Clarke Quay (Singapore, Singapore)
Clarke Quay: Historic Landmarks and Hot Nightlife
A historic neighbourhood on the banks of the Singapore River, Clarke Quay is best known for the colourful, colonial-era warehouses along the waterfront, which are now home to some of the city’s liveliest nightlife spots. Clarke Quay is a relatively quiet part of the city by day, but far from lacking in charms for those who visit before the sun goes down; top of the list is Fort Canning, a leafy oasis surrounding a handful of fascinating historic sites. River cruises depart regularly from Clarke Quay, and a pleasant riverfront stroll toward neighbouring Boat Quay will bring you to one of the city’s finest museums.
Party All Night Long
Most of the nightlife in Clarke Quay is contained within about five blocks of restored warehouses, most of which are painted in pastel colours and beautifully illuminated after dark. Easily the largest of these, Zouk has been called “Singapore’s first super club;” it features seven in-house DJs and a dance floor with a capacity of 1500. Neighbouring Capital is a little more upscale and intimate, while the chic Red Tail Bar offers an expansive patio, ideal for a more laid-back night catching up with friends. Clarke Quay has a club for just about every kind of music, from chart-toppers (Attica) to EDM (Trace Club) to rock (The Crazy Elephant). But no matter where you’re headed for the wee hours, start with dinner at Little Saigon; the restaurant is well loved by the locals for its top-notch Vietnamese comfort food and fun house band.
See the Sights By Day
Clarke Quay is well worth a visit, even if you are not a night owl. Just beyond the bustling warehouse district you’ll find Fort Canning Park, a lovely green space with many walking trails, gardens, and some of Singapore’s most significant historic sites, including the Battle Box. This underground military complex was once the largest in the country, and it was here that the British surrendered Singapore to the Japanese in WWII.
Not far from Fort Canning Park is the G-Max Reverse Bungy; if you’re the thrill-seeking sort, getting a bird’s eye view of the city from this heart-pumping ride deserves a place on your list of things to do in Singapore. For a more leisurely sightseeing experience, sail along the historic shipping routes in a bumboat, or stroll along the riverfront to the Asians Civilisations Museum. About ten minutes on foot from Clarke Quay, this handsome colonial building showcases the region’s long and fascinating history with over a thousand artefacts.
Where to Sleep in Clarke Quay
Travellers to Singapore will find an excellent assortment of hotels in this vibrant district; the Park Hotel Clarke Quay and Novotel Singapore Clarke Quay are very popular choices, both for the quality of their accommodations and their proximity to the clubs. If you’re seeking something a little quieter and even more luxurious, look no further than Hotel Fort Canning; this elegant boutique hotel is surrounded by lovely Fort Canning Park. Backpackers and travellers on a budget are spoiled for choice in hip hostels and chic capsule hotels, both within Clarke Quay and the neighbouring Boat Quay district.
Contact