native american places to visit near me

10 Places for Native American Vacation Experiences with Your Family

Listening to Native legends around a campfire, taking a Jeep ride through the high mountain desert, watching the colorful swirl of dancers at a powwow—exchanges with Native peoples provide a visceral understanding of traditions and history not available in textbooks. The United States is a particularly rich destination for exploring indigenous culture. That often means traveling to unspoiled countryside, far from crowds and fences, to find the sorts of wide-open spaces typically found only in faded photographs or dreams.  Pictured: Courtney Yarhollar sings with his drum group at Red Earth Festival, Oklahoma City

Glacier National Park ’s jagged mountains, dense pine forests, and rolling grasslands remain sacred to the Blackfeet Nation, whose 1.5-million-acre reservation adjoins the preserve. At Lodgepole Gallery & Tipi Village, Blackfeet artist Darrell Norman reveals history and customs on his reservation tours . You'll hear how the Creator taught people to hunt using a cliff formation called a buffalo jump. At the Holy Family Mission, a Catholic boarding school designed to assimilate Blackfeet children, you'll discover, in Norman’s words, "how the teachers beat the Indian out of the Indian." Stay overnight at the Tipi Village, an encampment of 11 teepees and two cabins, where you'll learn important rules of etiquette, starting with where to sit—men on the right, women on the left. Fall asleep by the fire as Blackfeet members have done for centuries.

Year-round, the Red Earth Art Center  showcases both traditional and contemporary Native American arts and crafts. A scavenger list of items to find pulls kids through the exhibits, full of cradleboards, totem poles, baskets, pottery, beadwork, and paintings. Each June, the center hosts the Red Earth Festival. Part powwow and part juried art show, the event attracts more than 75 tribes, 125 artists, and more than 700 dancers and singers, who compete for prize money. The participants—bright with fiery colors, breastplates, quilled arm bands, and fringed leggings—swirl and sing to ancient rhythms. The festival kicks off with a grand parade of Native Americans wearing tribal regalia.

Guss Yellow Hair and his daughter Tianna Yellow Hair established Tatanka Rez Tours to show visitors that there’s much more to the Pine Ridge Reservation than the tales of extreme poverty told in the national media. Home to the Oglala Lakota tribe, the land beyond the community unfolds as a sweep of Black Hills grasslands, broken by ridges and bordered by Badlands National Park . Guss enters your vehicle, relating tribal history while escorting you to reservation sites on a tour customized to your party's ages and interests. From the White River Visitor Center , see the badlands’ eroded rock formations and twisting peaks. At a monument for the infamous Wounded Knee Massacre, Guss recounts how, in December 1890, U.S. soldiers slaughtered more than 350 people who were en route to peace negotiations. In homage to the victims, Guss chants an invocation, performs a tobacco offering, and ties a prayer flag to the fence surrounding the marker.

At  Monument Valley  Navajo Tribal Park, sandstone mesas, buttes, and spires create a dramatic interplay of red-rock formations and open spaces that conjure the classic West of cowboy movies. But the park, which straddles the Arizona and Utah border, sits on land considered sacred to the Navajo Nation. Only Navajo guides can take outsiders beyond the Valley Drive. Native-led Jeep, van, or horseback rides stop at petroglyphs and Ancestral Pueblo ruins. On evening excursions with Navajo-owned tour companies , you can look up at a night sky aglow with stars. The company’s sunrise and sunset tours show how the changing light flames across the rocks, turning them different shades of orange and purple. 

A complex of attractions in Cherokee , an hour's drive west of Asheville, details the history and culture of the town’s namesake—the nation that lived in the territory that once included north Georgia and the Great Smoky Mountains. At the Oconaluftee Indian Village , present-day Cherokee in traditional 18th-century attire demonstrate how to carve masks, chip flint to create arrowheads, and fashion a dugout canoe using fire and an ax. Through special effects, artifacts, stone carving demonstrations, and dance by the Warriors of AniKituhwa, the Museum of the Cherokee Indian presents important traditions, while at the outdoor Mountainside Theatre, scores of performers in traditional regalia enact  Unto These Hills   (pictured above). Through battle reenactments, music, and dancing, this long-running drama stages big moments in Cherokee history, including the forced relocation of 16,000 members to Oklahoma. The performance has been staged each summer since 1950. During the evening, listen to more tales and songs under the stars at the bonfires at Oconaluftee Islands Park .  

Set against  northern New Mexico ’s Sangre de Cristo foothills, the  Taos Pueblo  exudes a simple dignity and strong spiritual presence. When the five-story adobe structure (built in the years between 1000 and 1450) catches the light, you can imagine the awe of the Spanish explorers when they came upon it in 1540. A guided horseback ride through the reservation by  Taos Indian Horse Ranch  supplies a bounty of wide-open spaces. The horses walk or trot alongside ravines, through streams, and across the high mountain desert dotted with sagebrush. Continuously inhabited by Tiwa-speaking Native Americans, the pueblo—which is the largest such multistory dwelling in the U.S.—has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Historic Landmark. On the 20- to 30-minute optional tour, a guide explains the site's history and takes visitors to the  San Geronimo Chapel,  constructed in 1850. On feast days ( listed on the website ), the pueblo comes alive with drumming and dancing.  

It’s a special experience to walk among totem poles as they were meant to be seen—in the outdoors.  Ketchikan  features one of the world’s largest collections of these structures. Part of the Tlingit and Haida culture, the intricately carved poles rise among the spruce and cedar trees of  Totem Bight Historical Park . The carvings visitors see today replicate and interpret original 19th-century versions that were deteriorating in abandoned villages. Bears, wolves, eagles, and ravens cut into the wood tell the stories of deceased clan members, treaties, lineage, and other historical details. Not far away,  Saxman Native Village  features a second collection of poles. Targeted to cruise passengers, that site is more theatrical, adding participatory Native dancing, an onsite carver, and the option for a lumberjack show. Totem Bight is both less expensive and less touristy. The  Totem Heritage Center , a museum in town, displays its own treasured cache of totem poles indoors.

Among Mesa Verde National Park ’s 5,000 archeological sites, 600 of which are cliff dwellings, the gem is Cliff Palace . The largest such structure in North America, it was built by Ancestral Puebloans some 800 years ago and features 150 rooms and more than 20 kivas (ceremonial spaces). Because it was constructed beneath the overhang of a sandstone cliff at an elevation of 7,000 feet (2,134 m), the palace must be reached via a moderately strenuous hike plus a climb up a 10-foot ladder. Once onsite, it’s easy to imagine people gathering for news in the kivas and mothers warming their children at fires near the back walls. Non-hikers can take in scenic views of Cliff Palace and see other dwellings at a distance by driving the Mesa Top Loop Road. Check out pertinent exhibits at the Mesa Verde Visitor and Research Center. 

For a blend of traditional resort relaxation with Native elements, head toward the Sierra Estrella Mountains and the Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass near Phoenix. Owned by the Gila River Indian Community, the 500-room hotel incorporates cultural elements of the Pima and Maricopa peoples. The Aji Spa’s wraps and scrubs feature native herbs and oil made from creosote. This is the only spa in the world for sessions called  thoachta , which utilize light touch and Pima techniques. At Kai, one of the state's most acclaimed restaurants, the menu has Native-inspired entrees such as grilled buffalo and wild boar. In winter, the resort's cultural concierge tells Pima and Maricopa stories around the fire, while in other seasons community members lead sessions in traditional jewelry and bread making. On trail rides, you might catch sight of wild horses roaming the reservation. 

The closest history museum to the Capitol building on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. is the striking  National Museum of the American Indian . It has more than 8,000 items on display, so we recommend making sense of the collection by joining one of the regularly scheduled docent tours. Temporary exhibitions are also exceptional at providing valuable context. One exhibit, “Americans” (on display until 2020), examines how corporations, the military, sports teams, and even food products have appropriated or exaggerated images of Native culture in a way that's often reductive or racist. When you want to understand another culture, there's nothing quite like a good guide or curator to help put things in context.

• All Regions
• Australia & South Pacific
• Caribbean & Atlantic
• Central & South America
• Middle East & Africa
• North America
• Washington, D.C.
• San Francisco
• New York City
• Los Angeles
• Arts & Culture
• Beach & Water Sports
• Local Experiences
• Food & Drink
• Outdoor & Adventure
• National Parks
• Winter Sports
• Travelers with Disabilities
• Family & Kids
• All Slideshows
• Hotel Deals
• Car Rentals
• Flight Alerts
• Credit Cards & Loyalty Points
• Cruise News
• Entry Requirements & Customs
• Car, Bus, Rail News
• Money & Fees
• Health, Insurance, Security
• Packing & Luggage
• -Arthur Frommer Online
• -Passportable
• Road Trip Guides
• Alaska Made Easy
• Great Vacation Ideas in the U.S.A.
• Best of the Caribbean
• Best of Mexico
• Cruise Inspiration
• Best Places to Go 2024

8 Destinations to Experience Native American Culture

Through stories, art, song, dance and architecture, Native American culture comes alive in the special places that serve as the ancestral homelands of these Native peoples. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in vibrant culture, while exploring vivid depictions of historical events and places.

Cultural experiences at National Parks and beyond

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve (S. Tevebaugh, National Park Service)

The Huna Tlingit Tribal House (Xunaa Shuká Hít) is located in Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, the ancestral homeland of the Huna Tlingit who sustained themselves on the abundant resources found throughout the Bay prior to the Little Ice Age. Although villages inside the Bay were overrun by glacial advances in the 1700s, the Huna Tlingit re-established numerous fish camps and several seasonal villages soon after the glacial retreat.

The Huna Tlingit Tribal House, the first permanent clan house in Glacier Bay in more than 250 years, provides a venue for ceremonies, workshops, camps and tribal meetings and ensures that Huna Tlingit culture, language and history will be passed on to current and future generations.

Desert View Watchtower, Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park (Linda Webster, Share the Experience))

The Desert View Watchtower , an Anasazi and Pueblo-inspired building designed by noted architect Mary Colter, provides a spectacular view of the vast canyon below from its observation deck. Built in 1932, the Desert View Watchtower deteriorated over time, largely serving as nothing more than a short pit-stop for Grand Canyon visitors passing through on their way to other area attractions. 

Now, through a collaborative restoration project between the National Park Service and the American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association, the watchtower continues to offer unbeatable views of Grand Canyon, but also serves as an inter-tribal interpretive center where visitors can learn about the area through authentic tribal interpretive programs and live art demonstrations conducted by local Native artisans.

Redwood National and State Parks

Redwood National and State Parks (John Chao, National Park Service)

The ancestral homelands of the Yurok Tribe, Redwood National and State Parks and California’s northern-most boundaries were once dotted with more than 50 tribal villages. Traditional family homes located in these villages were made from the fallen keehl (redwood tree), which the tribe consider sacred, living beings.

Today, the Yurok Tribe is working closely with Redwood National Park to reintroduce prey-go-neesh, or, the mighty California condor. On the brink of extinction, California condors had not flown over the Pacific Northwest in nearly a century until recently.The condors are returning to this traditional Yurok territory thanks to an intensive rehabilitation program among the Yurok Tribe, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, National Park Service and other partners.

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park (Norman Lathrop, Share the Experience)

Native American people have had ties to Maine and the area now known as Acadia National Park for more than 12,000 years.  Currently, five principal nations—the Mi’kmaq, Maliseet, Passamaquoddy, Abenaki and Penobscot, collectively known as the Wabanaki—remain connected to this landscape.

Wabanaki, which translates to “People of the Dawnland,” is particularly fitting, as Acadia’s Cadillac Mountain is the highest point along the Northern Atlantic Seaboard, and the first place in the U.S. to see dawn from October through March. In summer, Acadia National Park produces free, weekly “ Cultural Connections in the Park ” events that feature Wabanaki artisans and performers.

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park (Joy Bello, Share the Experience)

For thousands of years, the Blackfeet Nation has made its ancestral home throughout northern Montana and the Rocky Mountains, including Glacier National Park. Today, the Blackfeet Reservation encompasses nearly 1.5 million acres (600,000 ha) along the eastern ridge of the park, in what tribal members call the “Backbone of the World.”

Combining a tour of Glacier National Park, including Going-to-the-Sun-Road, with an exploration of the Blackfeet culture is as easy as contacting Sun Tours, a Blackfeet-owned, National Park Service-approved tour operator. Guides are full-time residents of the Blackfeet Indian Reservation who share Tribal culture, history and lifestyle. They are also experts at spotting local wildlife, so don’t be surprised to see free-roaming elk, deer, moose, antelope, black bears or grizzly bears along the way.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

NORTH CAROLINA AND TENNESSEE

Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Nawras Baban, Share the Experience)

The Great Smoky Mountains have been the ancestral home of the Cherokee Indians for thousands of years. Called  Shaconage,  or  place of blue smoke , the region is vast and is home to wide array of diverse plant and wildlife species.

In 1838, nearly 14,000 Cherokee Indians were forced to trek westward to Oklahoma on an arduous journey known as the “Trail of Tears.” A small group in western North Carolina, the Oconaluftee Cherokee, negotiated an agreement to purchase 57,000 acres (23,000 ha) of property known as the Qualla Boundary and remain in North Carolina. Today, Park visitors can visit the Oconaluftee Visitor Center’s Mountain Farm Museum and walk along the Oconaluftee River Trail, which connects the Qualla Boundary. Along the route, wayside signs share cultural and spiritual details about the Cherokee homelands.

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore (Michael DeWitt, Share the Experience)

In northwestern Wisconsin, along the scenic shoreline of Lake Superior, sits Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, which includes 21 islands as well as 12 miles (19.3 km) of shoreline along the mainland. Two thirds of the mainland portion of the park are located within the boundaries of the Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indian Reservation.

Just across the bay from Oak Island—the highest point in the Apostle Islands—is Red Cliff’s Frog Bay Tribal National Park, the first tribal national park in the country. Two miles (3 km) of trails and nearly a mile (1.6 km) of sandy beach are open for visitors to enjoy hiking, swimming and scenic views of five of the Apostle Islands. Multilingual signage narrates the park’s ecosystem in English and Ojibwe .

American Indians and Route 66

ILLINOIS TO CALIFORNIA

St. Augustine Mission, Isleta Pueblo, New Mexico (Lisa Snell, AIANTA)

Learn about the  Native American experience along Route 66 in both a printed travel guide and on a website created in partnership with American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association (AIANTA) and the National Park Service. The guide includes Native historical sites along the route and also chronicles present-day cultural experiences available to travelers. Compiled with assistance from many tribes along the route, American Indians and Route 66 gives travelers a more complete picture of the famed journey.

Bring Home a Story

• Many Glacier Campground Glacier National Park, Montana
• Desert View Campground Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
• Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Camping Permits Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Wisconsin
• Cedro Peak Camping Sites - Robin and Jay Cibola National Forest, New Mexico
• Cadillac Summit Road Vehicle Reservations Acadia National Park, Maine
• Elkmont Campground Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee

Camp, RV, and Explore Outdoors

Recreation.gov is your gateway to explore America's outdoor and cultural destinations in your zip code and across the country. We provide tools and tips to discover new adventures through a one-stop shop for inspiration and ideation, trip planning, information sharing, and reservations. Find incredible places and experiences that help you bring home a story through Recreation.gov!

Get to Know Us

• Rules & Reservation Policies
• Accessibility
• Media Center

Plan with Us

• Find Trip Inspiration
• Build a Trip
• Enter a Lottery
• Checkout our Mobile App
• Get Involved
• Use Our Data
• Add Your Facility

Let Us Help You

• Help Center
• Submit Feedback
• Responsible Disclosure

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Idaho (ID) » 15 Best Things to Do in Moscow (Idaho)

15 Best Things to Do in Moscow (Idaho)

In a landscape of fertile rolling hills on the Idaho-Washington boundary, Moscow is the county seat of Latah County and the home of the University of Idaho, founded in the early 1890s.

The city has a cozy downtown with historic brick buildings from the turn of the 20th century and lots of community events, like a weekly farmers’ market spring through fall, and a bustling artwalk in June.

As you would expect, the University of Idaho plays an important role in the city’s cultural, social and sporting life, and many of the attractions in this list are connected to this institution in some way.

The surrounding Palouse landscape of rambling hills decked with wheat fields, can be explored on two paved rail trails, heading out east and west of the city.

1. University of Idaho Arboretum & Botanical Garden

The loveliest feature of the university campus’ verdant grounds is the UI Arboretum & Botanical Garden.

You’ll find it in 63 acres, just south of the President’s Residence and the university’s golf course, with undulating Palouse hills in the background.

Open to the public with free admission, the arboretum was laid out on a former hayfield in the early-1980s, although its origins go back way before, to the early 20th century.

In fact you can check out the site of the first arboretum, planted in the 1910s with majestic specimen trees, including a giant sequoia, on the north side of the President’s Residence.

As for the “new” arboretum, this counts more than 17,000 plants from over 2,400 taxa, mostly organized into geographical regions, including Europe, Asia and Eastern and Western North America.

