St Andrew’s Road, Parliament Place, Connaught Drive, Old Parliament Lane and Anderson Bridge will be closed 4pm–1am on Fri–Sat, 9–24 Jan 2026, for Light to Night Singapore 2026. Visit our Visitor Information page for details.

Parts of Gallery Children’s Biennale 2025 will be closed on 20 & 21 Jan 2026 for a private event. Fun activities will continue at selected art installations. Click here for more information.

National Gallery Singapore will close at 6pm on 21 January 2026 for a private event. Restaurants will remain open.

City Hall Steps

Flanked by 18 towering Corinthian columns, the City Hall steps facing the Padang have witnessed many key moments in Singapore’s history.

These events include the Japanese surrender to the Allied forces in 1945, the unveiling of the Singapore flag and the National Anthem in 1959, the declaration of Singapore’s merger with Malaya, Sarawak, and North Borneo in 1963, as well as the country’s first National Day Parade in 1966.

avatar
I’m glad the steps to the building have been retained. It’s my favourite spot, because so many historical moments took place there. Back then, people seldom used the steps to enter the building. But I always did, as it was a constant reminder of Singapore’s history.
avatar Ms. Sulosana Karthigasu, former civil servant who worked at the City Hall in 1971

Building Highlights

Gain insights into the rich history of the former Supreme Court and City Hall buildings, and their unique architectural features on this free guided tour.

Explore other spaces in the Gallery

City Hall Chamber

City Hall Chamber

Former Supreme Court Balcony

Former Supreme Court Balcony

Former Supreme Court Foyer

Former Supreme Court Foyer

Rotunda Library & Archive

Rotunda Library & Archive