Have you ever wondered what Singapore will look like in 2065? The new SG60 Heart & Soul Experience doesn't just tell you – it shows you, with you as the star of the show.
Created by the brilliant team behind the Singapore Bicentennial, this exhibition has been the talk of the town, and for a good reason. It uses incredible technology, including generative AI, to weave your personal story into the larger Singapore narrative. After visiting it myself, I can confirm it’s more than just a walk-through display; it’s a journey through time.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Heart & Soul exhibition, from the must-see installations to practical tips for making your visit unforgettable.
What is the SG60 Heart & Soul Experience?
At its core, Heart & Soul is an immersive, multi-sensory voyage through Singapore's past, present, and imagined future. Living up to its tagline, "Where Home Will Always Be," it connects each visitor to the nation's story in a deeply personal way.
The experience is split into two main parts: the ticketed main event held within Levels 3 & 4 of the Orchard Library, and several free-to-public installations at the atria of Orchard Central and orchardgateway.
The magic ingredient here is generative AI. Before you even begin, you create a personalized avatar. Don't worry about data privacy; the organisers have assured the public that personal information is not retained. This avatar then becomes your digital twin, appearing throughout the exhibits and showing you what your life could look like decades from now.
I have to admit, seeing my own AI-generated avatar living in a futuristic HDB and commuting via a next-generation MRT was both surreal and incredibly cool. It immediately makes the experience feel less like a history lesson and more like your own story.
Your Journey Begins: A Step-by-Step Walkthrough
The main, ticketed experience is a carefully choreographed journey. Be sure to book your free tickets online in advance!
Level 4 - Boarding and Windows in the Sky
Your journey starts at "Boarding," where you collect a multimedia guide and step into a futuristic phone booth. This is where you answer a few questions that shape your personalised experience.
From there, you enter the "Wheels of Time," a stunning look back at Singapore's history, from the dark days of the Japanese Occupation to the resilience shown during the COVID-19 pandemic.
But the absolute showstopper on this level is "Windows in the Sky." You step into a room with floor-to-ceiling screens, and suddenly, you're transported to Singapore 2065. Your avatar is right there on the screen, interacting with future workplaces, green living spaces, and advanced public transport. It's a breathtaking, multi-sensory glimpse into a sustainable and innovative future.
Level 3 - Connecting with Our Story
Descending to Level 3, the experience becomes more reflective. The "Newstand" is a beautiful installation inspired by the iconic Holland Village Thambi Magazine Store. It features over 60 newspaper front pages marking pivotal moments in our history.
The journey concludes with "Home is a Feeling," where you receive a personalised digital memento—a bookmark with a QR code that links to your very own "future trailer" video. It’s the perfect, shareable souvenir from your trip through time.
Don't Miss the Free-to-Public Installations (Level 1 Atria)
Even if you don't have a ticket for the main experience, the installations on Level 1 are worth a visit.
1-800-Future: Step into a vibrant orange phone booth, pick up the receiver, and "dial into the future" to hear inspiring stories about sustainability and community.
Time Traveller: This generative AI-powered photobooth is a ton of fun. It lets you create personalized postcards of yourself placed in different historical eras of Singapore.
Windows of Time Photobooth: Snap a picture here and a donation will be made to a local charity. A great way to have fun and do good at the same time!
Pro-Tips for the Best Visiting Experience
To make the most of your visit, here are a few practical tips:
Book in Advance: Tickets are free but essential for the main experience. Slots are released on the first of each month for the following month at the official
heartandsoul.gov.sg website. They get snapped up fast, so mark your calendar!Best Time to Visit: To avoid the biggest crowds, try booking a slot on a weekday morning or later in the evening.
Time Allocation: Set aside about 60-90 minutes for the ticketed journey. Add another 30 minutes to enjoy the interactive installations on Level 1.
Who Should Go: The experience is recommended for ages 7 and up. It’s a fantastic outing for families, couples, and anyone with a keen interest in Singapore’s story.
What to Bring: Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be on your feet for a while. A portable charger might also come in handy for all the photos you'll be taking!
The Verdict: Is the Heart & Soul Exhibition Worth Your Time?
Absolutely. The SG60 Heart & Soul Experience is a masterclass in storytelling. It leverages technology not as a gimmick, but as a powerful tool to forge a personal connection between every visitor and the Singapore story.
You’ll leave feeling not just informed, but genuinely inspired and optimistic about the nation's future. It’s a unique, meaningful, and deeply moving experience that I’d recommend to every Singaporean. It made me reflect on my own place in our nation's journey and left me with a profound sense of hope for the home we will continue to build together.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How much do tickets for the SG60 Heart & Soul Experience cost?
Admission is completely free for both the ticketed main experience and the public installations. However, you must book a time slot online in advance for the ticketed portion at Orchard Library.
2. How long should I plan for my visit?
The main ticketed experience runs for approximately 60 to 90 minutes. It is recommended to allocate an additional 30 minutes to explore the free, non-ticketed installations on Level 1 of Orchard Central and orchardgateway.
3. Is the exhibition suitable for young children?
The exhibition is recommended for visitors aged 7 and above due to the nature of the content and the technology involved. Children under 7 can attend but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
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