umass lowell campus visit

Self Guided Tour Registration Form

Visitors are welcome to explore campus on their own with the aid of our Virtual Tour. We do require anyone who visits campus to register as a UMass Lowell visitor using this form.

After you register here you will be sent more information to help make your self-guided tour a success. Anyone can schedule an on-campus tour with a tour guide here .

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UMass Lowell Campus Tours

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University of Massachusetts--Lowell Campus

University of Massachusetts--Lowell offers a number of student services, including nonremedial tutoring, placement service, health service, health insurance. University of Massachusetts--Lowell also offers campus safety and security services like 24-hour foot and vehicle patrols, late night transport/escort service, 24-hour emergency telephones, lighted pathways/sidewalks, controlled dormitory access (key, security card, etc.). Alcohol is permitted for students of legal age at University of Massachusetts--Lowell.

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University of Massachusetts--Lowell Campus Info & Regulations

Campus size (acres)

Alcohol permitted on campus for students of legal age

Career Services at University of Massachusetts--Lowell

Career services offered

• alumni network
• career/job search classes
• co-op education
• interest inventory
• internships
• interview training
• on-campus job interviews
• resume assistance

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Health, Safety & Counseling Services at University of Massachusetts--Lowell

Basic student services offered

• health insurance
• health service
• nonremedial tutoring
• placement service

Campus Safety and Security Services Offered

• 24-hour emergency telephones
• 24-hour foot and vehicle patrols
• Controlled dormitory access (key, security card, etc.)
• Late night transport/escort service
• Lighted pathways/sidewalks

Library & Museum Information

Museums or special academic buildings on campus

Learning Disabled (LD) Student Services

Services for LD students

• Exams on tape or computer
• Extended time for tests
• Learning center
• Note-taking services
• Other testing accommodations
• Priority registration
• Priority seating
• Reading machines
• Remedial English
• Remedial math
• Substitution of courses
• Typist/scribe
• Untimed tests
• Videotaped classes
• Waiver of foreign language degree requirement

AND 12 MORE

Physically Disabled Student Services

Services for physically disabled students

• Adaptive equipment
• Braille services
• Interpreters for hearing-impaired
• Reader services
• Special housing
• Special transportation
• Talking books
• Tape recorders

Accessibility of campus to physically disabled students

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Student Services

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (adhd) student services, international student services, university of massachusetts--lowell campus map.

School Location

University of Massachusetts--Lowell

1 University Avenue, Lowell, MA 01854

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University of Massachusetts Lowell

• grade  B+ Overall Grade
• Rating 3.69 out of 5   1,443 reviews

Report Card

• Academics grade  B
• Value grade  A
• Diversity grade  A
• Campus grade  C
• Athletics grade  A minus
• Party Scene grade  B+
• Professors grade  B
• Location grade  B minus
• Dorms grade  B
• Campus Food grade  C
• Student Life grade  B
• Safety grade  B
• Common App Accepted
• Public College
• SAT/ACT Optional
• Some Online Degrees
• Massachusetts

UMass Lowell is a public research university ranked by “U.S. News and World Report” in its top tier of national universities. We’re located in Lowell, Massachusetts (about 25 miles from Boston), smack dab in the middle of New England’s business and technology corridor. We offer affordable, experience-based undergraduate and graduate degrees. Every student has the opportunity to gain hands-on experience outside the classroom.

Student outcomes and ROI get better every year. 98% of the Class of 2022 is employed, in graduate school or volunteering. We’re also:

• The #1 Public University in Massachusetts (Wall Street Journal)

• The #1 Public University in New England for Return on Investment (PayScale)

• #1 in Mid-Career Salary Among New England Public Universities (PayScale)

• In the Top 100 in the Nation for 20-Year ROI (PayScale)

UML students find incredible success after they graduate. We’ll help you take the first steps towards a fulfilling career and future as well.

• Undergraduate Academics
• Financial Aid
• Student Life
• Tour Campus

Upcoming Events

Junior preview day.

University Crossing - 220 Pawtucket St, Lowell, MA

Open to high school juniors, Junior Preview Day is the no-stress way to ease into the college search. During the event, you’ll get a sense of what UMass Lowell has to offer and if it’s a university you’d like to attend. You will have the chance to: • Meet current students and faculty • Explore our majors • Chat with admissions representatives and get tips on applying • Learn about your financial aid options Attendees will have the opportunity to take an optional academic campus tour following the event to explore our campus. Register here: https://www.uml.edu/admissions/visit/junior-preview-day.aspx

University of Massachusetts Lowell Rankings

Niche rankings are based on rigorous analysis of key statistics from the U.S. Department of Education and millions of reviews.

• Most Liberal Colleges in America 87 of 100
• Best Value Colleges in America 103 of 1,482
• Best Colleges for Criminal Justice in America 123 of 706
• How to Apply
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Will You Get In?

Will you get into uml.

Test Scores and High School GPA for University of Massachusetts Lowell See Other Colleges

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Youtube video, scholarship, most popular majors.

• Business 631 Graduates
• Information Science 269 Graduates
• Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Administration 250 Graduates
• Psychology 230 Graduates
• Mechanical Engineering 214 Graduates
• Computer Science 193 Graduates
• Biology 164 Graduates
• Electrical Engineering 119 Graduates
• Liberal Arts and Humanities 103 Graduates
• Civil Engineering 97 Graduates

Explore your options at UMass Lowell

We have 120+ majors to choose from—but you don’t have to rush to decide. We have invested millions of dollars in labs, studios, makerspaces and more to enhance hands-on learning and bring classroom material into the real world. Our co-op and internship programs expand every year. Our students invent products, form companies, publish research, present at academic conferences and travel the world.

• Mix of Online and on Campus 10%
• On Campus 72%
• Variety 42%
• Practical 7%
• off-putting 3%

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Campus life.

• AWESOME! 26%
• Interesting 21%
• Very challenging (in a good way) 21%
• Growing 14%
• Responsible 6%
• Underrated 4%

After College

University of massachusetts lowell reviews.

• Rating 5 out of 5   Excellent 291   reviews ( 20 %)
• Rating 4 out of 5   Very Good 557   reviews ( 39 %)
• Rating 3 out of 5   Average 490   reviews ( 34 %)
• Rating 2 out of 5   Poor 69   reviews ( 5 %)
• Rating 1 out of 5   Terrible 36   reviews ( 2 %)
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• Overall Experience

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We're delighted that you are interested in visiting UMass Amherst! Below you will find information about planning your visit and traveling to campus.

Campus Tours & Info Sessions

UMass Amherst Undergraduate Admissions offers in-person campus tours and first-year admissions information sessions throughout the week. Our tours and information sessions offer students and families the opportunity to learn more about life at UMass Amherst and our first-year application process.

View the schedule and sign up

More ways to meet umass.

We can't wait to meet you! Our student tour guides, admissions counselors, and academic partners are eager to answer your questions and guide you through the admissions process. 

Check out our in-person and online events for opportunities where you can interact, ask questions, and learn all about the UMass Amherst experience.

Getting Around Campus

Group tours.

UMass Amherst Undergraduate Admissions offers group tours to high schools, community-based organizations and community colleges that work with students at the 9th-grade level and above.

To request a group tour (10-60 students) for your high school group, community-based organization or community college, please see the schedule linked below. Space is extremely limited, so it is recommended to schedule a group tour well in advance. Groups are also welcome to visit UMass at any time and tour campus on their own . 

Amherst: A Great College Town

Amherst is known as one of the top college towns in North America! The town really has it all, and it will be your home as a UMass Amherst student.

Meet Our Tour Guides

Abby '27 (she/her).

Hometown: Grafton, Massachusetts

Major: Biology, pre-med track

Activities and involvement: Asian American Student Association, UMass Pre-Medical Society, intramural soccer

Favorite food location at UMass: Berkshire Dining Commons

Alec '27 (he/him)

Hometown: Somerville, Massachusetts

Major: Psychology

Activities and involvement: Member of the Commonwealth Honors College, intramural hockey through LUG Sports

Favorite food location at UMass: Easily Roots Café in the Honors College hub. The quesadillas and chicken sandwich are heavenly. Just don’t ask how much money I’ve spent so far…

Ally '24 (she/her)

Hometown : Boxborough, Massachusetts

Double major : Kinesiology and Public Health (Pre-Medical)

Activities and involvement : UMass CHAARG (President), pre-medical peer advisor, patient care technician at Emerson Hospital, teaching assistant in Kinesiology, 

Why I chose UMass: I chose UMass Amherst because it is the best of both worlds. Here I am able to create my own small-school feel while also being part of a larger community at a world-class university. There are so many resources available to me as a student, and every faculty member I have come across is supportive and wants me to succeed. I switched majors three times in just one semester, and UMass made that process seamless and easy, allowing me to explore my interests and learn from other perspectives. 

Andrew '25 (he/him)

Hometown: Downingtown, Pennsylvania

Major: Speech, Language & Hearing Sciences

Activities and involvement: Outing Club, National Student Speech-Language & Hearing Club, social media manager Special Olympics club, vice president Cycling and Sustainability Club, and intramural soccer team

Anna '27 (she/her)

Hometown: Lexington, Massachusetts

Double major: Theater and Economics 

Activities and involvement: Commonwealth Honors College, UMass Theatre Guild, UMass Theatre Department

UMass hidden gem: The garden outside Frank is one of my favorite places to visit on a beautiful day. Whether I take a walk through the rows of plants or sit and read a book on one of the benches, it never fails to put me at ease and is always a great way for me to reconnect with nature.

Annabelle '25 (she/her)

Hometown: Oak Ridge, New Jersey

Major: Biology  Minors: Biochemistry and Business

Activities and involvement: Chaarg, TA, peer-led organic chemistry tutor, Polish Cultural Club, UMass Dining Ambassador

Why I chose UMass: I chose UMass because of the Exploratory Track offered, where I was able explore different classes in the STEM realm and find a track that best fit what I was looking for in a career!

Bella ‘24 (she/her)

Hometown: Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts

Double major: Journalism and Psychology

Activities and involvement: HER Campus, ACE MV advisory board member, local mental health advocate

Favorite food in the dining commons:  My favorite food on campus is the paradise sushi roll from Blue Wall!

Bella '25 (she/her)

Hometown: Pembroke, Massachusetts

Major: Marketing

Activities and involvement: Commonwealth Honors College, UMass Women in Business Co-director of Professional Events

Why I chose UMass: I chose UMass because of the extensive support and resources that the university has to offer. I have never once felt under-advised and have always had someone to turn to when I needed guidance. Additionally, UMass offers numerous opportunities for students to thrive, including various clubs, organizations, and support groups on campus.

Ben '24 (he/him)

Hometown: Natick, Massachusetts

Major: Theater

Activities and involvement: UMass Theater Guild, Club Gymnastics, UMass Mystery, UMass Lettuce Club, Intramural Co-Ed Flag Football

UMass hidden gem: The Durfee greenhouse is beautiful all year round. From the tropical plants to the koi fish, it’s such a serene place to study. 

