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16 New Things To Do In May 2023: Quirky Art Exhibitions, Thrill Rides, Bird Paradise, Coach Cafe & More

16 New Things To Do In May 2023: Quirky Art Exhibitions, Thrill Rides, Bird Paradise, Coach Cafe & More

Lifestyle Activities & Events
By Rachel Yohannan on 01 May 2023
Senior Digital Editor
Crazy cat lady who loves afternoon tea, kawaii Japanese fashion, and all things Sanrio.

Labour Day might just be another public holiday to most of us, but in light of the significance of the occasion, it's also worth taking the opportunity to reflect on how hard you've worked thus far - and how you definitely deserve a break. So take it a little easier this month, and spend some time catching your breath with our list of fun new activities and events.

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Here are 16 new things to do in May 2023 in Singapore including quirky art exhibitions with free entry, thrill rides, and the opening of Bird Paradise at Mandai, aka the successor to the now-defunct Jurong Bird Park.

#1: Attend a Korean-style candle-making workshop at Miyo Candle

Korean candle-making workshop Miyo Candle SingaporePhoto from Miyo Candle

Scented candles have been popular ever since they became a thing, but Korean-style candles in cute animal- and dessert-themed designs are stealing everyone’s hearts these days. Not only is Miyo Candle the first physical store in Singapore to sell such creations, they’re also offering Korean candle-making workshops where you can DIY your own.

Korean candle-making workshop Miyo Candle SingaporePhoto from Miyo Candle

Select your preferred dessert candle design, or opt for the wax diorama candles, where you’ll be putting together a miniature beach scene complete with tiny figurines of humans and palm trees. Prices for beginner-friendly classes start from an affordable $37, but those who wish to get serious about candle art can also sign up for the esteemed Korea Candle Craft Association (KCCA) certificate courses here.

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#2: Play VR games, bowling, bumper cars & more at the massive new Timezone Orchard

Timezone Orchard Xchange SingaporePhoto from Timezone

Timezone outlets just keep getting bigger and better. Their newest one at Orchard Xchange, right above Orchard MRT station is a 22,000 square feet mammoth of a arcade with over 160 games - thus easily dethroning the Westgate branch as the largest Timezone in Singapore.

Timezone Orchard Xchange SingaporePhoto from Timezone

Usual suspects like classic carnival games, claw machines, shooters, racing games, and Japanese rhythm games are all at your disposal, but beyond that are also more unique experiences that you won’t be able to find at most other game centres. Outlet-exclusives include the Arkadia VR arena that’ll transport you into another dimension, along with The Hillbilly’s, an animation-based shooting gallery.

Timezone Orchard Xchange SingaporePhoto from Timezone

Amping up fun are bumper cars and an eight-lane bowling zone, with four full-sized and four mini bowling lanes so both adults and young ‘uns alike can get in on the action.

Timezone Orchard Xchange SingaporePhoto from Timezone

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It’s also possible to host your birthday party or private event here, as there are two fully-equipped private rooms.

 Timezone Orchard Xchange
Address: 437 Orchard Road, B1-01 to 04/07 to 18/25 to 44 Orchard Xchange, Singapore 238878
Opening hours: Monday to Thursday: 11am - 10pm | Friday: 11am - 11pm | Saturday: 10am - 11pm | Sunday: 10am - 10pm
Website

#3: Visit the 3-storey Coach Play Singapore Shophouse for bag personalisation & a Coach Cafe

Coach Play Singapore ShophousePhoto from Coach

It’s been a while since Coach’s Bagel Shop popped up in town, and the fashion brand is back with yet another New York-inspired space called the Coach Play Singapore Shophouse. This time, it’s permanent, and it’s not only the first of its kind in Asia - it’s also the largest Coach global concept store that's ever been.

Coach Play Singapore ShophousePhoto from GirlStyle Singapore

Browse the brand’s latest handbag launches, ready-to-wear fashion, and even get your own items personalised with monogramming and a selection of stylish appliques and embellishments.

Coach Play Singapore ShophousePhoto from Coach

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There are also plenty of photo opportunities including stylish feature walls and Coach World, an immersive art experience.

Coach Cafe SingaporePhoto from GirlStyle Singapore

The icing on the cake is the Coach Cafe, serving up New York-style bites like pancakes, chicken and waffles, donuts, and milkshakes in collaboration with Brawn & Brains.

