Guide to the Ang Mo Kio ‘hood: Cool things to see, eat and do in this mature estate

This playground, inspired by mythical Chinese dragons, has been around since the 1970s. Over the years, it has witnessed more than we can imagine and still stands tall today. One of the two remaining dragon playgrounds in Singapore, we definitely think the playground is worth a visit to take a walk down memory lane. Or, unleash your inner child and have a go on the mosaic slide – the only one left here.

570 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3, Singapore 560570

Brew & Co. is a humble café nestled beneath an HDB block, just a short walk from AMK Hub and the MRT station. Serving up some delish espresso-based beverages and a small selection of pastries, the fragrance will hit you before the shop even enters your sights.

The café does have some seating, although it does get rather crowded on the weekends. No worries if you can’t get a table, just get your drink to go and sip on it as you explore Ang Mo Kio Central!

716 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 6, #01-4030, Singapore 560716

This adorable thrift shop owned by Cornerstone Community Services and run by volunteers sells pre-owned clothing, accessories, household items and other trinkets. They also sell crafts that are lovingly handmade by the seniors at Cornerstone Senior Centre. Aside from thrifting, you can have a tea break there while you use their affordable laundry service — for a good cause, as all proceeds go towards funding Cornerstone Senior Centre.

Block 591A, Ang Mo Kio Street 51, Singapore 561591

If you’re familiar with PLUSEIGHTTWO, the Korean dessert café opened by Eun Kwang, a member of the popular K-pop band BTOB, you’ll be delighted to know that they have another Korean concept café in Jubilee Square, Ang Mo Kio. Here, dig into some deliciously chewy rice cakes with adjustable spice levels and crispy Korean-style corn dogs with your choice of filling.

61 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 8, #01-13, Singapore 569814

Bird-singing is largely a forgotten tradition from the not-so-distant past, where bird owners and enthusiasts hoist cages on towering poles and chit chat while their birds tweet harmoniously above. However, it is still very much alive in Ang Mo Kio today. At Kebun Baru Bird Singing Club, the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia, many owners still gather weekly to display their prized songbirds and meet others with the same interests.

Visit in the mornings, and it’ll be quite the sight. The vast field comes to life with countless birds and constant chatter. Ask any proud owner about their songbirds, and they’ll be more than happy to answer any questions you may have.

159 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 5, Singapore 560159

Also located at Jubilee Square is Apiary, a popular ice cream shop known for their addicting Blue Milk flavour which contains sea salt, milk and blue pea flower. Be spoilt for choice with 18 flavours, and switch up your scoop by getting it ice cream sandwich-style. Brioche buns are available, and they’re warmed up before the generous scoop of cold goodness is plopped onto the bed of fluffy bread. What a treat!

61 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 8, #01-02, Singapore 569814, +65 6980 6296

As its name suggests, this sprawling urban oasis spans both Ang Mo Kio and Bishan, comprising a man-made meandering river, ponds and ample lush greenery. Step in, and you may just forget that you’re in Ang Mo Kio. There’s no shortage of activities to do here — fitness junkies can cycle or run, while dog owners can let their dogs roam free in the Dog Run. Bicycle and rollerblade rental is available too! Otherwise, make an appointment at Aramsa ~ The Garden Spa for some well-earned pampering if you’re not up for any physical exertion.

Feeling peckish after exerting yourself at the park? Check out ToriYard for some Japanese fare or Canopy Garden Dining & Bar for typical (but by no means less delicious) café food. Of course, there’s McDonald’s too, great for a classic creamy Vanilla Cone after the day’s activities.

1384 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 1, Singapore 569932