Old Hill Street Police Station
Build a trip to Singapore
About
Known for its 927 rainbow-colored windows, this neoclassical building is one of Singapore’s most Instagrammed landmarks. Historically built in 1934 as the largest police station in the country, it now houses the Ministry of Communications and Information. The sensory experience is a visual delight, especially when the sun hits the vibrant shutters, creating a spectrum of colors against the white facade. Experts recommend photographing from the opposite side of the road or from the Clarke Quay area for the best angle. Pro tip: While the interior is mostly government offices, the central atrium (the 'ARTrium') is open to the public and often hosts free art exhibitions; visit around 10:00 AM for the most even lighting for your photos.
Highlights
- 927 rainbow-colored shutters
- Historic colonial police building
- Highly Instagrammable facade
- MCI heritage gallery
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Song Fa Bak Kut Teh (New Bridge Rd)
Established in 1969, Song Fa is a Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient that brought the traditional 'Teochew-style' Bak Kut Teh into a modern, comfortable setting. The dish features tender pork ribs simmered in a clear, peppery broth seasoned with garlic and spices. The sensory experience is defined by the heat of the soup—which staff will continuously refill for free—and the nostalgic decor inspired by 1960s roadside stalls. Experts recommend pairing the ribs with 'You Tiao' (dough fritters) for dipping and a side of braised pig's trotters. Practical pro tip: The queue at the New Bridge Road flagship is almost always long, but moves quickly; visit mid-afternoon (3 PM - 5 PM) to enjoy the peppery broth without the peak-hour crowds.
Clarke Quay
Once a center of commerce where 'bumboats' unloaded goods to warehouses, Clarke Quay has been revitalized into Singapore’s premier riverside dining and entertainment district. Historically, it was named after the second Governor of Singapore, Sir Andrew Clarke. The sensory experience is electric after dark—vibrantly colored heritage godowns (warehouses) now house neon-lit bars, international restaurants, and high-energy nightclubs. The sound of live music and the cool breeze from the river create a festive atmosphere. Experts recommend taking a Singapore River Cruise from the jetty here to see the city lights from the water. Pro tip: It is a high-traffic area, so reservations are essential for popular restaurants; if you’re looking for a cheaper local alternative for food, head to the nearby 'Clarke Quay Central' food court before starting your night out.
National Gallery Singapore
Occupying two iconic national monuments—the former City Hall and Supreme Court—the National Gallery Singapore is the world's largest public collection of modern Southeast Asian art. Historically, these buildings were the site of many milestone events in Singapore's path to independence. The sensory experience is a dialogue between grand neoclassical architecture and sleek modern glass-and-metal structures. The internal link bridge offers a dramatic view of the historic courtrooms. Experts recommend visiting the 'Ng Teng Fong Roof Garden' for a contemporary art installation paired with a panoramic view of the Padang and Marina Bay. Pro tip: Entry is free for citizens and permanent residents, but tourists should book tickets online to skip the queue. Allocate at least 3-4 hours to explore both the DBS Singapore Gallery and the UOB Southeast Asia Gallery.
Odette
Named after chef Julien Royer's grandmother, Odette at the National Gallery Singapore has held three Michelin stars since 2019 and topped the Asia's 50 Best Restaurants list, serving exquisite French cuisine in a dreamlike dining room of marble, flowers, and Flemish-inspired art that feels like dining inside a painting. Royer's tasting menus showcase impeccable technique and deeply personal storytelling, with dishes like white asparagus mimosa with Oscietra caviar and langoustine ravioli with bisque that demonstrate masterful respect for classical French cooking while incorporating Asian ingredients and flavors. The exceptional wine program focuses on natural and biodynamic producers from small European estates.
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