Singapore’s Snow City has closed its doors for the final time after 26 years, ending the run of the country’s first permanent indoor snow centre.
The attraction welcomed its final visitors on Wednesday, Sept. 30, before staff gathered for a hotpot dinner and an emotional farewell. Employees hugged and said goodbye as the venue prepared to close after more than two decades of operations.
Snow City first opened in 2000 at Science Centre Singapore in Jurong East. It became a popular destination for families, school groups and tourists looking to experience artificial snow and sub-zero temperatures without leaving Singapore.
Over the years, visitors could take part in snowball fights, snow tubing and rides on its 60-metre snow slope, while the attraction also introduced ice sculptures, igloos and other winter-themed activities.
The venue underwent a major revamp in 2015, adding features designed to combine entertainment with lessons about climate change. In 2022, it also hosted Singapore’s first Ice Hotel Gallery, featuring an ice bar and displays created from ice.
The closure was announced earlier this year by the Science Centre Board, which said it was responding to changing visitor interests and an evolving attractions landscape. The board also said the decision was part of its efforts to keep its offerings relevant while continuing its science education mission and future plans.
Before the shutdown, Snow City launched its “One Last Snowfall” farewell campaign, giving visitors a final opportunity to experience the attraction. A discounted package offered one hour of snow play and a bumper car ride for S$19 for adults and S$16 for children.
The closure also marked an emotional moment for long-serving employees. Some staff had spent much of their working lives at Snow City and formed lasting relationships with visitors and students who returned over the years.
The Science Centre Board said all eight full-time Snow City employees had been offered redeployment opportunities within the organisation. Those who chose to pursue other opportunities were offered outplacement assistance and severance support under applicable employment terms and labour guidelines.
For generations of Singaporeans, Snow City became a place associated with childhood trips, family outings and the novelty of experiencing “winter” in a tropical country.
With the final snowfall now over, the Jurong East attraction leaves behind 26 years of memories for the visitors and staff who made it part of Singapore’s leisure landscape.