On the south end are exquisite display gardens for xerophytes, ornamental willows, irises and heather, as well as a butterfly garden, magical in summer.

2. Latah Trail

Twelve miles long, this paved trail will take you east from Moscow all the way to the neighboring city of Troy.

The Latah Trail was completed in 2008 and is on the course of a dismantled BNSF railroad line that junctioned at Arrow, some 30 miles to the southeast.

The path is ten feet wide, allowing plenty of space for walkers and cyclists in summer, and snowshoers and cross-country skiers after snowfall in winter.

As this is a rail trail there are no difficult slopes but you’ll be guaranteed breathtaking panoramas of the Palouse, with tilled slopes interspersed with sweeps of coniferous forest.

In Moscow the Latah Trail merges seamlessly with the Paradise Path, in turn connecting with the Bill Chipman Palouse Trail, which we’ll talk about below.

3. Appaloosa Museum and Heritage Center

The Appaloosa, identified by its colorful spotted coat, is a horse breed synonymous with the Palouse region, so it’s fitting that there should be a museum for it, right on the Idaho-Washington state line.

The museum shines a light on a variety of topics, like the history of spotted horses in art and literature, Appaloosas’ various coat patterns, and the importance of Appaloosas to the native Nez Perce people.

Display cases are loaded with interesting objects, from saddles to black and white photography and Native American artifacts. There’s also a hands-on area to keep children engaged, as well as a theater and an extensive library.

4. Moscow Farmers’ Market

Taking place on Saturdays, 9 am to 1 pm, May through October, Moscow Farmers’ Market is now well into its fifth decade.

Right on Main Street, this is a celebration of the Moscow area’s farmers, artisans and musicians, giving them an opportunity to connect with the city’s residents and visitors.

For shoppers interested in food provenance the market is a chance to find out where your produce comes from and pick up tips about storage and preparation.

There’s a wide range of vendors for vegetables, fruit, plants, flowers, local grass-fed meat, pastries, honey, jams, cosmetics, home decorations, hand-forged knives and much more.

The market has live music most weeks, as well as freshly prepared food, from tacos to samosas.

5. Bill Chipman Palouse Trail

Following the right of way of the old Union Pacific Railroad, the Bill Chipman Palouse Trail runs west from Moscow, crossing the state line and taking you to Pullman, Washington.

Pullman is the home of the flagship campus for Washington State University, the second-largest institution of higher education in the state.

Seven miles long, the trail, paved all the way, carries you through bucolic Palouse scenery, parallel to State Route 270.

There’s a shallow gradient, and you’ll come across rest areas and interpretive signs along the route. And while the landscapes are gorgeous, the trail also has an important practical use as a commuter route for cyclists between the two university campuses.

6. Prichard Art Gallery

This outreach facility for the University of Idaho is located in downtown Moscow, and moved to its current location on Main Street in 1986.

The Prichard Art Gallery has a lively schedule of exhibitions, events and educational programming, receiving upwards of 17,000 visitors a year.

You can check out the creativity of members of the Idaho College of Art and Architecture, as well as temporary exhibits for local, regional, national and international artists in a whole spectrum of media.

The exhibits rotate at short intervals, so there’s always something fresh to see, while the gift shop sells unique pieces by artists and craftspeople from the area.

7. McConnell Mansion

On leafy Adams Street, a couple of blocks east of Main Street, stands the palatial W. J. McConnell House.

In a Stick/Eastlake style, this elegant residence was built in 1886 for William J. McConnell (1839-1925), who served as Governor of Idaho from 1893 to 1897, after previously representing the young state as one of its first United States Senators.

The mansion is the headquarters of the Latah County Historical Society, and you can take a look around a series of themed period rooms, featuring authentic furnishings and appliances.

The society also puts on fascinating exhibits and learning events, often in partnership with the University of Idaho and always well worth attending.

8. Colter’s Creek Winery

The rolling country south of Moscow has everything you need to make great wine, and in 2016 the Lewis-Clark Valley gained official AVA (American Viticultural Area) designation.

Colter’s Creek has a storefront and tasting room in Moscow, growing its grapes on the sunny slopes where the Potlatch flows into the Clearwater River.

Planted between the 1980s and 2010s these vineyards produce a wide variety of grapes, running the gamut from Riesling to Cabernet Sauvignon, for local handcrafted wines that have earned widespread acclaim.

The stylish Moscow tasting room is in Main Street’s Hattabaugh building, constructed in 1890, and has a choice of estate wines on tap. Wine tasting classes take place regularly, to help you tell a Sangiovese from a Tempranillo.

9. Kenworthy Performing Arts Centre

On the National Register of Historic Places, this fine old Spanish Revival cinema has a history going back to 1926, and was founded as a vaudeville stage and silent movie house.

The current tiled facade, in a pared-down Art Deco style, has been in place since 1949, and up to the late-1980s this was downtown Moscow’s main movie theater.

Since 2000, the venue has belonged to the Kenworthy Performing Arts Centre, which carried out thorough renovations in the 2010s. Come for classic, independent and foreign films, as well as a variety of community stage performances and other events.

10. Hamilton-Lowe Aquatics Center

Summers in Moscow wouldn’t be the same without this public outdoor pool, splash pad and water park, open June through September.

If you want to get your laps in, the Hamilton-Lowe Aquatics Center has a 25-yard, six-lane pool.

Meanwhile parents can bring children to the extensive play area, which features a toddler-friendly slide, tumble buckets, interactive equipment, slides for bigger kids and a small lazy river.

The center also has picnic tables, barbecues, lounge chairs and free Wi-Fi, as well as a full-service concession area, though you’re free to bring your own food.

11. Idaho Vandals

The 16,000-seater multipurpose arena, Kibbie Dome is home field for several of the University of Idaho’s sports teams, all called the Idaho Vandals.

So depending on the time of year you can catch pulsating football, basketball (men and women), soccer (women), tennis and indoor track and field at this venue.

The Kibbie Dome was completed in 1971 as an open-air stadium, and was given its barrel-vaulted roof in 1975.

The football team competes in the Big Sky Conference in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), returning in 2016 after 20 years bouncing around the Big West, Sun Belt and Western Athletic Conferences.

The Vandals’ golden age came between 1985 and 1995 when it reached the I-AA playoffs in ten out of 11 seasons.

If you’re wondering about the name, “Vandals”, it goes back more than a century, when UI’s feared basketball team played defense with such ferocity that they were dubbed the Vandals by the famous coach Hec Edmundson (1886-1964).

12. Ghormley Park

Bordered on the south side by Paradise Creek, Ghormley Park is the favorite destination for family fun and outdoor recreation in summer.

The park covers just over ten acres, a large section of which is in the shade of tall, mature trees.

This is where you’ll find the picnic shelter, fitted with BBQ grills, as well as a children’s playground.

Elsewhere there are amenities for baseball/softball, basketball and horseshoes. You can use the Paradise Trail, which traces the creek and connects a number of green spaces in Moscow, to get onto the Latah Trail on the east side of the city and the Bill Chipman Trail in the west.

13. Palouse Ice Rink

You can hit the ice at this popular local rink on the southeast side of town. Resembling an aircraft hangar, the Palouse Ice Rink has a temporary look about it, and when we wrote this article was making strides raising money for a permanent complex.

There are regular public skate sessions early in the day, after school and in the evening, and skate rental is reasonably priced.

Also on the schedule are casual stick-n-puck sessions, pick-up hockey, drop-in late-night curling, league curling, Palouse Adult League Hockey and much more. Check the calendar for learn-to-skate sessions.

14. Moscow Artwalk

Beginning back in 2004, the Moscow Artwalk is a landmark on the Palouse calendar. On one Friday evening in June, more than 60 businesses and 100 artists around downtown participate in a vibrant cultural and artistic event.

Moscow Artwalk brings exhibitions of a wide variety, as well as live demonstrations by artists, workshops, live music, dance performances and food vendors, on Main Street and its intersecting streets.

You can take in this cultural feast on a self-guided trail, and there’s a passport system, with six stamps making you eligible for a prize draw. And if you miss something, many of the participating businesses also have Saturday hours.

15. Fondo on the Palouse

The foundation responsible for the Latah Trail organizes this cycling event, normally staged on the last Saturday in June.

Fondo on the Palouse takes you out into the beautiful rolling Palouse landscape on a variety of group bike rides, all setting off from Moscow.

The Family Fondo is a 15-mile route from Moscow to Troy. If you want something longer but want to stay away from road traffic, there’s a 50-mile ride along the Latah and Bill Chipman Palouse Trails.

And finally the grand Moscow Fondo is a 100-mile tour of the region, passing through Troy, Deary, Princeton and Potlatch, crossing the state line to Pullman and Colfax, WA, before returning to Moscow.

15 Best Things to Do in Moscow (Idaho):

• University of Idaho Arboretum & Botanical Garden
• Latah Trail
• Appaloosa Museum and Heritage Center
• Moscow Farmers' Market
• Bill Chipman Palouse Trail
• Prichard Art Gallery
• McConnell Mansion
• Colter's Creek Winery
• Kenworthy Performing Arts Centre
• Hamilton-Lowe Aquatics Center
• Idaho Vandals
• Ghormley Park
• Palouse Ice Rink
• Moscow Artwalk
• Fondo on the Palouse

Matador Original Series

11 Important Native American Heritage Sites in the US That You Need to Visit

S ites of Native American heritage play a powerful role in educating visitors about the original residents of what are now the United States and help foster respect for the 5.2 million indigenous people in the country today. Socially ethical tourism helps sustain Native American families — some of the least represented, most poverty-stricken groups of people in the US. It’s important for tourists to respect that many of these sites are sacred to the local people, their spirituality, their land, and their ancestors. The following 11 important Native American heritage sites are managed by state or federal agencies in collaboration with associated tribes and are well worth a visit.

1. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, Montana

Photo: Don Mammoser /Shutterstock

On June 25 and 26, 1876, thousands of Lakota Sioux, Cheyenne, and Arapaho fighters came together to defeat the 7th Regiment of the US Cavalry. Under Lt. Col. Custer, the soldiers attacked the south-central part of Montana , with the goal of forcing the native peoples onto reservations. While Custer and several hundred others of European ancestry died in the battle, ultimately the native peoples’ sacred lands were taken from them and their relocation forced. This is a deeply meaningful site for many contemporary Native American people. Today members of the Crow tribe guide tours of the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument , where visitors can see the site of “Custer’s Last Stand” on Last Stand Hill; visit a museum of historic and prehistoric artifacts; reflect at the Indian Memorial; and walk through the National Cemetery. The national monument is on the Crow Agency directly off a major interstate.

2. Chaco Culture National Historical Park, New Mexico

Photo: William Silver /Shutterstock

The Chaco Canyon area is important because it served as the epicenter of the Puebloan peoples — the ancestors of the Hopi and others — at least 3,000 years ago. This was where astronomy, art, and trade began to flourish and then spread throughout the Southwest. The National Park System preserves the Chaco Culture National Historical Park , which features unique architecture, extensive rock art, and domestic and ceremonial structures. Archaeologists recently discovered pre-Colombian chocolate at the site, one indication of trade with people in Central America and beyond. There’s hiking, night sky viewing, and educational activities year-round. Though the site is in a somewhat remote part of New Mexico , it is easy to visit by car, bicycle, or through an organized tour.

3. Effigy Mounds National Monument, Iowa

Photo: Effigy Mounds National Monument /Facebook

The Midwest of the US is sprinkled with giant earthworks that indigenous people built for purposes we still don’t thoroughly understand. Situated in Iowa , along the Mississippi River, the Effigy Mounds are shaped like lynx, water spirits, bison, turtles, and more. The builders created these structures about 1,400 years ago. In consultation with Native American groups, anthropologists have traced the lineage of more than 20 contemporary tribes who descend from this culture. The Effigy Mounds are open to visitors during daylight hours all year-round, except in extreme weather conditions, on Christmas, and on Thanksgiving. Barring icy road conditions, the Mounds are easy to get to.

4. Montezuma Castle National Monument, Arizona

Photo: Tom Forbes /Shutterstock

Montezuma Castle and the nearby Montezuma Well were important to the Sinagua people starting more than 800 years ago. The castle is a stunning, incredibly well-preserved, five-story cliff structure with 20 rooms. It took 300 years to build it alongside Beaver Creek, which attracts birds and other animals. Artifacts at the visitor center museum include stone tools, bone needles, and gems that indicate long-distance trade. Some Yavapai and Hopi tribal members trace their lineage back to the Sinagua who built this structure and the nearby well. The descendants of the architects sometimes return to the sites for private religious ceremonies. Visiting the Montezuma Castle National Monument is simple as it’s just off a major highway. An accessible trail takes tourists throughout the site.

5. Ocmulgee National Monument, Georgia

Photo: Joseph Thomas Photography /Shutterstock

The Ocmulgee sites trace more than 17,000 continual years of Native American heritage. Occupation began thousands of years before the arrival of the Europeans. It was at one time the largest archaeological dig in the United States, with sites ranging from ancient houses to historic villages to very old earthworks. An onsite museum housing more than 2,000 artifacts showcases their finds. Every September, over 300 Native Americans gather at the site for a public celebration of culture, including dancing, storytelling, music, and art. Ocmulgee is the ancestral homeland of the people of the Creek, or Muscogee, Nation. The Ocmulgee National Monument is open to the public and leashed pets. Six miles of trails thread through the site and bikes are only permitted on the main trail. The main entrance is just off a highway near the city of Macon.

6. Poverty Point State Historic Site, Louisiana

Photo: Poverty Point World Heritage Site /Facebook

Members of what is now called the Poverty Point Culture built the mysterious earthworks at this northeast Louisiana site almost 3,700 years ago. The site is heavily protected and is a UNESCO World Heritage site . No one is sure what the complicated concentric ridges and conical mounds, which surround a central plaza, were used for. Hypotheses range from trading centers to sites of religious ceremonies. The Poverty Point people were hunters and gatherers and fishers, and although there is no stone to quarry at the site, they crafted interesting objects out of rocks. Archaeologists are unsure what they were used for but the running hypothesis is that the objects improved cooking by holding heat. The Poverty Point State Historic Site is open to visitors nearly every day of the year and is easily reached by car.

7. Hopewell Culture National Historical Park, Ohio

Photo: Hopewell Culture National Historical Park /Facebook

Another mound site, Hopewell is 2,000 years old. It’s located in the Ohio River Valley, and was constructed by the Hopewell culture. Oral history tells us that the Hopewell culture used their mostly geometric mounds as sites of sacred ceremonies, including funerals and other rites. The mounds are 12 feet high and up to thousands of feet across, and the Hopewell culture built them for about 500 years. The Hopewell Culture National Historical Park protects six groups of earthworks, all of which are relatively close together and easy to visit by car. The park has activities including yoga, arts programs, summer lecture series, guided tours, and camping. There is no lodging in the park but there are hotels and inns nearby.

8. Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site, South Dakota

Photo: Traveller70 /Shutterstock

The three groups of the Hidatsa tribe lived in these villages along the Missouri River for hundreds of years prior to the arrival of fur traders in 1750. The site has always been a major trade center, from prehistoric times through the Lewis and Clark expedition. The museum houses art made by indigenous people throughout the history of the villages’ occupation. Their descendants are now located on the Fort Berthold Reservation in west-central North Dakota . Visitors with a few hours to spend at Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site can walk to Awatixa Xi’e Village (the Lower Hidatsa Site) and Awatixa Village (the Sakakawea Site). Site trails are open all year from sunrise to sunset.

9. Hovenweep National Monument, Utah and Colorado

Photo: Zack Frank /Shutterstock

Hovenweep housed humans starting about 10,000 years ago, but it is best known for the six ancestral Pueblo villages scattered throughout the 20-mile expanse preserve. The area was continually occupied through the 1300s, when the Puebloans dispersed from the area. The six villages, with multistory stone structures exhibiting impressive masonry, housed a total of 2,500 people at any given time. In good weather, visitors can check out all six of the villages, which are somewhat isolated from one another. Visitors to Hovenweep National Monument meet at the visitor center at Square Tower Group, and drive to each of the other five villages. Spring is the best time to go, not just because of the wildflowers and birding, but because summers are extremely hot and winter conditions make some roads impassable. Still, this is one of the oldest sites in the Southwest, and seeing the structures make for a memorable adventure.

10. Pu’u Loa Petroglyphs, Hawaii

Photo: George Burba /Shutterstock

Located in Volcanoes National Park on Hawaii’s Big Island, Pu’u Loa consists of more than 23,000 lava etchings that are sacred to native Hawaiians, especially the Kalapana people. The etchings are in all kinds of shapes, like people, canoes, animals, concentric circles, and pecked dimples known as cupules. They appear to have been sometime created between 1200-1450 AD. Until relatively recently, native Hawaiians used to bury their babies’ umbilical cords in the lava near the petroglyphs, which was believed to ensure the child’s long life. Perhaps Pu’u Loa got its name from this practice, which translates to “The Hill of Long Life.” The National Park System has created a seven-mile walking trail to reach a boardwalk to see this site without damaging it.