Briana '24 (she/her)

Hometown: Medford, Massachusetts

Major: Operations & Information Management and Psychology

Minor: Information Technology

Activities and involvement: OIM Club, Women in Business, Intramural Volleyball

Favorite food location at UMass: Carney Café in the Isenberg Hub

Celia '26 (she/her)

Hometown: Acton, Maine

Major: Legal Studies

Minors: Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, and Anthropology

Activities and involvement: Club Swimming, Triathlon Club, Commonwealth Honors College, Pre-Law Club, Legal Studies Undergraduate Board

Favorite food location at UMass: I love the wraps at Whitmore Café, a perfect hidden gem in the center of campus!

Chris '24 (he/him)

Hometown: Winthrop, Massachusetts

Double major: Marketing and Journalism

Activities and involvement:  Social media manager Excel Ninja, writer for Amherst Wire, podcast host, club lacrosse

Favorite food at one of the dining commons: Hampshire Dining Commons honey-glazed salmon

Christian '25 (he/him)

Hometown: Charlton, Massachusetts

Major: Finance

Activities and involvement: Delta Sigma Pi Fundraising Chair, Intramural Soccer

UMass hidden gem: The rooftop on the Design Building is one of the best spots on campus a lot of people don’t know about!

Colby '26 (he/him)

Hometown: Bourne, Massachusetts

Major: Electrical Engineering

Activities and involvement: WMUA radio, UMass Wind Energy Club, UMass Outing Club, intramural sports

Why I chose UMass: I chose to go to UMass because of their top-ranked engineering programs, and how that gives me a smaller, niche community to interact with within the large and diverse campus as a whole. There are so many ways to find your groups while at UMass, but it’s great having the resources of a bigger school. You can really get the best of both worlds at UMass!

Colin ‘24 (he/him)

Major: Biology on the Pre-Physician Assistant Track

Minor: Spanish

Activities and involvement: Research assistant in the Downes Lab, Pre-Physician Assistant Club, teaching assistant for Honors Introductory Biology, Intramural Sports, BioTAP RAP, Commonwealth Honors College

UMass hidden gem:  If you stand on the Morrill Science Center bridge as the sun is setting, you get a beautiful unobstructed view of the center of campus with a classic UMass sunset in the background. It makes for some great pictures!

Daniela '24 (she/her)

Hometown: Bronx, New York

Major: Kinesiology on a Physical Therapy Track

Minor: Psychology

Certificate: Medical Humanities

Activities and involvement: Kinesiology Club, Association of Women in STEM

UMass hidden gem:  I think a UMass hidden gem is the rooftop courtyard in the John W. Olver Design Building! It is such a beautiful and peaceful place to study or even just spend some time with your friends!

Danish '26 (he/him)

Hometown: Belchertown, Massachusetts

Double major: Economics and Public Health on the Pre-Med Track

Activities: Commonwealth Honors College, TA for SPHHS 150, research assistant in Skouta Lab, events coordinator for Pakistani Students Organization, HEART intern

Favorite food from the dining commons: Mediterranean wrap with lamb from Tavola. 

David '25 (he/him)

Hometown: Agawam, Massachusetts

Double major: Biochemistry and Psychology

Activities and involvement: Commonwealth Honors College, club swim team, Ski and Board Club, lifeguard with Campus Recreation

Why I chose UMass: UMass was the perfect combination of great academics, great food, low cost, and a vibrant community. There is truly an exciting, fun, and enthusiastic energy at UMass that the students and staff all create. I really enjoy the amount of events, activities, and resources that are offered to students on campus, and even in the surrounding area. There is always something to do, and new things to experience.

Dilan '24 (he/him)

Hometown: Burlington, Massachusetts

Double major: Economics and Political Science

Minor: Math and French

Activities and involvement: Commonwealth Honors College, student-assistant coordinator of co-curricular events and programs for the Honors College, Commonwealth Honors College Student Advisory Board, undergraduate research assistant in the Department of Resource Economics, UMass Minuteman Marching Band, UMass Pep Band (Hoop and Ice Band), SBS in D.C.

UMass hidden gem: The marching band practice fields are where I spend most of my fall semesters, and I couldn’t love them any more. All semester long, you are guaranteed to witness the most stunning sunsets over the fields during every single rehearsal. Even when cold weather makes your instrument freeze to your lips, or rain makes the grass into a slip-and-slide, the stunning sunsets will always melt your woes and warm your soul. 

Divya '25 (she/her)

Hometown: Shrewsbury, Massachusetts

Double major: Microbiology and Human Pathophysiology (BDIC)

Activities and involvement:  UMass Jazba, South Asian Students Association, Hack(H)er413, Pre-Medical Society, Early Academic Development Lab

Favorite UMass food: My favorite food on campus is the zesty orange chicken from Frank Grab and Go!! It’s the perfect quick lunch to eat and will always hit the spot. Also great to grab if you want to sit outside and eat lunch on a sunny UMass day!

Drew '25 (he/him)

Hometown: Uxbridge, Massachusetts

Major: Environmental Science

Activities:  Commonwealth Honors College, undergraduate research assistant in the Stockbridge School of Agriculture, EnviSci peer advisor, gallery attendant for the Student Union Art Gallery, UMass Dynamics Acappella, Forestry Club

UMass hidden gem: The outdoor areas around Central and Orchard Hill Residential Areas. I would consider the Durfee Conservatory a must-visit when at UMass, but the gardens and orchards surrounding the greenhouses are just as beautiful. The rhododendron garden across the street is also a great place to check out, especially because you can find some trees and shrubs that make up UMass’s arboretum. Lastly, Prexy’s Ridge is the only old-growth forest in Massachusetts found on a college campus and has awesome trails to explore.

Eli '25 (he/him)

Hometown: Alameda, California

Double major: Sport Management and Marketing

Activities and involvement: McCormack Student Leaders Club (MSL), RAP resident as a freshman, intramural sports

Why did you choose UMass?:  I chose UMass for a wide range of reasons, but the biggest reason I chose it was to have the opportunity to be a part of the most prestigious and best Sport Management department in the country. After taking part in the summer program that the department puts on every year, I knew I wanted to be in the McCormack Department for my undergraduate years. Two tour guides who also are Sport Management majors were kind enough to talk to me before I officially made my college decision and their enthusiasm about the department, the tour guide job, and UMass as a whole solidified my choice to come to UMass.

Elise '27 (she/her)

Hometown: Andover, Massachusetts

Activities and involvement: UMass Alpine ski team, Women in Business, Marketing Club, AdLab 

Favorite food at one of the dining commons: Moose tracks ice cream at Frank

Elizabeth ‘25 (she/her)

Hometown: Braintree, Massachusetts

Major: Biomedical Engineering

Activities: UMass Minuteman Marching Band, Pep Band, Spring Color Guard

Favorite food on campus: Sweets ‘n' More is one of my favorite student-run businesses on campus.  All of their ice cream shakes are named after current students working there, and my friend Lee’s shake, called the Lee’s a Little Fruity, is my absolute favorite.  It’s made with raspberry sorbet, strawberry ice cream, and maraschino cherries! 

Ella '26 (she/her)

Hometown: Arlington, Massachusetts

Double major: Psychology and Community Education & Social Change

Activities and involvement: Commonwealth Honors College, Habitat for Humanity, CHAARG, Outing Club, intramural sports

Why I chose UMass: I chose the University of Massachusetts Amherst for the affordable tuition, their high ranking as a public university, the large student population, and access to a large university's resources. My acceptance to the Commonwealth Honors College is another reason that I chose UMass, with its tight-knit community and smaller class sizes. UMass has something for everyone, and I truly couldn’t be happier with my decision to come here. 

Emerson '26 (she/her)

Hometown: Westborough, Massachusetts

Major: Psychology with a certificate in Criminal Justice

Activities and involvement: Residential Service Desk (RSD), UMass Transfer Residential Academic Program (Rap), Best Buddies club, Criminal Justice Club, intramural field hockey, basketball, volleyball, and co-ed flag football

Favorite food location at UMass: My favorite dining hall at UMass is Hampshire Dining Commons, or more commonly known as Hamp! I love the layout of Hamp, the variety of food choices, and the huge open windows that overlook the Southwest horseshoe. Not to mention, they have the absolute best oat-ly self serve ice cream for the perfect sweet treat after a well-balanced meal. I always put chocolate sprinkles, caramel sauce, coconut flakes, and crushed up Butterfinger candy pieces on my oat-ly…wow I am hungry now! 

Emily '24 (she/her)

Hometown: Haverhill, Massachusetts

Major: Early Childhood Education

Favorite food from the dining commons: My favorite food at UMass are the mint chocolate brownies that you can find at any of the four award-winning dining halls! They are so chocolatey and they go great with the homemade vanilla ice cream. 

Emily '26 (she/her)

Major: Nutrition Minor: Kinesiology

Activities and involvement: Nutrition Club

Favorite food at one of the dining commons: The chicken teriyaki sushi from Worcester commons is the best thing ever! The chicken and sushi combo is the best of both worlds!

Emma '25 (she/her)

Hometown: Berkley, Massachusetts

Major: Operations and Information Management

Activities and involvement: Delta Sigma Pi, 180 Degrees Consulting

UMass hidden gem: The courtyard area in the Commonwealth Honors College residential area is a great place to enjoy a sunny spring day or watch a great sunset over the rec fields!

Fayobomi (Fayo) '24 (she/her)

Hometown : Ondo State, Nigeria

Double major : Marketing and Communications Minor: Psychology

Activities and involvement : Admissions diversity fellow, teaching assistant, peer advisor, peer mentor, SoulTV

Favorite UMass food: Harvest has my heart.

Fiona '25 (she/her)

Hometown: Quincy, Massachusetts

Major: Kinesiology

Activities and involvement: The Body Shop on campus, physical therapist aide and personal trainer off campus

Why I chose UMass: I chose UMass because despite how big and intimidating the size of the school may be, the environment and community felt so welcoming and so easy to find my place in! I transferred here from a much smaller school but the liveliness of the campus and extensive opportunities for involvement made the large campus and thousands of students so much easier to navigate. Something that has always stood out to me was how welcoming and kind the entire community at UMass is, both staff and students. This is something that truly can make or break a college experience — for me here at UMass, it made it! Beyond this the classes specifically for my major, kinesiology, were very extensive for several career path outcomes and had exactly what I was looking for! Academic-wise, the transfer process was seamless making my transfer process easier than I ever expected!

Gavin '25 (he/him)

Hometown: Belford, New Jersey 

Double major: Geography (GIST) and Sustainable Community Development

Activities and involvement: Commonwealth Honors College student ambassador, International Scholars Program, New Student Orientation and Transitions Office, Student Alumni Association, intramural soccer and volleyball, Jewish Student Union (JewMass)

Favorite UMass tradition/event: My favorite UMass Tradition is the Commencement Ball. Every May, senior students are able to attend this formal gala in the Mullins Center to celebrate the success of their undergraduate journey. It is like prom, but for college students! As a member of the Student Alumni Association, I was able to help plan and decorate for this highly anticipated event during my first year at UMass! It was extremely rewarding seeing the final product of my club’s hard work. 