#4: Experience sights, sounds, & smells at Sensory Odyssey, an immersive 360° exhibition

Sensory Odyssey Singapore ArtScience MuseumPhoto from Sensory Odyssey

Not everyone can say they’ve seen the grand glaciers of Greenland, swum next to whales, or camped out at an African savanna - but you can check these off your list (well, somewhat) at Sensory Odyssey, the newest exhibition to grace our ArtScience Museum. This immersive 360° experience will have you thrown right into hyperrealistic scenes of nature, accompanied by soundscapes and even smells that mimic that of the real thing.

Sensory Odyssey Singapore ArtScience MuseumPhoto from Sensory Odyssey

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Another highlight includes a mysterious dark cave illuminated by streaks of light, where you’ll  hear bats going about their food hunts.

#5: Admire colourful paintings & sculptures with a whimsical childlike quality

Many Ways Home by Joi Murugavell at Nonage Gallery SingaporePhoto from Nonage Gallery ft. Joi Murugavell

Large museums are always a reliable pick for an artsy day out, but smaller, independently-run galleries are also worth a visit - you just have to search for the right visitor-friendly ones that welcome casual browsers. One of these places is Nonage Gallery, which often hosts exhibitions by guest artists. 

Many Ways Home by Joi Murugavell at Nonage Gallery SingaporePhoto from Joi Murugavell

This month, they’re welcoming Australia-based artist Joi Murugavell, who’ll be gracing the space with her quirky and colourful paintings, drawings, and sculptures.

Many Ways Home by Joi Murugavell at Nonage Gallery SingaporePhoto from Joi Murugavell

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With the usage of bright paint streaks, crayon doodles, and even pom poms, Joi’s playful and humour-infused artwork looks like it has an almost childlike quality at first glance. But peer closer and you’ll spot hidden Easter eggs that reveal deeper and perhaps heavier topics, from cultural change and self-identity.

Many Ways Home by Joi Murugavell at Nonage Gallery SingaporePhoto from Nonage Gallery ft. Joi Murugavell

Many Ways Home by Joi Murugavell
Date: 5 May to 20 June 2023
Location: Nonage Gallery
Price: FREE
Website

#6: Say hi to feathered friends at the new Bird Paradise

Bird Paradise Singapore bird parkPhoto from Mandai Wildlife Group

The news of Jurong Bird Park’s closure was met with dismay by many, but plot twist - it’s reopening as Bird Paradise this May, to be parked in closer vicinity of the Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, and River Safari as part of the integrated Mandai Wildlife Reserve.

Bird Paradise Singapore bird parkPhoto from Mandai Wildlife Group

This massive new bird park is home to 8 themed bird aviaries, with environments closely replicating that of the birds’ natural homes. They’re also devoid of cages, which means that birds can fly freely while guests get to be further immersed in nature - a win-win.

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Bird Paradise Singapore bird parkPhoto from Mandai Wildlife Group

Other highlights include a penguin enclosure, a wetland with a man-made waterfall, and animal shows, among many others.

Bird Paradise Singapore bird parkPhoto from Mandai Wildlife Group

As Bird Paradise is still in its soft opening stage, you can snag tickets at the discounted price of $38 (U.P. $48) from 8 to 26 May 2023

Bird Paradise Singapore
Address: 20 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729825
Opening hours: TBC. From 8 May 2023 onwards.
Website

#7: Scream your lungs out on the GX-5 Extreme Swing

GX-5 Extreme Swing SingaporePhoto from GX-5 Extreme Swing

Previously known as the G-Max Reverse Bungy, this famous thrill ride at Clarke Quay has since reopened as the GX-5 Extreme Swing after a temporary closure a couple of years back. Brace yourself to scream your lungs out as you get strapped into the 5-seated capsule before being hurled high into the sky - liquid courage from nearby bars, optional.

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GX-5 Extreme Swing and Slingshot SingaporePhoto from GX-5 Extreme Swing

There’s also the Slingshot ride, which will have you catapulting 70 metres into the air. The view from up there will be pretty awesome - if you can bring yourself to pry your eyes open, that is!