11. Chumash Painted Cave State Historic Park, California

Photo: Pinterest /California State Park

More like this

Trending now, the 10 best nudist resorts around the world, 21 zion national park cabins to make your desert dreams come true, this road trip expert’s free map of 429 national park sites will vastly improve your us travels, the 20 best airbnbs near universal studios orlando, the 19 best palm springs airbnbs for a bachelorette party to remember, discover matador, adventure travel, train travel, national parks, beaches and islands, ski and snow.

23 Best & Fun Things to Do in Moscow (Idaho)

Would you like to know the best and fun things to do in Moscow, idaho?

The historic city of Moscow, Idaho, is located in the county seat of Latah County, and it houses the famous University of Idaho founded in 1890.

Moscow, Idaho, has one of the fertile landscapes of rolling hills located on the Idaho Washington boundary where agricultural products are cultivated and harvested in due season.

Watch out for old brick buildings along the cozy downtown area, dating back from the 20th century with many community events such as bustling artwork in June and weekly farmers’ markets spring through fall.

The magnificent city boasts one of the best universities in the world. The University of Idaho stands as the main structure of the town, which plays important roles such as sporting life, culture, society, and many more.

Additionally, the city is surrounded by the Palouse landscape, where wheat fields can be explored east and west and on the two-paced rail trails. For a fun time in Moscow, here are the top things to do in Moscow, Idaho.

Things to do in Moscow, Idaho

1. explore mcconnell mansion.

The historic McConnell Mansion is located on the evergreen Adams Street near the blocks east of Main Street, an old stately building.

The magnificent building serves as headquarters to the Latah County Historical Society, making it one of the best skyscrapers of Moscow, Idaho.

The mansion features a well-decorated room with authentic furnishings and expensive appliances, making it a lovely environment.

Additionally, the beautiful facility also puts up a piece of portable learning equipment and fascinating exhibits and furniture imported from the most region of the world; the premises is always worth visiting.

Address: 110 S Adams St, Moscow, ID 83843, United States

2. University of Idaho Arboretum & Botanical Garden

Explore the beautiful scenes of the evergreen University of Idaho Arboretum & Botanical Garden, a perfect addition to your list of best things to do in Moscow, Idaho.

The 63 acres of land is located just south of the president’s residence near the University’s golf arena with the beautiful Palouse hills in the background.

The University of Idaho Arboretum & Botanical Garden is open for everyone with free admission; the greenhouse is laid out on Hayfield in the 1980s.

The historic arena boasts ancient high specimen trees, including a mighty giant Sequoia located on the north side of the president’s residence.

Additionally, the beautiful scenery houses on the south end a display garden for ornamental willows, butterfly garden, xerophytes, and the irises and heather.

Address: Johnson Cutoff Rd, Moscow, ID 83843, United States

3. Seasons Public House

One of the fun things to do in Moscow, Idaho, is visiting the famous Seasons Public House close to the Best Western PLUS University Inn.

The Seasons Public House boasts unique exhibits such as the brioche bun and Cougar Gold cheese, making it the top attraction of Moscow, Idaho.

The historic Seasons Public House serves one of the best dishes in the town; lunch and dinner are well secured in the public establishment.

The Seasons Public House makes rare products such as the elk burger mixed with the Cougar Gold cheese caramel tart with espresso ice cream.

Additionally, the center is open to every individual and serves only lunch and dinner on weekdays and a special menu on Sunday.

Address: 1516 W Pullman Rd, Moscow, ID 83843, United States

4. Latah Trail

A day in this paved trail from Moscow to twelve miles long towards the east makes what to do in Moscow, Idaho, for fun.

The city is located close to Troy, and the famous Latah Trail was completed in 2008 arrayed in some 30 miles to the southeast.

The magnificent Latah Trail allows for plenty of space for pedestrians and cyclists in the summer, cross-country skiers after a snowfall in the winter, and snowfall.

The center stands as one of the top attractions around Moscow, Idaho; children can access the trail with no difficulty climbing slight slopes.

Additionally, enjoy breathtaking panoramas at the Palouse with coniferous forest connected with the Chipman Palouse Trail.

Address: Moscow, ID, USA

5. Moscow Community Theatre

A day in Moscow, Idaho is worth spending in the Moscow Community Theatre.

The historic Moscow Community Theatre is located in downtown Moscow making it one of the top attractions; the theatre stores essential city documentaries.

The magnificent Moscow Community Theatre is a non-profit theatre organization that entertains people around Moscow, Idaho, for free.

It offers a lifetime experience to people of all ages and grades to participate in affordable and enjoy quality community theatre games on the Palouse.

Additionally, the Moscow Community Theatre was founded based on encouraging and training the younger generation on the importance of theatre and not letting finance be a significant disruption to people of low income.

Address: PO Box 9072 Moscow, ID 83843, United States.

6. Appaloosa Museum and Heritage Center

Visiting the beautiful Appaloosa Museum and Heritage Center for vacation and tours stands as one of Moscow, Idaho, attractions

The historic Appaloosa Museum and Heritage Center are well known for their famous horse breed synonymous with the Palouse region and its colorful spotted coat.

It features unique exhibits such as the Appaloosas’ various coat patterns give a foresight about the Nez Perce people and their need for the Appaloosas.

The Appaloosa Museum and Heritage Center are well located in the Idaho-Washington state line, where the museum serves the need of the people of Idaho.

Additionally, the center displays cases with lots of objects, from white and black photography to saddles and Native American artifacts, and there are sections of extensive library and theatre.

Address: 2720 Pullman Rd, Moscow, ID 83843, United States

7. Bucer’s Coffeehouse & Pub

One of the unique things to do in Moscow, Idaho, is visiting the magnificent Bucer’s Coffeehouse & Pub and exploring the unique taste of fine coffee.

The historic Bucer’s Coffeehouse & Pub boast of tasty roasted fine coffee and fresh wines for the city of Moscow, Idaho, to enjoy and spend some time out.

It also produces excellent espresso, with a unique local draughted beer, baking delicate pastries and grilling sandwiches, and lots of tasty products on parade.

The Bucer’s Coffeehouse & Pub is one of the best places to enjoy great food and drinks around the city, and it allows for minor events, parties, and social gatherings.

Additionally, the vibrant center offers live music from both local and invited artists from across the globe, making it one of the crowded centers in the city.

8. Moscow Farmers’ Market

The magnificent Moscow Farmers’ Market serves as a host to many farmers with fresh, eatable products for the people.

The historic Moscow farmer’s market is located on Main Street, where the best Moscow farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs reside with friendly goods ranging from fresh farm produce to stock foods.

The Moscow farmer’s market gives a maximum opportunity for artisans, farmers, and people in business to connect with visitors and city residents who need their goods.

It features many vendors for fruits, vegetables, plants, local grass-fed meat, flowers, jams, honey, home decorations, hand-forged knives, pastries, and many more.

Additionally, the market offers live music on most weekends and newly prepared food from caked rice to beans, samosas, and tacos.

Address: 403 S Main St, Moscow, ID 83843, United States

Considering a vacation in Nebraska?, do not miss exploring the top attractions and fun activities in Kearney , and  Lincoln

9. Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival

Enjoy live jazz music in the prestigious Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival.

The Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival has been located in the University of Idaho since the 1960s, making it one of the most attended festivals in Moscow, Idaho.

The historic event is one of the oldest and largest educational jazz festivals globally, with about half of the population of the city in attendance.

It hosts about 100 workshops, a dozen world-class jazz artists, over 400 student performances each year, and special exhibits with other educational activities.

Additionally, the Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival honors public music shows, dance, and recorded jazz music, with the famous honored artist Lionel Hampton always present.

10. Bill Chipman Palouse Trail

Walking along the beautiful pathway of Bill Chipman Palouse Trail is one of the best things to do in Moscow, Idaho, for visitors and interested individuals.

The Bill Chipman Palouse Trail is located on the west of Moscow along the right of way of the old Union Pacific Railroad across Pullman, Washington.

The historic Bill Chipman Palouse Trail has a shallow gradient with many interpretative signs along the route, making it a fun area and a scenario for great photoshoots.

The center is close to Pullman, Washington, which is home to the flagship campus of Washington State University and stands as one of the largest institutions of higher education in the United States.

Additionally, the Bill Chipman Palouse Trail offers gorgeous landscapes and a telecommuter route for motorcycles between the two university campuses.

Address: Perimeter Drive, Pullman, WA 99163, United States.

The famous event is one of the top places to visit in Moscow, Idaho, with lots of people coming out to express their desire concerning the matters of the city and interacting with one another.

DEFY is a rallying cry and an attitude that promotes people’s freedom from norms and allowance for individualism in Moscow, Idaho.

The DEFY event cut across all activities, from the rules guiding social, educational, religious, health, and even sporting activities.

The historic DEFY gives the community a space to express themselves, be free about specific policies, and agitate for change where necessary.

Additionally, the beautiful city of Moscow, Idaho, is constrained in many ways with laws but DEFY gives everyone a safe place for reasonable society expectations.

Address: 231 Warbonnet Dr, Moscow, ID 83843, United States

12. Prichard Art Gallery

The Prichard Art Gallery offers a lovely rundown of exhibitions, educational programs, and events.

 The facility is located in downtown Moscow near the famous University of Idaho and has been functional once in 1986 before moving to its current location on Main Street.

 The Prichard Art Gallery allows about 17,000 visitors a year with lots of fun things to do and see, such as beautiful art walks, fine arts, sculptures, and many more.

It features many creative members from the Idaho College of Arts and Architecture with local, regional exhibits and a whole spectrum of national and international media.

Additionally, the beautiful exhibits presented are rotated at short intervals, so there is always something new to see at each interval with craftspeople from the area and unique gift shops.

Address: 414 S Main St, Moscow, ID 83843, United States

13. BookPeople of Moscow

The historic BookPeople of Moscow is a famous center for independent bookstores, making it a perfect addition to your list of cool things to do in Moscow, Idaho.

The BookPeople of Moscow is located in the downtown area and provides a place to browse and research exciting topics buy new and used books.

The magnificent BookPeople of Moscow s stored, operated, and owned by the community members in Moscow, Idaho, for scientific research works and historical fiction.

The famous BookPeople of Moscow store contains fiction and nonfiction books for visitors and interested individuals across the States.

Additionally, you can explore many items such as puzzles, journals, gift cards, greeting cards, new books, and other great gift items.

Address: 521 S Main St, Moscow, ID 83843, United States

14. Idaho Repertory Theatre

The historic Idaho Repertory Theatre is one of the fun things to do in Moscow, Idaho, which offers plenty of accommodation opportunities from RV parks, breakfasts, and quaint beds to hotels.

Pullman and Moscow are close university towns making it a crowded zone of young people with lots of fun activities available to make life lovable.

The magnificent Idaho Repertory Theatre hosts the Best Western PLUS University Inn, which is one of the most recommended hotels for foreign visitors.

The wonderful establishment boasts about 173 renovated guest rooms, lovely poolside rooms, sauna, onsite restaurant, snack shop, central courtyard, exercise room, and many more.

Additionally, the Idaho Repertory Theatre provides a free shuttle, hot breakfast, free WiFi, night cookies, and a wide range of drinks for visitors and interested individuals.

Address: 604 S Rayburn St, Moscow, ID 83844, United States

15. Rendezvous Park

The Moscow park stands as one of the best places to enjoy live music and karaoke beats.

 The center hosts a challenging time out with three days of nonstop music and famous artists’ presentation of beautiful artwork.

 A team of volunteers spearheads the historic Rendezvous Park brought together by their passion for music and art culture.

 It features the sharing of creative ideas from desperate lovers of music and art, people with one object of promoting harmony in Moscow, Idaho.

 Additionally, the famous rendezvous park music starts in the late afternoon, but it is always advised to get there early to enjoy the open-air performances and shows every night.

Address: 3333 Swan Valley Hwy, Swan Valley, ID 83449, United States

For a fun road trip in Kentucky, do not miss exploring the top things to do in Elizabethtown , things to do in Bardstown , and things to do in Williamstown .

16. Colter’s Creek Winery

Explore the taste of great grapes and handcrafted wines in the famous Colter’s Creek Winery, making it one of the top places to visit in Moscow, Idaho, for wine lovers

The historic Colter’s Creek Winery is located in the country south of Moscow and has all most everything you need to make an excellent wine for the people of Moscow, Idaho.

The center gained official recognition in 2006 with the designation of the AVA (American Viticultural Area) by the Lewis Clark Valley.

It contains a tasting room and a storefront in Moscow, the growing of grapes is done on the sunny slopes where the potlatch flows directly into the Clearwater River.

Additionally, the beautiful Colter’s Creek has planted vineyards of various grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon, gamut Riesling, and many handcrafted wines.

Address: 215 S Main St #2807, Moscow, ID 83843, United States

17. Hamilton-Lowe Aquatics Center

Lovers of aquatic sports and aquatic activities will enjoy the Hamilton-Lowe Aquatics Center .

During the summer period in Moscow, where the sun is on the high side, the public outdoor pool is a fantastic place to find yourself with a splash pad and water park around.

The Hamilton-Lowe Aquatics Center features a 25-yard six-lane pool for swimmers, both professional and interested individuals, to get the laps in.

The center allows the parent to bring in children to enjoy a wonderful timeout with the toddler-friendly slide, interactive equipment, tumble buckets and giant slides for bigger kids.

Additionally, the beautiful Hamilton-Lowe Aquatics Center is open for everyone from June through September, with lots of fun features to explore, such as picnic tables, free WiFi, and many more.

Address: 830 N Mountain View Rd, Moscow, ID 83843, United States

18. Ghormley Park

The magnificent Ghormley Park is open for both family and friends to enjoy a paradise away from home. Do add to your list of fun things to do in Moscow, Idaho.

The wonderful park is bordered on the south side by the beautiful paradise Creek making the city’s favorite relaxation zone with shades of tall trees everywhere; the park is filled with fresh air.

The park covers about ten acres of land with a large picnic shelter for recreational activities, social gatherings, and events of all kinds and age grades.

The historic Ghormley Park boasts of unique features such as public amenities for a baseball arena, softball, horseshoes, and basketball court.

Additionally, the park is open to everyone, including the young and the old, with a perfect playground for kids and children events BBQ grills fitted around the area; it is a fun site indeed.

Address: 400 Home St, Moscow, ID 83843, United States

19. Idaho Vandals (Kibbie Dome)

The historic Kibbie Dome is a sports complex that houses the Idaho Vandals making it a perfect addition to your list of Moscow, Idaho, activities

 The historic 16,000-seater multipurpose complex is open to everyone to catch live football games, both men and female, basketball games, tennis, and other outdoor games.

The magnificent Kibbie Dome was established in the early 1970s as an open-air stadium for sporting activities, religious gatherings, and even political and community activities.

The Idaho Vandals football team engage in several completion, most especially in the Sky Conference in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), making it an exciting place to spend some time out.

Additionally, the Vandals basketball team has dominated the championship for along that. It was named after the famous coach Hec Edmundson (1886-1964) for his resilient works in the game; it is indeed a place of fun.

Address: 875 Perimeter Dr, Moscow, ID 83844, USA

20. Kenworthy Performing Arts Centre

Visiting the Kenworthy Performing Arts Centre is one of the best fun things in Moscow, Idaho, to enjoy the best outdoor experience.

This historic Spanish revival cinema dated to 1920 and was founded on the silent movie house wth the prestigious vaudeville stage, one of the portable structures on the ground

The Arts complex is located downtown Moscow and serves as the main movie theatre of the city, with many recent foreign and home country documentaries displayed daily.

It is paraded in a Deco Art style facade with many classical, independent, international movies and community stage performances from young ones.

Additionally, the beautiful Kenworthy Performing Arts Centre allows for other events such as Art gallery exhibits, modeling, and fashion show.

Address: 508 S Main St, Moscow, ID 83843, United States

21. Palouse Ice Rink

The famous Palouse Ice Rink stands as one of the recommended sites to spend vacation and tour.

The wonderful Palouse Ice Rink is located in the southeastern region of the town; it attracts a crowd from all over the city due to its conducive environment.

The temporary building is in the form of an aircraft hangar with plans and fundraisers ongoing for a more considerable and permeant structure to entertain the people of the city.

The center offers regular public skating sessions during the daytime and in the evening session, allowing for skate rental at a very affordable price.

Additionally, the Palouse Ice Rink also boasts unique features Palouse Adult League, Hockey pick-up hockey, league curling, drop-in late-night curling, and many more.

Address: 1021 Harold Ave, Moscow, ID 83843, United States

22. Fondo on the Palouse

The magnificent Fondo on the Palouse takes you on a fantastic journey down the trail.

