Leisure and memorial parks

In the Soviet Union, every large town had a Park of Rest and Culture, and Moscow's Gorky Park is undoubtedly the most famous. Originally designed to entice the workers out for some fresh air and exercise, these parks have adapted to the times, and now provide a variety of outdoor entertainments for Muscovites and visitors. Nonetheless, much of their Soviet pomp has thankfully been preserved.

Gorky Park This celebrated Moscow landmark is perennially popular with locals  ›››

The All-Russian Exhibition Centre (VVTs) This remarkably diverse park/market/exhibition centre has to be seen to be believed.  ›››

Sokolniki Park A short trip from the heart of the city, Sokolniki is the ideal place to loaf around on a summer's day.  ›››

Friendship Park It's a long way from the center, but Friendship Park has a number of interesting sculptures that celebrate international friendship and goodwill between nations.  ›››

Filevsky Park Stretching along the banks of the Moskva River, this park being transformed into a landscape garden.  ›››

Victory Park Site of the 9 May victory celebrations, this recently completed park contains a number of memorials to Russian military might.  ›››

Khoroshevsky Forest and Serebryany Bor Popular with wealthy locals, this suburban park boasts the cleanest beaches around, and offers a number of activities including riding and sailing.  ›››