If you’re looking for a bustling neighbourhood in Singapore with plenty of attractions to explore, look no further than Novena. This vibrant area has something for everyone, from historical landmarks to delicious dining options and exciting outdoor activities. Whether you’re a local or a visitor to Singapore, Novena is definitely worth checking out.
One of the main draws of Novena is its rich history. The area is home to several important historical landmarks, including the Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall and the Church of Saint Adolphus (also known as Novena Church). These sites offer a fascinating glimpse into Singapore’s past and are definitely worth a visit.
But Novena isn’t just about history – it’s also a foodie’s paradise. The neighbourhood boasts a wide range of dining options, from local hawker fare to international cuisine. And if you’re looking for some retail therapy, you’ll find plenty of shopping opportunities in Novena too, with everything from high-end boutiques to budget-friendly stores. Whatever your interests, Novena is sure to have something to keep you entertained.
Key Takeaways
- Novena is a vibrant neighbourhood in Singapore with plenty of attractions to explore, including historical landmarks, delicious dining options, and exciting outdoor activities.
- The area is home to several important historical sites, including the Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall and the Church of Saint Adolphus.
- Novena is also a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of dining options to suit all tastes and budgets, as well as plenty of shopping opportunities for those looking to indulge in some retail therapy.
Historical Landmarks
If you’re a history buff, Novena has several landmarks that you should visit. Here are two of the most popular ones:
Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall
The Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall is a museum dedicated to Dr Sun Yat Sen, a Chinese revolutionary who played a significant role in overthrowing the Qing Dynasty and establishing the Republic of China. The museum is located in Balestier, a neighbourhood in Novena, and is housed in a two-storey colonial villa that was once the Southeast Asian headquarters of the Chinese Revolutionary Alliance.
Inside the museum, you’ll find exhibits that showcase Dr Sun’s life and legacy, as well as the history of the Chinese community in Singapore. Some of the highlights include a replica of Dr Sun’s office, a collection of his personal belongings, and a display of the various currencies used during the Republican era.
Burmese Buddhist Temple
The Burmese Buddhist Temple is a unique temple that was built in the traditional Burmese style. Located in Balestier, the temple is known for its intricate carvings and colourful decorations.
One of the most striking features of the temple is the pagoda, which stands at over 35 metres tall and is adorned with hundreds of Buddha statues. Inside the temple, you’ll find a main hall that is decorated with murals depicting scenes from the life of the Buddha, as well as several smaller shrines dedicated to different deities.
Visitors are welcome to explore the temple and learn more about Burmese Buddhism. If you’re lucky, you may even get to witness one of the temple’s traditional ceremonies or festivals.
Food and Dining
When it comes to food, Novena has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. From local food spots to culinary adventures, there’s something for every foodie.
Local Food Spots
If you’re looking for a taste of traditional Singaporean cuisine, head to the Balestier Market. Here, you’ll find a variety of hawker stalls serving up local favourites like chicken rice, laksa, and char kway teow. For a sweet treat, try the famous Loong Fatt Tau Sar Piah, a flaky pastry filled with sweet or savoury bean paste.
Culinary Adventures
For those looking for a more adventurous dining experience, Novena has plenty to offer. Sign up for a cultural cooking class and learn how to make traditional dishes like nasi lemak or curry laksa. If you’re a fan of seafood, head to one of the many restaurants in Novena that serve up fresh oysters and other seafood delicacies.
One restaurant worth checking out is La Ristrettos Cafe, located in Novena Medical Centre. Despite its location, this cafe boasts a serene alfresco garden area and an indoor communal dining table. Another popular spot is The Marmalade Pantry, known for its fusion cuisine and signature dishes like the seared scallop and prawn pasta.
No matter what type of cuisine you’re in the mood for, Novena has plenty of options to satisfy your taste buds.
Shopping in Novena
Novena is a great place for shopping enthusiasts. Here are some of the best places to shop in Novena:
Shopping Malls
Novena is home to several shopping malls where you can find a wide range of products. Velocity is one of the most popular malls in Novena. This mall has over 200 stores, including fashion, electronics, and home decor stores. You can also find several restaurants, cafes, and a cinema in Velocity.
Another popular shopping mall in Novena is United Square. This mall has over 50 stores, including fashion, beauty, and electronics stores. You can also find a supermarket, a food court, and a children’s play area in United Square.
Local Crafts
If you’re interested in local crafts, Novena has several options for you. One of the best places to find local crafts in Novena is the Balestier Market. This market has several stalls selling handmade crafts, including pottery, textiles, and jewellery.
Another great place to find local crafts in Novena is the Novena Square. This mall has several stores selling locally made crafts, including souvenirs, handicrafts, and artwork.
Whether you’re looking for high-end fashion or locally made crafts, Novena has something for everyone. So, put on your shopping shoes and explore the best shopping destinations in Novena!
Outdoor Activities
If you’re looking for some outdoor fun in Novena, you won’t be disappointed! There are plenty of activities to choose from that will get you outside and enjoying the beautiful Singapore weather.
Botanic Gardens
No visit to Novena is complete without a trip to the Singapore Botanic Gardens. This stunning park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to over 10,000 species of plants. Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens and admire the beautiful flowers and trees, or pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the shade. Don’t miss the stunning sculptures scattered throughout the gardens, which add an extra touch of beauty to this already stunning location.
Balestier Heritage Trail
If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Novena, the Balestier Heritage Trail is a must-visit. This walking trail takes you through the charming neighbourhood of Balestier, which is filled with beautiful heritage buildings and fascinating landmarks. Along the way, you’ll learn about the history of the area and the people who have called it home. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera – there are plenty of photo opportunities along the way.
Whether you’re a nature lover or a history buff, Novena has plenty of outdoor activities to keep you entertained. So why not get outside and make the most of this beautiful neighbourhood?
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some must-visit attractions near Novena in Singapore?
Novena is a bustling neighbourhood in Singapore that offers plenty of attractions for visitors to explore. Some of the must-visit attractions near Novena include the Novena Square shopping mall, Zhongshan Park, and the Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall. If you are interested in history, you can also visit the Burmese Buddhist Temple and the Masjid Hajjah Fatimah Mosque.
What are the best restaurants to try in Novena?
Novena is known for its diverse food scene, so there are plenty of great restaurants to choose from. Some of the best restaurants to try in Novena include the famous chicken rice at Wee Nam Kee, the delicious dim sum at Imperial Treasure, and the mouth-watering burgers at Omakase Burger. For something sweet, head to the popular dessert spot, 21 Cube Artisan Ice Cream.
What are some fun activities to do in Novena with kids?
Novena is a great neighbourhood to explore with your family. One of the best activities to do with kids is to visit the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum, which is home to over 2,000 specimens of plants and animals. You can also take your kids to the Skyline Luge Sentosa for a thrilling ride or head to the Singapore Zoo for a fun day out with animals.
Is Novena a good location to stay in for exploring Singapore?
Yes, Novena is a great location to stay in for exploring Singapore. It is located in the central part of Singapore, which makes it easy to access other parts of the city. Novena is also well-connected to public transportation, including the MRT and buses. Additionally, Novena has plenty of shopping malls, restaurants, and attractions, making it a convenient and enjoyable place to stay.