The beautiful Fondo on the Palouse hosts many sporting activities such as bike riding other motorsports, which sets off from Moscow.

The public establishment has organized most cycling events, normally premiered on the stage from the last Saturday of June every year.

The 15-mile route family Fondo moves from Moscow to Troy; it can be extended based on a particular order, with the 50-mile ride along the Bill Chipman Palouse trails and Latah also available.

 Additionally, interested individuals can also engage in the 200-mile grand Moscow Fondo, which passes through Deary, Troy, Princeton, and many more before returning to Moscow at last.

Do add to your bucket list of things to do in Moscow, Idaho.

  Address: 513 S Main St Moscow, Idaho 83843, United States.

23. Moscow Artwalk

The famous Moscow Artwalk is one of the modern sites in the city with lots of fun things to do and see around, a perfect addition to your bucket list of best things to do in Moscow, Idaho.

The historic site was established in 2004; it stands as one of the landmark structures in the Palouse region, making it one of the favorites in the city.

The center engages about 100 artists and 60 businesses around the downtown area who participate in artistic events and vibrant cultural activities.

The magnificent Moscow Artwalk produces a wide range of exhibits and live music, live demonstrations by artists, dance shows, workshops on the main Street.

Additionally, the famous center hosts a cultural feast for some selected person who engages in the self-guided trail with different passport systems and stamps to qualify you for the prize and entry draw, a place of enjoyment and relaxation for anyone.

Address: S Main St, Moscow, ID 83843, United States.

Have more time in Idaho, do not miss exploring the top attractions and things to do in Meridian , and  things to do in Rexburg .

Plan Your Trip to Moscow

Exploring the beautiful city of Moscow, Idaho, is one of the best fun and worthy experience for your vacation, tours, and camp meetings for interested individuals.

Moscow, Idaho is a sure place to visit if you intend not to run out of fun places and ideas during your visit; there are many fun places to go, such as Fondo on the Palouse, Ghormley Park, Hamilton-Lowe Aquatics Center, and many more.

This destination is ideal for visitors who want to explore the many picturesque areas and scenes for movie production, events, and public gatherings.

Remember this post whenever you find yourself in the city of Moscow, Idaho, because all the information and resources that you need are right here to access you make the best of this fantastic city.

From the list of fun things to do in Moscow, Idaho, be sure to enjoy your visit. Happy Travels!

Places to Explore Native American Culture in North Carolina

Discover history, experience contemporary Native American life and witness colorful powwow regalia.

You can immerse yourself in stories from native cultures through dramas or by visiting living history museums across North Carolina. Crafts, architecture, clothing, and tools give color and texture to a way of life largely unknown to many of today’s visitors.

Compelling Narratives

For 80-plus years, "The Lost Colony" has wowed audiences in Manteo with epic battles and American Indian dances on an outdoor stage triple the size of one on Broadway. The production dramatizes the mysterious disappearance of 117 English colonists from Roanoke Island in 1590. Learn about the first habitants of Hatteras Island and buy crafts at the Frisco Native American Museum .

Farther inland, nobody knows the origin of Lake Phelps at Pettigrew State Park near Creswell, but artifacts like dugout canoes (some at least 4,000 years old) show the ingenuity of Carolina Algonquian people. Two canoes are on display in the park’s information center. Digs at Town Creek Indian Mound near Mount Gilead have uncovered homes, civic structures and a burial hut belonging to the Pee Dee culture 1,000 years ago.

Cherokee Ways

Drama unfolds in Cherokee on an outdoor stage each summer as the Cherokee story comes to life in "Unto These Hills."  It begins in 1540, when Spanish explorers arrive on the state’s western edge and continues today, as 14,000 tribal members still live in the Great Smoky Mountains.

Get immersed in their culture on a visit to the town of Cherokee. Weavers make baskets, hunters shoot blowguns and workers hull canoes at Oconaluftee Indian Village , which recreates an 18th-century Cherokee community. Artifacts at the Museum of the Cherokee People take visitors on a 13,000-year journey, including the Paleo-Indian period and the Trail of Tears, the tribe’s forced move to Oklahoma. Bonfires at nearby Oconaluftee Islands Park commemorate the journey with lively costumes and movements. Creativity shines at Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual , the oldest Native American cooperative in the United States. Pottery, toys and beadwork make meaningful souvenirs.

The legacy of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians extends beyond town. In Hayesville, the 2-mile Quanassee Path starts at the Cherokee Cultural Center and leads to four other sites, including the Cherokee Homestead Exhibit . There, take a free self-guided tour that covers a summer house, winter house and food storage crib. At the adjacent museum, see rare Cherokee quilts, carvings and baskets.

Native Celebrations

1 american indian heritage celebration.

All eight recognized tribes in North Carolina participate in this event honoring American Indian Heritage Month (November). With demonstrations, performances and presentations, this celebration's main theme is to show how Indigenous people still live here.

2 Blooming of the Dogwood Tribal Powwow

Savor the spirit of the Haliwa-Saponi Tribe through food, drums, arts and crafts.

3 Lumbee Homecoming Festival and Powwow

About half of our state’s 60,000 Lumbee Tribe members gather for pageants, a parade, an outdoor market and fireworks.

Weave your vacation together by visiting other sites featured in The Official 2024 North Carolina Travel Guide .

Jess Hoffert

Ends: 6/15/2024

2024 Outdoor NC Pledge Sweepstakes

Sweepstakes, 10 places to explore african american history, 10 unforgettable places of history and culture, outdoor dramas to enjoy under the stars.

Home » Discover Washington’s Native American Heritage

Discover Washington’s Native American Heritage

Learn about the thriving cultures and histories of Washington’s tribes at these museums, cultural centers, and events.

A contemporary misconception is that Native American people are relegated only to the past, existing mainly in school history books and exhibits in ancient villages in large museums. The truth is that Washington State is home to 29 federally recognized tribes — and a handful of tribes existing without federal recognition — who are very much alive and continuing their extraordinary, traditional cultures today.

Washington’s Native American Heritage Sites & Events

While the number of Washington tribes is bountiful, it can be challenging for non-Native visitors to find opportunities to interact with them. While not a complete representation, the following list offers a place to start. Expect unique, eye-opening, and potentially life-changing adventures when you delve into the tribal customs and cultures of Washington’s tribes.

A few tips to keep in mind when visiting:

• Visitors are generally welcome at museums, public areas of cultural centers, and tribal events held at outdoor venues. By contrast, spiritual ceremonies may not be accessible to visitors. When in doubt, ask if an event is open to the public.
• Please ask for permission before taking photographs or videos of individuals. Do not photograph or film prayers or ceremonies.
• All archaeological sites are protected by law, and artifacts may not be disturbed or removed from public or private lands.

Native American Museums & Cultural Centers

While many large-scale non-Native museums can present a one-dimensional view of Native Americans as a relic of ancient times, Native-led museums, exhibits, and programs share a different story. The museums on this list will give you an opportunity to immerse yourself in tribal living cultures, including Native art, music, and traditions that are still in practice to this day.

Burke Museum of Natural History & Culture

Six Native American artists from across the Pacific Northwest helped create the inaugural exhibit in the museum’s  Northwest Native Art  gallery, which includes basketry, carvings, multimedia art, and more. Located on the University of Washington campus in Seattle, visitors can enjoy frybread and other specialties at the on-site restaurant, Off the Rez Café. 

Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center Museum

With picture windows peering out onto the Columbia River, this museum, located in Stevenson, recounts the 40-million-year history of the Gorge region. Trace the first peoples’ influence, from the Cascade Chinook to the Clahclehlah village visited by Lewis and Clark.

Colville Confederated Tribes Museum

Located in a stunning building in Coulee Dam, this museum includes a veteran’s exhibit and Native art for sale.  (Note: The museum is currently closed but will reopen in December 2022.)

Confluence Project

A collaboration between celebrated artist Maya Lin and Pacific Northwest tribes, this six-site art installation spans 438 miles of the Columbia River. Confluence incorporates art, educational programs, and public gatherings to connect people to the history, living cultures, and ecology of the Native people who live along the Columbia River.

Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center

Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center is a land base and community center for the Seattle urban Native American community, located on 20 acres atop a bluff overlooking the Puget Sound from Magnolia’s Discover Park. The center includes a permanent art collection and events, such as the Seafair Indian Days Powwow, and is home to the United Indians of All Nations and the Sacred Circle Gifts and Art shop.

Duwamish Longhouse & Cultural Center

Explore the lesser-known history of Seattle at the Duwamish Longhouse & Cultural Center, which delves into the complex relationship between the Duwamish and the settlers who arrived in the 1850s. Visitors can enjoy group tours of the archeological materials in the Cultural Resource Center, a gift shop, and a traditional Puget Salish cedar post longhouse.

Eighth Generation at Pike Place Market

Find an exclusive, Native-made gift at Eighth Generation’s flagship store, located at Pike Place Market in downtown Seattle, just above the Gum Wall. The store is owned by founder and artist Louie Gong and features Native-designed blankets, apparel, art, soaps, and jewelry.

Elwha Klallam Museum at the Carnegie

Now under the management of the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe, what was once the Carnegie Museum is now used to display the tribe’s cultural and historical artifacts. Check out the exhibits on the Elwha River Dam Removal project—the largest in US history—and artifacts from the ancient tribal village  č̕ixʷícən .

Indigenous Showcase

Northwest Film Forum, in partnership with Longhouse Media, presents this ongoing series that showcases emerging and groundbreaking work by Native filmmakers.

Lelooska Foundation & Museum

At this cultural center southwest of Mount St. Helens, the Lelooska Foundation highlights the diversity of Native Peoples in North America. The collection includes everything from baskets and dolls to moccasins, dresses, and even a 15-foot birch bark canoe. On select dates, visitors can attend evening performances. Currently open by appointment Tuesdays and Thursdays.

“House of Welcome” Longhouse Education and Cultural Center at Evergreen State College

The “House of Welcome” Longhouse at Evergreen State College is the first longhouse on a public college campus. Built in 1995 through a massive collaborative community effort, the longhouse hosts potlatches, workshops, performances, events, and art. The longhouse hosts a holiday art fair every December. Check their  Facebook page  for more information on events.

Makah Cultural & Research Center / Makah Museum

The Makah Cultural and Research Center houses the museum, along with a gift shop and tribal programs. Visit the museum to view and interpret 300–500-year-old artifacts recovered from the Ozette archaeological site along with Makah masks, baskets, carvings, and jewelry.

Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture

Learn about the Native cultures influencing the northeast corner of the state, from the Indigenous northern Plateau Indians to Spokane’s 1925 National Indian Congress, a huge event to designed to market the city of Spokane. This museum houses one of the foremost collections in the country, with more than 5,000 items.

Skokomish Tribal Museum

Learn about the Skokomish — one of the nine communities of Twana Indians, a Salishan people — through their carvings, baskets, and paintings.

Squaxin Island Tribe Museum Library and Research Center (MLRC)

This exquisitely designed center features a beautiful water display at its entrance, along with exhibits on Squaxin Island history and culture, a public library, and a gift shop.

Steilacoom Cultural Center and Museum

Located in a church building of historical significance, this cultural center displays art and information on the Steilacoom people, as well as traveling exhibits.

Suquamish Museum

Amid towering trees on the Kitsap Peninsula, this LEED Gold–certified museum traces the Suquamish history back to the last ice age. Admire baskets, carvings, artifacts, and a gift shop. Afterward, pay respects at Chief Seattle’s gravesite only a few blocks away. Chief Seattle (1786–1866) was a Suquamish and Duwamish chief who is best known for a speech he gave on Native rights and environmental values. The city of Seattle is named after him.

Tulalip Tribes Hibulb Cultural Center

Located on a 50-acre natural history preserve, this Tulalip tribute features historic canoes, a recreated longhouse, and exhibits labeled in both English and Lushootseed, the Coast Salish language.

Quinault Cultural Center and Museum

Explore baskets, carvings, and photographic archives from seven different coastal tribes. Pick up a small treasure at the gift shop to support Quinault artists before you leave.

Yakama Nation Museum and Cultural Center

From traditional garb to life-size dwellings of the Plateau People, the history of Yakama Nation’s various tribes is on display at this 12,000-square-foot museum in Toppenish. The campus is a unique facility that includes the Yakama Nation Museum, Cultural Center Gift Shop, Heritage Theater, Yakama Nation Library, and the Winter Lodge.

Native American Cultural Events

If you want to experience Native cultural dance, music, and art, and maybe even find a special treasure to take home to remind you of your adventure, check out these cultural events. Plan to experience vividly colorful dance regalia, deeply spiritual ceremonies, and drums that mimic the beat of one’s heart.

First Salmon Feasts,  Spring

Tribes throughout the Pacific Northwest hold their own First Salmon Feasts at the start of fishing season with the first harvest. As the salmon move upriver, so do the feasts. Contact individual tribes for information about dates and locations (scroll down for a list of tribes).

Indigenous People Festival,  June

This festival occurs in June and is part of the Seattle Center Festál series. Gather together with Native community members to enjoy a powwow, Native art market, music, dance performances, and a cultural celebration.

Lummi Nation Stommish Water Festival,  June

Every June, this celebration of Coast Salish culture includes war canoe races and a traditional salmon barbecue on the Lummi reservation near Bellingham.

Seafair Indian Days Powwow, July

Come enjoy hundreds of dancers in handcrafted regalia and several powerful drum groups in a celebration of Native American cultures at Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center in July.

Chief Seattle Days,  August

Join this historic celebration held in August each year by the Suquamish on the Port Madison Reservation. This multi-day event includes traditional dancing, canoe races, Native art, and a ceremony honoring Chief Seattle.

Omak Stampede,  August

Every August, this annual event stampedes into Omak with rodeo events — including the world-famous suicide race — and the Colville Confederated Tribes’ Indian Encampment and Pow Wow, featuring a teepee village and dancing.

Tribal Canoe Journeys,  Summer

Each summer, tribal canoe families gather to journey the waters from the confluence of the Columbia and Willamette rivers in Oregon to the Lummi Nation in Washington. There is a launching ceremony and a week-long culminating celebration.

United Indians Native Art Market,  November and December

Just in time for the holidays, you can find something ultra-unique for friends and family at the United Indians Native Art Market. Held annually at the Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center in Seattle, this event features authentic Native American jewelry, crafts, food, prints, artwork, and baskets so you can shop Native.

Start exploring Washington’s Native American heritage sites and museums, and learn more about the state’s tribal communities during your next visit.

You can find more information about each federally recognized tribe through these resources:  Chehalis ,  Colville ,  Cowlitz ,  Hoh ,  Jamestown S’Klallam ,  Kalispel ,  Lower Elwha Klallam ,  Lummi ,  Makah , Muckleshoot,  Nisqually ,  Nooksack ,  Port Gamble S’Klallam ,  Puyallup ,  Quileute ,  Quinault ,  Samish ,  Sauk-Suiattle ,  Shoalwater Bay ,  Skokomish ,  Snoqualmie ,  Spokane ,  Squaxin Island ,  Stillaguamish ,  Suquamish ,  Swinomish ,  Tulalip ,  Upper Skagit ,  Yakama .

About the Author

Leah Altman is Oglala Lakota and was raised in the Portland area. She has written for several publications, including  Portland Monthly ,  Oregon Humanities , Portland State University’s  Metroscape  magazine,  Parents.com , and  Indian Country Today . She has also worked for Native and BIPOC-led environmental and community organizations and is finishing her first book, a memoir-in-essays about finding her birth family.

Meet Some of the Women Shaping Washington’s Wine Industry

From growers and winemakers to cellar masters, meet some of the women making an impact on Washington's wine industry.

Things to Do in Ellensburg: 3-Day Itinerary

Experience rodeo history and more in this charming college town.

Experience Washington’s Glass Art Scene

Dive into the epicenter of glass in the PNW.

Sponsored Content

Native American Totems

• phoenix.org
• Copy article link

The Heard Museum

Pueblo Grande Museum and Archaeological Park (Photo by Karol M./Wiki Commons)

Kachina Dolls (Photo by Flickr Commons)

Photo by Jean Olson/Fort McDowell Adventures

Chocolate and Butter Fry Bread (Photo by Fab C./Yelp Reviewer)

Kai Restaurant (Photo by Sheraton Wild Horse Resort & Spa)

Places to Experience Native American Culture in the Valley

Native American culture remains rich and thriving in the Valley of the Sun. From modern galleries and museums to festivals and tours, the Phoenix metro area is steeped in American Indian landmarks and traditions. Arizona contains 22 federally recognized tribes, with almost 44,000 indigenous people living in the Phoenix area, according to data from the […]

Best places to experience Native American culture in the Valley

• Nov 24, 2015

Native American culture remains rich and thriving in the Valley of the Sun. From modern galleries and museums to festivals and tours, the Phoenix metro area is steeped in American Indian landmarks and traditions.

Arizona contains 22 federally recognized tribes, with almost 44,000 indigenous people living in the Phoenix area, according to data from the 2010 census. That presents plenty of opportunities to experience Native American culture in and around the Valley throughout the year.