GX-5 Extreme Swing and Slingshot
Address: 3E River Valley Road, Clarke Quay, Block E, Singapore 179024
Opening hours: 4.30pm - 11.30pm daily
Telephone: 9755 3310
Price: $45. Book your tickets here.
Website

#8: Have a soothing staycation at the new Citadines Connect Rochester Singapore hotel

Citadines Connect Rochester Singapore hotelPhoto from The Ascott Limited

Craving for a staycation but don’t wish to be in the thick of the concrete jungle? The new Citadines Connect Rochester Singapore hotel will be perfect for you.

Citadines Connect Rochester Singapore hotelPhoto from The Ascott Limited

Located far, far away from town at Rochester but not devoid of nearby bars, restaurants, and one of the prettiest Starbucks outlets in Singapore, this clean and modern hotel that’s surrounded by greenery has soothing nature-themed rooms with direct garden terrace access, as well as a gorgeous pool deck with partially submerged deck chairs.

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#9: Spot quirky installations like these glowing “trees” in an art trail

Still Life by Space Objekt in SingaporePhoto from @julianatan.co for @space.objekt

Find art in the most unexpected places with Singapore Art Museum’s new initiative to make art more accessible for all. One of the many installations to spot - as part of the Ports/Raits of Tanjong Pagar trail - is this series of tree-like structures by Space Objekt that glows neon at night. There are also other artworks along the Rail Corridor as part of the Singapore Deviation trail, all located across common neighbourhood spaces like open fields and a bus terminal.

Check out the full list of locations here.

Ports/Raits of Tanjong Pagar and Singapore Deviation
Date: Ongoing
Location: Tanjong Pagar and Rail Corridor.
Price: FREE
Website

#10: Meet the girls at Avenue On 3 for shoe shopping, cafe bites & champagne

Avenue On 3 SingaporePhoto from Avenue On 3

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Shopping, sweet treats, spa treatments and champagne are some of the ingredients for the perfect girls’ day out, and you can check all three of your list at Avenue On 3, a new multi-label boutique at Orchard. Though their main draw is shoes from high-end brands, they also carry a selection of handbags and accessories for the modern woman.

Avenue On 3 SingaporePhoto from Avenue On 3

Once you’ve got your shopping fix, head on over to their beauty zone for a pampering manicure or massage, and end the outing on a sweet note with their Patchi chocolate counter or some bites at their cafe. There’s also an in-house coffee and champagne bar for that extra buzz, whichever way you like it.

Patchi chocolatier at Avenue On 3 SingaporePhoto from Avenue On 3

#11: Soar through the sky in a Pokémon Cable Car and redeem free Pokémon merch

Pokemon cable car SingaporePhoto from Mount Faber Leisure

The Singapore Cable Car has gotten a cute  Pokémon-themed makeover, where a bunch of their cabins have been plastered with cute Pocket Monster decor featuring longtime faves like Eevee and Pikachu, as well as newer entrants Sprigatito, Fuecoco, and Quaxly. Ticket holders are also entitled to a free Pokémon sun visor, as well as some refreshing strawberry or mango ice cream - just what you need on a sunny afternoon.

Pokemon cable car SingaporePhoto from Mount Faber Leisure

The Pokémon invasion doesn't stop there; Mount Faber Peak has also been anime-fied with themed photo spots, from 12 character standees spanning across two floors, along with vintage Cable Cars spruced up with Pokémon decor.

#12: Enter a celestial fairytale with this new VR experience

The Starry Sand Beach VR experience at ArtScience MuseumPhoto from ArtScience Museum

The VR Gallery at ArtScience Museum has switched things up once again with a brand new immersive storyline for visitors to be part of. Based on a Japanese myth, The Starry Sand Beach follows the legend of an island and how its star-shaped sand organisms - the foraminifera - first came about.

According to the legend, these single-cell microorganisms are the thousands of star children of the Southern Cross Star and Polar Star, which fell into the sea of Okinawa.

The Starry Sand Beach VR experience at ArtScience MuseumPhoto from ArtScience Museum

In this journey, you’ll be reduced to a tiny grain of sand, and get to observe the magic of marine life from a whole new perspective that you otherwise wouldn’t be able to. As you float past colorful coral formations and mythical sea creatures, it’ll almost be like you’re transcending all time and space in this enchanting fairytale brought to life.

