What is it?

The Bicentennial Experience is an immersive multi-media sensory experience that is done in 2 parts at Fort Canning Rise, as part of commemorating Singapore’s bicentennial since it’s inception as early as 1299 as a trading port.

First part of the experience is named the Time Traveller, which consists of indoor-based multi-media experience in 5 parts that takes the viewer across poignant parts of Singapore’s history.  The second, an outdoor experience named the Pathfinder incorporates a series of pavilion and the natural outdoor space for the viewer to experience Singapore’s place with the global world across time.

Review

This is a short review as one has to really experience it fresh for it to have a deep and meaningful impact. Our experience with the Time Traveller was both informative and moving. The 5 parts, brilliantly staged and presented, gives a moving account using carefully curated moments in Singapore’s history from 1299 to present.

It is our opinion that the interactive elements in the Time Traveller Exhibition is more suited for ages Primary 3 and up.

Due to inclement weather, we were not able to experience the Pathfinder and will return at another occasion.

Tips to Maximise your visit.

1. Car parking is scarce – Car parking is scarce at the Fort Canning area. Aside from the limited URA car parks, there’s the parking at Hotel Fort Canning, which comes at a higher cost. We suggest going there using public transport including cabs.
2. Book your tickets early – The visit is free and is expected to be very popular. There are plenty of slots in the day but they fill up fast. At present, all sessions are filled till end of June.
3. Book the late afternoon / evening slots: If you like to take a walk through the Pathfinder experience and witness the Lightbeam installation, then an evening visit is needed. In between you can sit and enjoy the food at the food village. These are all well-within a stone’s throw from the Time Traveller exhibit.
4. Be punctual for the Time Traveller – The Time Traveller exhibit has controlled access due to the space of each act. If you are late, the group will leave without you and you may have to rebook your time slot.
5. Head for the roundabout entrance of the Battlebox – If you are driving or taking a cab, head either towards the Battlebox roundabout entrance or Hotel Fort Canning. The Bicentennial Experience entrance is a short walk from there. For public transport details, see below.
6. Bring a sweater – The acts of the Time Traveller are all air-conditioned and may be chilly for some. Particularly the last act where some water is involved. Bring a sweater just in case.
7. Dark corners. – The Time Traveller acts may be quite dark. Although there are some dim lights appearing to guide, the elderly or ones with visual impairment may need closer guidance.
8. Be prepared for rain. Really – There is no shelter in between Time Traveller, Pathfinder and the Food Village. Bring along a brolly in case of inclement weather.
9. Allocate at least 1 hour each – For each experience at the Time Traveller and Pathfinder. Total at least 2 hours.
10. Thank the guides! – It’s always nice to be appreciated. Cap off your visit with a huge THANK YOU to the guides, they are all volunteers!

For more details:

The Bicentennial Experience is on now, daily till 15 September 2019 and is free.

For more details and booking of tickets, visit the link below:

https://www.bicentennial.sg/the-bicentennial-experience/