There are many buildings in Singapore that date as far back as the colonial era. They are now progressively being converted for use as museums.

Asian Civilization Museum

This museum will introduce us to the world of Chinese beliefs, symbolism, and scholar traditions. A combination of the past and the present, it is aimed at highlighting important sociopolitical-economic developments throughout Chinese history. Some interesting works include Buddhist artifacts, imperial porcelain, a collection of 17th Century Ming-style furniture, and fascinating objects from the Neolithic Period (5000-1600 BC). The next wing of the museum will be completed in 2001. It will give an insight into the cultural heritage of India, Southeast Asia, and the Islamic World. All exhibitions and collections are based on Southeastern, Eastern, Southern, and Western regions of Asia. Active programs of talks, workshops, and other activities are held at the museum. A visit to the museum will be both informative and memorable. The Asian Civilization Museum is open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Tuesdays to Sundays. On Wednesday, it is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Getting there : Walk along Stamford Road from City hall MRT Station.

Changi Prison Chapel and Museum

The lives of prisoners are displayed through displays of photographs, paintings, and sketches. A pair of rail spikes from the infamous Burma railroad, which claimed the lives of thousands, is also featured here. Next to the museum is a replica of a chapel that was built by Allied prisoners-of-war during World War II. It is a tribute to those who lived and died in captivity during those dark years. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Mondays to Saturdays. It is closed on Sunday and on public holidays. Chapel services are held from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sundays.

Getting there : Take SBS Bus 2 from Tanah Merah MRT Station and alight at the bus stop just after the main gate to the prison.

Republic of Singapore Air Force Museum

The development of the Republic of Singapore Airforce is traced from its early days as the Malayan Volunteer Air Force in 1939 to its present day in this museum. Artifacts include colonial cap badges, Bloodhound missiles, and artifacts such as the Hunter Hawker, the SF260 Marchetti and the A4-C Skyhawk. The Air Force Museum is opened from 10a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from Tuesdays to Sundays, except for public holidays.

Getting there : Take SBS Bus 2 or 9 from Tanah Merah MRT Station.

Singapore Art Museum

One of Singapore's finest colonial structures, the Art Museum is devoted to the study and preservation of contemporary art of the Southeast Asian region. It has a collection of art works of historical significance and aesthetic value. They include art works by Singapore and the region's pioneering and established artists, as well as works by younger artists. It offers exhibitions, educational programs, and publications on visual arts from the regional and international scenes that aim to stimulate and enrich their cultural experience.

One of the main attractions is the E-mage Gallery, which features interactive programs. These programs aim to introduce the art histories and contemporary art practices of the Southeast Asian region. Through the programs, users will have access to digitized images of art works from the collections in the Art Museum, important public institutions, and private collections in Southeast Asia. Other facilities include the Museum Café and Museum Shop, which offers refreshments, souvenirs, and publications on the visual arts. On the other hand, the Museum Library is open to art researchers by appointment.

The Museum's 10,000 sq. meters floor area also houses climatically controlled storage and collection spaces, conservation laboratory, administrative offices, photography studios, and a patron's club. The museum is open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, and from Thursdays to Sundays. It is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Wednesdays.

Getting there : Walk towards Bras Basah road from Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station.