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The Old Parliament House in Singapore is now a museum and venue for art exhibitions. It’s highly recommended to explore its rich history as the former home of the Singapore Parliament. Visitors can enjoy the historical exhibits and view the stunning neoclassical architecture. Special exhibitions and cultural events are also a must-see during your visit.
The Old Parliament House is Singapore's oldest government building. Built in 1827, it once served as the parliament building during Singapore's democratic system. Its rich colonial architecture is now the Old Parliament House Arts House. Designed by Ong Teng Cheong, Singapore's first democratically elected president, the building's prismatic rooftop exudes a modern and majestic style. Visual art, dance, music, film, and theatre performances by artists from home and abroad are showcased here. Outside the building stands a famous bronze statue, a gift from King Chulalongkorn of Siam in 1871.
All seasons
1-3 hours
All events are free except those requiring ticket purchase
10:00 AM - 10:00 PM (including Sundays and public holidays)
Ticket Office Opening Hours:
Monday to Friday 10:00am - 8:00pm
Saturday 11:00am - 8:00pm (Sunday and public holidays: closed)
The Old Parliament House was built in 1827 and served as the Parliament of Singapore from 1965 to 1999. It is one of the oldest buildings in Singapore and is an iconic example of colonial architecture. Today, it serves as the Arts House, hosting cultural events, performances, and exhibitions, and is an important cultural landmark in Singapore.
The Old Parliament House is located along the Singapore River, at 1 Old Parliament Lane. It is easily accessible by MRT, with the nearest station being the "Raffles Place" station, which is a 5-minute walk away. It’s also accessible by bus, taxi, or on foot from various nearby attractions.
The Arts House is generally open from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily. It is advisable to visit on weekdays for a quieter experience, especially in the mornings. Special exhibitions and events may have different timings, so it’s best to check in advance.
Entry to the Old Parliament House is free for the permanent exhibitions, but special exhibitions or events may have an entrance fee. Tickets can be purchased online through the official website or at the entrance on the day of your visit.
It’s recommended to book tickets for special exhibitions or events in advance, especially for popular shows. Tickets can typically be booked up to a few weeks ahead.
To fully explore the Old Parliament House and its exhibitions, plan for 1 to 2 hours. If attending a special event or performance, you may need additional time.
The main highlights include the historical exhibits in the chamber, the original parliamentary space, and the impressive neoclassical architecture. Also, check out the ongoing art exhibitions or cultural performances in the central gallery.
Guided tours are available for groups and can be arranged by prior booking. Audio guides are not typically available, but tours in English can be arranged on-site.
Photography is allowed in the public areas. The front facade of the building and the views along the Singapore River offer great photo opportunities, particularly during sunset when the building is lit up beautifully.
Start by exploring the grand architecture of the Old Parliament House, then proceed to the exhibitions on Singapore’s political history and its cultural development. If there’s a special event or performance, be sure to check the schedule in advance and plan to attend.
Special events or cultural performances may be available in the evenings. However, the building itself closes by 7:00 PM, so night visits are limited to events or shows.
The Old Parliament House tends to be quieter during weekdays, particularly in the mornings. Weekends and public holidays can get busier, especially when special events are taking place.
The Old Parliament House has clean toilets and a café where visitors can rest and grab snacks. There is also a small shop offering cultural and historical souvenirs.
The Old Parliament House is accessible to all visitors, with ramps and lifts available for those with mobility challenges. The building is also family-friendly, offering educational programs and exhibits suitable for children.
Cards and mobile payments are accepted at the ticket counter, café, and shop. Cash payments are also allowed but are not required.
Inside, there is a café offering light snacks and drinks. Nearby, there are numerous options including “Jewel Coffee” and “The Fullerton Bay Hotel’s Lantern Bar” for dining and drinks with a view of the river.
Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options at the café, and many nearby restaurants, including the ones at Fullerton Bay, offer halal and vegetarian dishes.
Nearby accommodations include the “Fullerton Hotel Singapore,” “Raffles Hotel,” and “Marina Bay Sands,” all within walking distance from the Old Parliament House.
Nearby attractions include the National Gallery Singapore, Merlion Park, and the Asian Civilisations Museum. These can all be easily combined in a day trip.
The Old Parliament House has a small gift shop offering souvenirs such as books, cultural items, and historical memorabilia related to Singapore's political and cultural heritage.
The best options are to take a short walk to nearby MRT stations such as “Raffles Place” or “City Hall,” or to hop on a bus or taxi. The Singapore River offers boat tours that are a pleasant way to continue your sightseeing.