Giorgia '27 (she/her)

Hometown: Milan, Italy

Major: Animal Science 

Minor: Art History 

Activities and involvement: Animal Science/Pre-vet club, Animal Science RAP

Favorite food at one of the dining commons: My favorite food here at UMASS is the chocolate chip banana bread. It can be found in all of the cafes on campus and on special occasions in the dining halls. It is the perfect snack during a study break or in the morning, especially if paired with coffee. It just never disappoints. 

Hunter '26 (she/her)

Hometown: Holyoke, Massachusetts

Major: Operations & Information Management

Activities and involvement: Commonwealth Honors College, Women in Business, Isenberg Global Citizens, American Hotel & Lodging Association

Favorite food at one of the dining commons: The pickle slices at the Hampshire Dining Commons sandwich station!

Ilana '25 (she/her)

Hometown: Watertown, Massachusetts

Double major: Dual degree in BDIC (Concentration: Microbiology and Soil Science) and Portuguese 

Activities and involvement:  Commonwealth Honors College, president of UMass Club Swimming, RecWell employee, undergraduate researcher in Molecular Microbial Ecology Lab, permaculture garden volunteer 

Favorite food at one of the dining commons: My favorite food from the dining commons is the Japanese Curry Chicken Tonkatsu, or as I refer to it, Japanese yummy yummy . Every Wednesday night after swim practice, you’ll find my teammates and I in the dining hall with ‘Japanese yummy yummy’ bowls cluttering our table. 

Indira '26 (she/her)

Hometown: New York, New York   

Double major: Legal Studies and Environmental Refugee Displacement (BDIC) 

Activities and involvement: Commonwealth Honors College, UMass Minuteman Marching Band, intramural soccer, volunteer work at Not Bread Alone Soup Kitchen (CESL Program)

UMass hidden gem: Definitely the courtyard behind Thompson Hall facing the Campus Center Parking Garage. It’s a great outdoor study space that’s tucked away from the main campus walkway just enough that it’s the perfect environment to concentrate in. In the spring, the cherry trees in the courtyard bloom, and you can tuck yourself up underneath the petals on a lawn chair and just relax. I highly recommend!

Isabella '24 (she/her)

Hometown: Scottsdale, Arizona

Double major: Public Health and Spanish

Activities and involvement: Greek Life, Public Health Club, study abroad (Salamanca, Spain), Student Nurses Association, intramural sports, teaching assistant 

Why I chose UMass: I am a firm believer that you can truly only live AND experience a college town once in your life, and that is when you are in college! The Amherst area is not only home to UMass Amherst but also four other colleges, bringing a lot of opportunities, perspectives, and fun!

Ishaan '26 (he/him)

Hometown: New Delhi, India

Double major: Economics and Psychology Minor: IT

Activities and involvement: Student Government Association (SGA), Sikh Students Association, 180 Degrees Consulting, SBS Pathways Center, Implicit Social Cognition Lab

UMass Hidden Gem: The hill in Orchard Hill makes for an awesome hangout spot to watch sunsets and have picnics on warmer days and for sledding on snow days! I so wish I had discovered it sooner while I was living in the area. 

Isoiza '24 (he/him)

Hometown: Silver Spring, Maryland

Major: Sport Management

Minor: Economics

Activities and involvement: Member of Commonwealth Honors College, coach of UMass women's club basketball team, scout team for UMass varsity basketball team.

Favorite food location at UMass: Worcester Dining Commons. 

Jibrael '25 (he/him)

Hometown: North Bergen, New Jersey

Activities and involvement: Association of Diversity in Sport, McCormack Sport and Analytics, Laboratory for Inclusion and Diversity in Sport, mentee for the Boston Celtics for Corporate Partnerships

Why I chose UMass:  I chose UMass because they wanted me for me, and they accepted what I did inside and outside of the classroom! I am really glad I ended up coming here!

JC '25 (he/him)

Hometown: Dartmouth, Massachusetts

Activities and involvement: Head of public relations at the Massachusetts Daily Collegian, Phi Kappa Phi Honors Society, Diversity in Psychology Club

Favorite food at the dining commons: Frank stir fry with chicken and noodles, a little spicy and extra flavor

Julia '27 (she/her)

Hometown: Longmeadow, Massachusetts

Double major: Biology and Spanish

Activities and involvement: Pre-Medical Society, Genetics Club, Spanish department weekly Sobremesa

Favorite food at one of the dining commons: The pho noodle soup is by far my favorite meal on campus! You can add in a bunch of different things, but I always add tofu, scallions, cilantro, and a lime wedge!

Kaitlyn '24 (she/her)

Major: Nursing

Activities and involvement: Chi Omega, Student Nurses’ Association, Hampshire Medical Reserve Corps, Ski & Board Club, UMass Dance Marathon

UMass hidden gem: My favorite spot on campus is the Durfee Conservatory! It is a gorgeous greenhouse with its own koi pond. In between classes, I like to stop by for some peace and quiet to get away from the hustle and bustle of UMass. 

Kelly '26 (she/her)

Major: Psychology with a Neuroscience Concentration 

Minor: Business

Activities and involvement: Club Gymnastics, Ski and Board club, Alpha Epsilon Phi Sorority

UMass hidden gem: Argo tea next to Berkshire!

Hometown: North Reading, Massachusetts

Minor: Math

Activities and involvement: UMass Ski and Board Club, UMass Outing Club, intramural flag football

Favorite UMass tradition/event: My favorite UMass tradition has to be the opening game at the Mullins Center for the hockey season. There is so much school spirit and watching the game is a lot of fun!  

Kendall '26 (they/she)

Hometown: Beverly, Massachusetts

Major: Geography

Minor: History

Activities and involvement: Geoscience Club, UMass Democrats, Film Discussion Club, intramural flag football

Favorite food at one of the dining commons: Garlic. Knots. They have them at all the dining halls from time to time, but my favorite way to have them is from Worcester Grab N’ Go on Fridays with chicken broccoli alfredo.

Kyle '24 (he/him)

Hometown:  Taunton, Massachusetts

Minor: Sociology

Activities: OIM Club, Marketing Club, Real Estate Club, intramural sports

Favorite UMass food: My go-to UMass lunch is a buffalo chicken grilled cheese from the Carney Café in Isenberg! It’s the perfect quick meal between class times.

Lizzie ‘25 (she/her)

Hometown: East Longmeadow, Massachusetts

Double Major: Linguistics and Communication Disorders

Activities and involvement: Commonwealth Honors College, Period Movement, UMass Permaculture Initiative, Outing Club

UMass hidden gem:  Greeno Sub Shop! Located in the basement of Greenough Hall in Central Residential Area, Greeno Sub Shop makes the best grilled cheese sandwich at UMass. Along with Greeno, UMass has a number of completely student run businesses, all of which serve amazing food and are run by your peers (which makes it that much cooler). The menu and atmosphere of Greeno is just the best, and is 100% worth walking up the hill for.

Mackenzie '24 (she/her)

Hometown: Worcester, Massachusetts

Minor: Education

Activities and involvement: Chair of Outreach and Development in the Student Government Association

Favorite food location at UMass : People’s Market

Maddie '25 (she/her)

Hometown: Rehoboth, Massachusetts

Double Major: Art and Education

Activities and involvement: Art Club, Museum Club, Crochet Club, Ski Club, Outing Club, House Council

Favorite food location at UMass: My favorite food location at Umass is Sweets & More. I go there almost every week and I love supporting them since they are a student-run business. Sweets & More always has new and different themed foods based on holidays or what is happening on campus, and I always get excited to see what new desserts they have each month. My favorite things to get are the shamrock shake for St. Patrick's Day and the caramel apples for Halloween. 

Mary '24 (she/her)

Hometown: Mattapoisett, Massachusetts

Double major: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Management

Activities and involvement: Special Olympics club, Club Lacrosse, Commonwealth Honors College, Women in Business, Intramural everything 

Favorite food location at UMass: My favorite food location is the Greeno Sub shop, one of our student run co-ops on campus where you are guaranteed to get a delicious and creative sandwich served to you with a smile. They’re always coming up with new menu items and I love it.

Myleigh '26 (she/her)

Hometown: Williston, Vermont

Major: Psychology, Neuroscience Track

Minor: Biology and Certificate in DDHS

Activities and involvement: The Navigators, Habitat for Humanity, NSSLHA, intramural volleyball, and I’m a research assistant in a neuroscience lab on campus.

Favorite food location at UMass: Franklin Dining Commons!!!

Naicha '24 (she/her)

Hometown:  Taunton, Massachusetts

Major:  Psychology, Neuroscience Track 

Activities and Involvement:  STEM ambassador program

Favorite UMass event:  UMass Blackout Cookout is a great way for different, diverse communities to come together and showcase cultural dances, songs, foods, etc. and celebrate heritage and each other’s uniqueness on a bigger scale. 

Natalie '26 (she/her)

Hometown: Salem, Massachusetts

Double major: Psychology, and Criminology & Law

Activities and involvement: Communities Against Cancer Club, Students to End Alzheimer’s Disease Club, Special Olympics (Young Athletes Program), Criminology Club, Neuroscience Club, Forsythe Grange Mentoring Program, SPACE Program

Favorite food at one of the dining commons: Cookies & cream frozen yogurt with Oreo topping!

Ria '25 (she/her)

Hometown: Elmsford, New York 

Major: Psychology and Economics 

Minor: Business 

Activities and involvement: Economics Club, Girl Up, American Red Cross Club, UMass South Asian Students Association, Resident Assistant 

Why I chose UMass: The main reason I chose UMass was because the campus is just so beautiful. Whenever I feel stressed about school, or just want some fresh air, I always go and sit by the pond. I also love visiting the Durfee Conservatory and watching the koi fish swim around. The atmosphere and environment at UMass is extremely refreshing and I’m so glad I chose to come here! 

RJ '25 (he/him)

Hometown: Mount Laurel, New Jersey

Major:  Operations & Information Management

Certificate: Data Analytics

Activities and involvement: WMUA, Marketing Club, Outing Club, Ski and Board Club

Favorite UMass food:  Teriyaki chicken bowls from Hamp!

Sabrina '25 (she/her)

Hometown: Newton, Massachusetts

Double major: History and Economics

Activities and involvement: Women’s club volleyball, Student Government Association, Resident Assistant

Favorite food location at UMass: My favorite food location is Tavola in Blue Wall. I’m there at least three times a week to get a falafel or chicken wrap (and always with extra tzatziki).

Sage '26 (she/her)

Hometown: Rowley, Massachusetts

Double major: Sociology and Psychology

Activities and involvement: Acapella and intramural sports

Why I chose UMass: I chose to transfer to UMass because of the welcoming environment and the overwhelming amount of groups to join, and activities to participate in. I love meeting new people every day and discovering new gems of campus. 

