(Credit: Intan Yuhanis / Unsplash, Lhu Shi Hui / Unsplash)
Bored or want to unwind? Take a day trip to the land of cheap thrills! While shopping and eating is always at the forefront of my mind when it comes to things to do in Johor Bahru (JB), there are in fact a slew of other exciting and offbeat activities with the plethora of attractions available in 2024. From theme parks, hiking trails, and aesthetic cafes to affordable spas, read on for recommendations on the best places to go on your next day trip to JB!
| Category | Activity | Address | Opening Hours | Price |
| Food & drinks | Romanticise your day at Rowan & Parsely Food Atelier | No. 17, Jalan Cenderai 20, Kawasan Perindustrial Kota Putri, 81750 Johor Bahru | Daily, 11am – 10pm | Drinks from 8RM Food from 10RM |
| Take in city views at Sky 26 | Holiday Villa Johor Bahru City Centre, 260 Jalan Dato Sulaiman, Taman Abad, 80250 Johor Bahru | Daily, 6pm – 2am | Drinks from 26RM Food from 22RM | |
| Socialise at Cabinet 8 by JWC | 102, Jalan Sutera Tanjung 8/3, Taman Sutera Utama, 81300 Skudai, Johor Bahru | Fri – Sat: 7pm-1am Sun – Thurs: 7pm – 12am | – | |
| Take pictures at Knocknock Café | 60, Jalan Mutiara Emas 5/9, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru | Mon – Fri: 10am – 7pm Sat & Sun: 9am – 7pm | Food from 14RM Drinks from 8RM | |
| Taste legendary banana cakes at Hiap Joo Bakery | 13, Jalan Hiok Nee, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru | Daily, 7.30am – 5pm | Bakes from 3.50RM | |
| Grab street food at Meldrum Night Market | 23 Jalan Meldrum, 80000 Johor Bahru | Fri – Sun: 1pm – 11.30pm Tues – Weds: 1pm – 11.30pm | – | |
| Theme parks and recreational parks | Explore mini-cities and landmarks at Legoland | 7, Persiaran Medini Utara 3, 79100 Nusajaya, Johor | Daily: 10am – 6pm, last entry at 5pm (check for scheduled ride closures) | From 169RM |
| Escape at LOST IN JB | A0129 Blok A Eko Galleria Jalan Eko Botani 3, Taman Eko Botani, 79100 Iskandar Puteri Johor | Mon – Thurs: 12pm to 10pm Fri – Sun: 12pm to 12am | Student prices from 46RM Adult prices from 58RM | |
| Entertain the kids at Fanpekka | AEON Mall Tebrau City, 1 Jalan Desa Tebrau, Level 2, 81100 Johor Bahru | Daily, 10am – 10pm | Children prices from 70RM Adult prices from 12RM | |
| Win at Laser Battle | Johor Bahru City Square, Lot MS-11, 108, Jalan Wong Ah Fook, 80000 Johor Bahru | Daily: 10am – 10pm | From 30RM | |
| Splash around Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast | Bandar Penawar, 81930 Johor Bahru | Wed – Mon: 10am – 6pm | From 58RM Free for children below three | |
| Sightseeing attractions | Hike at Gunung Pulai | Gunung Pulai Recreational Forest, 81000 Kulai Johor Bahru | Daily, 7am – 6pm | Free |
| Be one with nature at Hutan Bandar | Jalan Tasek Utara, Kolam Ayer, 80100 Johor Bahru | Daily, 7am – 6.30pm | Free | |
| Picnic at Taman Merdeka | Jalan Datin Halimah, 80200 Johor Bahru | Daily, 7am – 7pm | – | |
| See fireflies at Kota Tinggi Firefly Park | Jalan Kota Tinggi, 81900 Kota Tinggi, Johor Bahru | Daily, 1pm – 11pm | – | |
| Stroll at Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Street | Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, 80000 Johor Bahru | Varied timings, check online before heading over | – | |
| Shopping & entertainment | Find gems at JB Premium Outlets | Jalan Premium Outlets Indahpura, 81000 Kulai Johor Bahru | Daily, 10am – 10pm | – |
