Don’t miss this spectacular exhibition that brings 700 years of the island’s fascinating transformation to life.
“Once Upon a Tide: Singapore’s Journey from Settlement to Global City” is a remarkable celebration of Singapore’s 60th year of independence, offering visitors an immersive voyage through the nation’s extraordinary evolution from a bustling 14th-century trading port to today’s global powerhouse.
Here’s What You Can Expect
The exhibition is thoughtfully organised into five distinct immersive sections that guide you chronologically through Singapore’s remarkable transformation, each offering unique perspectives on different eras of the nation’s development. Discover over 350 carefully curated pieces from Singapore’s National Collection, spanning seven centuries of maritime heritage and cultural exchange.
Engage with cutting-edge virtual projections, dynamic historical maps, and an innovative RFID-based personalised experience that allows you to contribute your own perspectives on Singapore’s global significance. These interactive technologies bring history to life, making the experience both educational and deeply engaging for visitors of all ages.
Understand how the sea and rivers have fundamentally shaped Singapore’s development, witnessing the constant flows of people, goods, and ideas from around the world that have woven together the fabric of this remarkable nation. The exhibition reveals the maritime forces that transformed a small trading port into the global powerhouse we see today.
View this post on Instagram
📍 Location: National Museum of Singapore, Exhibition Gallery 1 & 2 (Basement Level)
📅 Duration: 24 May 2025 – October 2026
⏰ Opening Hours: 10am – 7pm daily (Last admission: 6:30pm)
💰 Tourist Admission: S$24 (Concession rates: S$18)
Note: Free for Singaporeans and Permanent Residents
Duration: Allow 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the exhibition and interactive experiences.
