Those of us who grew up in the 1970s and 1980s will remember the playgrounds of our childhood. These were mainly constructured with concrete and found in loose sandpits throughout Singapore. With wooden swings and see-saws, metal merry-go-rounds and unique designs, those playgrounds were as different as can be from the modern plastic ones which have taken over today’s parks and HDB estates.

While most of these playgrounds have disappeared from our landscape, we have rounded up some of the remaining heritage playgrounds you can still find around Singapore where you can bring your kids and relive your childhood memories together.

Dragon Playground

Found at Toa Payoh Lorong 6, kids can run up and down the body of the dragon and slide down the slides at the end. Another dragon playground can be found along Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3 and there is also a smaller “baby dragon” playground at Pipit Road.

Dove Playground

At Dakota Crescent, this Dove Playground has two structures connected by a bridge. Tyre swings can be found at this playground, inviting kids to jump onboard. Another playground of the same design but without the connecting bridge can also be found at Bukit Batok.

Watermelon and Mangosteen Playground

Fruit made fun! These watermelon- and mangosteen-shaped playground found at Tampines Central Park are a reminder of some of our favourite tropical fruit.

Dinosaur Playground

To play with these two ancient dinosaurs, visit them at Fu Shan Gardens in Woodlands.

Kampong Playground

Designed in the form of a kampong house, this playground at Woodlands Town Garden is aptly set amongst coconut trees and next to a lake.

Sampan Playground

Created in the form of a sampan, this mosaic playground found next to Elias Mall has tyres for climbing and slides for adventurers to descend from.

Metal Merry-Go-Round

Old style, metal merry-go-rounds which required several kids to push and play with are hard to find. You can find one at the Begonia Road Playground up in Seletar and another at Tiong Bahru Park.

Wooden See-Saws

Remember the old wooden see-saws which used to send you flying in the air once your partner on the other side hits the ground? Visit Emily Park to get a chance to play with them before they disappear completely.

Have a great Little Day Out!