In commemoration of its 138th anniversary, National Museum of Singapore (NMS) has unveiled A Whale of a Tale, a Magical Bridge Design – the city’s very first intergenerational playground at a museum.
Seven years in the making, this delightful playground was designed by Magical Bridge Foundation, brought to life with the generous sponsorship of Amanda Toh-Steckler and her late husband Vince Steckler, through the Steckler Charitable Fund, and supported by RSP Architects Planners & Engineers (Pte) Ltd and Pan-United Corporation Ltd. It was executed by SPACElogic (main contractor), in partnership with CT Art Creation.
A Whale of a Tale, a Magical Bridge Design provides a new space as part of the museum’s vision to be a social space where everyone can interact, bond, and engage with history and culture. It complements ongoing initiatives such as Reunion, a dedicated senior-friendly space for communities to gather.
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Ready to dive into an adventure bursting with giggles and wonder?
An Homage to Yesteryears, A Space for All
Just steps from the museum’s Front Lawn, the playground’s iconic whale structure was uniquely designed as an ode to the blue whale skeleton that was once displayed in the early origins when NMS was the Natural History Museum.
Look close and you’ll spot mosaic tiles that shimmer with nostalgia as it pays homage to Singapore’s olden-day playgrounds – taking grandparents down memory lane while sparking curiosity in younger visitors.
It’s a joyful bridge between generations, with equipment for all abilities — so everyone can play, chat, and make new memories side by side.
Let the Adventure Begin!
Slide down the mosaic whale’s smiling head, brave the rock walls, and tunnel through hideouts.
Older adventurers can go wild scaling ladders, crossing the net bridge, and whizzing down the slide, while younger explorers peek around corners or try out gentle swings. Safety comes first, with some features designed especially for children aged 5 to 12.
At the whalebone centerpiece, big kids take on climbing nets and monkey bars, while tiny tots can have a go on the low swings and seniors stretch out with the mobility equipment.
Whether you’re hopping along stepping stones or tiptoeing across balance beams, here, family play comes in all ages and energy levels!
Sensory Surprises Everywhere
Feeling curious? Explore sensory panels in the hideaway hut specially designed to be an inclusive calming retreat. Play with textures and sounds, or join a band using playground percussion instruments on the other end!
Everyone—young or young at heart—can make music and let their rhythm ripple through the playground!
Need a breather? NMS’s vision of being an inclusive space for all continues with picnic benches and shaded swings situated right next to the main play area. The social seating area encourages relaxation, conversation and bonding between generations.
Located up a slope is an artificial turf. This calmer, quieter space allows families to take a breather from the crowd, share laughter and joy on the spinner, or enjoy a peaceful mini picnic.
Kindness, Stories, and Hidden Treasures
Nestled by the whale’s tail is the Kindness Corner— a signature element of Magical Bridge playgrounds that encourage reflection and thoughtful conversation among visitors. Look closely and you’ll notice many different ways kindness can be shown to others. Pick one and try it out because no act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.
Uncover heritage secrets and share tales from yesteryear with budding historians at the playground’s interpretive panel. There’s even a child-friendly flipbook about the whale skeleton to spark intergenerational chats—perfect for passing treasured memories on to wide-eyed little ones.
Celebrate Joy, Imagination, and Community
Come celebrate 138 years of stories, creativity, and togetherness at the National Museum of Singapore. Step into a space where history meets play and heritage inspires joy at A Whale of a Tale, a Magical Bridge Design.
Whether you’re a little dreamer, a big adventurer, or an old soul with stories to share, come for the laughter, play, and magical family moments. Dive in — the whale and its world of wonder are waiting just for you!
A Whale of a Tale, a Magical Bridge Design
Where: National Museum of Singapore, 93 Stamford Road, Singapore 178897
Playground is suitable for those between 5 to 12 years
