Fun and Cheap Activities to Do with Friends in Singapore
Looking for fun and cheap activities to do with friends in Singapore? Whether you’re a student on a budget, young working adults saving up, or just someone who prefers meaningful experiences over expensive outings, the good news is — Singapore offers plenty of affordable options.
You don’t need fancy restaurants or pricey attractions to have a good time. Sometimes, the best memories come from simple, shared experiences.
Here’s a complete guide to budget-friendly activities you can enjoy with your friends.
1. Picnic at the Park
One of the easiest and cheapest activities is a picnic.
Popular spots include:
- East Coast Park
- Botanic Gardens
- Marina Barrage
What makes it fun?
- Everyone brings one dish (potluck style)
- Play card games or board games
- Enjoy sunset views together
Cost: $5–$15 per person depending on food choices.
It’s simple, relaxing, and perfect for meaningful conversations.
2. Cycling or Skating Together
Rent bicycles or bring your own for a fun outdoor session.
Great cycling routes include:
- Punggol Waterway Park
- Park Connector Network
Cycling lets you:
- Stay active
- Explore scenic views
- Laugh over friendly races
Rental fees are usually affordable, starting from around $8–$12 per hour.
3. Explore Free Attractions
Singapore has many attractions that are free or very affordable.
Consider visiting:
- Gardens by the Bay (Outdoor gardens are free)
- Jewel Changi Rain Vortex
- Haji Lane
You can:
- Take aesthetic photos
- Create social media reels
- Challenge each other to creative photography themes
Cost: Mostly free unless you shop or enter paid exhibits.
4. DIY Art Jamming Session
Art jamming is becoming one of the most popular affordable group activities.
You can:
- Buy simple canvases and acrylic paint
- Set a theme (e.g., paint each other’s portraits)
- Compete in a fun painting challenge
Alternatively, some art studios in Singapore offer reasonably priced group art sessions. Places like Art Journey provide guided creative sessions that are both relaxing and interactive.
Art jamming is:
- Stress-relieving
- Great for bonding
- Suitable even for beginners
Cost: DIY at home can be under $20 per person. Studio sessions vary depending on package.
Know More about the art Jamming and Why It’s Trending in 2026
5. Board Game or Movie Night at Home
Instead of spending on cinema tickets and snacks, host a themed movie night.
Ideas:
- Comedy night
- Throwback childhood movies
- Horror marathon
Add simple homemade popcorn and drinks.
Or organise a board game competition:
- Monopoly
- UNO
- Charades
Cost: Almost free if you already have games or streaming subscriptions.
6. Try Affordable Hawker Food Hunt
Singapore’s hawker culture makes eating out affordable.
Plan a food hunt at:
- Lau Pa Sat
- Maxwell Food Centre
- Chinatown Complex Food Centre
Set a budget challenge like:
- $10 per person
- Try 3 different stalls
- Rate dishes and vote for the best
It turns a simple meal into a fun experience.
7. Beach Day at Sentosa
You don’t need to enter expensive attractions to enjoy Sentosa.
Visit:
- Siloso Beach
- Palawan Beach
Activities:
- Beach volleyball
- Picnic
- Sunset photography
- Sandcastle competition
Entry to Sentosa is affordable via public transport.
8. Volunteer Together
Doing good together can strengthen friendships.
You can:
- Join beach clean-ups
- Help at community centres
- Participate in charity events
It costs nothing but gives meaningful experiences.
9. Explore Hidden Neighbourhoods
Turn your day into an “explorer challenge.”
Pick a neighbourhood like:
- Tiong Bahru
- Joo Chiat
Set tasks:
- Find the best mural
- Try a unique snack
- Capture the most aesthetic photo
This makes even ordinary streets feel exciting.
10. Fitness Challenge Day
If your group enjoys staying active, create a friendly competition:
- 5km walk challenge
- Stair climbing at Fort Canning Park
- Outdoor workout session
You can even track steps and reward the winner with bubble tea.
Why Cheap Activities Often Feel More Meaningful
Expensive activities may be impressive, but simple activities allow more:
- Real conversations
- Laughter without pressure
- Genuine bonding
Creative sessions like painting together or exploring parks help you slow down and enjoy the moment.
Sometimes, spending less actually creates better memories.
Tips to Keep Activities Budget-Friendly
- Plan in advance
- Share costs equally
- Look for group discounts
- Bring your own snacks
- Avoid peak-hour pricing
Being intentional about budgeting doesn’t reduce fun — it makes it sustainable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is the cheapest activity to do with friends in Singapore?
Picnics, park visits, and movie nights at home are among the cheapest options.
- Are there free places to hang out with friends?
Yes. Parks, beaches, certain attractions, and neighbourhood exploration are mostly free.
- What can we do if we don’t want outdoor activities?
Indoor options include board game nights, DIY art sessions, or visiting free exhibitions.
- How can we make simple activities more exciting?
Add challenges, themes, or friendly competitions to make the experience interactive.
- Is art jamming expensive?
DIY art sessions at home are affordable. Studio sessions vary but can be budget-friendly for groups.
- What’s a unique but cheap idea?
Try a neighbourhood exploration challenge or a $10 hawker food hunt.