National Museum of Singapore

The National Museum of Singapore is a national museum in Singapore and the oldest museum in Singapore. Its history dates back to 1849 when it was started as a section of a library at Singapore Institution. After several relocations, the Museum was relocated to its permanent site at Stamford Road at the Museum Planning Area in 1887.
At 119 years old, the National Museum of Singapore is Singapore’s oldest museum with the youngest and most innovative soul. Designed to be the people’s museum, the National Museum of Singapore prides itself on introducing cutting edge and varied ways of presenting history to redefine conventional museum experience.
More than just a space for exhibitions and artefacts, the National Museum will also distinguish itself through its challenging and vibrant festivals and events that will unleash new creative possibilities in culture and heritage. This programming will be supported by a wide range of facilities and services including F&B, retail, Resource Centre, Gallery Theatre and the Public Sculpture Garden, among others. The National Museum provides a fantastic insight into the past and present of Singapore, as well as a cool respite from the humid conditions.Interesting displays, interactive components and vivid images and artifacts tell the discovery, growth and development of this island nation. The gallerys before entering the main circular walkway are fun and enjoyable, the swinging artwork located above the main walkway is fantastic, and the opportunity to choose between a straight events-based history or a people-related storyline (with changeover points) will suit a variety of families and groups. Don't be put off my the initial dry, just-another-museum beginning. The 180 degree theatre presentation of the discovery of the island marks the beginning of an interesting adventure that can be perused thoroughly, or skipped through lightly with only stops at items of interest.The portable sound guide is great, and provides an aural accompanyment to the visual presentations. (Tip: take note of the length in minutes of each sound grab from the screen of the player. I found that despite my interest in many things, sometimes standing in front of the object in question for 5-10 minutes was quite tiring.)Seating can be limited at times, but as most of the storyboards are in English, you can quite quickly glance and move through sections that maybe of borderline interest.Overall a fantastic place to visit, and very highly recommended if you only can fit in one 'cultural' instutition.