Heard of the Heard?

The Heard Museum holds the honor of being one of Phoenix’s top cultural attractions and destinations for learning about Native American arts and cultures. This museum includes 11 galleries featuring traditional and contemporary American Indian Art, as well as guided tours and an outdoor sculpture garden. Every March the Heard Museum hosts Arizona’s largest Indian Fair and Market, featuring more than 700 Native American artists.

Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday

The Heard Museum , 2301 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85004 | (602) 252-8840

A Journey to the Past

Located on a 1,500-year-old archaeological site, the Pueblo Grande Museum and Archaeological Park offers visitors a look at a prehistoric Hohokam village via a short trail. This National Historical Landmark is the largest preserved archaeological site within Phoenix city limits. The museum features three galleries including a children’s hands-on gallery and a changing gallery that has exhibits on various topics on display.

Hours: 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Monday through Saturday; 1 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. Sunday (Ruin Trail closes at 4:30 p.m.)

Pueblo Grande Museum and Archaeological Park , 4619 E. Washington St., Phoenix, AZ 85034 | (602) 495-0901

Antiques and uniques

Discover the antique and the unique in Native American artwork at River Trading Post in Scottsdale. Navajo textiles and Hopi Kachina are sprinkled among baskets, pottery, jewelry and artifacts on display at this modern shop that unites contemporary and vintage in one place.

Hours: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday

River Trading Post , 7033 E. Main St., Scottsdale, AZ 85251 | (480) 444-0001

Take an adventure

Venture outside of city limits to the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation for some authentic Native American experiences through Fort McDowell Adventures. Situated in the middle of the Sonoran Desert, activities invite visitors to learn about the Yavapai Nation and Southwestern culture through bus and horseback riding tours.

Fort McDowell Adventures , 14803 N. Hiawatha Hood Rd., Ford McDowell, AZ 85264 | (480) 816-6465

Creative Cuisine

Get a taste of Native American culture, literally, at a number of restaurants around the Valley. The Fry Bread House in Phoenix is famous for its Indian fry bread tacos, hominy stew and chocolate and butter fry bread. This casual eatery was one of just five recipients of the James Beard American Classics Award in 2012 and the first Native American restaurant to receive the honor.

Hours: 10 a.m. to 8 a.m. Monday through Thursday; 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday

Fry Bread House , 1003 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix, AZ, 85014 | (602) 351-2345

Plant a seed

Kai, which means “seed” in the Pima language, can be found at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa in Chandler. The decor and menu for this five-star, five-diamond restaurant, takes heavy inspiration from Native American culture. You will have to meet a dress code; Kai prohibits jeans, T-shirts, shorts and open-toed sandals for men. Reservations are strongly recommended.

Hours: 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday; 5:30 p.m to 9:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday

Kai at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa , 5594 W. Wild Horse Pass, Blvd., Chandler, AZ 85226 | (602) 385-5726

Facts and Festivals

Established in 1947, the Phoenix Indian Center is the oldest Native American nonprofit organization in the country and prides itself on offering services to help the Native American community in employment, education and cultural enrichment programs.

Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday

Phoenix Indian Center , 4520 N. Central Ave., Suite 250, Phoenix, AZ 85012 | (602) 264-6768

The Native American Recognition Days event is held each year throughout the Phoenix area in October and November, which also happens to be National Native American Heritage Month. Community volunteers from various nonprofit organizations and community groups unite to share the history and traditions of Native American culture through artwork songs and dance. More information about Native American Recognition Days can be found at www.aznard.org .

– Suzanne Wilson, Phoenix.org

• Attractions
• Native American Culture
• Phoenix History
• Restaurants

Digital Editions

Never miss an issue. Sign up for free today.

Click below to read this month's issue.

Most Popular

Collections.

• Tiki Oasis: Curated cocktails, midcentury modern design take over the Valley Ho
• A Look Back: Early industrialists influenced Scottsdale area
• Showcasing the Art Form: Jazz, Blues & Brews Festival Moves to Scottsdale Civic Center East Bowl
• Behind the Curtain: Arizona Broadway Theatre hosts coffee break, tours
• Tell Your Friends: Bartender ‘un-retires’ to join new Scottsdale lounge
• Oenophiles Rejoice!: Verde Valley Wine Festival fetes local wine
• Coming Home: Craig Mabbitt brings Emo Orchestra to Celebrity Theatre
• Community Unite: Music festival vows to bring fans together

Sorry, there are no recent results for popular images.

Sorry, there are no recent results for popular videos.

Sorry, there are no recent results for popular audio clips.

Sorry, there are no recent results for popular collections.

Sorry, there are no recent results for popular commented articles.

Come with me on my travels, as you plan yours

The Ultimate Guide to the Best History Museums in the US

This post might contain affiliate links. That means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you, if you buy through my site. I appreciate your support of my site.

It's not always pretty, but the history of the United States is fascinating! Whether you have lived in the United States your whole life or are visiting for the first time you should learn the history of the country that isn't found in a text book. One of the best ways to learn about the most important events, people and places in the US is by visiting American history museums.

There is no shortage of history museums in the United States. With thousands of museums throughout the country it can be hard to choose the best history museums in the US. This post breaks down the best museums by ones that focus on the nation's history as a whole, a specific state's history, one city's history, the history of particular wars and speciality history museums. The museums cover a range of topics, events and periods of history. While Europe has many more centuries of history than the USA, you will soon learn that we have quite a bit of history of our own!

If art is more your thing, then you will want to also check out the best art museums in the USA .

The Best History Museums in the US

National & Regional History Museums in the US

A good place to start learning the history of the country is at national and regional museums that cover a wide range of topics.

Smithsonian National Museum of American History

By Becky from Whatever Packs Your Bag

The Smithsonian National Museum of American History is located on The National Mall in Washington D.C. It is one of the best museums in the U.S.A for pieces of history that you never thought you would see. There are so many amazing exhibits that you can easily spend multiple days here. The top three exhibits are The Star Spangled Banner, Food, and The First Ladies.

Find the actual flag flown during the Battle of Baltimore at The Star Spangled Banner exhibit. The flag inspired the national anthem by Francis Scott Key. It is almost an awestruck moment when you see the encased flag. There can be lines to see the flag, so give yourself more time.

The Food exhibit is great because it shows the history of food in the USA. It also includes a whole section dedicated to the kitchen of Julia Child. Growing up and watching her as a child, it was so cool to see her actual pots and pans and cookbooks.

The First Ladies exhibit describes the 100 year history of the unofficial job of First Lady. Over 100 years of dresses, most from inaugural balls, are displayed. Seeing such different styles from all the First Ladies through the years is interesting.

These are just some of the highlights. During the day quick guided tours are often provided. This is a huge museum and taking a tour will help you find your way! The tour lead us to Abraham Lincoln’s hat and Dorthy’s shoes.

RESERVE TICKETS

The National Museum of African American History and Culture

By Tegan & Alex from Why Not Walk Travel Guides

The National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, DC, is a jewel of the Smithsonian Institution. The NMAAHC contains a wealth of information, and is fully dedicated to the lives and experiences of African-Americans in the U.S.

There are more than 36,000 artifacts spread across 85,000 square feet. The rotating exhibits cover a variety of topics such as, the horrors of slavery, segregation, Jim Crow, the civil rights movement and the Black Lives Matter protests. You will be in awe of the detail in each exhibit.

Keep in mind you will not be able to see everything in one visit. A few must-sees include: the stools from the lunch counter at the Woolworth store in Greensboro, NC where the pivotal sit-ins took place; a plane used by the Tuskegee Airmen in World War II; the dress worn by Rosa Parks when she was arrested in Montgomery, Alabama in 1955; Muhammad Ali’s boxing headgear; and Harriet Tubman's shawl. 

The museum opened in 2016 and is the Smithsonian's newest addition. The tickets remain challenging to acquire to this day. Tickets are free and dispensed via a timed-entry system that lets you book six at a time. You can start booking 30 days in advance, or take your chances on day of tickets, which are released at 8:15 AM every day. Make sure to enter via the 15th Street and Madison Drive NW doors to make the most of your time.

National Civil Rights Museum

Another great museum to learn about African American history is the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, Tennessee. It is one of the best places to learn about Black history in the south and especially the Civil Rights Movement in the 1950s and 1960s. An in-depth look at the struggles African Americans have faced for many years, but especially during this period is provided.

The museum's exhibits cover the pivotal events of these years including the bus boycotts, the Freedom Riders, and the student lunch counter sit-ins. There are some artifacts and multi-media exhibits, but the museum is mostly information to read alongside photographs. There is a good mix of historical facts and personal stories.

The museum is located within the former Lorraine Motel where MLK Jr was fatally shot. You are able to see the room where the famous activist was staying. Across the street, visit the former boarding house where James Earl Ray is believed to have shot MLK Jr. Not only is Ray's room preserved, but there is detailed information about why and how authorities believe Ray is the culprit. At the same time there are many conspiracy theories shared in the museum that explain how there are still a lot of unanswered questions.

There is a lot to process and digest here. Plan to spend much longer than the average visiting time of 1.5 hours if you hope to take your time with the exhibits.

PURCHASE TICKETS

The National Museum of the American Indian

By Terri from Female Solo Trek  

The National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI) opened on September 21, 2004. The stunning design features curving walls, landscaped gardens and a waterfall. It is located at 4th Street & Independence Avenue SW on the National Mall in Washington DC. 

The museum’s mission is to educate visitors on the Native cultures of the Western Hemisphere. Exhibitions are created in partnership with Native people of the Americas.  NMAI’s ongoing “Americans” exhibit gives a wide angle perspective about Native American history, including the Trail of Tears and the Battle of Little Bighorn.

The Chesapeake Bay region exhibit spotlights Native peoples living in Delaware, Maryland, Virginia and Washington DC region. Reimagine their lives through ceremonial and everyday objects, photos and maps.

The Patriot Nation exhibit explores the history of Native American veterans who have served in every conflict and at a higher rate than any other ethnic group in proportion to their population. It compliments the nearby Native American Veteran Memorial, which was dedicated on Veterans Day in November 2020. The Nation to Nation exhibit examines treaties between the U.S. government and sovereign American Indian tribes from the colonial period through present day.

Timed passes are required. Many NMAI amenities are currently closed including the cafes, activity center and theatre due to Covid.

Autry Museum of the American West

by Alanna from Periodic Adventures

One of the most underrated museums in Los Angeles is the Autry Museum of the American West. It features every aspect of the West including Native American cultures, the pioneers who moved West, cowboys, and the Gold Rush! There’s even an ethnobotanical garden full of Western plant life. It’s very interesting and provides a truly unique historic view that is usually glossed over in most larger history museums.

There are a number of must-sees. Don’t miss the Art of the West exhibit, which features pieces themed around Religion and Ritual, Land and Landscape, and Migration and Movement from artists such as Georgia O’Keefe and Thomas Moran. See the Journeys Gallery to get an idea of what pioneer life in the West was like by viewing period clothing, tools, art, and even an authentic stagecoach!

Plus, step into your favorite Western movies in the Original Imagination Gallery exhibit. There are costumes, props, set design, and memorabilia from classic TV and movies like Bonanza, Annie Get Your Gun, Thelma and Louise, and a number of John Wayne films.

Admission can be purchased on site and costs $14 for adults, $10 for students and seniors, and $6 for children. It’s located in Griffith Park so you can easily visit The Autry and the Los Angeles Zoo or Griffith Observatory.

US State History Museums

Most states have a museum dedicated to their state’s history in their capital city or other big city. I have found that these are usually large, modern museums with detailed information from the state's early days to present times. 

Michigan State History Museum

One of the best things to do in Lansing , Michigan is visit the Michigan State History Museum. With five floors of exhibits you know there is a lot to see and learn here. Whether you have an interest in war history, automobiles or how Michigan became a state, there is something that will interest everyone.

The exhibits are laid out well in chronological order. One exhibit leads seamlessly to the next starting with the first exhibit on indigenous people of Michigan and all the way through the mining and manufacturing history of the state that lead Michigan to become a highly industrious state. Of course the automobile history and Henry Ford have a large exhibit as well. Don't miss the short film on the Flint sit down strike.

The exhibits include much more than informational panels. In each area you are transported to the time period you are reading about. By the end of your visit you will feel like you took a walk through time.

Consider visiting on the weekend to avoid school groups. Sundays are free admission. The other days of the week purchase tickets on-site.

North Carolina Museum of History

When visiting downtown Raleigh make sure to spend a few hours at the North Carolina Museum of History. The permanent and informative exhibit, The Story of North Carolina, fills the main floor of the museum. It takes you through the earliest days of the state up until more present years. The stories of Tar Heel State residents are shared. You will learn what it was like as a Black or White person living and working in North Carolina decades ago.

The second floor of the museum is home to both permanent and rotating exhibits. The North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame is dedicated to the members' inducted into the state's hall of fame. It covers all the state's sports from basketball to hang gliding. Not only are the players and their equipment featured, but also the other contributors to the field of sports such as coaches and journalists.

The traveling and short term exhibits are just as interesting and make you want to visit the museum again and again to see what is new. Currently on show is an exhibit on North Carolina's Variety Vacationland. It focuses on a state run marketing campaign between the 1930s - 1970s that promoted all the travel destinations within the state. These were of course only available to white travelers.

The museum is free to visit!

The New York Historical Society

Located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan in New York City, the New York Historical Society is a little different than the other state museums. The Objects Tell Stories exhibit covers the major events in America's history through the lens of New York. It isn't as thorough and immersive like the other state museums in this post.

While the general history section is not as large, there are plenty of other exhibits to learn about New York's history. Both the ongoing and rotating exhibits cover a wide range of topics. One of the exhibits now features Bruce McCall’s retro-futuristic artwork of New York City. Another exhibit centers around gay and lesbian lives in the 1950s on Cherry Grove. Cherry Grove is a beach town on Fire Island near NYC.

The Center for Women's History is located right inside the museum. In addition to the showcased collections, the center also leads talks and schedules programs. Currently an exhibit tells the story of Native New Yorker and former CEO of the Washington Post, Katharine Graham. There's also a children's museum geared toward 8 - 13 year olds. The life stories of former New York children from different decades are shared.

Both the Center for Women's History and the Dimenna Children's Museum are included in the price of admission. Admission is pay what you wish on Fridays from 5 - 8pm. Also there is free admission with the NY Pass .

Tennessee State Museum

When planning your Nashville itinerary make sure to save several hours to explore the Tennessee State Museum. Any history buff will be in their element spending time walking through this large, free museum.

The permanent exhibits take you back in time starting with the first people of Tennessee and the natural history of the land. You will then learn about how Tennessee became a state and the many challenges and struggles the people faced during the 1700s and 1800s. From the Trail of Tears when American Indians were forced off the land to a divided state due to the Civil War, Tennessee went through many hardships. The state's role in WWI and WWII are also shared. The final section, Tennessee Transforms, looks at the most recent decades and how the state has grown and changed.

These galleries can all be accessed from one to another and also from the Tennessee Time Tunnel. While the exhibits give an in-depth look at the different periods of time, the time tunnel gives an overview of the major events and when they occurred.

You might think you have seen everything at this point, but think again. There are always several temporary exhibits as well. Now one of the exhibits revolves around Tennessee women's right to vote in 1920.

All this learning might make you hungry so make sure to eat at the Nashville Farmers Market across the street!

US City History Museums

For an in depth look into the history of different US cities check out many of the city history museums in the US.

Atlanta History Center

Make sure to include a trip to the Atlanta History Center in your Atlanta itinerary . Located in the Buckhead neighborhood, the Atlanta History Center is a large modern complex with exhibits focused on Atlanta and Georgia's history. The cornerstone exhibit Gatheround: Stories of Atlanta is a good place to start. Stories from Atlantans of different ages, genders, races and time periods are shared in multi-media presentations.

Outside on the grounds are several historic buildings. At the Smith Farm, complete with goats and sheep, learn about rural Georgia farm life. Tour the Swan House, where the Inmans', a prominent Atlanta family lived starting in 1928. The gardens and paths connecting the buildings make for a beautiful setting.

But that's not all! You can also visit the Margaret Mitchell House with your ticket. Here you will take a guided tour through the former home of Margaret Mitchell, the author of Gone with the Wind. You can also browse through the small museum at your leisure. If you haven't read Gone with the Wind you will want to after learning about the author's life!

Chicago History Museum

Gangsters, Abraham Lincoln, Marshall Field's......Chicago, Illinois has played a large role in American History. Learn about the Windy City at the Chicago History Museum. In the Chicago: Crossroads of America permanent gallery you will gain a new understanding of why Chicago is one of the most important cities in the US. With a trolley car, a large train engine and other interactive features you will become immersed in the history.

