Introduction to Mint Museum of Toys
Nestled in the vibrant Bras Basah-Bugis precinct, the Mint Museum of Toys, operated by MINT MUSEUM OF TOYS (UEN: 53054764C), is a cultural treasure that invites visitors to relive the magic of childhood. The acronym MINT stands for “Moment of Imagination and Nostalgia with Toys,” reflecting the museum’s mission to evoke cherished memories and inspire wonder. Housed in a purpose-built, award-winning building designed by SCDA Architects, the museum features a distinctive facade with 26 ridged glass panels that protect its delicate exhibits from UV rays while allowing natural light to enhance the displays. Whether you’re a toy enthusiast, a history buff, or a family looking for a fun outing, the Mint Museum of Toys promises an unforgettable experience.
Summary of Services and Products
The Mint Museum of Toys offers a rich array of exhibits and activities designed to engage visitors of all ages. Key offerings include:
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Vintage Toy Collection | Over 50,000 items, including action figures, enamel signs, biscuit tins, comic books, newspapers, card games, costumes, movie posters, vinyl records, bicycles, and pedal cars from 40+ countries (1840s–1980s). |
| Themed Exhibitions | Four permanent exhibitions: Outerspace, Characters, Childhood Favourites, and Collectables, showcasing toys like Batman, Popeye, and Dan Dare. |
| Interactive Experiences | AR storytelling, coloring workshops with Faber-Castell kits, trivia quizzes, traditional kampong games (e.g., marbles), movie screenings (e.g., Space Jam), board games, and scavenger hunts. |
| Guided Tours | “Around the World in 60 Minutes” tour, led by trained docents, offering insights into toy history and cultural significance. |
| Additional Amenities | Rooftop bar with drinks and bar bites, MINT Shop Push Cart for exclusive merchandise, and a “Happy Hour in the Museum” wine-tasting experience (12:30 PM–6:30 PM daily). |
Entrance fees are $30 for adults, $25 for children over 7, and $20 for seniors over 60, with free admission for children under 7. The museum also hosts corporate events, team-building activities, and tour group visits, making it a versatile venue for various occasions.
Unique Value Propositions
The Mint Museum of Toys stands out for its unparalleled collection, which is the largest of its kind in Asia, curated by a Singaporean collector who began amassing toys at age 7, over 70 years ago. This personal passion is evident in the meticulous preservation of items in mint condition, reflecting the museum’s dual meaning of “MINT” as both an acronym and a nod to quality. The museum’s innovative use of technology, such as the world’s first museum interactive AI ambassador, “The Little Prince,” and augmented reality (AR) trails, enhances the visitor experience, making it engaging for both children and adults. Its location in the culturally rich Bras Basah-Bugis precinct, combined with its accessibility via multiple MRT stations, adds to its appeal as a must-visit destination.
Standout Features and Reviews
The Mint Museum of Toys is celebrated for its nostalgic charm and interactive offerings. Key features include the “Around the World with The Little Prince” AR trail, which uses 37 scannable AR cards to bring toys to life in 2D and 3D animations, and the therapeutic coloring space on Level 4, featuring Faber-Castell products. The museum’s rooftop Public Gallery, showcasing vintage enamel advertising signs, and the basement-level Vertigo26 restaurant, with its vinyl record crate-digging experience, add unique dimensions to the visit.
Customer reviews highlight the museum’s ability to evoke fond memories and provide educational fun. On Google Reviews, the museum boasts a 4.5-star rating based on 1,508 reviews. Notable testimonials include:
| Reviewer | Date | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Doris Tan | 10 Mar 2025 | “It’s one of my favourite Museums on Singapore ❤️” |
| Aizza TV | 08 Mar 2025 | “There’s always a child in all of us, and I had such a great time at the Mint Museum! It felt like a trip back to the good old days.” |
| Tine Obina | 08 Mar 2025 | “Really enjoyed our time at the Mint Museum, it brought back memories of our younger days. So happy to see toys from all over the world, it’s a great collection that everyone should see!” |
| theo | 28 Nov 2024 | “The staff are friendly and eager to share information… creating a lively community space for toy lovers.” |
On TripAdvisor, the museum has earned a Travellers’ Choice award, ranking in the top 10% of attractions. Visitors like Graham R from Melbourne, Australia, wrote, “Wow what a blast this museum is a must see for anyone from the 60s it was amazing. The toys were well displayed and in mint condition we were amazed to see such a great collection on 5 floors we would highly recommend this museum.” JL Lee from Singapore added, “Blown away by the breadth and depth of the collection. Using the Augmented Reality app, it’s the first time I spent so long in a museum. Even my daughter was entertained by the AR experience and all the interactive exhibits in the museum.”