| Ice skate at Paradigm Mall | Paradigm Mall Johor Bahru, 3F-30, Jalan Bertingkat Skudai, 81200, Johor Bahru | Daily, 10am – 10pm | From 40RM | |
| Explore Spring Labs | Jalan Ekoflora 1, Taman Ekoflora, 81100 Johor Bahru | Soil Cafe: Daily, 9am – 6pm Other stores: Varied timings, check before heading over | – | |
| Feel pampered at Family Thai Spa | 65 & 65A, Jalan Harmonium 33/1, Taman Desa Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru | Daily, 11am – 1am | From 30RM | |
| Melt the tension away at Walea Spa & Retreat | 6, Jalan Balau, Taman Melodies, 80250 Johor Bahru | Daily, 11am – 7pm | From 48RM |
One of my favourite things to do in JB when travelling with my partner is to dine like kings and queens without burning a hole in my wallet. For couples seeking a romantic date, saunter down to Rowan & Parsley, a glasshouse-esque dining atelier amidst nature. A popular spot for wedding photoshoots, there are multiple spots here where you can snap your #OOTD against instagrammable backgrounds – whether it is the vintage interior or the rustic outside. In terms of food, Rowan & Parsley specialises in smoked BBQ dishes and I highly recommend trying their melt-in-your-mouth pork belly and the smoked aubergine.
Address: No. 17, Jalan Cenderai 20, Kawasan Perindustrial Kota Putri, 81750 Johor Bahru
Opening hours: Daily, 11am – 10pm
Price: Drinks from 8RM, Food from 10RM
Treat yourself to a tipple or two at Sky 26, a rooftop bar that overlooks the Johor cityscapes. Psst, I recommend heading down at least 15 minutes before sunset so you can settle down and enjoy the breathtaking view. Their cocktails are priced at 26RM which is half of what you’ll usually pay at bars in Singapore. Additionally, Sky 26 also hosts live music performances by their local singers and bands – check out their social media for the schedule if you want to catch them. If you’re looking for things to do in JB in 2024, this is it!
Address: Holiday Villa Johor Bahru City Centre, 260 Jalan Dato Sulaiman, Taman Abad, 80250 Johor Bahru
Opening hours: Daily, 6pm – 2am
Price: Drinks from 26RM, Food from 22RM
Cabinet 8 by JWC is one of the highest-rated speakeasy bars in JB that is known for its cocktail and whiskey selection. If you have a sweet tooth like me, go for their Peach No Lada which is infused with banana leaves, leaving a fragrant pandan aroma. On the other hand, adventurous folks can give their Missing Mary a try. It is a Bloody Mary with a twist – using ingredients such as tomato juice, sesame oil, and Sichuan peppercorns for a spicy punch.
Address: 102, Jalan Sutera Tanjung 8/3, Taman Sutera Utama 81300 Skudai, Johor Bahru
Opening hours:
Fri – Sat: 7pm-1am
Sun – Thurs: 7pm – 12am
My search for the best cuppa and the most Instagrammable cafes crosses borders too! In fact, cafe-hopping is one of the most popular things to do in JB in 2024, whether it’s with your significant other, friends, or family. There are just so many aesthetic and hipster cafés that you can explore – especially at Mount Austin. But I would like to spotlight one of my most recent finds, Knocknock Café – an establishment beautifully decorated with flowers and a vintage touch. Their menu presents Malaysian-western fusion mains such as Happy’s Laksa Ever (42RM) and Zesty Citrus Gyudon (38RM). Unlike most cafes in JB, Knocknock Café embraces cultural roots, serving dishes that proudly showcase Malaysian flavours with a contemporary twist.
