Helix Bridge

Stretching gracefully across Marina Bay, the Helix Bridge is one of Singapore’s most iconic architectural achievements — a stainless-steel marvel that fuses design, science, and symbolism into one breathtaking structure.

Shaped like the double helix of human DNA, the bridge represents life, progress, and unity — the very values that define Singapore itself. As day turns to night, its spiraling structure glows with an ethereal light, creating a walkway that feels as futuristic as it is poetic.

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A Symbol of Science and Art in Motion

Opened in April 2010, the Helix Bridge (officially known as the Helix Bridge at Marina Bay) was designed as part of Singapore’s vision to create a modern waterfront that harmonizes nature, technology, and human connection.

The bridge links Marina Centre to Marina Bay Sands, serving both as a pedestrian walkway and as a sculptural icon in the city’s skyline.

Inspired by the structure of DNA, its intertwining steel spirals symbolize growth, renewal, and continuity — a fitting reflection of Singapore’s ever-evolving story.

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Design and Engineering Excellence

The Helix Bridge was created through a collaboration between Cox Architecture (Australia), Architects 61 (Singapore), and Arup Engineers, the same firm behind some of the world’s most complex structural feats.

Constructed primarily from stainless steel and glass, the bridge stretches 280 meters and weighs around 650 tons. Its curved, asymmetrical form gives the illusion of movement — like a ribbon twisting gently in the wind.

Structural Highlights:

• The bridge’s double helix design consists of two opposing spirals held by connecting steel ribs, much like the ladder rungs in DNA.
• It is Singapore’s first curved bridge, and one of the first in the world to use such a double helix structural form.
• Five viewing platforms extend out from the walkway, offering sweeping views of Marina Bay, the Singapore Flyer, and the city skyline.
• The walkway is sheltered with canopies of perforated steel mesh and glass, providing comfort even under the tropical sun.

This blend of functionality, aesthetics, and symbolism makes it one of the most admired pedestrian bridges in the world.

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The Bridge of Light

At night, the Helix Bridge transforms into a glowing spiral of color and motion. Embedded LED lights trace the structure’s steel tubes, creating a dynamic display that changes with the environment.

Blue and purple tones dominate the palette — colors chosen to represent peace and harmony — while key points along the bridge light up in red and green, symbolizing adenine, thymine, cytosine, and guanine, the four base pairs of DNA.

The effect is mesmerizing — a luminous dance of science and art that has become one of the most photographed sights in Singapore.

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A Walk to Remember

The Helix Bridge is more than a crossing — it’s an experience. Whether you’re taking a morning jog, an afternoon stroll, or a romantic walk after sunset, every step reveals a new perspective.

From the middle of the bridge, you can take in some of Singapore’s most famous landmarks:

• The Marina Bay Sands towers rise dramatically to one side.
• The Singapore Flyer stands tall across the water.
• The ArtScience Museum glows like a lotus at the edge of the bay.
• The reflections of city lights ripple beautifully across the water below.

For photographers, this bridge offers one of the best skyline views in the city — especially during golden hour or at night when the lights come alive.

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Cultural and Civic Significance

Beyond its beauty, the Helix Bridge has come to symbolize connection and innovation. It reflects Singapore’s drive to unite art, science, and technology in everyday spaces.

Since its opening, it has been featured in countless films, postcards, and travel campaigns — representing Singapore as a city that looks forward while honoring design excellence.

The bridge also serves as a gathering point for major national events like the National Day Parade, New Year’s Eve fireworks, and Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix, where thousands of spectators line its walkway to witness the celebrations.

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Visitor Information

Location: Marina Bay, connecting Marina Centre and Marina Bay Sands

Length: 280 meters

Opened: April 2010

Access: 24 hours, open daily, free entry

Nearest MRT Stations:

• Bayfront Station (Downtown / Circle Line)
• Promenade Station (Downtown / Circle Line)

Best Time to Visit:

• Evening to Night (6:30 PM – 10:00 PM) when the lights illuminate the structure
• Early morning for peaceful walks and reflection photography

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Fun Facts About the Helix Bridge

• It took six years to design and build the bridge.
• The DNA-inspired form was the first of its kind in Asia.
• There are letters “A”, “T”, “C”, and “G” embedded on the floor plates — a direct nod to the base pairs of DNA.
• The bridge is made from five times more stainless steel than the Eiffel Tower.
• The project won multiple international awards for structural design and innovation.

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Nearby Attractions

The Helix Bridge sits at the heart of Marina Bay’s best experiences:

• Marina Bay Sands SkyPark – for panoramic skyline views.
• ArtScience Museum – for futuristic exhibitions.
• Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay – for live music and performance.
• Gardens by the Bay – a short walk away through scenic waterfront paths.

The bridge connects seamlessly to all of these, making it the perfect starting point for exploring the bay.

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Conclusion: A Symbol of Progress and Beauty

The Helix Bridge is more than a path across the bay — it’s a masterpiece of design and meaning. Its spiral form reminds us that life, like the bridge, is about connection, movement, and discovery.

As you walk its glowing curves under the Singapore night sky, you don’t just see the city — you feel it: innovative, inspiring, and infinitely alive.

In every twist of steel and reflection of light, the Helix Bridge captures the very spirit of Singapore — a nation forever in motion, forever evolving.