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Clarke Quay
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tourist-attraction
Clarke Quay is a historical riverside quay located upstream from the mouth of the Singapore River, now serving as one of the city's most spirited dining and entertainment precincts. Named after Sir Andrew Clarke, Singapore's second Governor, the quay was a major commercial hub in the 19th century where traditional barges (tongkangs) transported cargo to riverside warehouses. Following the decline of river trade, the district underwent a massive conservation and redevelopment project starting in 1989. The colorful, restored shophouses and godowns now house a wide array of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. A distinctive feature of the area is the modern canopy covering the walkways, which utilizes an innovative ventilation system to provide natural cooling. Clarke Quay seamlessly blends Singapore's colonial heritage with the high-energy nightlife of the modern metropolis.
- Location: Singapore
- Top sights: 72-13 · River House · Civil Defense Heritage Gallery
- Nearby: Geylang (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 235 | 102 | 168 | 193 | 199 | 164 | 174 | 173 | 167 | 210 | 283 | 300 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The historical quayside can be visited at any time as a freely accessible outdoor area along the river. The numerous beautifully restored warehouses now house a wide variety of modern restaurants, bars, and animated entertainment venues.
Typical hours
While you can enjoy a relaxed walk during the day, the district only truly comes to life in the late evening hours. Most venues and clubs typically open in the late afternoon and remain open well into the early hours of the morning.
Photography
The colorful building facades and the photogenic waterfront location offer wonderful photographic opportunities during the day and especially at night. In the late evening hours, the colorful neon lights and river reflections create spectacular and modern shots.
Time needed
A simple stroll through the district usually takes no more than an hour for most casual visitors. However, anyone wanting to dine here or enjoy the bustling nightlife will easily spend an entire evening or half the night exploring the area.
Combine with
The central location makes it very easy to combine your visit with an evening boat tour on the Singapore River. The Asian Civilisations Museum and the impressive Fort Canning Park are also generally situated within a comfortable walking distance.
Getting there
The district is excellently connected to local public transport and features its own dedicated MRT station of the same name. Furthermore, it can also be easily and quickly reached on foot from the adjacent downtown districts and many major hotels.
Insider tip
Always try to book a table in advance for the popular waterfront restaurants, as they tend to fill up very quickly in the evenings. Keep an eye out for the frequently offered Happy Hour promotions to save some money on expensive drinks.
Geography
Facts
- Named after Sir Andrew Clarke, Singapore's second Governor.
- It was a major commercial hub for river trade in the 1800s.
- The conservation and redevelopment project began in 1989.
- It features five blocks of restored historical riverside warehouses.
- The district is home to the G-Max Reverse Bungy thrill ride.
- The modern canopy over the streets uses passive cooling technology.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Clarke Quay (7)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
When is Clarke Quay most lively?
It is most lively in the evenings and on weekends.
What can I do here?
Eating, drinking, nightlife, and river boat cruises.
Is it family-friendly?
Yes during the day, though it turns into a party zone at night.
What is the best way to get there?
The Clarke Quay MRT station is right there.
Are there many restaurants there?
Yes, a huge selection of international cuisine.
Clarke Quay: where is it located?
Clarke Quay is located in Singapore.
Clarke Quay: what is there to see?
Highlights include 72-13, River House, Civil Defense Heritage Gallery.
Clarke Quay: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Sep.
Clarke Quay: why is it worth visiting?
Clarke Quay is a historical riverside quay located upstream from the mouth of the Singapore River, now serving as one of the city's most spirited dining and entertainment precincts.
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