Singapore Art Museum

Singapore Art Museum Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Singapore Historical Sites

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Singapore Art Museum (SAM) is a cornerstone of Singapore’s contemporary art scene, seamlessly weaving the city’s heritage with its dynamic commitment to the arts. Since its founding in 1996 within the historic former St Joseph’s Institution—a national monument—SAM has evolved into a vibrant platform for artistic exchange and cultural dialogue. Currently, while its original Bras Basah complex undergoes redevelopment, SAM welcomes visitors at its temporary home in Tanjong Pagar Distripark, a repurposed industrial warehouse that underscores the museum’s innovative approach to urban engagement.

Home to over 8,000 works, SAM’s collection focuses on contemporary art from Singapore, Southeast Asia, and Asia, spanning painting, sculpture, video, performance, and installation art. Signature events, such as the Singapore Biennale, place SAM at the forefront of regional and international art conversations. The museum’s programming is inclusive, with wheelchair-accessible facilities, tactile resources, and family-friendly offerings, ensuring accessibility for all.

Strategically located in the heart of Singapore’s arts and heritage district, SAM is steps away from other major attractions, including the National Museum of Singapore and the Peranakan Museum. Whether you’re a seasoned art lover, a family seeking enriching experiences, or a first-time visitor eager to explore local culture, this guide will provide comprehensive information on visiting hours, ticketing, exhibitions, accessibility, educational programs, and travel tips to make the most of your SAM experience. For the latest details, consult the official Singapore Art Museum website and the National Heritage Board.

Singapore Art Museum front view with modern architecture

Exterior view of Singapore Art Museum building with modern architectural design

Exterior view of Singapore Art Museum building with modern architecture and blue sky

Exterior view of Singapore Art Museum with modern architectural design and people walking around

Balcony with decorative railings at the Singapore Art Museum

Singapore Art Museum building with historical architecture and modern surroundings

About the Singapore Art Museum
Essential Visitor Information
Highlights of the Singapore Art Museum
Nearby Attractions and Photographic Spots
Educational and Community Engagement
Collections and Exhibitions
Facilities and Amenities
Accessibility Features
Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
References

About the Singapore Art Museum

Founded in 1996 and originally located in the restored St Joseph’s Institution, the Singapore Art Museum (SAM) is dedicated to championing contemporary art from Singapore, Southeast Asia, and the broader Asian region. As a key institution under the National Heritage Board, SAM’s mission is to advocate for and present innovative visual art practices while fostering dialogue between cultures, histories, and communities.

SAM’s influence extends globally, participating in events such as the Venice Biennale and collaborating with major Asian institutions. Its collection and exhibitions reflect a commitment to inclusivity, cross-cultural exchange, and documentation of evolving artistic practices. SAM plays a pivotal role in nurturing local talent, promoting critical discourse, and anchoring Singapore’s position as a vibrant arts hub (NHB).

Essential Visitor Information

Opening Hours

Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Closed: Mondays and public holidays
Last admission: 30 minutes before closing

Ticket Prices

Adults: SGD 10
Seniors (65+), Students (with valid ID): SGD 5
Children under 6: Free
Singapore citizens and PRs: Free admission (check for special days, e.g., Wednesdays)
Tickets: Purchase online at SAM’s ticketing portal or onsite

Locations

Current Venue: Tanjong Pagar Distripark, 39 Keppel Road, #03-07, Singapore 089065 (while Bras Basah buildings are redeveloped)
Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW15)
Bus: Stops at 14061 (Opp Former Railway Station) on Keppel Road
Parking: Available onsite (S$2/hour weekdays, S$2.50/entry in evenings/overnight)

Accessibility

Wheelchair-accessible entrances and restrooms
Free manual wheelchair loan at ticketing counter (first-come, first-served)
Signage in English with braille labels
Accessible toilets with diaper changing and toddler facilities
Service animals welcome
PMAs allowed (subject to size/speed restrictions)
Assistance for visitors with disabilities (advance arrangement recommended)

Guided Tours and Educational Programs

Free guided tours daily, led by trained docents (inquire at ticketing counter)
Educational workshops, hands-on activities, and family programs
School and group visits by advance booking
Events Calendar

Special Exhibitions and Events

Rotating exhibitions, artist talks, and public art installations—see SAM’s website for updates

