Waterplay at Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden reopens, bigger and better


SINGAPORE – Children can enjoy a bigger play area and improved amenities at the newly renovated Waterplay, which reopened at the Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden on Feb 25.

Located at the Singapore Botanic Gardens, Waterplay closed in early 2019 and construction works began in November 2023.

At about 500 sq m now, it is three times bigger than before, NParks said in a news release.

The space allows children to explore the water cycle, and its interactive elements, such as mist zones, wading pools and water jets, help bring the process to life.

Features such as umbrella fountains and a splash bucket simulate rain, while a splash zone with small hills and mounds demonstrates how water flows from higher to lower elevations.

ST20250225_202563200191/pixjacob25/Brian Teo/Children enjoying the newly reopened Waterplay area at Jacob Ballas Children's Garden on Feb 25, 2025. Now spanning approximately 500 square meters-more than three times its original size-the expanded Waterplay features enhanced amenities and interactive elements designed to engage young visitors. The refreshed space offers a fun, immersive way for children to connect with nature while learning about essential environmental processes through play. ST PHOTO: BRIAN TEO

The Waterplay’s umbrella fountains create a gentle rainfall, with children able to create a spiralling effect by turning the blue handles to spray water in different directions.ST PHOTO: BRIAN TEO

Children can also see how water moves through the environment using interactive signs that guide them through each stage of the water cycle with lights and sounds.

gaplay25 - The refreshed space includes a display that allows children to explore how water moves through the environment.

Credit: NParks

The refreshed space includes a display that allows children to explore how water moves through the environment.PHOTO: NPARKS

An upgraded drainage system will help ensure that the area is kept dry and safe for visitors. New changing areas, wash zones and additional seating have also been added.

The Waterplay is suitable for children aged between two and 12 years old, who must always be supervised by an accompanying adult. Admission is free.

ST20250225_202563200191/pixjacob25/Brian Teo/Ms. Lorna Chawla (center), 34, an Irish expatriate and housewife, plays with her children, Marley Chawla (left), 2, and Harris Chawla (right), 4, at the rainbow arch-one of the new features at the newly reopened Waterplay area in Jacob Ballas Children's Garden on Feb 25, 2025. Now spanning approximately 500 square meters-more than three times its original size-the expanded Waterplay boasts enhanced amenities and interactive elements designed to engage young visitors. The refreshed space offers children a fun, immersive way to connect with nature while learning about essential environmental processes through play. ST PHOTO: BRIAN TEO

Under the Waterplay’s rainbow arch, children can dash through the mist and experience a simulation of rainfall.ST PHOTO: BRIAN TEO

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