Named after the road that carves through its heart, Orchard is a legendary shopping district in Singapore. It is named after the fruit orchards, nutmeg plantations and pepper farms that once dominated the area before a local merchant, C.K. Tang, opened a department store here in 1958. Over the following decades, Orchard transformed into a bustling retail and dining destination.
Things to do in Orchard
One of Orchard’s most atmospheric streets is Emerald Hill, which was once a popular residential area for Peranakans. Its early-20th-century shopfronts reflect Art Deco and Chinese Baroque architectural styles, with many of the colourfully painted buildings now occupied by eclectic bars. Nearby is Sri Temasek, the official residence of Singapore’s prime minister.
For a retail fix, head to one of Singapore’s oldest department stores, TANGS, or get lost in the futuristic mall of ION Orchard. Set across eight floors, it boasts everything from luxury brand stores to a whiskey museum selling Scottish and Japanese labels. At the ION Art Gallery, you’ll find changing exhibitions by local and international artists. Street apparel and electronic products are available at the Far East Plaza.
Orchard makes an excellent base for exploring the Singapore Botanic Gardens, which was originally established in 1859 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A highlight is the National Orchid Garden, where more than 1,000 species of orchids are exhibited. Wander through the Lady Yuen-Peng McNeice Bromeliad House and admire the highland species in the Coolhouse before dining at the Ginger Garden’s Halia Restaurant.
Getting around Orchard
Orchard is around 10 minutes’ drive from Singapore’s city centre and 30 minutes from Singapore Changi Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular buses connect to Orchard and travel throughout the district, although most of its attractions can be accessed on foot.