Highlights of the Singapore Art Museum

Singapore’s pioneering contemporary art museum, located in a heritage building and now at the innovative Distripark venue
Over 8,000 works spanning painting, sculpture, installation, and time-based media
Major events like the Singapore Biennale, a leading Asian art exhibition
Inclusive programs for families, schools, and community groups
Public art initiatives like The Everyday Museum, activating city spaces

Nearby Attractions and Photogenic Spots

National Museum of Singapore: Immersive exhibits on Singapore’s history (5-min walk)
Peranakan Museum: Showcasing Peranakan culture and artifacts (7-min walk)
Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall: Iconic performing arts venue (10-min walk)
Fort Canning Park: Scenic green space with historical sites (15-min walk)
Bras Basah.Bugis District: Bustling with street art, cafés, and creative venues

The museum’s own colonial architecture and the vibrant Tanjong Pagar neighborhood offer excellent photography opportunities.

Educational and Community Engagement

School and Youth Programs

Preschool & Primary: Art introduction through interactive sessions and visual literacy
Secondary & Tertiary: Thematic tours and workshops exploring social issues and artistic practices
Outreach: “SAM Goes to School” brings art into classrooms with digital and in-person resources

Educator Engagement

Free guided educator tours and access to learning materials
Publications and inquiry-based resources for classroom use

Community Outreach & Public Programs

Open studios, participatory workshops, film screenings, and artist talks
Public art projects like “Art in the Commons” foster community connection

Artist Residencies

SAM Residencies support artists working on community and cross-disciplinary projects, culminating in public activations

Digital & Remote Learning

Virtual tours and downloadable resources available via SAM’s website

Community Partnerships

Collaborative projects with schools, social service agencies, and organizations to promote cultural cohesion

Collections and Exhibitions

Contemporary Southeast Asian Art

SAM’s collection emphasizes contemporary practices from Singapore and Southeast Asia, reflecting the region’s diversity and ongoing dialogues with global art movements.

Notable Exhibitions 2025

Heman Chong Exhibition (until 17 Aug 2025)
Everyday Practices (until 20 Jul 2025)
Learning Gallery (until 29 Jun 2025)
5 Albizias (until 23 Mar 2025)
Seeing Forest by Robert Zhao Renhui
Yee I-Lann: Mansau-Ansau
Lost & Found: Embodied Archive

(Secret Singapore, BusyKidd Guide)

Singapore Biennale 2025

The 2025 edition, themed “pure intention,” spans multiple venues and public spaces, reinforcing SAM’s role as a convener of regional and international art dialogues (Singapore Art Museum).

Facilities and Amenities

Ticketing and information desk at entrance
Wheelchair-accessible toilets, ramps, and lifts
Lockers for personal belongings
Nursing pod for mothers
SIP at SAM café: specialty coffee and light food
Museum shop with art books and gifts
Pop-up refreshment counters and vending machines
Onsite parking with clear signage

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

Best Times: Weekday mornings are less crowded
Photography: Non-flash photography allowed in most galleries; check for restrictions
Public Programs: Check website for artist talks, workshops, and family activities
Nearby Sights: National Gallery Singapore, ArtScience Museum, Gardens by the Bay, Red Dot Design Museum, Asian Civilisations Museum, Children’s Museum Singapore, and vibrant dining/shopping options in Tanjong Pagar

(timeout.com, secretsingapore.co, singapore-tickets.com)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the Singapore Art Museum’s visiting hours?
A: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM; closed Mondays and public holidays.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: Adults SGD 10, seniors/students SGD 5, children under 6 free, locals enjoy free entry on select days.

Q: Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with barrier-free access, accessible toilets, and wheelchair loans.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, daily guided tours are free; inquire at the ticketing counter.

Q: Can I buy tickets online?
A: Yes, via SAM’s website.

Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Non-flash photography is generally permitted; check signage for specific restrictions.

Q: Are there family-friendly facilities?
A: Yes, including nursing pods, diaper changing stations, and interactive educational spaces.

Conclusion

The Singapore Art Museum at Tanjong Pagar Distripark continues to be a dynamic platform for contemporary art, education, and community engagement. With its inclusive facilities, diverse exhibitions, and proximity to other major attractions, SAM is a must-visit for anyone exploring Singapore’s cultural landscape. Always check the official website for the latest visiting hours, ticketing options, and exhibition schedules.

Maximize your experience by downloading the Audiala app for interactive tours, and follow SAM’s social media channels for updates. Explore our related guides for more on Singapore’s historical and cultural destinations.