A delightful place to spend a couple of hours! The gardens were started in 1951 by John Laycock who also helped found the Orchid Society of Southeast Asia. Today, more than 2 hectares (5 acres) are devoted to some 200 varieties of vibrantly colored orchids, including the light purple Vanda Miss Joaquim, Singapore's national flower. The remaining land is dotted with verdant foliage, a water garden, an organic herb and spice garden and a fruit orchard. Plan to enjoy a meal at the Vanilla Pod restaurant, where signature dishes are created using edible orchids; alternatively you can have a quick meal at the casual Café Vanda.