Address: 60, Jalan Mutiara Emas 5/9, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru
Opening hours:
Mon – Fri: 10am – 7pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 7pm
Price: Food from 14RM, drinks from 8RM
Just like how you can’t miss out on Portuguese egg tarts in Macau, it’s mandatory to queue up at Hiap Joo Bakery to bag home some of their banana cakes when in JB. Sometimes I even dedicate a day just to cross the border and get my hands on their daily fresh baked goods! After all, Hiap Joo Bakery is one of Johor’s oldest bakeries with over a century-old history that uses the hole-in-a-wall wood-fired oven for its bakes. Besides banana cakes, their coconut buns sell like hotcakes too – definitely worth a try!
Address: 13, Jalan Hiok Nee, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru
Opening hours: Daily, 7.30am – 5pm
Price: Bakes from 3.50RM
Occasionally, I miss the familiarity and nostalgia of the pasar malams that once populated our neighbourhoods. But whenever I do, I take a trip down to JB, where you can find a bustling scene of night markets with many things to do! However, most pasar malams in JB only open on certain days of the week so do a quick check online before heading down.
One of the popular pasar malams is Meldrum Night Market. Situated just five minutes away from City Square Mall, this small back alley is populated by street hawkers whipping up mouth-watering plates of oyster omelette and satay while promising an authentic local dining experience for your lover, friends or family.
Address: 23 Jalan Meldrum, 80000 Johor Bahru
Opening Hours:
Fri – Sun: 1pm – 11.30pm
Tues – Wed: 1pm – 11.30pm
To me, Malaysia is home to the best amusement parks! Whenever friends from overseas enquire about must-visit parks in JB, I always commend Legoland — one of the most popular theme parks in Malaysia for good reason! Marvel at the lego reconstructions of Asian monuments and cities at Miniland like Angkor Wat and even Singapore. Thrill-seekers like myself will certainly enjoy The Dragon — a roller coaster that takes the thrilling experience to another level with VR technology. Those who prefer to chill out can enjoy the panoramic overview of the park from the 60m-tall Observation Tower instead.
With eight themed areas, an adjacent water park and an aquarium for you to explore, there are tons of things to do in one of JB’s largest theme parks. A day trip here is certainly not enough – if you’re looking for family-friendly things to do in JB in 2024, Legoland is an attraction that’s not to be missed! To skip the queue, get your Legoland E-ticket online in advance.
Address: 7, Persiaran Medini Utara 3, 79100 Nusajaya, Johor
Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am – 6pm, last entry at 5pm
Price: From 169RM
*Do take note of scheduled ride closures here before visiting!
The hype around escape rooms was always lost on me, but this experience won me over. LOST IN JB isn’t an ordinary escape room. It is an immersive adventure taken to new levels with ultra-realistic ghoulish props and impressive special effects. You can choose from various game rooms differing in difficulty level where you solve mysteries and scream your lungs out. This is the perfect time to book new game rooms in their third location at Eco Galleria which recently opened in May!
Whether you’re looking for things to do with friends or family, the experience of testing your wits together will be a great bonding opportunity. If you’re a student, you’re in luck because they have special student prices just for you! All things considered, this is one of the best places to go for thrill-seeking things to do in JB in 2024. Don’t forget to bring a water bottle to replenish your energy after!
Address: A0129 Blok A Eko Galleria Jalan Eko Botani 3, Taman Eko Botani, 79100 Iskandar Puteri Johor
Opening Hours:
Mon – Thurs: 12pm to 10pm
Fri – Sun: 12pm to 12am
Price: Student prices from 46RM, Adult prices from 58RM
Fanpekka is a Finnish conceptual theme park that introduces an educational twist to traditional theme parks. Designed based on the Finnish concept of ‘learning by playing’, the activities within Fanpekka emphasise life skills such as problem-solving, innovation and communication.
Here are some of the things my younger siblings enjoyed doing during our trip to this theme park that yours would too. Kids can look forward to building a house from building blocks, creating handicraft work with art supplies or participating in role-playing and dress-up activities. Of course, my siblings’ favourite was the gigantic ball pit in the middle of the park for some old fashioned fun. Who said learning had to be boring? Mark this as one of the things you have to do in JB for 2024!
