One of the oldest housing estates in Singapore built in the 70s, Ang Mo Kio was a pioneer in many ways. For example, it was one of the first to have a communal space in the form of a town centre with F&B, shopping and retail outlets for the residents in the community.

Many who grew up in the area have fond memories of a bustling, vibrant neighbourhood. Families today experience much the same, as the estate constantly rejuvenates itself to meet their needs – there is always something for everyone. Come with us to discover what makes this town a beloved one for families living there.

A river runs through this park

Image source: NParks

One of the highlights of living in Ang Mo Kio must be the Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park – a large urban park with beautiful waterways that connect the two towns. A 3-km river meanders through the park alongside lush, grassy banks with plenty of open lawns for families to picnic, exercise and walk their pets.

Once a drab, concrete canal that was part of the Kallang River, the whole area was reimagined and transformed under the Active, Beautiful, Clean Waters (ABC Waters) scheme back in 2006 to create new spaces for community bonding and recreation and to bring people closer to nature.

A dragon, a field of singing birds & walls full of memories

Image source: TimeOut

One of the benefits of being an older estate is that you have a neighbourhood filled with heritage charm. Bring the kids to check out one of Singapore’s earliest playgrounds – an iconic dragon playground built in the 1980s. The retro structure is still fully functional with slides and a ribbed spine that kids can crawl through.

The Kebun Baru Bird Singing Club is another unique landmark in Ang Mo Kio. Look out for over 1,000 cages of trilling songbirds hoisted up on 20-feet high poles and don’t miss the bird singing competitions on weekends.

Ang Mo Kio is also home to some of artist Yip Yew Chong’s murals of yesteryears that give a glimpse of what the area was like back in its kampung days. Grandparents will love pointing out familiar scenes from olden days to the newer members of their family.

A haven for booklovers

Image source: NLB

Another well-loved institution is the Ang Mo Kio Public Library which has faithfully served its residents since 1985. Its landmark stand-alone building is within walking distance from AMK Hub and its interiors are cozily furnished with plush carpets, warm lighting and of course a well-stocked book collection. There is something for everyone in the family – children's books, adult fiction, magazines, newspapers and even a café to hang out.

Yummy eats in Ang Mo Kio

Image source: misstamchiak

Ang Mo Kio is food heaven for hawker fans with its many established hawker stalls located within its neighbourhood. From well-known bakery Pine Garden to affordable dim sum at Kow Loon Hong Kong Dim Sum, there are delicious gems waiting to be discovered. If you’re looking to treat your family to a sumptuous brunch and western meals in a lush garden setting, check out Canopy Garden Dining located within Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park.