Have you heard about the devastating Chicago Fire of 1871 that was believed to have started when a family's cow kicked over a lighted lantern? Do you know what it took to be a porter on a train? Through the other permanent and temporary exhibits you can learn about Chicago's Fire, labor unions and many other aspects of Chicago's history.

It's off the beaten path from the loop, but well worth the visit north. Admission is free with the Go Chicago Explorer Pass .

The Museum of the City of New York  

If you love museums, New York City is the place to visit. There is a museum for everything in NYC. It’s no surprise that the city is full of history museums. Out of all the New York City museums the Museum of the City of New York is one of my favorites. 

Start your visit by watching Timescapes a 28 minute documentary that takes you back to the earliest days of the city and into the more recent years. Head to New York at It's Core next. Here your journey will continue as you learn about the people and events that shaped NYC into the greatest city in the world! Perhaps I am biased!?

New Yorkers are about as diverse as it gets in any one city. If there is one thing that brings the city's residents together it is their voices. The Activist New York exhibit is about all the social issues New Yorkers have advocated for past and present. I love looking at the photographs in Collecting New York's Stories and imagining what people's lives are really like. There are always interesting temporary exhibits too.

War History Museums in the US

Unfortunately war history is big part of US history. Many of the major wars the US has fought in have a museum.

Museum of the American Revolution

By Lance & Laura from Guide to Philly

I n Old City Philadelphia, not far from Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, is one of the country’s best museums. It is the museum that tells the story of the birth of the nation – in the place where it happened. While it took over 200 years to establish, it is now one of the highlights of Philadelphia.

Located in a two-story building in the heart of Philly’s historic center, the museum tells the American birth story in chronological order: from high taxation and inferior treatment under the Crown, to the Constitution and its legacy of inequality. The museum has several hands-on exhibits for children that allow them a close look at what it might have been like to be alive during this period.

The focus of the museum is on its greatest artifact: General George Washington’s headquarters tent within a magnificent theater. This object is an important national symbol that has roots in the Revolution, found use during the Civil War, and sheltered the hopes of a young nation.

Whether you are a passionate lover of history or just looking to learn a little, the Museum of the American Revolution is one of the best museums in America. If you have only one day in Philadelphia , this should be high on your itinerary.

Boston Tea Party Museum

By Shobha from Martha's Vineyard Tourist

When in Boston, a city full of history, make sure to visit the Boston Tea Party Museum, one of the best places to visit in Massachusetts . It is also one of the best history museums in America. The museum is located on Griffin's Wharf where the actual event happened on December 16, 1773.

The Boston Tea Party Museum not only has a replica of the tea clipper that was the subject of the famous event, but also actors who will help you and your kids understand what exactly happened. As this event kick-started the American Revolution and lead America to be what it is today, everyone can benefit from learning the details around that fateful night and the issues leading up to it.

Interactive exhibits also add to the experience. There are bales of tea that children can throw into the water. Overall, history becomes alive at this museum and more interesting than just reading about an important event. After all that exertion, you can also have a cup of tea (or sandwiches and drinks) in the Boston Tea Party Museum cafe!

Every December 16, there is also a full-scale reenactment of the Boston Tea Party. Locals and actors parade from the South Street Meeting House to the Boston Tea Party Museum and re-enact the entire event. It is a lot of fun with much cheering and huzzahs as the bales of tea get dumped into the river.

National WWI Museum and Memorial

By Alexa from 52 Perfect Days

The National WWI Museum and Memorial of the United States is located in downtown Kansas City, Missouri. If you have a curiosity about the role the United States played in WWI, this museum offers an abundance of ways to learn about the war. The museum is home to the most comprehensive collection of WWI objects in the world.

Opened to the public as the Liberty Memorial museum in 1926, it was designated in 2004 by the United States Congress as the United States' official museum dedicated to World War I.

A visit to the museum starts with a short film that gives the background of what led up to the war. As you enter the first gallery, you'll cross a glass bridge suspended over a symbolic Western Front poppy field. These nine thousand poppies offer a poignant reminder of the 9 million who perished as a direct result of the war.

Next are several galleries of exhibits including everything from war time art, to WW1 uniforms, military vehicles and several additional movies. WW1 is often termed the forgotten war, and visiting this museum and memorial is a great way to reflect and remember the price so highly paid for freedom.

The National World War II Museum

By Julie from Family Travel Lifestyle 

The National World War II Museum in New Orleans is an amazing walk through time that’s as good as any of the Smithsonian museums in Washington D.C. Located in the Warehouse District, this museum is a must-see on your New Orleans trip .

Four different buildings occupy the museum’s campus, and the exhibits are broken into the two war theatres – European and Pacific. Each exhibit is immersive, taking the visitor to a specific time and location through artfully designed rooms, multimedia presentations, showcases of artifacts and oral history. It’s an incredibly personal experience, which makes it an emotional one as well. There are additional exhibits with real aircraft, tanks and even a submarine.

The focus of the National World War II museum is not just the history of the war, but also the fighters' experiences and those who supported them at home. Hearing oral history from the time period, browsing through photographs and exploring objects left behind by soldiers and their families really brings the era to life.

Tickets are for a timed entrance, and should be purchased in advance . This museum is good for kids ages 10 and up, or children with a specific interest in the era. A thorough visit will take at least a couple hours.

Pearl Harbor National Memorial

By Brittany from Travel by Brit 

One of the best history museums in the U.S. is the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, located on the island of Oahu in Hawaii. It’s not only one of the best things to do in Waikiki , but on the entire island! 

Pearl Harbor National Memorial remembers the attack of the U.S. Pacific Fleet by the Japanese Navy on December 7th, 1941. The attack on Pearl Harbor is significant because it launched the United States into World War II—it killed 2,403 American citizens and sunk or damaged 18 U.S. warships. 

The most notable thing to see at Pearl Harbor is the USS Arizona Memorial, which commemorates the military personal who lost their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor. The USS Arizona Memorial is free of charge and includes a shuttle boat ride operated by the Navy to visit the memorial in the middle of the harbor.

After visiting the USS Arizona Memorial, walk through the Remembrance Circle to pay tribute to the men, women, and children, both military and civilian, who lost their lives during the attack. You can also visit the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, featuring the “Road to War” museum and the “Attack Gallery” museum for free. 

During your time at Pearl Harbor, you can also purchase tickets to tour the USS Missouri Battleship, USS Bowfin Submarine and Museum, and Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.

Speciality History Museums in the US

Some of the best US history museums focus on a specific event or period in time. Delve deep into one aspect of American history.  

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

The Statute of Liberty is the most well-known landmark of America and the symbol of our country's freedom. This colossal statue is on every first timer visitor's NYC itinerary . If you are lucky you might spot it when flying into the city. Either way, to really see how massive Lady Liberty is you need to see her up close and personal on Liberty Island.

Once on Liberty Island visit the new Statue of Liberty museum. See the original torch, learn how the monument was built and enjoy a multi-media adventure of the inside of the statue. With advanced tickets you can also have pedestal or crown access within Lady Liberty herself! Both allow you to climb up several flights of stairs and have a once in a lifetime viewpoint!

Nearby Ellis Island is another historical landmark in the city. It was the first stop in America for more than 12 million immigrants. It is truly a humbling experience to walk through the rooms where so many people had their fates decided. Were they able to start working towards the American dream or were they too sick and only had a journey back to their home country ahead? The museum and accompanying audio guide will take you back to the late 1800s and early 1900s.

Visit both islands on the same day with a combined tour.

Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation and Greenfield Village

By Kris from My Michigan Travel

Located just outside of Detroit, Michigan, the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village are must-see attractions for history lovers. The Henry Ford Museum houses numerous exhibits, many of them focusing on the history of transportation. You'll find historic airplanes, classic cars, and a collection of retired presidential limousines. Some of the notable artifacts on display are the chair Abraham Lincoln was sitting in when he was shot, the bus that Rosa Parks was riding when she was arrested, an Oscar Mayer Weinermobile, and the limousine John F. Kennedy was riding in when he was assassinated. There are also several hands-on areas for children.

Once you've explored indoors, head outside to Greenfield Village, a living history museum where historic buildings have been relocated from their original homes. Here, you can stroll streets designed to look like classic American main streets and pop into the different buildings to learn about their notable residents or historic significance. Highlights here include the Wright brothers' original bike shop, Noah Webster's house, poet Robert Frost's house, and the courthouse from Illinois where Abraham Lincoln practiced law.

You also have the opportunity to take a ride in a real Model T car, which is a unique experience you won't find in many other places. Throughout the year, there are several special events including Civil War battle reenactments, historic baseball tournaments where the game is played using rules and equipment from the 1800s, and Halloween and Christmas celebrations. Note that the village closes annually from January-April, so plan your visit accordingly if you want to check it out.

Mob Museum 

By Candice from CS Ginger

Visiting the Mob Museum is one of the best things to do in Las Vegas !  It is located in the old federal courthouse which just so happens to be where one of the most famous mob trials was heard.

The Mob Museum takes visitors through the history of organized crime including important incidents, individuals and stories from everyone involved. As you work your way through the museum you will first learn about how the mob started, the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre and the response from the authorities.

The second floor of the museum focuses on the mob in Las Vegas through the present day. You will get some hands on experience at the interactive Crime Lab and Weapon Simulators. You can even sit in the courtroom where a lot of the mob trials were held.

On the way out, be sure to stop at the speakeasy and distillery for a drink. There is a secret door on the side of the building near the parking lot! The password is on their Instagram. It is open to everyone during the day, but after 9 PM you have to be 21 or older.

To get the most out of your visit to the museum, consider going on a guided tour. The tour guides are very knowledgeable and always have such great stories to share.

What do you think are the best history museums in the US? Did I miss any of your favorites? 

More USA Posts

• North Carolina
• South Carolina
• USA General: Places to Learn about Black History , The Best Art Museums in the USA , The Best BBQ Cities in America

Share this:

• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window)

You May Also Like

Unique Things to Do in Santa Fe

Southwestern Michigan Explorations: Lansing

The Sights of Salzburg

Jessica kokoszki

Those museums all look amazing. I want to hit up that mob museum in Vegas!!!

The Fearless Foreigner

Yes, it sounds really cool!

Such a great guide! I was just in Hawaii back in March and got to visit Pearl Habor. It was such a sombering, but educational experience. I need to visit these other musems as well! 🙂

Thanks! There are so many great museums in the US!

ANUKRATI DOSI

The national world war II museum is quite interesting I have heard. Very nice guide. Keep up the awesome work.

I absolutely love history museums, so I will definitely be referring to this list as I travel. Thanks so much for letting me write about Pearl Harbor for this post! 🙂

Thank you for contributing!

I was so excited to write about the Smithsonian American Indian Museum in Washington DC. I highly recommend a visit. Sync you can see the new Native American Veteran memorial outside the museum. It was just unveiled in November 2021.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

There are more than 20 towns in America called Moscow. Why is that?

• By Alina Simone Jared Goyette

A railroad track in Moscow, Arkansas. 

When Jack Spaulding was growing up in Moscow, Tennessee, he always wondered how the town, a small, rural community of about 80 residents, got its name. It didn’t seem to have any obvious connection with Russia, but could any of the local tales he’d heard actually be true?

“I would ask all the old folks here in town if anybody knew how the town got its name. Well, I got all these hokey answers like, ‘Well, it’s because of the moss and… they used to send the cows down there to graze on the moss. Moss cow. And then after that Ma’s cow — like, belonging to your mother’s. … Nobody really had any idea where the name came about,” Spaulding says.

Spaulding eventually dug deeper, and his research turned up an unexpected finding: The area had been known as something like “Moscow” since before the town was founded in the early 1800s. That clue led him in a new direction.  

“I went through the dictionary looking for any type of word that would sound similar to Moscow or would be spoken by Europeans like ‘Moscow’ and I believe as I recall, the word closest to that was Mashetow,” he says.

According to Spaulding, Mashetow was a Native American word meaning “to go” or “the place to where we’re going.”

“I think Moscow was the place to where the Native Americans would go for the watering ground. … What is this place? Mashetow! This is the place we’re going.”

Spaulding’s conclusion wasn’t definitive, but it was a worthy effort. He isn’t the only person to set out trying to figure out why a small town in the middle of America acquired the same name as the capital of Russia. There are more than 20 identically named cities scattered across the country. There’s a Moscow in Idaho near the border with Washington, another up north in Maine and one down south in Texas.

When Ren Vasilyev, now a professor of geography at the State University of New York Geneseo, was a graduate student, she decided to tackle the riddle of America’s many Moscows. It was 1986, the height of the Cold War battle with the Moscow-capitaled Soviet Union, and in those misty pre-Internet days, a project like this required a lot of analog legwork.

She poured through old county history books, and found that just as with Spaulding’s hometown, most of the Moscows in America didn’t have anything to do with Russia or its capital.

One was the result of a misunderstanding: Moscow, Kansas. Town officials had tried to name their city after Luis de Moscoso, a Spanish conquistador, but they decided to shorten the name to M-O-S-C-O. When they submitted an application to create a post office, it came back with the extra letter.

“The guy in DC thought that these little silly people in Kansas didn’t know what they were doing and had spelled the name wrong. So he had added that W on it,” Vasilyev says.

But, the most common reason people named their community Moscow, she learned, was more straightforward.

“Things like Spring Valley or Springfield or Blossom Hill, or you know, those kind of pretty generic names were already taken. And so people started using what were considered exotic names, hoping that no one had already used them,” she says.

The mystery of the Moscows of America also intrigued Erjan Aisabay, who set out to visit all of them and write a book about his experience. Aisabay, who was born in Kazakhstan but attended college in the original Moscow, launched his project hoping that America’s shared love of Russia’s capital city might help bring the two countries together.

But as Aisabay drove from state to state, his dream of finding a Russian connection dwindled. And some of America’s Muscovites turned out to be less than supportive. Like in Moscow, Texas, where his attempt to strike up a conversation didn’t turn out as planned.

“I say, ‘Hi my name is so and so, you know I’m writing a book about Moscows’ and then you know she looks at me like completely mistrust and she’s like ‘You should leave.’ … And I saw something that looked like a gun. … This was my last Moscow and I’m like, ‘I don’t want to die in my last Moscow!’”

Aisabay was disappointed by what he found during his tour — he had hoped to see more people studying Russian, or other signs of a greater interest and connection to the original Moscow. Vasilyev, the professor, takes a more optimistic view.

“I was actually pleased that the Americans who were settling here from other places, from other European places, were taking Moscow as a name thinking of it as a prestigious name. People don’t want to live in a place that isn’t prestigious. … People want it to be something other than, you know, Hog’s Hollow,” she says. That’s what Moscow, Idaho, the biggest Moscow in the US, was originally named.

00:30 What do Toad Suck, Eighty Four, Cut and Shoot, Glen Campbell and Cookietown have in common?

1:30 Introducing the Nametag series.  We are digging up the stories behind place names in a series we’re calling Nametag

3:00 Patrick’s obsession with Wasilla, Alaska

5:18 Reporter Alina Simone has always been curious about the origins of all the Moscows in the United States. There are 26 Moscows

6:39 Ren Vasilyev decided to tackle the riddle of America’s many Moscows as a graduate student in 1986

7:01 Most Moscows didn’t have much to do with Moscow. In fact, they weren’t even pronounced Moscow

7:31 Jack Spaulding of Moscow, Indiana has also always about the name

8:27 Drawing inspiration from fanciful sources like, Napoleon

9:05 Moscow, Kansas became Moscow by mistake

9:43 The biggest reason to name your community Moscow, everything else was taken

10:03 Only one, lonely Moscow — Moscow, Pennsylvania — was allegedly named by actual Russia people

10:46 Meet Erjan Aisabay.  He has visited all 26 Moscows

11:20 Not all American Muscovites were friendly. In fact some were downright hostile like one woman in Moscow, Texas

12:04 Erjan visited Moscow, PA to look for any evidence of the supposed Slavic connection

13:27 Professor Vasilyev’s research shows that only one Moscow, the town of Lester in New York, cast the name aside for political reasons

15:14 There are many more Russian names in the United States like Saint Petersburg, FL, Sebastopol, CA, Odessa, TX

15:49 The issue of place names was very sensitive in Russia especially under the Soviet Union

18:14 Nina subjects Patrick to “ Arab, Alabama ” an offensive song (and video) by the country comedy duo Pinkard and Bowden 

20:06  Submit YOUR Nametag story idea. Have you always had a question about a place name? Be it a street name or the name of a town or a mountain?  Let us know.  Email [email protected] or tweet at us @lingopod

20:45 Finally, finally the answer to the NEH accent quiz from last week

You can follow The World in Words stories on  Facebook  or subscribe to the podcast on  iTunes . A previous version of this story incorrectly stated there is a Moscow in Washington.

Sign up for The Top of the World, delivered to your inbox every weekday morning.

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?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Novodevichy Convent and cemetery in Moscow: tickets, cemetery map

Hermitage museum in saint petersburg: tickets, best time to visit, you may also like.

Moscow in winter | What to do in Moscow in winter? How to dress?

