There is no entrance gate or ticket required, so you can visit in the morning, during the day or at night. 

Visitor information	Details
Entry fee	Free
Opening hours	24 hours, daily
Ticket required	No
Address	1 Fullerton Road, Singapore 049213

However, the Merlion statue may occasionally be closed for cleaning or maintenance, and the water fountain may be turned off during this time. So, it is recommended to check the Merlion Park’s official page before planning your visit.

Best Time to Visit Merlion Park

The best time to visit Merlion Park depends on whether you want cooler weather, fewer people or better photos. For most visitors, early morning and around sunset are the most comfortable times.

Time	What to Expect
7:00–8:00 AM	Cooler conditions, soft morning light and fewer visitors. A good time for photos.
Mid-morning to afternoon	Hotter conditions and stronger sunlight. The area can also feel busier.
Around sunset	Cooler weather, changing skies and Marina Bay’s city lights. A good time for photos.
After sunset	See the Merlion with the Marina Bay skyline lit up. You can also watch Spectra from the waterfront.

Best Time to Take Photos at Merlion Park

For the Merlion and Marina Bay skyline, try visiting early in the morning or around sunset. Morning visits are better if you want fewer people in your photos, while sunset gives you a mix of daylight, colourful skies and city lights.

Best Photo Spots at Merlion Park

Merlion Park has several spots for photographing the Merlion, Marina Bay Sands and Singapore’s skyline. Each location gives you a slightly different angle, so you can choose one based on the type of photo you want.

1. Front of the Merlion: Best for the classic photo of the Merlion with water streaming from its mouth. Stand in front of the statue for a direct, close-up composition.
2. Waterfront Promenade: The promenade gives you more space to frame the Merlion with Marina Bay Sands in the background. It is a good spot for a wider travel photo.
3. Jubilee Bridge: Walk towards Jubilee Bridge for a wider perspective of the Merlion, waterfront and Singapore skyline. This angle works well if you want more of Marina Bay in the frame.
4. One Fullerton Waterfront: The waterfront around One Fullerton offers wider views and more architectural elements. It is useful for photos that capture the Merlion as part of the surrounding Marina Bay landscape.
5. Across Marina Bay: For a different perspective, photograph the Merlion from across Marina Bay. You can get this view while exploring the opposite side of the bay or during a Singapore River cruise.

Photo tip: Early morning generally gives you softer light and fewer people, while evening gives you an illuminated skyline. If you want both daylight and city lights, visit around sunset and stay until after dark.

How to Reach Merlion Park?

Merlion Park is easy to reach by MRT, taxi or boat. The nearest MRT station is Raffles Place MRT Station, and the park is at 1 Fullerton Road, beside One Fullerton and Marina Bay.

By MRT

Take the MRT to Raffles Place Station, which is served by the East-West Line and North-South Line. Use Exit B or Exit H and follow the signs for One Fullerton.

By Taxi or Private Hire Car

Book your taxi or cab for One Fullerton. Merlion Park is directly beside it, making it an easy drop-off point.

By Boat

You can also see the Merlion from the Singapore River on a bumboat river cruise. This gives you a different view of the statue from the water and lets you see parts of the Marina Bay waterfront from another angle.

Things to See Near Merlion Park

Merlion Park is surrounded by several popular Singapore attractions, so you can easily combine your visit with a Marina Bay tour. Depending on your interests, here are some of the best places to visit in Singapore that you can explore nearby. 

• Esplanade (Theatres on the Bay): The Esplanade is Singapore’s major performing arts centre. Its two rounded domes are covered with sun-shading spikes, giving the building its famous durian-like appearance. It is located across the water from Merlion Park and is easy to include in a Marina Bay walk.
• Fullerton Heritage: The Fullerton area sits directly beside Merlion Park. You can see historic buildings such as The Fullerton Hotel Singapore while walking along the waterfront. The area is also close to the Singapore River and Raffles Place.
• Marina Bay Sands: Marina Bay Sands is across the bay from Merlion Park. The complex includes the hotel, The Shoppes, ArtScience Museum and Sands SkyPark Observation Deck. You can also watch the free Spectra Light and Water Show from the waterfront.
• Gardens by the Bay: Gardens by the Bay is known for its Supertrees, Flower Dome and Cloud Forest. General entry to the gardens is free, while some attractions require tickets. The Garden Rhapsody light and sound show takes place daily at Supertree Grove. 
• Singapore Flyer: The Singapore Flyer is a 165-metre observation wheel with 360-degree views of Marina Bay and the city. From the capsules, you can see landmarks including Merlion Park and the Singapore River.
• Lau Pa Sat: Lau Pa Sat is a historic food centre in Singapore’s Downtown Core. It is a useful stop if you want to add a meal to your Marina Bay sightseeing route.

Best Hotels Near Merlion Park Singapore

Staying near Merlion Park makes it easier to explore Marina Bay and other central attractions. Here are some popular hotel options across different budgets and travel styles:

The Fullerton Hotel Singapore

Located close to Merlion Park, this historic hotel is known for its grand colonial-era architecture and waterfront location.

• Type: Luxury

Marina Bay Sands 

A luxury choice near Marina Bay, famous for its rooftop infinity pool, city views and direct access to several major attractions.

• Type: Ultra Luxury

Mandarin Oriental Singapore 

A luxury hotel in the Marina Bay area, with easy access to Merlion Park, shopping areas and other central attractions.