Sam '25 (she/her)

Hometown: Ipswich, Massachusetts

Activities and involvement: Student Nursing Association (SNA), Student Nurse Ambassador, CHC, Intramural Volleyball

Favorite food at UMass: The chicken teriyaki sushi from Hampshire Dining Commons is my favorite! I don’t like seafood, and I like the chicken so much that I usually ask for some on the side too.

Sara '27 (she/her)

Hometown: Seattle, Washington

Double major: Political Science and Sociology; certificate in Criminology and the Criminal Justice System 

Activities and involvement: Intramural volleyball, Legal Studies Club

Favorite food at one of the dining commons: Spicy tuna roll from Berk

Scotty '25 (he/him)

Hometown: Boston, Massachusetts

Major: Mechanical Engineering

Activities and involvement: American Society for Mechanical Engineers (ASME), Supermileage Vehicle Team (SMV)

Favorite food at one of the dining commons: Waffles and hard ice cream at Franklin Dining Commons

Shyla '26 (she/her)

Hometown:  Orange, Massachusetts

Major:  Kinesiology on Pre-Physical Therapy Track

Activities and involvement: Treasurer and competitive dancer - Ballroom Dance Team, Programming Board

UMass hidden gem: The courtyard between Linden and Maple House. Love studying outside when its nice out and it's usually super quiet

Silas '26 (he/him)

Hometown: Topsfield, Massachusetts

Major: Political Science

Activities and involvement: Cru, Club Tennis, 91.1 WMUA Amherst, Outings Club, and intramural soccer, flag football, basketball, and volleyball

UMass hidden gem: The Post & Bean Café in the Olver Design Building is one of my favorite places to study! It has tons of big windows, really great architecture, and faces west, so it’s a great place to see the sunset! Every time I’m there, I grab a latte and set up by the window to grind out my homework. Definitely check it out if you’re looking for a hidden study spot.

Sophia '24 (she/her)

Hometown: Lexington, Massachusetts 

Double major: Computer Science and Psychology

Activities and involvement: UMass Dance Club, UMass Ski and Board (Board Member), WMUA (91.1 FM), Women in Computer Science

UMass hidden gem:  Harry Potter themed bathroom, but you have to find it for yourself!

Sophie '25 (she/her)

Hometown: Marblehead, Massachusetts

Double major: Political Science and Journalism

Minor: French

Activities and involvement: Massachusetts Daily Collegian Staff Writer, WMUA 91.1 DJ, UMass Women into Leadership Fellow, Resident Assistant

Favorite food at one of the dining commons: Stir fry and cookies & cream frozen yogurt at Berkshire Dining Commons makes for the perfect meal!

Tamara '25 (she/her)

Hometown: Beirut, Lebanon 

Major: Exploratory Track in the College of Natural Sciences

Activities and involvement: Arab Cultural Association; Center for Education, Policy, and Advocacy; research

UMass hidden gem:  Morrill Science center has an amazing hidden crystal exhibit that I always visit after class.

Taylor '27 (she/her)

Hometown: Stamford, Connecticut

Double major: Studio Art and English

Activities and involvement: College of Humanities and Fine Arts (HFA) Student Leadership Group, Hillel, Local Mojo, Art Club, Criminology Club, UDems

Why I chose UMass: I feel supported as a humanities major at UMass. The College of Humanities and Fine Arts (HFA) has many resources for students to take advantage of. The HFA community is one that I cherish and am proud to be a part of!

Ty '26 (he/him)

Hometown: Sheffield, Massachusetts

Major: English

Activities and involvement: Theater electrician

Favorite food location at UMass: Sweets 'n' More is my favorite place on campus to grab food. They have breakfast food in the evening and I can go there with friends and grab themed milkshakes and hash browns. 

Uma '26 (she/her)

Hometown: Caldwell, New Jersey

Double major: Psychology and BDIC (behavioral economics) 

Activities and involvement: Commonwealth Honors College, Student Alumni Association (student ambassador and recruitment coordinator), iCons, Isenberg Undergraduate Consulting Group (junior analyst) 

Favorite food at the dining commons:  Mac ‘n’ cheese with buffalo tenders at Worcester grab ‘n’ go every Monday! Monday Mac is literally built into my calendar because of how much I love it and look forward to it!

Valeria '27 (she/her)

Hometown: Billerica, Massachusetts

Double major: Political Science and Economics 

Minor: Psychology 

Activities and involvement: Apart from being a tour guide, I am a Senator, Chair of the Rules and Ethics Subcommittee, and sit in on the Administrative Affairs Committee for the Student Government Association. I am also a member of the Commonwealth Honors College and part of a RAP (Residential Academic Program).

Favorite UMass tradition/event:  My favorite UMass Event is supporting our Division 1 sports teams. Whether it’s attending the Football tailgates, Basketball, or Hockey games, UMass never fails to provide you with a sense of community through these exciting games. Our competitive program and exceptional school spirit make attending these events one of the best parts of my experience. 

Vandana '24 (she/her)

Double Major: Economics and Math

Minor:  Computer Science

Activities and involvement:  UMass Red Club, Smart Woman Securities, Girls Who Invest, and more!

Favorite food location at UMass: My favorite food on campus is the Tavola falafel wrap. It’s so refreshing and delicious!

Willa '26 (she/her)

Hometown: Annapolis, Maryland

Double major: Communications and Journalism

Activities and involvement: UMass Ski and Board Club, Dance Club, Yoga Club 

Favorite UMass tradition/event:  Guac week

Yasmine '26 (she/her)

Hometown: Woburn, Massachusetts

Double major: Public Health and Public Policy 

Minor: Arabic 

Activities and involvement: Arab Cultural Association (E-Board), Muslim Student Association, Pakistani Student Organization, Student Government Association, Public Health Club, teaching assistant 

Favorite UMass tradition: PSO’s Mock Shaadi is definitely one of my favorite events on campus.

Yusuf' 25 (he/him)

Hometown: Durban, South Africa

Major: Economics Minor: Philosophy

Activities and involvement: Resident assistant, Muslim Students Association, Outing Club, Isenberg Sales Club

UMass hidden gem: A hidden gem I’ve come across during my time at UMass is the Durfee Conservatory, opposite UHS. The conservatory is a serene and warm escape from the hustle and bustle of campus, especially during the winter months. Whether it’s just walking through on my way to class or reading a book next to the koi pond, it’s a great place to unwind. 

Zaeem '27 (he/him)

Hometown: Islamabad, Pakistan

Double major: Computer Science and Mathematics in Data Science and Statistics

Activities and involvement: Member of the Pakistani Student Organization, Muslim Student Association, UMass Outing Club, and UMass Cricket Club.

Why I chose UMass: I chose UMass for a multitude of compelling reasons that combined to create an unbeatable experience. UMass has a vibrant and diverse student body, providing an exciting platform to connect with individuals from across the globe, each bringing unique ethnicities and cultures to the mix. Also, the campus is a hub of constant activity, offering endless opportunities to explore, engage, and push myself both academically and socially. Now that I'm here, I couldn't be happier to be a part of this adventure!

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Here's what Oprah's visit means to UMass Lowell students one year later

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Oprah Winfrey scholarship recipients look to pay the generosity forward

Oprah Winfrey made quite a splash when she visited campus  last year  and helped the university raise more than $3 million for student scholarships – including a surprise $1.5 million matching gift of her own.

As with any splash, Winfrey’s generosity created a ripple effect that has already grown from six to 60 students – and will continue on at the university for years to come.

To mark the one-year anniversary of Winfrey’s visit, Chancellor  Jacquie Moloney  invited the first recipients of the Oprah Winfrey Scholarship to a luncheon at University Crossing’s Moloney Hall. 

There, in the same room where Winfrey delighted 250 students in a master class before her sold-out  Chancellor’s Speaker Series  appearance at the Tsongas Center, dozens of undergraduate students shared their gratitude and reflected on the impact of their scholarships totaling $300,000.

“It meant a whole lot to me and my family to get this scholarship,” said Denzel Kumah, a junior nursing major from Worcester. “To have a big name like Oprah, with her status in this world, helping students out like that is something I really appreciate.”

“The scholarship was an eye-opener for me,” added Lissette Robles, a sophomore nursing major from Lawrence. “It’s motivated me to work even harder. If I want more scholarships that mean something to me, I have to work for it.”

Moloney, who wore the same sequined shoes that she wore on the Tsongas Center stage that night with Winfrey, shared with students  how the event came together  – and why she believes Winfrey took the microphone at evening’s end to announce that she was matching the $1.5 million raised.

“She saw the story of UMass Lowell,” Moloney said. “She saw your stories – our student stories – and what our faculty do here. She saw how our staff give philanthropically to scholarships to help people like you.

“That night, Oprah decided to invest in all of you. She didn’t know who you are personally, but she knows who you are, and she wanted to make a difference in your life.”

The Oprah Winfrey Scholarship benefits students with financial need who have demonstrated a commitment to academic achievement. Students come from a variety of backgrounds and include several members of the university’s new DC-CAP Scholars Program.

“Everyone in this room was chosen because you are really contributing and doing something special,” said  Julie Nash , vice provost for undergraduate studies and student success.

Winfrey’s gift created one of 26 new endowed funds (totaling $5.5 million) established at the university in the past year, which support scholarships for student veterans and undergraduates majoring in accounting, music education, plastics and civil engineering and more. The university currently has 551 endowed funds (totaling almost $100 million) that benefit scholarships and other programs.

From those endowed funds, the university awarded 946 scholarships totaling $1.7 million in Fiscal Year 2020. (An additional $1.35 million was provided in general support for academic programs and university initiatives.) The number of endowed scholarships at UML has doubled from a decade ago, when 474 endowed scholarships were awarded totaling $866,000.

The momentum created by Winfrey’s visit has helped fuel record support for the university’s campaign,  Our Legacy, Our Place: 125 and Rising . To date, more than 32,000 donors have contributed more than $150 million to support scholarships, faculty recruitment and research, campus improvements and UML’s Division I athletics program.

“What Oprah and her foundation have done is given our students a chance at a better life, and that’s what Oprah is all about,” says Vice Chancellor for Advancement  John Feudo . “It’s no surprise she chose UMass Lowell, because our mission is her mission. We couldn’t be more honored to be a beneficiary of her generosity.”

During the lunch, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and University Events  Larry Siegel  announced the creation of the new Oprah Scholarship Society, which will launch in January as a way to promote leadership, social justice and service among members.

Kumah was among those who “absolutely” would be joining the society.

“I just want to keep paying it forward and doing my best to be part of something bigger than myself,” he said.

As one of the first six students nominated for the Oprah Scholarship last fall, senior political science major  Daphne Shakira Naut  of Methuen got to meet the iconic talk show host, actress, author, publisher, entrepreneur and philanthropist backstage at the Tsongas Center.

“I was starstruck,” says Naut, who has kept Winfrey’s advice in mind over the past year.

