We asked entrepreneurs across Singapore to tell us about their favourite "third places" - the spaces outside of home and work where they go to think, recharge and reconnect.
In a world where work can happen anywhere, it’s easy to feel like we’re always on the clock. That’s why people are starting to intentionally seek out a “third place” – somewhere that’s neither home nor the office – to clear their minds, spark new ideas, reconnect with others or simply slow down. We asked Singapore entrepreneurs to share the places they return to time and again, from lush parks to cultural landmarks to urban farms. Here’s where they go to recharge.
Third places in Singapore
1. Bollywood Farms
“Bollywood Farms is my favourite “third place” in Singapore. It helps me disconnect from the hectic world of interior design and reconnect with nature. There aren’t many truly rustic, unpolished spaces left here, and as soon as you cross the Kranji Reservoir bridge, it feels like you’ve stepped into another world.
The quirky signs always make me smile, and the farm’s greenery, cafe, and children’s play area invite me to slow down and simply be present. With the government set to reclaim the land this year, it’s more important than ever to experience this special place before it’s gone.”
– Samantha Johnson, founder and creative director of Hey Montgomery
2. Mandala Club
“I need somewhere I can walk into on a Tuesday morning with a full inbox or on a Sunday with kids and friends – and feel equally at home both times. For me, that place is Mandala Club.
I can disappear into a corner table behind a lamp when I need to think, or plant myself front and centre when I want to feel the room. The coffee is serious, the interiors are eclectically beautiful, and the people-watching is never boring.
On weekday mornings, it hums with quiet ambition, and you can catch snippets of deals being made. On weekends, it transforms into something warmer and louder. And then there are those special evenings when a trolley glides between the tables and everything feels just a little more ceremonious. It works for a gym session before a meeting, a client catch-up, a family lunch, or absolutely nothing in particular.
A true third place doesn’t ask why you’re there. Mandala Club never does.”
– Natalia Moskaleva, creative producer, founder of Attitude Design Consulting
3. Mount Faber
“Whenever life feels a little too busy, I head to Mount Faber for a quick reset. The easy hike to Henderson Waves gives me greenery, fresh air, and one of my favourite views in Singapore – all minutes from the city. Afterwards, I stop by Alkaff Mansion for tea and kaya toast. It’s a simple ritual, but thirty minutes of nature, movement, and quiet always leaves me feeling refreshed and ready for whatever comes next.”
– Kriti Saj, founder of Nimbu
4. East Coast Park
“My favourite third place in Singapore is a quiet stretch of East Coast Park, just past the skate park. There’s something special about that spot: beautiful trees behind you, the water stretching out in front of you, and a sense of calm.
It’s less crowded, less noisy, and feels like my own little corner of Singapore. Whether I’m walking, thinking, journaling, or simply watching the waves, it’s where I go to clear my head, slow down, and recharge. After years of moving around the world, it’s become one of the places that gives me the best exhale because I know I’m where I’m meant to be.”
– Mangla Sachdev, founder, Expat Business In A Bag
5. Chinese Gardens
“My favourite third place is the Chinese Gardens. It’s one of the few places where I don’t feel like I have to achieve anything. As someone who spends a lot of time holding space for others through coaching and facilitation, I find the gardens are where I can simply be.
I go there for gentle walks, to think through ideas, catch up with friends, or sometimes sit with a coffee and watch the world go by. It’s become a place where work, life and creativity naturally intertwine without pressure.
I love that it’s accessible to everyone. You’ll see families, runners, tourists, aunties doing tai chi, musicians and people reading under the trees. It reminds me that community doesn’t always have to be organised; sometimes it simply exists because we share a space.
It’s where I recharge and reconnect with myself.”
– Sophie Leung, founder, The Core Humanity Co
6. Esplanade
“Esplanade has been my third place for as long as I can remember. A fun fact most people don’t know: I studied Theatre Studies and Psychology, so this is where my love for the arts took root, and it grew into much more than somewhere to catch a show.
These days, I visit the rooftop garden to recharge, looking out over Marina Bay. Foreword Coffee, the social enterprise cafe, is where I bring my client work as a web designer and strategist. Good coffee, a warm place to think, every cup supporting a meaningful cause – I love this place.”
– Tan Ying Hui, founder, Yings Creative Lab
7. Jurong Lake Gardens
“My favourite third place in Singapore is Jurong Lake Gardens. After a long day of work, it’s where I go to slow down, clear my head, and reconnect with nature. I often bring my puppy along, and we’ve made a habit of taking leisurely walks around the park, especially in the early evenings when it’s still relatively quiet and peaceful.
There’s something incredibly grounding about being surrounded by greenery, watching families, runners, and fellow dog owners enjoy the space in their own way. As the evening goes on, the park starts to fill up with more people, but I love catching that calm window just before the crowds arrive. It’s become a small ritual that helps me recharge, and it’s one of the places that makes me appreciate how much Singapore values accessible green spaces and community.”
– Adelphia Lim, founder, For The Love of Socials
These third places in Singapore remind us that stepping away from work is often what helps us return with a fresh perspective!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a "third place"?
A third place is a space that isn't your home (your first place) or your workplace (your second place). It's somewhere you can relax, socialise, reflect, work casually or simply recharge. Examples of third places in Singapore include parks, libraries, cafes, community spaces, gardens and members' clubs.
Where can I go in Singapore to relax and clear my mind?
If you're looking to unwind, Singapore has plenty of peaceful spots. Jurong Lake Gardens, East Coast Park, Mount Faber and Chinese Garden are great for walks surrounded by greenery, while the Esplanade's rooftop garden offers scenic views over Marina Bay. These locations are ideal for slowing down, reflecting or enjoying a quiet moment away from the city bustle.
Are there free third places to visit in Singapore?
Yes. Many of Singapore's best third places are free to visit. Public parks and gardens such as Jurong Lake Gardens, East Coast Park, Mount Faber, Chinese Garden and the Esplanade's public spaces are open to everyone, making them accessible options for relaxing, exercising or spending time with friends and family.
How do I choose the right third place in Singapore?
The best third place depends on what helps you recharge. If you enjoy nature, consider Jurong Lake Gardens, Mount Faber or East Coast Park. If you're seeking culture and creativity, the Esplanade offers performances and public spaces. If you prefer a social environment for networking or informal meetings, a members' club like Mandala Club may be a better fit. The key is finding a place where you can regularly disconnect from work and reconnect with yourself or your community.
What is the difference between a third place and a coworking space?
A coworking space is designed primarily for work, while a third place is somewhere you choose to spend time outside of home and the office without the pressure to be productive. A third place can be a park, cafe, library, community centre or cultural venue where you can relax, socialise or recharge.
