Singapore cemented its status as a vibrant global hub in 2025, offering an unexpected blend of high-wattage celebrity events, immersive wellness experiences, and revitalized community spaces that captivated both residents and visitors. From global film premieres attracting Hollywood royalty to the emergence of chic new thermal spas and accessible nature trails, the year provided a compelling reminder of the city’s dynamic appeal. The diverse experiences, curated by the Time Out Singapore team, highlighted the city-state’s ability to seamlessly blend urban innovation with natural respite, fostering a deeper appreciation for life within the island’s borders.
Rediscovering Urban Wellness and Escape
The trend of intentional self-care intensified throughout 2025, with several new thermal spas opening across Singapore. Leading this movement was Nowhere Baths, a gender-neutral haven tucked away on Dempsey Hill. Unlike more utilitarian recovery centers, this locale prioritized a calm, aesthetically pleasing environment, featuring organic design, warm pools infused with epsom salt, and expansive windows overlooking a lush jungle patch.
The venue capitalized on the growing popularity of contrast therapy, offering invigorating ice bucket showers and cold plunges alongside traditional heat experiences like saunas and steam rooms. Editor Cheryl Sekkappan found the ambiance transformative. “Going during a rainy Sunday was the perfect backdrop for a hot soak in the mineral pools,” she noted, adding that the designated ‘Hush Hours’ ensured a truly restorative experience. Nowhere Baths broadened its offerings to include yoga and sound healing, providing a holistic escape for stressed urbanites. Other notable openings in the wellness space included The Ice Bath Club, Ice Faction, and Shelter, demonstrating a sustained demand for recovery-focused venues.
Star Power Shines on the Emerald City
Singapore became a magnet for global entertainment when it hosted the Asia-Pacific premiere of the eagerly anticipated film Wicked: For Good in November. Stars including Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Jeff Goldblum, and Michelle Yeoh descended upon Universal Studios Singapore for an intimate fan gathering and a glittering yellow carpet event.
The premiere was augmented by Sentosa’s spectacular multi-month transformation into the Land of Oz, featuring dazzling lights, intricate installations, and costume replicas extending into 2026. Branded Content Editor Cam Khalid described the magic of standing “mere inches” from the celebrities, a highlight that underscored Singapore’s drawing power for A-list events. This level of international engagement bolstered the city’s reputation as a premium destination for film and arts.
Community and Culture Thrive
The year saw nightlife and cultural immersion evolve beyond traditional venues. Rasa Space debuted in Raffles Place, establishing itself as more than just a club. While featuring a strong lineup of local and international DJs, Rasa quickly became a community hub hosting diverse functions, from matcha ‘raves’ and Sunday markets to dining pop-ups and bodyweight workout sessions. Campaign Manager Farah Adilah called the spot her “personal playground,” reflecting the venue’s success in fostering a strong, engaged community.
Meanwhile, board sports enthusiasts finally found their year-round sanctuary at Trifecta, near 313@Somerset. The complex offers facilities for sports otherwise impossible in Singapore’s climate: an endless surf wave pool, a hybrid skatebowl for both skateboards and surfskates, and a virtual reality-powered snow arena for simulated snowboarding. Regional Content Director Nicole-Marie Ng lauded the facility, sharing that it allowed her to master linked-turns in preparation for an international snowboarding trip, illustrating Trifecta’s role in democratizing often inaccessible sports.
Culturally, the long-running Broadway musical The Phantom of the Opera staged a triumphant run at Marina Bay Sands’ Sands Theatre until June, delivering the iconic gothic romance, dramatic staging, and powerful vocals expected by fans. Separately, music fans experienced four nights of electrifying performances as Lady Gaga’s stadium tour made its sole Southeast Asia stop in Singapore, drawing legions of dedicated international fans.
Embracing Singapore’s Green Heart
Amidst the energy of urban life, the city also introduced peaceful new escapes. The Mandai Boardwalk opened, providing a serene 3.3-kilometer flat trail skirting the Upper Seletar Reservoir and Central Catchment Nature Reserve. This addition reinforced Singapore’s dedication to weaving nature into the urban fabric.
Creative Manager Liqin Lau described the location as “incredibly calming,” recommending early morning visits to catch the sunrise and potentially spot resident otters or diverse bird species like straw-headed bulbuls. These accessible green spaces emphasize how Singapore continues to prioritize natural tranquility, ensuring that urban expansion does not come at the expense of ecological respite. Looking ahead, the focus on accessible wellness, world-class entertainment, and community-centric venues suggests Singapore will remain an unparalleled lifestyle destination.