• Type: Luxury

The Fullerton Bay Hotel Singapore 

Located on the waterfront, this luxury hotel offers views across Marina Bay and is within walking distance of Merlion Park.

• Type: Luxury

Hotel Boss 

A more budget-friendly option with access to public transport. It is farther from Merlion Park than the hotels around Marina Bay but offers convenient MRT access.

• Type: Budget-Friendly

Travel Tips for Indian Travellers Visiting Merlion Park

• Visit early morning or around sunset for cooler weather, softer light and better photos. Midday can feel hot and humid.
• Carry water and sun protection. Singapore’s heat and humidity can be tiring, especially if you are walking around Marina Bay.
• Use the MRT for easy access. Raffles Place MRT and Downtown MRT are convenient options, with a short walk to the park.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes. Merlion Park is close to several waterfront attractions, so you can easily explore the area on foot.
• Plan Merlion Park with nearby attractions. Esplanade, Jubilee Bridge, Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay can fit into the same sightseeing day.
• Carry a light umbrella or rain jacket. Short rain showers can occur even when the day starts sunny.
• Dress in light, breathable clothes. Cotton or quick-dry fabrics are more comfortable in Singapore’s humid weather.
• Indian food is easy to find nearby. If you prefer vegetarian, Jain or familiar Indian meals, plan your meal stop around Little India or central Singapore rather than relying only on waterfront restaurants.
• Keep some extra time for photos. The waterfront gets busier around sunset, so arrive early if you want a quieter spot.
• Check the weather before heading out. A quick forecast check can help you decide whether to visit in the morning, afternoon or evening.

Planning Your Merlion Park Visit

Merlion Park is a short, free stop that fits easily into a Marina Bay sightseeing itinerary. Most visitors need around 30–60 minutes for the statue, photos and waterfront views. Combine it with Fullerton Heritage, Esplanade, Marina Bay Sands or Gardens by the Bay if you want to turn the visit into a longer Marina Bay walking route. 

FAQs

Is Merlion Park free to visit?

Yes, Merlion Park is free to visit. There is no entrance ticket or gate, and you can visit the park at any time because it is open 24 hours a day.

What are the opening hours of Merlion Park?

Merlion Park is open 24 hours a day, every day. Early morning and just after sunset are good times to visit for cooler weather, better photos and fewer crowds.

Where is Merlion Park located in Singapore?

Merlion Park is located at 1 Fullerton Road, Singapore 049213, beside One Fullerton and Marina Bay. It is in the central part of Singapore and is easy to reach by MRT, taxi or boat.

Which MRT station is closest to Merlion Park?

Raffles Place MRT Station is the closest MRT station to Merlion Park. It is served by the East-West and North-South lines, and the park is about a 5 to 7-minute walk from the station.

How long do you need at Merlion Park?

Most visitors need around 30 to 60 minutes at Merlion Park. Allow extra time if you want to take photos, enjoy the Marina Bay waterfront or combine the visit with nearby attractions.

What is the best time to visit Merlion Park?

Early morning or around sunset is the best time to visit Merlion Park. Morning offers cooler conditions and fewer visitors, while sunset gives you changing skies and a brightly lit Marina Bay skyline.

Can I take photos at Merlion Park?

Yes. You can take photos freely at Merlion Park, and the waterfront offers views of the Merlion, Marina Bay Sands and the Singapore skyline. Visit early morning or around sunset for more photogenic light.

What is the best time to take photos at Merlion Park?

Visit around 7:00 to 8:00 AM or just after sunset for the best Merlion photos. Early morning offers softer light and fewer people, while evening photos capture the Merlion with Singapore’s illuminated skyline.

Can you visit Merlion Park at night?

Yes, you can visit Merlion Park at night because the park is open 24 hours. After sunset, you can see the Merlion with the Marina Bay skyline lit up and enjoy the waterfront atmosphere.

What can you see near Merlion Park?

You can visit Marina Bay Sands, Esplanade, Fullerton Heritage, Gardens by the Bay, Singapore Flyer and Lau Pa Sat near Merlion Park. This makes the park easy to include in a Marina Bay sightseeing itinerary.

Can you see Marina Bay Sands from Merlion Park?

Yes. Marina Bay Sands is directly across the bay from Merlion Park, making it one of the main landmarks visible from the waterfront. The two attractions can easily be included in the same sightseeing route.

Is Merlion Park suitable for Indian travellers?

Yes. Merlion Park is easy for Indian travellers to include in a Singapore itinerary because it is free, centrally located and accessible by MRT. Vegetarian, Jain and Indian food options can also be planned around central Singapore and nearby areas.

Is Merlion Park good for families with children?

Yes. Merlion Park is a simple family-friendly stop in Singapore because there is no entry fee, the visit does not take long, and several attractions are within walking distance. You can combine it with a Marina Bay sightseeing day.

Can I visit Merlion Park and Gardens by the Bay on the same day?

Yes. Merlion Park and Gardens by the Bay can easily be included in the same-day itinerary. You can explore the Merlion and Marina Bay waterfront first, then continue towards Gardens by the Bay and its Supertrees, Flower Dome and Cloud Forest.

Is there a Merlion statue inside Merlion Park?

Yes. Merlion Park has the main 8.6-metre Merlion statue and a smaller Merlion Cub nearby. The main statue faces Marina Bay and is the park’s most recognisable photo spot.