• October 1, 2023

Free Moscow map in English: Moscow metro map and city centre map

• December 12, 2023

• August 26, 2023

Moscow transport: metro, bus & taxi in Moscow | How does it work?

• August 15, 2023

Weekend in Moscow | What to do in Moscow for a long weekend?

• June 22, 2023

Christmas and New Year in Moscow: best markets and decorations to see

• September 18, 2023

• San Francisco
• Switzerland
• US Virgin Islands
• Puerto Rico
• Roatan, Honduras
• Become a Flight Attendant
• Traveling Sick
• Packing Lists

25 Places to Visit in Moscow you Can’t Miss

25 Places to Visit in Moscow

Do you know what the most populous city in Europe is? Most people wouldn’t guess that it is actually Moscow. There are approximately 13 million people in the Moscow metro area, which amounts to approximately 1/10th of all Russians.

This former capitol of the Soviet Union is still the political and financial center of Russia. Just because it is a current business and government city, in no way means that it is boring and not worth a visit. Assuming the political tensions get solved, Moscow is a fascinating city you need to visit.

While lots of people can’t explain the nuances of Russian architecture, most can spot and appreciate it immediately. One of the best ways to see the historic sites is by taking a boat tour down the Moskva River that meanders through the city.

Overall, navigating the city isn’t difficult as there is phenomenal and cheap public transportation (roughly 30 rubles/35 cents per ride). You can also use a cheap Uber on the three ring roads that circle the city at various distances from the center.

Still wondering why you should visit this historic masterpiece of a city? Read on to see the top 25 things you need to see in Moscow.

The House with Animals

This former church is famous for the terracotta reliefs of animals that adorn the front of the building. It is a favorite of locals, and famous around the world. It was built in approximately 1900.

Resurrection Gate or Iberian Gate and Chapel

The Resurrection Gate is now one of the most common ways to enter Red Square. This gate is also the only standing part of the wall that was the entrance to to Kitai-Gorod, or Moscow’s historic central business district.

Book your tour: Moscow Kremlin Armory Chamber Entrance Ticket

St. Basils Cathedral

Probably the most famous of the Red Square attractions is St. Basil’s Cathedral. I don’t know if the legend is true or not, but supposedly Tsar Ivan IV poked the eyes of the architect out after completing it so nothing as pretty could be made again. What an awful boss!

Book your tour: Moscow: Saint Basil’s Cathedral and Red Square Private Tour

Book your tour: St.Basil’s Cathedral and Red Square: Private Tour and Ticket

The State Historical Museum

If you are like me then you can’t help but find all the twists and turns of Russian history fascinating. The State Historical Museum at Red Square is a fantastic place to learn and study the Russian Relics.

Book your tour: Kremlin, Red Square, and Metro Tour with Pick-Up

Moscow River Cruise

The Moskva River cuts directly through the heart of Moscow. Want to see it all but rest your feet? One of the best things to do in Moscow at night is float along on a dinner cruise . The lights of the city are so beautiful. Of course, dinner in included.

Book your tour: Night lights Moscow Cruise (with Dinner option)

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

This is one of the most unique things to do in Moscow. If you know that many American video games paint the Russians as the bad guys, then it’s probably not surprising to learn that you can find an entirely different variety of video games in Russia. This isn’t a recent phenomenon; even historically the video games were different. If you are a video game buff then this stop is for you!

Main Church of the Armed Forces in Park Patriot near Kubinka

This church attempts to commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ as well as Russian military leader. Yes, it’s an awkward amalgamation. It caused quite a controversy when there were plans to create murals of Vladimir Putin and Joseph Stalin to go along with the ones of Jesus Christ (those plans were scrapped).

Bunker 42 (Cold War Museum)

Tunnel at Bunker-42, anti-nuclear underground facility built in 1956 as command post of strategic nuclear forces of Soviet Union.

Americans weren’t the only ones afraid during the Cold War! You can now discover the most secret and secure Bunker of the USSR, Bunker 42. Also known as the Cold War Museum . This former military communication center is now a museum. I recommend this tour that will take you on a private two hour visit of Bunker 42.

If you aren’t interested in a guided tour you can book your tickets in advance here.

Get your tickets: Bunker 42 Admission Ticket and Cold War Tour

Tank Excursion and Bazooka Shooting in Moscow

For real – you can book this tour and actually ride in a tank and shoot off military grade weapons. While that’s not my cup of tea, I know tons of guys would absolutely love to shoot a bazooka!

Book your tour here .

Dormition Cathedral

This is another Russian Orthodox cathedral that is located inside the Moscow Kremlin. It is another famous landmark of Moscow. The inside is decorated with ancient frescoes.

The Cathedral of the icon of the Mother of God “Sign”

This cathedral is located in Zaryadye Park (adjacent to Red Square). It is also on the Moskva River. The Cathedral of the icon of the Mother of God “Sign” previously was a monastery.

Komsomolskaya Metro station 

So many of the metro stations are breathtaking works of art. The idea was to create something beautiful that all the regular people could enjoy, or if you are more cynical you could say it was to attempt to show off how well they were doing.

Book your tour: Moscow: Small Group Metro Tour

The Round houses at Dovzhenko Stree t

The Round houses at Dovzhenko Street look super cool and futuristic, except like many communist projects didn’t actually work that well. They were supposed to be something new and different from the standard “Soviet Blocks.”

There are a number of problems with this design. Supposedly the acoustics are awful making the apartments perpetually noisy. The inner circle becomes a wind chamber even when it’s not that windy. My favorite weakness is that the trapezoid shape of apartments is hard to decorate and even harder to do maintenance on.

Izmailovo District and Izmailovo Kremlin

This area has to be one of the coolest places to visit in Moscow. It features a park in the middle of Moscow that is over 3x the size of New York City’s Central Park. The Kremlin in Izmailovo is a complex located in the Eastern Administrative District of Moscow that is known as the center of culture and entertainment. The wooden buildings are in Russian architecture of the XVI-XVII centuries (not original).

Izmailovo Kremlin on Google Maps .

Tretyakov Gallery

For those that appreciate fine art this is where you have to go. The State Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow Russia is the best collection of Russian fine art in the world. The museum previously hosted worldwide chess tournaments (I can’t help be think of the Queen’s Gambit).

Book your tickets in advance here. Tickets cost about $13 per person.

Kolomenskoe Estate

This reconstruction of a former royal estate is just a few miles southeast of the Moscow city center. Supposedly really detailed historical plans survived, so the reconstruction and current museum is incredibly authentic. It was completed in 2010.

Old buildings of Arbat

Arbat is an old street, and was previously the “nicest place to live in Moscow. Even though it fell into disrepair, it’s location, it’s historical buildings, and the fact that it is a pedestrian street are quickly making it a top place to live again.

The Melnikov House

Located on Arbat street, the Famous house of architect Melnikov designed this house (and Lenin’s sarcophagus). Melnikov designed it at a time when private ownership was outlawed, but got around this restriction by saying it was an experimental design to maximize space. Even though others weren’t built, he was able to keep it.

The New Maiden Convent

The New Maiden Convent, built was built to resemble a mini-Kremlin. It stands out to me because this “convent” was the place where women who were no longer welcome in the royal court were banished to.

Monument to the Conquerors of Space at the Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics in the Cosmopark

The Americans may have made it to the moon first, but the Russian cosmonauts were first in a number of other achievements. This gigantic obelisk pays homage to their accomplishments.

Tsaritsyno Museum Reserve

This royal estate was founded by Catherine the Great. She was Russia’s longest serving female leader. It is now a gorgeous museum!

Stalinist Skyscraper tour

This group of seven skyscrapers are called the Seven Sisters. They were all made in the Stalinist style, and one was previously the tallest building in Europe. If you want to tour them all while learning about their history book here .

Cathedral of Christ the Savior

It’s ironic that a country that was so anti-religion for so long has so many great churches. The Cathedral for Christ the Savior was made to thank Jesus for saving Russia. If you are interested in visiting this and so many other cathedrals in Moscow I recommend this tour that will take you to The Cathedral of Christ the Savior many other popular churches in Moscow.

Cathedral of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God

This church on Red Square is reconstruction of what was previously there but ordered to be destroy by Joseph Stalin. It is a travesty thinking of all the beautiful things that Stalin destroyed to attempt to implement his vision.

Zaryade Park

Zaryadye Park is one of the main tourist attractions in Moscow. It is located directly next to the Kremlin, and offers truly amazing views. It is also famous for its “floating bridge” and the fact that there are so many unique features underneath it.

Church of Sign of Blessed Virgin in Dubrovitsy Znamenskaya

The Church of the Theotokos of the Sign (Dubrovitsy), or The Church of the Holy Sign of the Mother of God is located in a village amed Dubrovitsy about 20 miles south of Moscow. It is another Russian Orthodox church, but what makes this one unique is that we aren’t 100% sure who made it, or why is has a style that is completely different than other churches of the time.

The Church of Nicholas The Wonderworker

I love the unique style of the Russian Orthodox churches in Moscow. The golden onion domes stand out across the globe. This church dates back to 1657, though it has been partially destroyed a few times since then.

Moscow University

Moscow University is one of the Seven Sisters that are the “Stalin Skyscrapers.” Previously it was the tallest building in Europe. Though it has lost that title, it is still the tallest “educational building” in the world.

So what do you think? Next trip to Moscow?

LEAVE A REPLY Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Join our community
• How To Start A Successful Blog
• Privacy Policy

• #Luxury travel
• #Unusual Moscow
• #Jewish Heritage
• #Russian traditions

Top 10 places for a day trip from Moscow

• #Russian History
• #Special Interest
• #Suburbs of Moscow

Moscow offers tourists many great sights to see, but if you ask locals, they will tell you that Moscow is not all there is to Russia, so it’s worth getting away sometimes. Without exploring further, you miss something of the Russian unique character. If you wonder what to visit near Moscow, we recommend you 10 places where a tourist can go for a refreshing recreation, new impressions, and acquaintance with Russian history and culture.

01 Sergiyev Posad

Sergiyev Posad is one of the most beautiful towns located around Moscow. It’s not only famous for its monastery, the Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, but also for the fact that it’s the only town in the Moscow Region that is included in the Golden Ring of Russian cities. Its cities and towns influenced the formation of the Russian Orthodox Church. But the main thing which one should visit Sergiyev Posad is the Lavra for sure. You may spend there all day, walking around and enjoying the sense of its power and strength. You absolutely have to buy some honey cakes as souvenirs for friends and feed Lavra’s pigeons when entering the monastery. Besides, you may visit Sergiyev Posad State History and Art Museum-Reserve, which has quite an impressive collection, take a look at the displays in the National Museum of Toys, and taste truly Russian food in local cafes and restaurants.

You can reach Sergiyev Posad by suburban electric train, by bus, or by car. The electric train departs from the Yaroslavsky rain terminal every thirty minutes, and the trip lasts for an hour and a half. You may take a bus near the ‘VDNKh’ metro station, and you’ll be in Sergiyev Posad in an hour and a half at least and in two hours at most. Your car will take you there in an hour and a half at most, too. You should drive the Yaroslavskoye highway. 

If you want to look at a city that combines hi-tech and historical past, you should absolutely visit Kolomna. It is one of the most famous ancient cities in Russia, a beautiful port on the Oka River. Kolomna has its own Kremlin, which is made of red brick, like the Moscow Kremlin. Inside it, you may find many monasteries and churches, including the one in which Dmitry of the Don, Prince of Moscow, and Grand Prince of Vladimir, had his wedding to the Grand Duchess of Muscovy Eudoxia of Moscow. There is still a reserved residential area which is called Posad, right in the Kremlin territory. The buildings date back to merchants’ times. There are some interesting churches, too. In 2006, the Kolomna Speed Skating Center, known as the Kometa Ice Rink, was opened. Its futuristic look contrast the picturesque views of the ancient Kolomna Kremlin and its beautiful churches.

The best way to reach Kolomna is an electric train that departs from the Kazansky rail terminal. The trip lasts for two and a half, or one hour and forty minutes by the Ryazansky express. You can also choose a bus from the Vykhino metro station (1.4 to 4 hrs due to traffic jams) or a car.

03 Shakhmatovo

Shakhmatovo was a manor of the well-known Russian lyrical poet Alexander Blok. His grandfather Andrey Nikolaevich Beketov bought it, and young Blok used to spend it there every summer. Later, he moved there with his wife Lyubov Mendeleeva, who was the daughter of the famous chemist Dmitri Mendeleev. Blok’s grandfather decided to buy Shakhmatovo because of its picturesque views. They are really very nice, and the better time to visit this place is spring and summer. According to his own project, Blok’s mansion is a wooden house built by the poet but burnt by peasants in 1921. It was rebuilt in 2001, and since that time, it often holds big events and excursions. There is also a stable in Shakhmatovo territory, and everyone interested may ride a horse, or rent a bicycle in the summertime, or ski in wintertime.

Shakhmatovo can be reached by car because other options combine train departs from the Leningradsky rail terminal, then changes to bus till the Tarakanovo manor, then goes by foot, or bus from the Vodny stadion metro station, and then also by foot. Travel time is 1.4 hrs.

04 Zakharovo

It is a manor located in the Odintsovo District of the Moscow Region, where everybody interested may learn more about the greatest Russian poet Alexander Sergeevich Pushkin. In 1804, Zakharova was bought by his grandmother Mariya Alexeevna Gannibal, and young Pushkin was brought here every summer from 1805 through to 1810. He recalled Zakharovo in his poems as well. Now, the house which Pushkin visited as a child doesn’t exist anymore, but it was rebuilt at the beginning of the 20th century on the former basis. Now it is a quiet and nice place with a museum dedicated to the famous poet's childhood, where one may spend a day enjoying the spirit of the time when young Pushkin ran across manor’s paths. From that time, linden park, approach alleys, and pond were saved. Not very far away from Zakharovo, another place connected to Pushkin’s name is located. It’s called Bolshiye Vyazyomy, and there the young Pushkin’s brother Nikolenka was buried after his death at the age of six.

The best way to go there is by train, which departs from the Belorussky rail terminal and goes to Zvenigorod. You should leave at the Zakharovo station. Travel time is an hour and a half.

05 Borodino

Borodino is truly a sacred place for all those who honor the great Russian past. The Borodino Battlefield held the most important fighting during the Patriotic War of 1812. This place was made a museum area in 1839, just after 27 years after the battle. More than two thousand memorable things are stored in the museum, including some monuments of military honor, architectural objects dated back to the 19th and 20th centuries, and fortification facilities. Besides, there is also an exhibition dedicated to the famous novel ‘War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy, who visited Borodino in person and described this battle in his book. Every year, reconstruction events occur in Borodino, which is considered the best for visiting. But if you want to feel the spirit of the battle past, it’s better to visit it in more quiet time.

To go there, you should take a train from the Belorussky rail terminal, leave in Mozhaysk, and then change to the bus. The whole travel time is about 2 hrs.

06 Melikhovo

Melikhovo is considered one of the most important museums dedicated to Anton Pavlovich Chekhov, one of the brightest Russian writers and playwrights. Chekhov had been living in Melikhovo from March 1892 until August 1899 with his parents and close relatives. Melikhovo is where he wrote his plays “Uncle Vanya” and “The Seagull.” He sold this manor before going to the Crimea, and it became vague after the revolution. But in 1939, it was decided to establish a museum based on Chekhov’s place of living. Anton Chekhov’s sister Maria and his nephew initiated the process, and the museum opened its doors in 1941. Now Melikhovo shows the path of Chekhov not only as a writer but as a doctor and public figure as well. Some paintings of famous artists such as Isaac Levitan and Vasily Polenov, who were Chekhov’s friends, are being stored. It’s a nice place to visit to learn more about Chekov’s life and work.

The best way to reach Melikhovo is by bus, which departs from the Yuzhnaya metro station, and goes to Protvino, Obolensk, or Serpukhov, or by the direct 365 bus. Also, you may choose an electric train from the Kursky rail terminal. Travel time is 1,5 hrs.

07 Abramtsevo

This is another manor connected to the lives of important Russian people — not only writers but also artists. Abramtsevo, located close to Sergiev Posad, was a property of Sergey Aksakov, a writer and a Slavophiles, and later of Savva Mamontov, a well-known patron of the arts. Abramtsevo used to be visited by writers Ivan Turgenev and Nikolay Gogol, poet Fyodor Tyutchev, and such artists as Isaac Levitan, Vasily Polenov, and Mikhail Vrubel, and by the great Russian singer Fyodor Shalyapin as well. The exhibition in the museum is dedicated to famous Abramtsevo owners and guests. It was made a museum in 1917, and its first curator was Alexandra Mamontova, Savva Mamontov’s daughter. The main sightseeing view is a wooden building made in the 18th century and saved in Savva Mamontov's form in the 19th century. There are also some bright buildings such as hut pavilion or hut bath-house. You have to remember that the main manor house may be visited only with an excursion group on the weekend.