Areas of Singapore Served
The Mint Museum of Toys is located at 26 Seah Street, Singapore 188382, in the heart of the Bras Basah-Bugis precinct, a cultural and artistic hub. It is easily accessible via public transport:
| Transport | Details |
|---|---|
| MRT Stations | Bras Basah (Exit A): 10 min walk, City Hall (Exit A): 7 min walk, Bugis (Exit A): 5 min walk, Esplanade (Exit F): 5 min walk |
| Bus Stops | Cosmic Insurance Building (01029): Bus 7, 32, 51, 61, 63, 80, 145, 175, 197, 851, 3 min walk; Raffles Hotel (01611): Bus 56, 57, 100, 107, 961, 5 min walk |
| Parking | Bras Basah Complex, National Library, Raffles Hotel |
The museum’s central location makes it a convenient destination for residents and visitors across Singapore, particularly those exploring nearby attractions like the National Library or Raffles Hotel.
How Mint Museum of Toys Meets Singapore’s Needs
Singapore is a city that seamlessly blends modernity with a deep appreciation for heritage, and the Mint Museum of Toys fits perfectly into this narrative. It caters to Singapore’s diverse population by offering a universal experience that transcends age and culture, connecting visitors through the shared joy of childhood play. The museum’s interactive exhibits, such as AR tours and traditional games, align with Singapore’s emphasis on innovative and educational entertainment, making it an ideal outing for families, schools, and tourists.
The museum’s focus on vintage toys from over 40 countries reflects Singapore’s multicultural ethos, showcasing the global nature of play and fostering cross-cultural understanding. Its location in the Bras Basah-Bugis precinct, surrounded by other cultural institutions, reinforces its role as a key contributor to Singapore’s arts and heritage scene. By preserving these toys in mint condition, the museum not only safeguards cultural artifacts but also provides a space for reflection and connection in a fast-paced urban environment.
Contact Information and Social Media
To plan your visit or inquire about events, contact the Mint Museum of Toys at:
| Contact Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 26 Seah Street, Singapore 188382 |
| Phone/WhatsApp | +65 8339 8966 (WhatsApp) |
| Operating Hours | Tuesday–Sunday, 9:30 AM–6:30 PM (Last admission at 5:30 PM) |
| Festive Closure | Eve of Chinese New Year: 28 January 2025, First Day of Chinese New Year: 29 January 2025 |
| Map | Google Maps |
Stay updated on promotions and events via their social media:
| Platform | Link |
|---|---|
| Mint Museum of Toys | |
| @mintmuseumoftoys |
For tickets and additional details, visit their official website or book through ticketing platform.
Summary
The Mint Museum of Toys is a captivating destination that brings the joy of childhood to life through its unparalleled collection of vintage toys and interactive experiences. Operated by MINT MUSEUM OF TOYS (UEN: 53054764C), it offers a nostalgic journey that resonates with visitors of all ages, from families to toy enthusiasts. With its central location, innovative features like AR tours, and a commitment to preserving cultural history, the museum is a shining example of Singapore’s ability to blend heritage with modernity. Whether you’re exploring the Outerspace exhibit or enjoying a trivia quiz, a visit to the Mint Museum of Toys promises to spark imagination and create lasting memories.
Disclaimer: All information provided here has been compiled from publicly available sources. While we have made every effort to ensure accuracy, we do not guarantee that the information is complete or error-free. We disclaim any liability for inaccuracies or omissions. If you find any errors or have concerns about the content, please let us know so we can address them promptly.