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Here’s a guide to Kallang Riverside Park so your weekends are never boring!

Before it became the Kallang Riverside Park we know today, this area was where Stamford Raffles first landed in 1819, setting the stage for Singapore’s transformation. 

Once a bustling hub for fishing villages and shipbuilding, the Kallang River has seen everything from trade to dragonboat races. Fast forward to today, and the riverbanks have swapped kampungs for jogging trails, but history still lingers in the air.

Whether you’re paddling on the water or just admiring the view, you’re standing in a place that has witnessed Singapore’s past flow into its present.

Things to Know

Website 

Address: Corner of Kallang Road and Crawford Street

Contact: +6518004717300

Hours: Open 24 hours

Fees: Free entry

Accessibility: Wheelchair and stroller-accessible paved walkways, ramps, and paths; some uneven terrain near riverbanks and older sections

Amenities: Public toilets, sheltered seating areas, exercise corners

Pet-friendly? Yes, but pets must be kept on a leash

Rules and restrictions:

No littering

No smoking

No camping or open fires

No swimming in the river

No unauthorised drones

How to Get Here

Closest MRT: The nearest MRT stations to Kallang Riverside Park are Lavender MRT (EW11) and Kallang MRT (EW10) on the East-West Line. From Lavender MRT, take Exit B, walk along Kallang Road, and cross the bridge towards Kampong Bugis. It’s about a 10-minute walk. 

If coming from Kallang MRT, take Exit B, walk along Sims Avenue, and follow the park connector towards the river. This route takes around 12 minutes on foot.

Closest bus station: The nearest bus stops to Kallang Riverside Park are Bef Kallang Rd (Bus Stop 80029) and Aft Kallang Rd (Bus Stop 80021) along Kallang Road. Buses 7, 32, 51, 63, 80, 197 stop here. 

From the bus stop, it’s a 5-minute walk. Just head towards Kampong Bugis, cross the bridge, and you’ll reach the park. 

If coming from the Kallang MRT side, you can take buses 2, 13, or 67 and alight at Kallang MRT Station Exit A (Bus Stop 80061) before walking about 10 minutes to the park.

By car: For parking, visitors can use the Kallang Riverside Park Car Park along Kampong Bugis, which offers limited lots. Alternatively, nearby parking is available at Kallang Wave Mall and Leisure Park Kallang, both a short walk away. 

Drop-off points are conveniently located along Kampong Bugis and Kallang Road, with taxis and ride-hailing services able to stop near the park’s entrances.

Things to See and Do

Visit the Old Kallang Gasworks site

Media from sgrediscovered

Location: Near Kampong Bugis and Crawford Street

I never thought a gasworks site could be interesting, but standing where Singapore once produced its first gas supply felt like stepping into a forgotten chapter of the city’s past. 

Though most of it is gone, the preserved remnants whisper stories of a time when coal powered the nation. A little history lesson with a riverside breeze? Not a bad way to slow down and take it all in.

Pro tip: There’s an information board nearby that provides historical context about the Old Kallang Gasworks.

Spot the Spirit of Kallang sculpture and other artworks

Media from caveman_sean

Location: Near the Rochor River, close to the Kallang Rivergreen Building

I was expecting just trees and jogging paths, but stumbling upon the Spirit of Kallang sculpture felt like uncovering a hidden tribute to Singapore’s industrial past. Crafted from pieces of the old gasworks, it stood as a quiet reminder that even history can be repurposed into something artistic.

Beyond that, the murals under Merdeka Bridge added a splash of colour to the riverside walk.

Pro tip: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting to appreciate the details of the artwork.

Drink in some soothing riverside views

Location: Waterfront promenade along Kallang River

There’s something about watching the Kallang River ripple under the evening sky that makes the city feel a little less hectic. Whether it’s dragon boats slicing through the water or the Singapore skyline glowing in the distance, the view is a quiet kind of magic.

I found the best spot near Kampong Bugis, where the breeze is just right and the reflections dance like city lights on a canvas. Sitting there with a coffee in hand, I almost forgot I was in the middle of a buzzing metropolis.