“I think the greatest advice that I took from her that night was to be of service to one another,” Naut says. “I know that before I leave UMass Lowell, that’s something that I really want to get out to students. Just be polite and help each other, because you never know who’s in need.”

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UMass Lowell Athletics

Ncaa recruiting rules.

• During an official visit the college can pay for transportation to and from the college for the student-athlete, lodging and three meals per day for the student-athlete and his or her parents or guardians, as well as reasonable entertainment expenses including three tickets to a home sports event.
• The only expenses a college-bound student-athlete may receive from a college during an unofficial visit are three tickets to a home sports event.

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Moscow State University

• Guide to Russia

What is the history of Moscow State University?

• Moscow State University was founded on the initiative of Mikhail Lomonosov on 12th January 1755 . It inspired the democratisation of education in Russia, with students and teachers of non-noble backgrounds, lectures and library open to the public, and publishing houses. The university soon flourished into the educational, scientific and cultural centre of Russia • MSU expanded greatly in the Soviet period . Emphasis was placed on science and technology, culminating in truly pioneering research and discoveries. However, the ideology of the regime negatively affected academic development across the board, particularly in the humanities • Today, Moscow State University remains Russia’s top university , attended by over 40,000 students studying nearly all branches of modern science and humanities. It works closely with universities throughout the world and is involved in many educational and research projects

Moscow State University is Russia’s oldest university and the educational and scientific centre of the country, counting Noble Laureates, renowned scientists, intellectuals and political figures among its current and former staff and students. Its main campus is perched on a hilltop overlooking Moscow and is home to one of the capital’s most commanding buildings. Aside from exploring the campus to get a glimpse of life at Russia’s top university, you can visit Moscow State University’s many affiliated attractions on campus and around the city, including the Zoological Museum, Museum of Geology, Botanical Gardens, and viewing platform from the 32nd storey of the main building.

History of Moscow State University

Moscow state university during imperial russia.

Photo by I.s.kopytov on Wikipedia

Moscow State University was established in 1755 on the initiative of acclaimed intellectual and polymath Mikhail Lomonosov, and was known as the Imperial Moscow University until 1917. At the time of opening it consisted of three faculties – philosophy, law, and medicine – and was attended by 100 students. Lectures were delivered either in Latin, the language of educated people at the time, or in Russian. The university was initially located in the Principal Medical Store on Red Square, whose position is now occupied by the State Historical Museum.

Did you know? Moscow State University was founded on 12th January 1755 (Old Style, corresponding to 25th January New Style), the day of Saint Tatiana. Since then, Tatiana has been considered the patron saint of students, and Students’ Day is celebrated on 25th January every year. It has become customary on Students’ Day for the university Rector to treat students to mead brewed according to his secret recipe.

Imperial Moscow University played an outstanding role in the democratisation of education in Russia. Mikhail Lomonosov pointed out that European universities valued first and foremost the academic achievements of a student, and not their social standing or family background, and from its establishment, elitism was alien to the spirit of the university community. Non-nobles were allowed to enrol, and only serfs were not admitted; by the late 18th century, the majority of students and professors were of non-noble backgrounds. Initially, tuition at the university was free for all students, and later scholarships were funded by rich merchant families who were the patrons of the university. Lectures were open to the public, as was the university library, which remained Moscow’s only public library for a century. A publishing house and bookshop were established on campus in 1756, printing Imperial Russia’s most popular newspaper, Moskovskie Vedomosti (Moscow Gazette), as well as Moscow’s first literary periodical, Poleznoe Uveselenie (Useful Entertainment).

By the 18th century, Imperial Moscow University had become the educational, scientific, and cultural centre of Russia and was well established in the international community. This continued into the 19th century, as the university was a melting pot for all sections of society and attracted freethinking people concerned with the future of Russia. It was often a real battleground between the Westernisers and Slavophiles (supporters of Western ideas and those who thought Russia had its own unique way of development). With the abolition of serfdom, the university went through a period of reforms, as the country required highly qualified specialists in all sectors of work. In the second half of the 19th and early 20th centuries, Imperial Moscow University founded a large number of scientific and intellectual societies and educational, historical, and cultural institutions including the Zoological Gardens, Anthropological Museum, and the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts in Moscow, and the Academy of Arts in St Petersburg.

Did you know? The French invasion of Moscow in 1812 desecrated the university, with the total destruction of the library, archives, museum, and laboratories. Thanks to the donations of intellectuals from all over the country, the restoration of the university was soon made possible.

As a powerful centre of knowledge which closely followed intellectual developments elsewhere in Europe, university life became increasingly politicised. This came to a head at the beginning of the 20th century, when the emergence of social-democratic organisations caused the Tsarist government to threaten to close the university, bring troops onto campus, and expel professors and students. This conflict continued until the outbreak of the First World War.

Moscow University During Soviet Russia

Photo on Wikipedia

The Russian Revolution changed the entire system of higher education: in accordance with a decree issued in 1918, any person over the age of 16, regardless of gender or background, could attend any higher educational institution even without a certificate of secondary school graduation. What’s more, tuition fees were abolished and grants were provided to all. These measures hugely opened up higher education to the wider population, and by 1922 over 20,000 students attended Moscow State University. As science and technology were considered a national priority, distinct emphasis was placed on practical classes and scientific and mathematic disciplines. By the outbreak of the Second World War, MSU comprised 75 departments, 11 research institutes, 66 laboratories, four museums, and two observatories.

Nevertheless, the university’s primary focus was training as many students as possible for the Soviet state apparatus. The quality of teaching fell as many esteemed scholars left (or were expelled from) the university. Faculties which were considered to be ‘poisoned’ by the ideology of the old regime, such as the Faculties of Law, History and Philology, were abolished and replaced with the Faculties of Social Sciences, whose aim was to disseminate Soviet ideology and the ideas of scientific socialism; the humanities were only reintroduced 10 years later in a separate institute altogether. Stalin’s political repressions negatively affected the development of academic research. Soviet scientists and scholars were deprived of contact with their colleagues abroad, persecuted, imprisoned, and even executed, and certain branches of science were condemned as propagating an ideology alien to Communist ideas. Many thousands of students and staff were drafted to fight in the Second World War, 3000 of whom lost their lives. During the war, the university focused on military science, inventing new explosives and developing aircraft.

In 1940, the university was renamed the Moscow State University named after M. V. Lomonosov , the name which it holds to this day. In the post-war period, the new campus was built on Vorobyovy Gory (Sparrow Hills) and equipped with state-of-the-art lecture halls and laboratories. Funding to the university increased fivefold, new research institutions were created, and international collaboration was once again fostered.

Did you know? 12% of all scientific discoveries registered in the USSR are attributed to alumni of Moscow State University.

Moscow State University During Russia Today

Photo by Eldar Vagapov on Wikipedia

Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Moscow State University was instated as a self-governing institution. Today, the university is attended by over 40,000 students, and offers over 150 Bachelor’s degree programs and 500 Master’s degree programs in nearly all branches of modern science and humanities. It comprises 43 faculties and 380 departments staffed by more than 5,000 professors and instructors, among them 300 members of the Russian Academy of Sciences and other Russian state academies, and a library of almost 10 million volumes. Amongst its activities, MSU organises educational programmes attended by 10,000 high school students, Olympiads participated in by 200,000 high school students, and the All-Russia Science Festival, which attracts millions of participants each year.

The university’s long-standing democratic traditions continue in the ‘University Without Borders’ project, which provides online courses to over 300,000 students from 120 countries. MSU works closely with international universities and research institutes, and has branches in 8 other countries including China, Slovenia, and the CIS countries. Current developments at the university include the Vorobyovy Gory Scientific and Technological Valley, which aims to unite research institutes, educational organisations, and start-ups on one site.

Did you know? Projects of the Scientific and Technological Valley include a ‘Noah’s Ark’ biomaterials bank similar to the World Seed Store in Svalbard, and a Space Research programme which has successfully constructed and launched six satellites.

Alumni of Moscow State University

As Russia’s top university, Moscow State University counts many acclaimed figures among its alumni throughout the centuries, such as writers Mikhail Lermontov, Ivan Turgenev, and Anton Chekhov, the ‘father of Russian socialism’ Alexander Herzen, and statesman Grigory Potemkin. Of 18 Russian Nobel Laureates, 11 are graduates and professors of Moscow State University, and include Boris Pasternak, who won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1958, and Andrei Sakharov and Mikhail Gorbachev, who won the Nobel Prize for Peace in 1975 and 1990 respectively.

What can you see at Moscow State University?

• Main campus: Located on Vorobyovy Gory ( Sparrow Hills ). The campus is home to the world’s largest educational building, with a viewing platform on its 32nd floor, expansive and verdant grounds, the Museum of Geology, Botanical Garden, and a famous viewpoint offering a panorama over Moscow

•   City centre campus : Home to other attractions affiliated with Moscow State University, including the Zoological Museum, Museum of Anthropology, and Apothecary Garden

Main campus

The main campus of Moscow State University is located on Vorobyovy Gory, the highest point in Moscow. It comprises over 1,000 buildings, including the main university building constructed by Lev Rudnev – at 240 metres high, this is the tallest of Stalin’s ‘Seven Sisters’ skyscrapers and the largest educational building in the world. Although the buildings themselves are off-limits to the public, visitors can explore the expansive and verdant campus grounds, and visit the hilltop viewpoint at the front of the university which provides a panorama across Moscow and a commanding view of the main building across 500 metres of gardens. It is possible to arrange a private tour to the open-air 360-degree viewing platform on the main building’s 32nd floor.

Did you know? The main building is crowned with a gigantic 12-ton star!

Museum of Geology of Moscow State University

Photo by Ivtorov on Wikipedia

The museum was founded in 1950 and occupies the 24th – 31st floors of MSU’s main building. Its expositions cover the geology and geography of Russia and the world, the tundra, forest, and steppes of Russia, volcanoes, earthquakes, sea activities, the ancient history of the world, minerals of the world, and the structure of the universe. More information can be found here .

Did you know? Visitors to the Museum of Geology can even see a meteorite!

Moscow State University Botanical Gardens

Photo by Marcel Heil on Unsplash

The gardens were established in 1706 by Peter the Great for the cultivation of medicinal herbs. The newer Botanical Garden of the Biology Faculty is situated on the main campus and comprises fruit trees, a rock garden, lake, and thousands of varieties of flowers. The older Apothecary Garden is located north of the city centre on Prospekt Mira and is home to manicured flower gardens, an arboretum, and greenhouses of exotic and rare plants.

City centre campus

Zoological museum of moscow state university.

Photo by Andrew Butko on Wikipedia

The museum was founded in 1791 as the Cabinet of Natural History of the Imperial Moscow University, and opened to the public in 1866. It contains exhibits of birds, mammals, reptiles, insects, fish, and rare animals from around the world. The museum is located on Bolshaya Nikitskaya Ulitsa. Further information can be found on the website .

Did you know? The Zoological Museum is also home to a woolly mammoth skeleton, and visitors can hold reptiles in the Scientific Terrarium!