The Starry Sand Beach VR experience at ArtScience MuseumPhoto from ArtScience Museum

The Starry Sand Beach VR experience
Location: VR Gallery at ArtScience Museum
Price: From $16 for Singaporean Adults. 30% off for Sands Rewards LifeStyle Members
Website

#13: Zoom around at Singapore's largest rollersports rink

Rink@Punggol East rollerspots rink SingaporePhoto from Rink@Punggol East

Erratic weather is no longer an excuse to sit at home idling, for Rink@Punggol East, Singapore’s largest sheltered rollersports rink, is now open. Rain or shine, get your adrenaline pumping in this multi-coloured facility that includes sloes, ramps, and even seesaw-like platforms for you to challenge yourself with.

Rink@Punggol East rollerspots rink SingaporePhoto from Rink@Punggol East

Whether you’re more comfortable on two wheels or four, they’ve got you covered. Pick from a generous range of bicycles, four-wheeled mini cars, skateboards, roller blades, and more. There’s no need to confine yourself to just one type of vehicle either, because you’re free to make unlimited switches as you please throughout your session.

Rink@Punggol East rollerspots rink SingaporePhoto from Rink@Punggol East

Entry typically costs $21 for a 2-hour pass inclusive of equipment and protective gear, but it’s currently going at a special opening price of $16.

Rink@Punggol East
Address: 50 Punggol East, Punggol East Container Park
Opening hours: Saturday & Sunday, School Holidays & PHs: 10am - 8pm
Website

#14: Check out anime & pop culture illustrations & merch at Doujin Market 2023

Doujin Market Singapore 2023Photo from Doujin Market

Anime-lovers, self-professed weebs, and those with a penchant for all things cute - this one’s for you. With more than 400 booths helmed by both local and international creatives, the largest-ever Doujin Market (aka Doujinma) in Singapore will be happening over the first weekend of May.

Doujin Market Singapore 2023Photo from @yankasmiles via Instagram

For the uninitiated, “doujin” comes from the Japanese word “doujinshi”, which refers to illustrations, prints, and other works by independent artists. Look forward to their unique take on popular manga and game characters, as well as their own original creations.

Doujin Market Singapore 2023Photo from @jarofrubies via Instagram

Tempting merch aside, you’ll also get the chance to interact with VTubers, and participate in ConQuest, a scavenger hunt that rewards the first 50 completions with a special goodie bag. 

Doujin Market 2023
Date: 6 & 7 May 2023
Time: Saturday: 12pm - 8pm | Sunday: 11pm - 7pm
Location: Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Center
Price: Single day pass: $10 | Weekend pass: $18
Website

#15: Catch Korean singer Lee Hi at the Twist to the Night music festival

Twist to the Night music festival Singapore 2023Photo from Lee Hi

Fans of Korean songstress Lee Hi are not gonna want to miss out on Twist to the Night, a one-day-only musical festival that she’s headlining. Other acts taking the stage include international names like Balming Tiger, rapper Ramengvrl, and the local brb. Fusion food carts will also be present so you can grab a bite if you feel the munchies as you party into the night.

This festival is a collaboration with homegrown booze brand Tiger, as part of their grand launch of the Tiger Soju Infused Lager that currently comes in Gusty Grape and Cheeky Plum. You’ll get both drinks for free as part of your $20 entry fee.

Twist to the Night
Date: 12 May 2023
Time: 7pm - 12am
Location: Pasir Panjang Power Station
Price: $20
Website

#16: Visit the new Disney shop in Singapore for exclusive Disney100 merch

The Wonder Store Disney shop at Jewel Changi SingaporePhoto from DIsney

Oh boy, oh boy, oh boy! There’s a new Disney store in Singapore with all the amazing Disney-themed merch a fan could ever dream of - from blind boxes with secret collectible figurines, to apparel and handbags, and even practical home items bearing images of your favourite characters. Dubbed The Wonder Store, this physical outlet also has exclusive limited edition Disney100 items to celebrate the cult brand’s 100th anniversary.

The Wonder Store Disney shop at Jewel Changi SingaporePhoto from DIsney

Mickey, Pooh, and Princesses aside, you’ll also find superhero-themed items from Marvel as well as vibrant merch from Pixar.