Pro tip: Bring mosquito repellent, especially for early morning or late afternoon visits, as the park’s riverside greenery can attract mozzies.

Go fishing in the proper areas

Media from bsrpng

Location: West Bank Kallang River

I once wandered along Kallang Riverside Park, rod in hand, only to realise that fishing is only allowed in designated areas—so best to check before casting your line! 

The park’s two sides are conveniently linked by Sir Arthur’s Bridge (Geylang Road), making it easy to explore both banks.

For a better fishing experience, follow the park connectors to Marina Promenade or Stadium Riverside Walk, where you’ll find more open spots and potential fishing zones. 

Pro tip: Fly fishing is not allowed!

Do some birdwatching

Media from wtimmermann

Location: Kallang River and Rochor River confluence

One time I came for a riverside stroll but ended up bird-watching like a pro, thanks to a kingfisher that swooped down like it owned the place. 

Perched near Kampong Bugis, I spotted herons, egrets, and even a white-bellied sea eagle. Who knew Kallang had its own feathery VIPs? 

Pro tip: Early mornings and late afternoons bring out the most action, with birds diving for fish and calling from the mangroves.

Spot other wildlife

Media from lnmjstn

Location: Southern end near Kampong Bugis

I was minding my own business, enjoying the river breeze, when a family of otters popped up like they were checking me out instead. Watching them play in the water near Kampong Bugis made me forget I was in the middle of a city.

Further down the trail, I spotted butterflies flitting through the trees. If you slow down and look around, Kallang Riverside Park feels less like a hidden pocket of wildlife in the urban jungle.

Pro tip: Stay quiet and patient. Wildlife like otters are more likely to appear if you observe from a distance.

Jog or cycle on designated paths

Media from darkhorsegoods

Location: Following the waterfront promenade

I laced up for a quick jog, but with the river breeze and skyline views, I ended up going the extra mile—literally. The smooth paths along the waterfront make it too easy to lose track of time (and calories).

Cycling here? Even better. With wide, scenic routes connecting to Marina Promenade, you can ride like a pro or just cruise and pretend you’re training for the Tour de Kallang.

Pro tip: There are water coolers near the toilet facilities along the Kallang River, providing convenient hydration spots for joggers and cyclists. 

Try dragon boating or kayaking

Media from jessicacxy

Location: Along the Kallang Basin, near the Water Sports Centre 

I thought kayaking at Kallang Riverside Park would be a chill paddle—until a dragon boat team zoomed past, making me feel like I was drifting in slow motion. With the Singapore skyline as a backdrop, even a casual row feels like an adventure.

If you’re up for a challenge, join a dragon boat session and feel the thrill of paddling in sync with a crew. Just try not to capsize in front of the pros!

Pro tip: For kayaking and dragon boating near Kallang Riverside Park, the Singapore Sports Hub’s Water Sports Centre offers rentals and facilities.

Have a family picnic

Media from natashaross 

Location: Near the grassy open area along the riverbank

I laid out the picnic mat, and within minutes, the kid cousins were off chasing butterflies while I guarded the snacks like a hawk. 

The best part? Plenty of shaded spots near Kampong Bugis where you can lounge, snack, and watch the otters make a surprise appearance.

Pro tip: Don’t forget the bug spray—unless you want uninvited guests at your feast!

Get fit at exercise corners

Media from special.sauces

Location: Near the southern end of the park along Kampong Bugis

I told myself I’d just take a leisurely stroll, but the pull-up bars at Kallang Riverside Park had other plans. The next thing I knew, I was in an unplanned fitness showdown with a jogger who made chin-ups look way too easy.

With sit-up benches, stretching stations, and open spaces for bodyweight workouts, it’s like having a free outdoor gym with a view. Who needs a treadmill when you can break a sweat by the river and call it scenic cardio?

Pro tip: Bring disinfectant wipes or a small spray bottle of sanitiser to wipe down the equipment before and after use.

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