Address: AEON Mall Tebrau City, 1 Jalan Desa Tebrau, Level 2, 81100 Johor Bahru
Opening Hours: Daily, 10am – 10pm
Price: Children prices from 70RM, Adult prices from 12RM
Planning a day trip to JB with your squad this September holidays? Spend your afternoon at Laser Battle Johor Bahru – the largest laser tag centre in Asia that spans 5000 square feet. Here, you can enjoy things to do such as laser tag games with more than 55 game modes with tactical and interactive options. Not to mention, there’s also a host of arenas that you can explore, such as Egyptian-themed and science lab-themed options. Notably, I was in awe of their quality equipment and impressive sound and lighting effects that elevated the gaming experience – one both kiddos and adults will enjoy.
Address: Johor Bahru City Square, Lot MS-11, 108, Jalan Wong Ah Fook, 80000 Johor Bahru
Opening hours: Daily, 10am – 10pm
Price: From 30RM
I love Singapore’s Adventure Cove and Wild Wild Wet. However, as a frequent visitor for nearly a decade, I was more than eager to explore the next great large-scale water park. Fortunately, just across the border lies one of the world’s largest wave pools!
Nestled along Desaru’s coastline, Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast boasts over 20 exhilarating rides, perfect for adrenaline junkies like me. A highlight is definitely their water roller coaster, “Kraken’s Revenge.” Soaring up to 30 metres high and featuring a thrilling 360-degree loop, I had an absolute blast screaming my head off as I plunged into the water!
For families, there’s a children’s area called “Kids Ahoy.” If you’re searching for kid activities to do in Johor Bahru, consider spending a family day Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast! There’s something for everyone here, so I recommend arriving early to enjoy a full day filled with splashes and fun!
Address: Bandar Penawar, 81930 Johor Bahru
Opening Hours: Wed – Mon: 10am – 6pm
Price: From 58RM (Free entry for children below three)
I’m always on the hunt for more challenging hiking trails, but Singapore’s flat terrain just doesn’t offer much in terms of altitude. That’s why heading to JB is always a must when I’m craving a more advanced hike. With its rolling hills and higher peaks, JB offers rugged, scenic trails you simply can’t find back home.
Looking to push yourself beyond Singapore’s relatively easy hikes? Embark on a hiking trip to this Johor Bahru attraction! Climb up Gunung Pulai, with a 700m high peak that’s about an hour’s drive away from the JB city centre. A round trip along this hike is approximately 10km but don’t be daunted by the distance! The route is paved and there are rest stops along the way. It’s suitable and safe for children and novice hikers, although fitter and more adventurous individuals can opt to trek the unpaved trail that takes you through the jungle to the hidden waterfall. Be sure to prepare yourself with hiking essentials for a safe, comfortable hike too. After sweating it out, stop by the cafes in Kampung Pulai to refuel and mingle with the friendly locals.
Address: Gunung Pulai Recreational Forest, 81000 Kulai Johor Bahru
Opening Hours: Daily, 7am – 6pm
Price: Free
Nature lovers, rejoice! Hutan Bandar (“city forest”) is a hidden Johor Bahru attraction from the hustle of city life. After a heavy meal, I like to take a relaxing stroll among the lush greenery around this park, which also doubles as one of the best romantic things to do in JB for couples in 2024. At times I begin my day with a jog along the park’s many trails, followed by a quick stop at the cafes nearby. With seven scenic lakes, children’s playgrounds and a bevy of beautiful wildlife, Hutan Bandar is the perfect place to go in JB to kick back, relax and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature.
Address: Jalan Tasek Utara, Kolam Ayer, 80100 Johor Bahru
Opening Hours: Daily, 7am – 6.30pm
Price: Free
Johor might be known as a commercial hub, but contrary to popular belief, there are many nature-related things to do in JB for couples and families in 2024! For instance, Taman Merdeka recreational park is my designated Johor Bahru attraction to visit on a day out with my loved ones. Moreover, its well-maintained landscape provides a picturesque setting for a cosy family picnic, and the perfect spot to snap some beautiful family photos. As the sun sets, the lake lights up with a musical light show, complete with pop music and dancing fountains — a nice spectacle to end off a nice day at the park. As the park was established to commemorate Malaysia’s struggle for independence, there are also many plaques about the country’s history erected within it for visitors to read.