Museum of Anthropology of Moscow State University

Photo by GaKaGaMa on Wikipedia

Founded in 1883, the museum belongs to the university’s Institute of Anthropology and is located on Mokhovaya Ulitsa. It traces the activities of mankind from its origin to the present day, and collections include skeletons of hominids and other archaeological items found throughout Eurasia from the Palaeolithic era to the Middle Ages, and 13,000 exhibits of ethnographic interest including clothing, artwork, and home items. Visits are arranged in private tours. See the website for more information.

What’s nearby?

• Luzhniki Stadium – the national stadium of Russia and the country’s largest football stadium, which hosted the 1980 Olympic Games and 2018 World Cup. Visitors can take tours of the stadium or – even better – enjoy a football match there! A 720-metre cable car travels from Vorobyovy Gory to the Luzhniki Stadium, offering unparalleled views over Moscow.

• Novodevichy Convent – one of ancient Moscow’s most sacred sites. It is the most magnificent example of Moscow Baroque architecture preserved in Russia to this day, seen in its churches, palaces and towers, is home to a treasure trove of religious artifacts and artwork, and is the resting place of Russia’s most eminent figures.

Essential Information for Visitors

Address and Contact Details Moscow State University, Ulitsa Leninskiye Gory, 1, Moscow, Russia, 119991 Tel: +7 (495) 939-10-00 Website: www.msu.ru Email: [email protected] Nearest metro: Lomonosovskiy Prospekt (1.1km), Universitet (1.8km), Vorobyovy Gory (2.9km, with a scenic walk through the riverside park and university groun

Opening Hours The buildings and grounds of the main campus on Vorobyovy Gory can be viewed from outside at any time of day. Opening hours for the university’s museums and tours may be found on their websites.

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Weekend in Moscow

This tour is a great way to get acquainted with the capital of Russia if you are short of time. You will see all the main attractions of the city, the most important of which is the Kremlin - the heart of Russia. The tour starts on Friday and can be combined with a business trip.

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A Week in Moscow

This tour is a perfect choice for those who wish to get to know Moscow in depth. One of the highlights of this package is the KGB history tour which gives an interesting perspective on the Cold War. You will also have time for exploring the city on your own or doing extra sightseeing.

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Head to the heart of Moscow with a professional guide on a 4-hour private walk through the city center. See Tverskaya and Old Arbat streets, Theatre Square with the world-famous...

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The best things to do and places to visit in Moscow, Russia

Updated On 14th October, 2021

While Moscow isn’t always at the top of everyone’s Europe bucket list , it’s certainly one of the best places to visit in Europe if you’re looking for a more alternative adventure! In this blog post I plan on sharing some of the free things to do in Moscow, as well as the best places to visit in Moscow, so that you can enjoy some of the best things to do in Russia! 

Moscow, the capital of Russia, sits in the European part of the country. It’s an incredibly beautiful city, which I personally found to be more beautiful than Saint Petersburg (which is often people’s preference). The capital is certainly a lot busier, and less laid back than Saint Petersburg , but it’s a much more colourful and vibrant city, full of stunning and unique architecture.

Visiting famous landmarks such as The Kremlin and St Basil’s Cathedral, enjoying some of the green space in Gorky Park, watching a ballet in the Bolshoi Theatre… these are just a few reasons that you should visit Moscow! On top of that, because of visa restrictions (we’ll get onto that later), it’s also one of the most unique destinations in Europe. 

There is a common misconception that Moscow is a dangerous city, but now that I’ve visited, I don’t believe this to be true. I would say the same rules apply here as to other large cities: avoid walking in dark areas alone at night, keep an eye on your belongings on public transport, and be streetwise. There’s no reason to avoid visiting this energetic city and miss out on these amazing things to do in Moscow! 

It would take months if you wanted to truly explore Moscow because it’s a huge city, but I’m going to share some of my favourite things to do in Moscow and places to visit in Moscow so that you can prepare for your upcoming adventure! Even if you’re only there for a few days, you should be able to fit in these highlights from my trip. 

Other blog posts you might be interested in...

• The best things to do in St Petersburg
• A 2-week Norway road trip
• A complete guide to Helsinki
• A complete guide to Tallinn
• Europe: the ultimate travel guide
• The best capital cities to visit in Europe
• The best things to do in Europe: the ultimate Europe bucket list

Where is Moscow?

If you’re wondering ‘Where is Moscow, Russia?’ then you’ve come to the right place! Moscow in in west Russia, the European part, and it’s the capital city. 

How do you get to Moscow?

Getting a visa for moscow:.

To get into Russia, you need to get a visa. The processing time is approximately 20 days, and you’ll need to have your fingerprints taken at a visa centre in London , Edinburgh or Manchester. You can find out more about getting a visa for Russia here.  

Getting to Moscow:

Once you’ve got your visa, the easiest way to get to Moscow from the UK is by flying. Direct flights between London and Moscow take just under four hours, and with an airport layover you’re looking at a 6-7 hour trip. You can also fly in from many other major European and international cities. 

Top tip: Check out flights to and from Copenhagen on  Skyscanner here.

Check out how to pack a weekend away in a carry-on suitcase here.

16 best places to visit in Moscow...

1. st basil’s cathedral.

The most iconic building in Russia and one of the most iconic buildings in the world. St Basil’s Cathedral is one of the best places to visit in Moscow, if not the best! 

St Basil’s is situated on Red Square, where you’ll also find many other popular places to visit in Moscow. In my opinion this still stands out against them all. There’s something about the multi coloured domes against the Moscow skyline that I found quite spectacular. 

Although I’d already been in Russia for several days, it wasn’t until I was at this amazing piece of architecture that I really felt I was in Russia.

The cathedral was built by order of Ivan the Terrible, and apparently after the architect completed it, Ivan blinded him so that he could never build anything more beautiful. Whether or not this story is true, it certainly adds a bittersweet feeling as you stand admiring the beauty of St Basil’s Cathedral.

Inside is a museum displaying many historic items once used at the cathedral, which costs 700 rubles to enter. In my opinion it’s worth the entry fee, as simply seeing the ornate interior walls is a spectacle in itself.

2. The Kremlin

This historic fortress that sits on Red Square is probably the largest landmark and one of the most popular places to visit in Moscow. It’s the official residence of the President, although he doesn’t actually live there. It’s been rebuilt many times since it was first constructed in 1147 out of wood, before Ivan III the Great ordered it to be made from stone, which is the Kremlin you’ll recognise today. 

This place is huge, and there’s quite a lot to see. The first problem I had was finding where the entrance was. Even though I had a pre-booked ticket, I was then told I still had to visit the ticket office to exchange it for another ticket. I also needed my passport, so make sure you have yours if you plan to visit the Kremlin. After a lengthy queue I finally had a ticket I could use to enter the Kremlin, and had to go through security. The security here is thorough, so make sure you don’t take too much in with you. I had my pockets full, and it was a nightmare emptying them and explaining each item, before I was finally allowed in. Once inside you can pay for extra tickets to visit the various museums, however there’s also quite a lot to see simply on the grounds if you don’t want to spend too much. 

See more tips for travelling on a budget here. 

There’s so much to see here, including The Assumption Cathedral, Ivan the Great Bell Tower Complex, the Grand Kremlin Palace, the Armoury Chamber and Diamond Fund. There is also the Tsar Cannon (a huge artillery cannon), and the Tsar Bell. The Tsar Bell is the largest bell in the world. An incident with a fire and water being poured over the bell caused it to crack and for a slab to break off from it, which can now be seen propped up next to it.

As you walk around the grounds you’ll hear the sound of whistles. The guards patrolling the area will blow a whistle at anyone walking where they shouldn’t. Even if it’s just on the grass, or towards more restricted areas. This can sometimes be funny to watch, as often the tourists will be in a world of their own whilst a guard is blowing a whistle at them. Sometimes a guard will be stood face to face with a tourist angrily blowing their whistle before the tourist realises they need to get back onto the main path.

This is perhaps one of the more unusual places to visit in Moscow! Gum is a huge department store situated on Red Square. It’s an interesting department store to walk around, with several levels, although the shops inside are certainly quite pricey. It’s a beautiful building when it’s lit up at night, and it seems to fit in nicely amongst the other famous sights on Red Square. Even if you don’t plan to buy anything here, one of the best things to do in Moscow is to take a quick look inside, although bear in mind there are usually security checks before entering.

4. State Historical Museum

The large crimson building on Red Square is now the State Historical Museum. It was originally the first pharmacy in Russia, and later a University before finally becoming the museum it is today.

Unfortunately I didn’t go inside as my time was limited and there was so much else I wanted to see, but if you have the time I think it would be one of the best things to do in Moscow. There are items dating back to the 6th century, and maybe even further. There’s also a library inside storing many ancient manuscripts and the largest coin collection in Russia. 

5. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi means big in Russian, so it roughly translates to large theatre. The Bolshoi Theatre is one of the foremost ballet companies in the world. The exterior of the building is an impressive sight, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Moscow, and it’s certainly worth admiring from the outside. There are guided tours of the interior, but if you really want to experience the theatre, one of the best things to do in Moscow is to watch a ballet here.

I was torn between booking a seat, but the ballets were very expensive. I’d have liked to have seen “Swan Lake”, (as at least I may have recognised some of the music). Unfortunately there were no performances on the days I was in Moscow, so I decided to pass. But if I return to Russia, then watching a ballet will be on my list of things to do.

6. Sparrow Hills

If you want a good view of the city, then Sparrow Hills is one of the best places to visit in Moscow. It’s a bit of a trek outside of the centre, but if you have the time then it offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the busy city. There’s a viewing platform here which gives you fantastic panoramic views of Moscow.

Nearby you’ll see the magnificent Moscow State University building, which is one of the seven sisters of Moscow.

7. Seven Sisters

Whilst in Moscow, you’ll no doubt notice these magnificent soviet skyscrapers dotted around the city. At the time of construction they were the tallest buildings in Europe, Moscow State University being so until 1997. There are, as the name suggests, seven in total, which are: Hotel Ukraina, Kotelnicheskaya Embankment Apartments, the Kudrinskaya Square Building, the Hilton Moscow Leningradskaya Hotel, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Moscow State University, and the Red Gates Administrative Building.

If you visit Sparrow Hills, then you’ll come across Moscow State University, but I’m certain as you explore the city, you’ll see more of these giants against the Moscow skyline. One of the best things to do in Moscow is to see if you can locate all seven as you wander round the city! 

8. Nikolskaya Street

The start of this street is found by Red Square. It’s one of the most prominent pedestrianised streets in Moscow, filled with shops, restaurants and bars, so one of the best places to visit in Moscow if you’re looking for a bite to eat or some souvenirs!

What makes this street extra special are the thousands of bright lights in the sky above. After dark it looks simply magical with the many colourful lights overhead as you walk beneath them. One of the best things to do in Moscow is to visit Nikolskaya Street after dark and see them for yourself. It almost feels like Christmas in London!

