Singapore’s iconic waterfront garden destination is entering its next phase of growth with the announcement of Wetlands by the Bay, a major new five-hectare development that will expand the existing Kingfisher Wetlands precinct near Gardens by the Bay MRT station.
Set along the waterfront promenade, the upcoming space will introduce an expanded urban wetland, enhanced public green areas, refreshed dining concepts and a highly anticipated flagship museum by international art collective teamLab.
Construction is slated to begin in the first quarter of 2027, with progressive openings targeted by the end of 2028.
Expanded Urban Wetlands with Global Mangrove Collection
Building on the ecological success of the 15,000 sqm Kingfisher Wetlands that opened in 2021, Wetlands by the Bay will significantly expand biodiversity efforts. The new site will feature more than 600 mangroves and coastal plants, triple the current number in the existing precinct, forming part of a lush landscape of over 50,000 plants.
Collected from equatorial regions including Ecuador, Costa Rica, Sri Lanka and Timor Leste, the collection will include critically endangered species. Previous ecological studies released in 2023 showed that several mangrove species can thrive in freshwater conditions, with increased carbon sequestration observed as they matured, demonstrating the wetlands’ potential as a nature-based climate solution within a dense urban setting.
The enlarged green sanctuary is expected to attract more wildlife, including locally endangered and vulnerable bird species already spotted in the area.
Elevated Boardwalk and New Community Spaces
A striking new cantilevered canopy boardwalk will extend over Kingfisher Wetlands, offering visitors panoramic views while serving as an elevated link between Gardens by the Bay MRT station and Bay South Garden’s main entrance. The over-water walkway promises an immersive “close-to-nature” experience while improving pedestrian connectivity.
Complementing the wetlands will be several new public spaces, including:
- Glade Lawn, a 3,500 sqm community lawn designed for events and gatherings
- An expansive 8,000 sqm open garden that supports a continuous pollinator corridor
These additions reinforce Gardens by the Bay’s role as a national garden with year-round community programming.
Waterfront Dining with Panoramic Views
Visitors can also look forward to refreshed waterfront dining experiences. A contemporary food court concept on the ground level will be paired with casual waterfront restaurants on the upper deck, featuring both indoor and alfresco seating.
An upper-level viewing gallery will overlook the Marina Reservoir and offer views of the upcoming Founders’ Memorial, adding another scenic vantage point within the development.
teamLab’s First Multi-Sensory Indoor–Outdoor Voyage
A key highlight of Wetlands by the Bay will be a 12,000 sqm flagship museum by teamLab. The immersive space will introduce the collective’s first-ever multi-sensory experience that seamlessly transitions between indoor galleries and the surrounding natural landscape.
One standout feature includes a custom-designed pedal kayak experience along a controlled waterway, allowing visitors to actively engage with freshwater wetland habitats in a uniquely interactive way.
Known for blending art, science, technology and nature, teamLab’s interdisciplinary practice explores perception and the relationship between individuals and their environment, making this collaboration particularly fitting within the wetlands setting.
Strengthening Connectivity Between Bay South and Bay East
Wetlands by the Bay will complement the broader development of Bay East Garden, scheduled to open in 2027, with Founders’ Memorial to follow in 2028.
A new bridge linking Bay South Garden and Bay East Garden across the Marina Reservoir will further enhance connectivity. Construction will begin in the second quarter of 2026 and is targeted for completion in 2028.
The bridge will feature a sinuous curved design, elevated at the Bay South end before gently sloping down toward Bay East, culminating in a 175-metre stretch just above the water’s surface, offering visitors the sensation of “walking on water.” From here, panoramic views of Singapore’s skyline, including the Supertrees and cooled conservatories, will create a continuous and uninterrupted garden journey.
During construction, some areas of Bay South Garden will have temporary hoardings, with pedestrian and cycling routes diverted accordingly.