Address: Jalan Datin Halimah, 80200 Johor Bahru
Opening Hours: Daily, 7am – 7pm
Malls and cafes are aplenty in Singapore, but fireflies are hard to spot on our little red dot. If you’re looking for a Johor Bahru attraction, why not plan a trip to Kota Tinggi Firefly Park, where you’ll be charmed by seas of glowing fireflies that resemble a starry night sky. This is one of the best things for couples to do in JB in 2024 to feel the magic of nature, especially if you’re looking for a romantic activity to remember! To further enliven the experience, I recommend getting a wishing lantern or a love lock in advance, so you can mark your trip by attaching it to the fence by the river!
Address: Jalan Kota Tinggi, 81900 Kota Tinggi, Johor Bahru
Opening hours: Daily, 1pm – 11pm
Rich in heritage and culture, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee boasts a charming mix of vintage shophouses and modern, hipster cafés. Slightly reminiscent of the Peranakan shophouses scattered along Singapore’s Joo Chiat, this is one of my favourite streets in JB. Here, you can find a diverse mix of shops selling traditional delights like herbal tea and Salahuddin’s curry puffs, to modern coffee houses and curated thrift shops! Moreover, there’s a Chinese Heritage museum that details the vibrant history of the area’s first Chinese traders. If you’re a history buff like me, this walk down memory lane will be right up your alley! Regardless of whether you want to enjoy old-school cuisine or indulge in modern café offerings, make sure you head down with an empty stomach.
Address: Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, 80000 Johor Bahru
Opening Hours: Varied timings, check online before heading over.
I’ll let you in on a shopaholic’s best-kept secret … There’s a spot in Johor where you can grab branded pumps for half the price! And the best part? You can score up to 80% for crowd-favourite brands such as Coach, Versace and Gucci, and take advantage of the favourable exchange rate at the Johor Bahru Premium Outlets. The first of its kind in the region, this shopping complex houses 150 renowned brands throughout its 45 acres space. From Cotton On Kids to Tommy Hilfiger, all shoppers (and budding ones) will certainly have a great day trip to JB here!
Address: Jalan Premium Outlets Indahpura, 81000 Kulai Johor Bahru
Opening Hours: Daily, 10am – 10pm
Get your skate on at Blue Ice Skating Rink, located in Paradigm Mall. It is one of the largest rinks in Malaysia that covers about 20,000 square feet of ground. I’ll admit, I’m not the best skater. But if you’re a rookie like me, you’re still in for a great experience at the Blue Ice Skating Rink. Unlike most, this rink uses real ice rather than synthetic, which means less friction and smoother gliding. So, whether you’re an expert or just starting out, this setup makes for a much more enjoyable skate!
Apart from ice skating, you can also plan a day trip to JB and catch the latest blockbusters at Golden Screen Cinemas. At the same time, play games at the arcade, or head to the rock climbing wall at level seven if you’re looking for more things to do in JB in 2024!
Address: Paradigm Mall Johor Bahru, 3F-30, Jalan Bertingkat Skudai, 81200 Johor Bahru
Opening hours: Daily, 10am – 10pm
Price: From 40RM
Spring Labs is a lesser-known gem that’s worth a trip down the next time you head to Johor Bahru. It is a retail concept park at JB that brims with quaint Aussie vibes with its colourful containers, cafes, IG-worthy spots and spacious greenery. I suggest patronising Soil Cafe, a beautiful dining house where you can grab fresh bakes, brunch bites and good coffee with your boo. That’s truly one of the best things to do in JB for couples this 2024. As for families with young kids, check out Diggersite, open on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, where kids can try their hands at operating small-scale machinery like construction vehicles!