There is another street nearby which also features similar lights, “Kuznetskiy Most”, which is also quite beautiful, but I thought “Nikolskaya Street” was ever slightly more impressive.

9. Izmailovo Kremlin and Izmaylovskiy Bazar

Did you know that The Kremlin in Red Square is not the only Kremlin in Moscow? Kremlin actually means a type of fortress, so there are many in Russia.

The Izmailovo Kremlin is a fairly new addition to the city, having been built in 2007 as a cultural centre. With its multitude of colours and historic style, it has a real fairytale feel to it. There are several small museums here for you to explore, devoted to subjects such as Russian folk art, vodka and bread (yes, bread). Visiting these is definitely one of the more unique things to do in Moscow! 

It’s a little way out of the centre, but it’s an interesting place to visit in Moscow to see something a little bit different, and it won’t be as overcrowded with tourists. 

Next to the Izmailovo Kremlin is the best market in Moscow for souvenirs. You’ll find good and poor quality items, but you’ll certainly pick up a bargain if you take your time and haggle for a good price. Many of the items here you’ll get for half the price you would in souvenir shops in the city centre. It’s here that I picked up several Matryoshka dolls for a very good price. I think I’d have paid more than double, or possibly even triple if I’d have bought them elsewhere.

10. Izmailovsky Park

Not too far from Izmailovo Kremlin you’ll find this huge park, one of the prettiest places to visit in Moscow. It’s easy to get lost here, so try to make sure you keep track of where you entered if you plan to go back the same way. There’s a lot to see in this park, a round pond, ferris wheel, playgrounds and sports grounds, shooting galleries, cinemas and a skate park.

There are often festivals, concerts and exhibitions at the park, on top of firework displays and dance parties.

The main reason I chose to visit the park was to find the painted trees. A local artist “Yevgenia Khlynina” has been painting on trees in this park, and one of the best things to do in Moscow is to explore the park looking for them. One of the most famous pieces of hers is the “Hedgehog in the Fog” from a famous soviet cartoon.

11. Gorky Park

The most famous park in Moscow is named after the writer “Maxim Gorky”. Although it’s likely you’ve heard it mentioned in the song “Wind of Change” by “The Scorpions”. 

There’s lots to do and see in the park with sports facilities and exhibitions. During the summer months this is one of the best places to visit if you’re looking for things to do in Moscow; there are often open air concerts and an open air cinema. There are many statues and sculptures in the park, including a small sculpture park area which features many interesting pieces.

One piece of advice: don’t visit Gorky Park or any other parks on 2nd August if you’re in Russia. 2nd August is Paratrooper day, which usually encourages a lot of drinking in the park, which is not always very welcoming.

12. Arbat Street

One of the oldest and busiest streets in Moscow, and the most famous pedestrian street in the city. Arbat is one of the most popular places to visit in Moscow. There are several shops including many dedicated to souvenirs, but although these will have a good range of goods, they will be quite expensive . You may see street performers and buskers, and there are often poets reciting famous works, if not their own works.

It’s within walking distance from the Kremlin, which should only take around 10 minutes.

There are actually two streets with this name, Old Arbat Street and New Arbat Street. Old Arbat Street is where you’ll find the pedestrianised area. New Arbat Street is a separate street which runs alongside a main road, filled with many bars and restaurants.

13. Metro station art

The best way to get around Moscow is by using the metro, and the metro is a tourist attraction in itself.

Although I obviously didn’t visit every metro station, I believe that every single station is unique in its own beautiful way. Many of the stations I passed through were impressive, quirky or simply jaw dropping. You’ll more than likely pass through many of them on the way to other sights, but I’d recommend the following:  Komsomolskaya, Novoslobodskaya, Mayakovskaya, Teatralnaya, Arbatskaya, Prospekt Mira and Ploschad Revolutsii (be sure to pet the dog statue for good luck).

There are of course many others for you to explore, but these are the ones I considered to be some of the most impressive places to visit in Moscow (even if they’re only metro stations!).

VDNKh is an exhibition centre with many monuments and museums. Now that it’s combined with the Botanical Garden and Ostankino Park, one of the best things to do in Moscow is to spend the day at this recreational centre enjoying a mix of nature and culture. The most popular museum in the complex which you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Moscow is the Museum of Cosmonautics.

15. Lenin's Mausoleum

Despite requesting to be buried with his mum in St Petersburg, it is at the foot of the Kremlin on Red Sqaure that you will find Lenin’s Mausoleum, where Vladimir Ilych Lenin has been frozen in time since 1924. It’s only open for a few hours a few times per week. Photography is not allowed, and you should line up on the western corner of the square (near Alexander Garden) to wait you turn to see the embalmed body. 

16. Novodevichy Convent

Novodevichy Convent, on the UNESCO World Heritage List, is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Moscow. Located south west of the centre you’ll find this stunning monastery. Inside you’ll find a cathedral and several churches, surrounded by high walls and 12 towers.

Where are your favourite places to visit in Moscow?

What about the best things to do in Moscow? Anything you’d add?

Love as always and happy adventuring…

I’m Spike! Solo traveller, cultural explorer and world adventurer! With 57 countries under my belt, I live and breathe travel. I never plan to stop exploring new destinations and experiencing new cultures.

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I’M MOLLIE AND I STARTED THIS BLOG BACK IN 2013 WHEN I HEADED OUT ON MY FIRST BACKPACKING ADVENTURE. 

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Things to do in Moscow: how to visit Moscow | Unmissable, cool & unusual

• September 2, 2023

What are the best things to do in Moscow? What to do in Moscow? First, I will list the main places to visit by theme, passing by the must-sees, but also more unusual places in Moscow. Then, I will describe what to see in Moscow in one day and how to visit Moscow in 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 days. Let’s go!

Good to know. For more information, click on the places to open the dedicated blog posts.

Main places to visit in Moscow & best things to do in Moscow

I worked in Moscow and I loved this city for its dynamism and energy. We find there from time to time to see friends, remember good memories and enjoy this giant city! Then the time has come for us to share with you our practical guide.

TOP 5 must-see places in Moscow

• Moscow Red Square
• St. Basil’s Cathedral
• Cathedral of Christ the Savior
• Bolshoi Theatre

Places of cultural, historical and religious interest in Moscow

• Novodevichy Convent and cemetery
• Tretyakov Gallery
• Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts
• Kremlin Izmaïlovo (pseudo-historic place, recently built in the image of the old, one of the best things to do in Moscow for your Instagram account 😉 )
• Park and ancient village of Kolomenskoye

Visit Moscow of the Soviet era

• Moscow State University and Sparrows Hill
• VDNKh and the Museum of Astronautics, one of the key landmarks of the Soviet era in Moscow
• GULAG Museum
• Metro stations
• The Stalinist skyscrapers, scattered all over the city

Less touristy places in Moscow

• Gorky Park and the GARAGE museum
• The old Krasny Oktyabr factory
• Zaryadye Park
• Center for Contemporary Art, WINZAVOD
• Business center, Moscow City

Main districts of Moscow to visit

• Patriarch Ponds
• Tchistye Prudy
• Kuznetsky most
• Arbat Street

However, regardless of the length of your stay, whether you are going to visit Moscow in 4 days or in 2, you need a visa. The article Obtaining a tourist visa for Russia could then be useful in any case.

What to do and see in Moscow in one day?

List of things to see and do in Moscow in one day:

• Go to Red Square
• Visit St. Basil’s Cathedral
• See Kremlin walls (but not to visit)
• Visit Cathedral of Christ the Savior
• Discover Kuznetsky most districts and see Bolshoi Theatre building
• And if you have time at the end of the day: go to the Sparrows Hill or to the Moscow City for a beautiful view

Things to do in Moscow in 2 days

If you want to visit Moscow in 2 days, there are 2 purposes: do not miss the essential places of Moscow and optimize travel.

• First day: Red Square , Saint Basil’s Cathedral , Zariadye Park, Bolshoi Theatre , Kremlin
• Day 2: Cathedral of Christ the Savior, the former Krasny Oktyabr factory on Balchug Island, Gorky Park, Moscow State University (one of the Seven Sisters buildings ) and Sparrow Hill

As 2 days os really short, be sure to choose an accommodation in the best districts where to stay in Moscow .

Walking on Red Square in Moscow: one of the unmissable things to do in Moscow

Iconic place and one of the must-see places in Moscow and even in Russia! Besides, if there was only one place to visit in Moscow in 2 days, this place would then be Red Square, without hesitation. Therefore, starting the city tour with Red Square is ideal . Several buildings are on the square, but not all of them have to be visited. Check out my blog post about Moscow’s Red Square in detail to learn more and not miss anything.

Visiting Saint-Basil’s Cathedral inside

Even more emblematic than Moscow’s Red Square! Built in the middle of the 16th century under the orders of Tsar Ivan Le Terrible, this cathedral is one of the most beautiful monuments of Orthodox art, and definitely one of the unmissable places in Moscow. Visiting Saint-Basil’s Cathedral inside is one of the most beautiful things to do in Moscow!

• Visit estimate time : 1h30
• Entry ticket : 700 RUB. Tickets can be purchased on the cathedral’s official website 45 days before the tour.
• Audio guide (recommended): 500 RUB
• Opening hours : June to August 10 am-6pm; from November to April: 11 am-5pm; May, September, October 11 am-5pm. Cathedral closed on Wednesdays. Entrance is closed 45 minutes before closing.
• Find out more in the dedicated article: Saint Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow

Take a walk in Zariadye park: one of the coolest things to do in Moscow after visiting Red Square

Zaryadie Park is just a 10-minute walk from St. Basil’s Cathedral, so it’s easy to include in your itinerary if you’re going to visit Moscow in 2 days. From its heights, you can see the red walls of the Kremlin. But, the most impressive point of view is the platform which overlooks the Moskva river. A must see! And clearly one of the coolest things to do in Moscow!

• Open 24 hours a day
• Good to know! Park Zaryadye is also a place to visit in Moscow in winter. Find out more here: What to do in Moscow in winter?

See the Bolshoi Theatre and discover the Kuznetsky Most district

The Bolshoi Theatre is the most famous Russian theater in the world. The most economical way to see a presentation at the Bolshoi Theater is to take the tickets on the theater’s official website in advance, so here is our tutorial to help you: How to buy entrance tickets to the Bolshoi? In addition, several pedestrian or one-way streets

The Bolshoi Theater is the most famous Russian theater in the world. The most economical way to see a presentation at the Bolshoi Theater is to take the tickets on the theater’s official website in advance, so here is our tutorial to help you: How to buy tickets to the Bolshoi? In addition, several pedestrian or one-way streets are located north of the theater. It is therefore very pleasant to find them to leave the main axes of the megalopolis.

Visit the Moscow Kremlin

Visit Kremlin is on top of things to do in Moscow. A place of power for centuries, the Kremlin then shows us a whole different image when viewed from the inside. If you want to visit Moscow in 2 days, the Kremlin is certainly one of the must-see places in Moscow.

