Geylang is often misunderstood, yet it remains one of Singapore’s most vibrant neighbourhoods, offering a blend of cultural heritage, culinary adventures, and unique experiences. With its mix of traditional shophouses, bustling streets, and hidden gems, this Geylang guide uncovers the best things to do in this fascinating district.

Here are the Things to Do in Geylang

1. Explore Geylang’s Heritage Shophouses

Geylang’s historic shophouses are architectural treasures that tell stories of Singapore’s past. These intricately designed buildings are adorned with Peranakan tiles and vibrant facades. A stroll along Lorong 24A and nearby streets showcases some of the finest examples. Be sure to bring your camera, as each beautifully restored shophouse is Instagram-worthy.

2. Indulge in the Famous Frog Porridge

Geylang is renowned for its frog porridge, a delicacy that draws foodies from across Singapore. Savour tender frog legs cooked with ginger and spring onions, served alongside a steaming bowl of porridge. Eminent Frog Leg Porridge and G7 Sin Ma Live Bull Frog Claypot Porridge are top spots to enjoy this dish.

3. Discover Geylang Serai Market

For a taste of Malay heritage, visit Geylang Serai Market. This bustling wet market offers everything from fresh seafood and spices to traditional Malay delicacies like nasi padang and kuih. Upstairs, the food centre serves authentic dishes that will delight any foodie.

4. Sample the King of Fruits: Durian

No guide to Geylang would be complete without mentioning durian. Known as the king of fruits, durian is a must-try in Singapore, and Geylang’s stalls are famous for selling the juiciest varieties. Venture to stalls like Durian 36 or Wonderful Durian for a taste of this divisive yet iconic fruit.

5. Relish Late-Night Dim Sum

If you’re a fan of dim sum, Geylang offers some of the best supper spots. Mongkok Dim Sum serves favourites like siew mai, har gow, and BBQ pork buns until the early hours. This is a perfect spot to satisfy your midnight cravings.

6. Visit the Colourful Temples

Geylang is home to several serene temples that provide a stark contrast to the neighbourhood’s hustle. The Sri Sivan Temple, with its intricate Dravidian architecture, and the Lorong Koo Chye Sheng Hong Temple, dedicated to Taoist deities, are must-visit landmarks for a spiritual retreat.

7. Experience Geylang’s Nightlife

Geylang’s red-light district is notorious, but it also offers an intriguing glimpse into Singapore’s underbelly. Beyond its reputation, the area is home to lively bars and late-night eateries that are popular with locals and tourists alike. Be respectful and keep an open mind when exploring this side of Geylang.

8. Discover The Peranakan Museum at Katong

Just a short distance from Geylang, the Peranakan Museum in Katong celebrates the rich culture of the Peranakan community. Explore exhibits featuring traditional clothing, artefacts, and historical insights that connect to Geylang’s heritage.

9. Enjoy a Relaxing Spa Day

Amidst the bustling streets, Geylang offers tranquil spa experiences. Relax at places like Natureland Spa, known for its top-notch massages and wellness treatments. A three-hour spa session here is well worth your time for rejuvenation.

10. Shop at Paya Lebar Quarter

Close to Geylang, Paya Lebar Quarter is a hub for retail therapy. This modern shopping destination features boutique stores, food outlets, and entertainment options. It’s an ideal spot to cool off and grab a bite after exploring Geylang’s streets.

11. Explore Local Street Food and Hawker Stalls

Geylang’s street food scene is legendary. From char kway teow to sambal stingray, the hawker stalls here serve up local food bursting with flavour. Old-school eateries like JB Ah Meng offer a taste of nostalgia with their hearty, good food.

12. Uncover Hidden Bars Like The Panic Room

For a unique nightlife experience, visit The Panic Room, a quirky hidden bar in Geylang. This retro-inspired space serves up creative cocktails and offers a lively atmosphere for those seeking a less conventional outing.

13. Attend Festive Celebrations

During festive periods like Hari Raya, Geylang Serai transforms into a vibrant bazaar. Colourful lights, stalls selling traditional crafts, and performances create an atmosphere of joy and community. This is a prime time to experience the neighbourhood’s cultural richness.

Conclusion

Geylang’s mix of food and culture, and unexpected surprises makes it one of the most fascinating areas in Singapore. Whether you’re exploring shophouses, sampling local delicacies, or diving into its lively nightlife, Geylang has something for everyone. So, if you’re planning for Geylang adventures but you’d want to keep some extra cash, you can visit a licensed money lender in Geylang or check the list of licensed money lenders in Singapore.