Address: Jalan Ekoflora 1, Taman Ekoflora, 81100 Johor Bahru
Opening hours:
After all that walking, I like to loosen those knots with a pampering sesh at Family Thai Spa, where I enjoy royal treatment without busting my budget. Beyond the Thai-style massages that are available, I love their garden-themed interior that sets the right ambience for relaxation. In particular, their most popular room is the secret sky garden that’s complete with backdrops of an ocean landscape and fairy lights! Alternatively, you can soak your stress away by booking one of their jacuzzi rooms. Those looking for things to do in JB for couples can also check out their 2024 couple packages.
Address: 65 & 65A, Jalan Harmonium 33/1, Taman Desa Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru
Opening hours: Daily, 11am – 1am
Price: From 30RM
Last but not least, a popular spa retreat at Johor Bahru is Walea Spa & Retreat, a private sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of the city. They offer unique massage treatments such as the Walea Transcendental Massage which includes a body scrub of your choice. It is a stone’s throw away from KSL Resort and Holiday Plaza. If you’re looking to indulge in relaxing things to do for a day trip in JB in 2024, be sure to plan your accommodation around them!
Address: 6, Jalan Balau, Taman Melodies, 80250 Johor Bahru
Opening hours: Daily, 11am – 7pm
Price: From 48RM
There are a few hotels and airbnb apartments you can rent if you want to stay in JB. As you plan an itinerary for things to do in JB with your family, keep accommodations near malls like KSL City or Mid Valley Southkey for convenient shopping and great food options. Meanwhile if you crave for a good bowl of lala hotpot, you should stay near Mount Austin. Lively yet relaxing, this area offers a variety of things to do in JB for couples or with friends – a bustling cafe scene and unique experiences like rug tufting!
Taking cross border bus services is one of the most common ways to travel to JB from Singapore as it is one of the cheapest options, especially if you’re planning a day trip to JB. Refer to this table for the cross border bus fares and here for bus timings. Alternatively, you can take the following SBS Transit bus services to get to JB:
Those who want to avoid crowds and queues can consider the KTM Shuttle Tebrau, also known as the Singapore – Malaysia VTL train. It costs around $10 for a return trip, and only takes five minutes per trip. Simply book your tickets in advance online and then make your way to the Woodlands Train Checkpoint to board the train.
When planning a day trip to JB, you can also drive across the causeway (do have all the necessary documents ready to be stamped!). However, do be prepared for potential traffic jams. Alternatively, get a taxi at the Queen Street taxi terminal to get to JB.
Do note that all foreign vehicles entering Malaysia from Singapore must register for a vehicle entry permit (VEP). VEPs cost 20RM (~S$6.10) and registration can be done online via the official website. Upon successful registration, drivers will receive a VEP radio frequency identification (VEP-RFID) to attach to their vehicles. Failure to apply for a VEP may result in fines up to 2,000RM (~S$610).
On weekdays, the optimal times to enter JB are before 8am or after 8pm. Alternatively, traffic tends to be lighter between 12pm-5pm. It is advisable to avoid travelling into JB on Monday mornings and Friday evenings, as these are peak times for commuters heading to and from work.
On weekends, peak hours typically begin around 8am on Saturdays and 11am on Sundays. To avoid congestion, cross the border after 11am on Saturdays and after 2pm on Sundays. When returning to Singapore on a Sunday, traffic can get heavy as early as 5pm, so it’s best to plan your return before sunset or after midnight.
You know what they say — the grass is greener on the other side (of the causeway). Engage in some quality bonding time over yummy food, historic streets, exhilarating theme parks and exploring attractions in Johor Bahru. With a bustling entertainment and cultural scene, there isn’t any shortage of things to do on your JB trip with your family, friends or lover. Thinking of roughing it out on the road instead? Check out this guide on road trips to Malaysia from Singapore! In addition, gear up for your vacations with the best SIM cards for world travel and these travel essentials.
This article was updated on 22 October 2024. Additional research done by Quek Jie Ann.
Time to jingle his bells!
‘Tis the season to be jolly and a little competitive!
For a-meow-zing staycays.
Ending the year with a blast (of fireworks).
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