• Opening hours : Daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Thursday.
• See our blog post about visiting the Moscow Kremlin

Visit the Cathedral of Christ the Savior

This impressive Moscow Cathedral is the seat of the Russian Orthodox Church. It is a must see if you visit Moscow in 2 days and clearly one of the things to do in Moscow. The Cathedral of Christ the Savior was first built in 1883 in memory of Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s Grand Army. Then in 1931 Stalin ordered its destruction. It was then rebuilt again (identically) only in 2000.

• Where? Ulitsa Volkhonka 15. At the foot of the Kropotkinskaya metro station.
• Opening hours . Daily: 10: 00-17: 00, except Monday: 13: 00-17: 00
• Free entry (some closing restrictions, for example a short)

Good to know! In orthodox religious places, one must avoid excessively uncovered clothing. Women should cover their heads. After visiting the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, you can explore Bolotny Island and Gorky Park. This is one of the routes our guide to Moscow.

The old Krasny Oktyabr factory: one of the coolest things to do in Moscow

If you cross the Moskva River by a pedestrian bridge which is located just in front of the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, you will enjoy a beautiful view of the city and at the same time you can discover Balchug Island. Furthermore, if you want to visit Moscow in 2 days, you can include this island in your itinerary between the cathedral and Gorky park. Here is the old confectionery factory Krasny Oktyabr, which has gradually turned into a fashionable micro-district. There are then some elements of street art, cafes and restaurants and some Moscow bohemian side. At the end of the island you can see a gigantic 98-meter-high monument dedicated to the Russian reforming tsar Pierre The Great.

Good to know! You can find on this island are the trendiest nightclubs in Moscow. On weekends, there are taxi caps after midnight so there are so many people. On the other hand, if you go there in winter and during the day, the island is quite empty and less interesting to see.

Gorky Park is one of the TOP places to visit in Moscow, because it allows you to better understand the life of the locals and their rhythm. In fact, it’s a huge entertainment park. For example, in winter there is a giant ice rink and in summer – free dance or yoga lessons, sandy beaches for playing volleyball, an outdoor cinema. So, like the locals, have a Stakantchik (ice cream or cooked corn), and enjoy the atmosphere of the place: that’s one of the interesting things to do in Moscow to discover the city.

• Where? Krymsky Val 9. 20 minutes’ walk from Krasny Oktyabr, along the quays.

Sparrow Hill and Moscow State University

The Sparrow Hill, Vorobiovy Gori in Russian, is the highest point in Moscow. It is rather known to Russians, but less to travelers. A nice view on Moscow opens from the hill, and in particular on the Luzhniki Stadium. In addition, on the hill itself is the Moscow State University: an impressive skyscraper from the Soviet era.

• How to get there? By bus T7 (35 min) from Oktyaborskaya station, near Gorki Park. By metro (Vorobiovy Gorki station) + climb the hill on foot. On foot along the Moskva along the Gorky Park (1h30) + climb in funiculars.

Good to know! It is possible to cross the Moskva river by funicular. We actually tested it and it was pretty cool! That is one of our favorite things to do in Moscow!

What to do in Moscow in 3 days?

If you are going to visit Moscow in 3 days, it would be interesting to dive into the Soviet era which strongly marked the country and the city. After the Bolshevik Revolution, the capital was transferred from Saint Petersburg to Moscow, in order to mark the change of power. Moscow then became the world showcase for communist ideology. Here are the best things to do in Moscow for 3-day-trip!

VDNKh, visit Moscow of the Soviet era

VDNKh is a large exhibition center in the north of Moscow, where there are still several striking witnesses of the USSR. The most interesting are the Museum of Cosmonauts and the Statue of the Worker and the Kolkhozian , which will certainly impress you with its size!

GULAG History Museum

The explanations of the museum are very well done. We really have the feeling of going back in time. If you are going to visit Moscow in 3 days and you are interested in history and this subject in particular, I recommend this museum. Visit the GULAG History Museum is one of the most interesting things to do in Moscow.

Discover the Patriarche Pounds district

It’s a nice neighborhood in Moscow where you can come across rather affluent locals, but not necessarily very bling-bling. Take a walk in this area is really a cool thing to do in Moscow! In addition, the Ponds of Patriarch is one of the places of Bulgakov’s novel “Master and Margarita”. As this is an interesting area to see, we have included it in a walking tour of Moscow. The route ends at the Moscow Kremlin, which is very convenient, because you will be able to visit Moscow in 3 days by optimizing your trips.

What to visit in Moscow in 4 days: TOP things to do in Moscow in 4 days

If you want to visit Moscow in 3 days, you will already see a lot of things. On the other hand, if you stay one more day, you have plenty to do! The Novodevichy Convent, the Tchistie Proudy district and the Izmaylovo Kremlin are very good candidates for you, if you are going to visit Moscow in 4 days.

Visiting Novodevichy Convent in Moscow

The Novodevichy Convent is one of the most brilliant examples of Russian architecture, according to UNESCO. This beautiful complex was built in 1524 and today consists of the convent, but also of a cemetery whose status could be compared to that of Père-Lachaise in Paris. Visiting Novodevichy Convent is one of the great things to do in Moscow, if you want to go a little bit outside of the center!

Discovering Tchistye Proudy district

It’s one of the most popular areas of Moscow, with many cafes, restaurants and bars nearby. It is therefore a place to discover if you want to visit Moscow in 4 days. It is just as pleasant for a stroll as for the discovery of local life. For example, in winter the pond turns into an ice rink.

Visiting the Izmaylovo Kremlin, one of the coolest things to do in Moscow!

The Izmaylovo Kremlin is more of a tourist than a historic place. On the other hand, it is a pretty impressive place to discover, especially on weekends. Inside the Kremlin, there is a flea market where you can find a little bit of everything, but mostly good souvenirs to bring from Moscow. For example, chapka, traditional Russian scarves or matryoshka (Russian dolls). Add the Kremlin and the Izmaïlovo market to your itinerary if you are going to visit Moscow in 4 days, because it is a nice and very colorful place! Visiting the Izmailovo Kremlin is one of the things to do in Moscow, if you want to put colors in your Instagram account! 😉

In 4 days, we will have the opportunity to see several Moscow: Classic Moscow, Moscow of old Russia, Soviet Moscow and a little bit of the new Moscow. So what to visit in Moscow on the 5th day of travel?

What to visit in Moscow in 5 days?

Art lovers will be delighted to discover the Tretyakov Gallery and the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts, while others will prefer to stroll along Arbat Street, see the buildings of Moskva-City or visit Bunker 42.

Admiring Russian art at Tretyakov Gallery

Founded in 1856 by an industrialist and great lover of art, the gallery has grown over the decades, and then bequeathed to the state. Today the collection includes more than 140,000 pieces, 15,000 of which are paintings. Visiting the Tretyakov Gallery is one of the things to do in Moscow if you want to discover Russian art!

• Where? Pereoulok Lavrouchinski 10. A 5-minute walk from Tretiakovskaya station
• Opening hours. Open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. Thursday and Friday. Closed on Mondays.
• Entry tickets. 500 RUB.

Visiting the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts

The Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts presents the treasures of ancient Egypt, the paintings of Rembrandt and Cézanne, a fine collection of Impressionism.

• Where? Ulitsa Volkhonka 12
• Opening hours. Daily: 10: 00-20: 00, except Thursday: 11: 00-21: 00. Closed on Mondays. The boxes close an hour before closing.
• Entry tickets. The prices vary according to the collections from 300 to 750 RUB.

Walking on Arbat Street

All Russians know Rue Arbat. So, walking on Arbat street is one of the things to do in Moscow. However, after the years, little by little it became very touristy. This is a pedestrian street only. There are souvenir shops, restaurants and cafes there, but it is no longer the most authentic neighborhood in the city.

Seeing the buildings of Moskva-City (Moscow City)

Moskva-City is Moscow’s business center, much like Paris’s Defense district. The skyscrapers of Moskva-City are among the tallest in Europe: 373 meters high! Very nice place to see at dusk.

Good to know! You can admire a nice view of Moscow City from the docks of Tarasa Shevchenko. It’s especially beautiful in the evening with all the lights on.

Bunker 42, one of the most unusual things to do in Moscow

Bunker 42 is a secret military complex which was to be used by the Soviets in the event of a nuclear attack: a space of 7000 m² 65 meters underground!

• Where? 5 Kotelnitcheski Lane, 11.
• Prices. 2200 RUB per person
• Opening hours. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Restaurant inside. Original, but rather a tourist trap.

What to visit in Moscow in 6 days or more?

There are still so many places to see, because Moscow is a big megalopolis and there is always something exciting to do there. For example: the ancient Kolomenskoye village or the WINZAVOD contemporary art center .

If you are interested in history and want to see Russian cities on a rather “human scale”, it would certainly be interesting for you to discover the cities of the Golden Ring . For example, it is very easy to get to Sergey Posad from Moscow (less than 2 hours in train). Visiting the Golden Ring is one of the best things to do in Moscow if you are staying more than a 5-6 days.

There are still plenty of places to see in Moscow, however I did my best to list here the best things to do in Moscow, what to see in Moscow in one day, but also in 2, 3, 4 or 5 days in Moscow!

Moscow travel tips:

• Airport transfer: how to go to Moscow?
• Where to stay in Moscow (hotels, districts)?
• Tourist voucher for Russian visa
• Christmas and New Year in Moscow
• What is the best time to visit Moscow?

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1 The Moscow Kremlin

3 Bolshoi Theatre

4 gorky central park of culture and leisure, 5 krasnaya ploshchad'.

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6 St. Basil's Cathedral

7 the state tretyakov gallery, 8 cathedral of christ the saviour, 9 red square, 10 kolomenskoye, 11 museum of cosmonautics, 12 all-russian exhibition center, 13 the pushkin state museum of fine arts, 14 novodevichy convent, 15 state historical museum.

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26 Central Armed Forces Museum

27 afimall city, 28 winzavod, 29 mini hotel rest on paveletsky train station, 30 catherine palace, 31 st. peter and paul orthodox church, 32 mayakovskaya, 34 kuskovo estate museum.

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46 Grand Kremlin Palace

47 moscow art theatre, 48 moscow cathedral mosque, 49 zachatyevsky monastery, 50 house on the embankment, top searches in moscow, popular road trips from moscow, what's the weather like in moscow.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Moscow for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Moscow in January
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Explore nearby places

• Likino-Dulevo
• Ivanteyevka
• Orekhovo-Zuevo
• Semyonovskoye
• Ivanovskoye
• Rumyantsevo
• Dzerzhinsky
• Sovkhoz Imeni Lenina
• Dolgoprudny

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• Map of Putilkovo
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• Map of Sovkhoz Imeni Lenina
• Map of Dolgoprudny

Moscow throughout the year

• Moscow in January
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Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Moscow?

Get inspired for your trip to Moscow with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

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Best attractions in nearby cities

• Top things to do and attractions in Khimki

Best restaurants in nearby cities

• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Mytishchi
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