Downtown East
At the heart of Pasir Ris lies Downtown East, a hallmark of entertainment, leisure, and unadulterated fun. This entertainment juggernaut has become synonymous with family outings, youthful adventures, and vibrant events, carving a unique space in Singapore's urban tapestry.
A Glimpse into History
Managed by NTUC Club, the recreational arm of the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC), Downtown East's legacy traces back to 1986. Originally conceived to offer affordable resort-styled amenities to the Singaporean workforce, its evolution over the years has been nothing short of remarkable. Today, it stands as the preferred holiday and leisure hub, catering not just to youths but families as well.
A Cornucopia of Attractions
Downtown East is a melange of diverse attractions, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists:
D’Resort: The country’s first nature-inspired resort promises an unmatched staycation experience. Its inception in 2015, after the demolition of Costa Sands Resorts, marked a significant upgrade in the area's hospitality offerings.
Wild Wild Wet: Launched in 2004, this water park boasts pioneering features like the Southeast Asia's first 3-storey high raft water slide, Ular-Lar. With nine adrenaline-pumping slides, including the 18+ metre Torpedo slide, it reigned as Singapore’s largest operational water park until 2010.
Market Square – E!Avenue and E!Hub: Opened in 2008, E!Hub is the heart of Downtown East's retail, dining, and entertainment offerings. Here, you'll find eXplorerkid, Singapore's largest indoor family park, and nEbO City, a mecca for cinema, gaming, and café enthusiasts.
Escape Theme Park: While this outdoor theme park, the largest in Singapore until 2010, ceased operations in 2011, it remains an integral part of Downtown East's storied history. The space now contributes to the expanded Wild Wild Wet and the former Costa Sands Resort chalet.
Union Engagement: Complementing its wide array of attractions is MUCE (Membership & Union Community Engagement), fortifying Downtown East's commitment to community-building and union engagement.
A Hub of Events and More
The spirit of Downtown East extends beyond its brick and mortar establishments. Regular events, from carnivals to bazaars, often take center stage at the open-air Begonia carpark, offering a dynamic blend of experiences for visitors. Additionally, NTUC Club members have exclusive access to the Jackpot room, providing yet another layer of leisure.
Accessibility and Location
Situated in Pasir Ris, this 147,000-square-metre entertainment hub is a stone's throw away from the Pasir Ris MRT Station (EW1). Since its official launch on 5 November 2000, Downtown East has been a formidable contender in Singapore's entertainment scene, vying with giants like Resorts World Sentosa.
Downtown East isn't just a destination; it's an experience. Whether you're sliding down the thrilling waterslides, catching a movie at Cathay Cineplex, or simply relishing a meal amidst the vibrant ambiance, there's a promise of memories that will last a lifetime. So, the next time you're looking for a day of fun, entertainment, and more, you know where to head!