Electric train to Abramtsevo departs from the Yaroslavsky rail terminal and goes to Sergiyev Posad or Aleksandrov. You may reach Abramtsevo by bus as well. Travel time is an hour and a half.

08 Yasnaya Polyana

Yasnaya Polyana is known as a place of residence of the famous Russian writer Leo Tolstoy. He was born there, wrote his novels ‘War and Peace’ and ‘Anna Karenina,’ died and is buried. He’d been living in this manor for fifty years. Yasnaya Polyana is located in the Tula Region, 200 km from Moscow to the south. This manor consists of many interesting and significant objects. For example, the interior of the main house where Tolstoy lived is being kept like it was in 1910 — it was the last year for the writer. All things in the house are considered to be personal belongings of Tolstoy and his family. Besides the main house, the Yasnaya Polyana ensemble includes the so-called Volkonsky house — the house of Tolstoy’s grandfather, the Kuzminskiye wing, which is a part of the oldest house where Tolstoy was born, now non-existent, the birch alley made by Sofya Andreevna, Leo Tolstoy’s wife, stable, ponds, and favorite Tolstoy’s bench. Leo Tolstoy’s tomb is located close to the ravine's edge — it’s where he wanted to be buried.

The whole travel time to Yasnaya Polyana is about 4 hrs as long as it’s located near Tula. It can be reached by train, or by car. First, you should go to Tula by train from the Kursky rail terminal or by bus from the Tsaritsyno, Domodedovskaya, Prazhskaya, or Ulitsa Akademika Yangelya metro stations, and then change to bus, or by trolley bus for Yasnaya Polyana.

09 Polotnyany Zavod

This place which title can be translated into Russian as ‘linen factory,’ is known for its connection to the Goncharov family, from which Natalia Goncharova, Alexander Pushkin’s wife, originated. The real linen factory was built on the bank of the Sukhodrev River in the Kaluga Region in 1718 by Peter the Great order. Goncharov, Natalia’s great grandfather, was one of the companions who participated in the factory’s development. Every companion built his own manor close to the factory’s building, and even for those times, it was quite an uncommon situation. Polotnyany Zavod was visited by the empress Catherine the Great, the Field Marshal Mikhail Kutuzov, and Nikolay Vasilievich Gogol. In 1999, when everybody celebrated the bicentennial of Alexander Pushkin, Polotnyany Zavod was made a museum, and now it welcomes many guests who come to see dramatized excursions and to learn more about Pushkin times. The poet himself visited this place two times, in 1830 and 1834. Polotnyany Zavod has the most picturesque panoramic view in the Kaluga Region.

To go to Polotnyany Zavod, you should take a bus from the bus station near the Tyoply Stan metro station, and go to Kondorovo. It takes a little more than three hours.

Tarus is just another little town in Kaluga Region, which is considered to be typical Russian. It’s located on the left bank of the Oka River and has really magnificent views. It feels like time stands still there. Tarusa managed to preserve the best from the past, and even now, it consists mostly of one-storeyed houses made of wood or stone. They say it’s because Tarusa residents declined railroad construction. This town became popular among Russian intellectuals at the beginning of the 20th century when famous artist Vasily Polenov discovered it and told about Tarusa to anyone in Moscow and St. Petersburg. Tarusa is known to be a hometown for Russian writer Marina Tsvetaeva, whose family spent summertime there. Tsvetaeva museum is a museum every guest of Tarusa should visit for sure. Besides, Konstantin Paustovsky, another famous Russian writer, lived there till his death and was buried in Tarusa. The absolutely must-do in Tarusa is to walk along the embankment of the Oka River.

The best way to reach Tarusa is by direct bus which departs from the bus station near the ‘Tyoply Stan’ metro station. Travel time is about two hours.

• Baikal Lake read
• 25 Reasons to Visit Russian Regions read
• Top places to watch the Northern Lights in Russia read
• Kamchatka peninsula read
• 7 Top Things to Do in Karelia Region read
• The Altai Mountains read
• Siberia read
• Mountain Elbrus read
• 1. Sergiyev Posad
• 3. Shakhmatovo
• 4. Zakharovo
• 5. Borodino
• 6. Melikhovo
• 7. Abramtsevo
• 8. Yasnaya Polyana
• 9. Polotnyany Zavod

We use cookies to improve your experience on our Website, tailor content, and measure advertising. By continuing to use our Website, you accept our Privacy Policy .

Your request has been sent successfully! Our travel expert will contact you shortly.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

• United Arab Emirates
• Switzerland
• The Netherlands
• Puerto Rico
• United States
• New Zealand
• ➨ Choose from World Map
• Budget Travel
• Family Travel
• Getting Around
• Visas & Passports
• Work with Us

Browsing Category

• Czech Republic
• Saint Martin
• Uncategorized

Moscow Travel Guide: Best Things to Do + More [2023]

· everything to know about visiting moscow, including the best things to do and how to get around. ·.

Moscow is Russia’s vibrant capital city, and it also happens to be the largest city in all of Europe. The city’s long and infamous history makes it one of the most unique places we have ever visited.

The architecture ranges from centuries-old palaces to uniform, gray concrete buildings. The people range from cold and private to warm and welcoming. Moscow is a city is strong juxtapositions, and we learned a lot during our time there.

This post will break down all you need to know about visiting Moscow, including the best things to do, how to get there, how to get around, and more.

The Best Things to Do in Moscow

1. explore the red square.

The Red Square is the heart of Moscow. Most of the city’s top attractions can be found here, including just about everything on this list. The Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Lenin’s Mausoleum are all located here, and the State Historical Museum and GUM are not far from here, either.

The Red Square is a common home for parades, protests, and seasonal celebrations. There are massive Christmas celebrations here, with food vendors and carnival rides set up in numbers.

2. Check Out the Ziferblat

The Ziferblat is a café in Moscow that is unlike any café we have ever been to. While most cafes charge you for your drinks and food, the Ziferblat charges you for your time.

Upon arrival, you are given a clock. When you leave, the barista calculates how much time you spent in the café and charges you accordingly. This concept was created to help visitors to be more intentional with their time, and the cafe itself is incredibly charming.

For a detailed look at everything you need to know before you visit, make sure you read my post about visiting the Ziferblat Cafe in Moscow .

3. Marvel at St. Basil’s Cathedral

St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic churches in the world, and it was the single thing we were most excited to see while in Moscow. Built almost 500 years ago, St. Basil’s Cathedral is recognized by its colorful domes and whimsical style. The church is of the Russian Orthodox faith, and the inside is just as wondrous as the outside.

St. Basil’s Cathedral is located on the edge of the Red Square, making it incredibly convenient to visit. Entrance for non-worshippers costs 800 rubles, and tickets can be bought at the church

4. Explore the Kremlin

The Kremlin is the largest active fortress in Europe, and it is the site of most of Russia’s government affairs. In addition to government buildings, the Kremlin Complex is filled with courtyards, towers, and museums that are open to the public. If you have the time, you could spend a couple of days fully exploring all that there is to see in the Kremlin.

5. Walk Through Lenin’s Mausoleum

Vladimir Lenin is one of the most important figures in Russian history, and his body is located perfectly embalmed in a mausoleum in the Red Square. The Mausoleum is open to the public to visit, and as long as you are willing to go through a few security checks, it is easily one of the best things to do in Moscow. Its convenient location in the Red Square makes it a can’t miss attraction.

There is absolutely no photography allowed inside the Mausoleum. Do not test this rule.

6. Wander Along Arbat Street

The Arbat is a very popular street in Moscow that is lined with stores, cafes, and other touristy attractions. It is one of the oldest streets in the city, dating back to the 1400s. This street is both quaint and trendy, and there are many walking tours that introduce tourists to the neighborhood’s wonders and highlights.

7. Catch a Show at the Bolshoi Theatre

As a lover of the arts, it is hard to think of Moscow and not think of ballet. Russia has always been a top dog in the world of fine arts, and Bolshoi Theater is one of the best places to catch a performance. We were lucky enough to attend an Opera here, and it is a venue that you don’t want to miss out on if you enjoy opera, ballet, or orchestral performances.

8. Visit the State Historical Museum

The State Historical Museum is one of the most respected museums in Moscow. Despite its name, it is not really focused on the history of Russia as a nation. Rather, it contains a collection of artifacts from all throughout Russia’s history.

The museum’s collection is very broad in nature. It houses some items from indigenous tribes that used to occupy the region, pieces collected by the Romanov family, and more.

9. Wander Around GUM

GUM is an absolutely massive mall within walking distance of the Red Square. It isn’t just the size that draws visitors here; it’s the sense of luxury. The mall is so beautiful inside, much like the metro stations.

While visiting a mall might not sound like it belongs on a bucket list, this mall does. You will not want to miss out on visiting GUM while in Moscow.

10. Admire the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

While St. Basil’s Cathedral is the most iconic church in Moscow, it isn’t the only one. The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is absolutely stunning, with massive golden domes. It is the tallest Orthodox church in the world, and it is the seat of the Orthodox Patriarch of Moscow.

It is located just about a mile from the Red Square, just south of the Kremlin Complex. You can walk to it from the Red Square in about 20 minutes.

How to Get to Moscow

Flying to moscow.

Moscow has three major international airports: Sheremetyevo (SVO) , Domodedovo (DMO) , and Vnukovo (VKO) . All three of them are directly connected to downtown Moscow by the Aeroexpress trains, which leave every 30 minutes throughout the day. By Aeroexpress train, you can expect to get to the city center in 25-45 minutes depending on the airport that you fly into.

Sheremetyevo is the biggest and busiest of the three airports, and it is the one you are most likely to fly into – especially if you are coming from outside of Europe or the Caucus region. We flew into Sheremetyevo on a direct flight from New York City.

I usually provide backup airport options, because flying right into the city isn’t always the cheapest way to get where you’re going. Unfortunately, when it comes to Moscow, don’t really have a choice other than to fly right into Moscow. It is a very remote city, and it is usually the cheapest place to fly into in Russia as a whole.

Since Sheremetyevo is so busy, you will probably find a great flight option anyway. I wrote in  my post about finding cheap flights  that using hub airports will lead to more affordable airfare, and the same logic applies here. Even though Russia’s national airline, Aeroflot, is no longer a member of the SkyTeam Alliance, Moscow is still a major hub connecting passengers from all over the world.

READ OUR CHEAT SHEET

Train or Bus to Moscow

Trains and buses are one of the most popular ways to get around Europe. However, they’re of very little use when you’re trying to get to Moscow.

Moscow is hundreds of miles from the nearest major cities. The only major European city that can even be reached within 8 hours on the ground is St. Petersburg, and even the Baltic capitals of Riga, Vilnius, and Tallinn are over 12 hours away.

If you want to get to Moscow, the best option is almost always to fly. While the train routes to Moscow are scenic, they simply take forever.

How to Get Around Moscow

METRO | TROLLEYS | TRAMS | BUSES

Moscow has one of the most memorable metro systems in the world. Its metro lines are very deep underground, and the stations are absolutely stunning. Each station has its own unique style, but all of them contain escalators that seem to go on forever.

The system was built in an effort to showcase the power of the Soviet Union and its bright future. The plans were a form of propaganda, but they resulted in what is still one of the most visually appealing subway systems on earth.

Moscow’s metro system isn’t just pretty. It is also very useful and accessible. The system has 17 lines that connect the city and its surrounding area.

But wait; there’s more!

The Moscow metro system is also incredibly affordable, with each ride costing less than a dollar. The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow, as it is almost impossible to beat the connection times and the low cost to ride.

Tickets can be bought at electronic, English-speaking kiosks in stations, or directly from ticket counters at certain larger stations. There are also day passes available, which are a very solid option if you plan on riding the metro several times per day.

The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow.

In addition to the metro system, Moscow also has a network of buses, trams, and trolleys. This system is nowhere near as convenient or well-connected as the metro, though, and is likely of little use to you during your trip. There is no Uber in Moscow, but a similar app named Yandex is available if you need a ride in a pinch.

How Many Days Do You Need in Moscow?

Moscow is the biggest city in all of Europe, and it is absolutely loaded with things to do. You could spend weeks in Moscow and still find new things to do. Of course, most travelers don’t have that kind of time to spend in one place!

I recommend spending no less than three full days in Moscow, and ideally closer to five or seven.

Moscow is very spread out, and it can take some time to get from one major point to another. There are also so many places that are nice to just sit back and relax, which is hard to do when you’re in a hurry trying to cram activities into just a few days.

If you only have a week to visit Russia, I’d advise spending all of the time in one city. If you decide to split your time between Moscow and St. Petersburg, I recommend not trying to squeeze in any day trips beyond those two cities.

When Is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Moscow?

There are two different ways to approach this question. Personally, I think the best time to visit Moscow is around Christmas and New Year’s Day. While the weather will be absolutely freezing, Moscow is a surreal winter wonderland in December and January.

We were in Moscow right before Christmas. While it was very cold, you can always bundle up. Exploring the Christmas markets and pop-up ice skating rinks throughout Moscow is one of my favorite memories from anywhere I’ve traveled, and I dream of going back to do it again.

If you aren’t fond of the cold, Moscow is beautiful in the summer. It tends to get pretty cold in the shoulder seasons, so if you want warm weather, you should plan to visit in the summer. Moscow actually gets pretty warm in July and August, and there are a bunch of fantastic places to soak up the sun within the city.

The best time to visit Moscow is either around Christmas or from late May to August.

Is Moscow Safe to Visit?

While Moscow is a truly wonderful city, there’s no denying that visiting Russia comes with risks. As the country is run by an infamous communist dictator, concerns about visiting are valid. While we didn’t experience any sort of threat or negative treatment during our time in Moscow, we visited in a peaceful time.

In our experience, Russia doesn’t seem to detain normal Americans or Westerners to use as pawns. As a regular person, as long as you don’t commit any crimes, there is a slim chance you will run into any issues. However, Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

To make matters worse, Russia has a bad reputation for gang violence. While the Russian mafia has very little interest in normal Western tourists, they won’t hesitate to pick a fight with anyone who ventures into their sphere of influence. If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

Finally, since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, things are all very different. Russia is currently at war, and there are battles raging within 8 hours of Moscow. While it is still relatively safe to visit, that could change at any time as the war with Ukraine continues.

Is Moscow Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt, Moscow is worth visiting. It is one of the most unique major cities we have ever visited, and we hope to make it back one day. The Russian Orthodox churches are stunning, the city’s history is unlike any other, and the food is to die for.

While many visitors prefer St. Petersburg to Moscow, I think Moscow deserves a lot of hype of its own. Moscow is the beating heart of Russian culture and history, and it’s a place I highly recommend checking out if you have the chance.

That’s all we have for you about Moscow! I hope this post was helpful as you plan your trip to Russia’s capital.

Have you been to Moscow? Or is this your first time visiting? Comment below if you have anything to add to our travel guide!

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

Leave a comment

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Meet The Author - Greg

Recent Post

How Much Does a Trip to Egypt Cost: Budget Breakdown

March 10, 2024

Best Time to Visit the India Gate in Delhi [2024]

March 1, 2024

Flying with a Sinus Infection: Tips to Avoid Pain

February 20, 2024

11 Best Things to Do in Breckenridge Besides Skiing

February 12, 2024

10 Best Beaches in Mexico for Families (We Lived Here)

February 3, 2024

15 Fantastic and Easy Day Trips From Moscow

Is the hustle and bustle of Moscow starting to wear you down? No worries. There are multiple great day trips from Moscow that will let you see a different side of Russia that you won’t find in the metropolitan area. Each day trip I’ve listed below can easily be done by train from Moscow, and there are trains every day of the week.

The area surrounding Moscow is rich in cultural attractions and natural beauty. By traveling only a short distance, one feels far away from the crowds, and lines of the sprawling Russian capital. Since Russia is undoubtedly an expansive country it may take from half an hour to two hours to reach some of the landmarks on this list (by train or car) from the Moscow city center.

You can escape to the picturesque Russian countryside, visit war memorials, battlefields, admire onion-domed churches, and get insight into the local way of life. Easy day trips from Moscow include the incomparable white-stone Trinity Cathedral in Sergiyev Posad, the spectacular Cathedral of the Assumption in Dmitrov, and the Russian military aircraft in Monino. For those who love rural tranquility, Suzdal and Vladimir are a must-see. History buffs will appreciate the Patriotic War of 1812 reenactment that took place in Borodino on the first weekend of September.

Without further ado, here are 15 best day trips from Moscow that are well worth your attention.

The Best Day Trips from Moscow

There’s a reason Moscow is one of Europe’s most enigmatic destinations. It’s got culture, class, food, history, and more, but even better, is that it is the country’s main transport hub with so many attractions within a day trip from Moscow. While you can definitely spend days or even weeks in Moscow, it can, of course, be done in just one week. What can you do in Moscow in seven days ? Well, you can do a lot if you know how to plan a trip to a place you know so little about.

If you’re ready to get out of the city a bit and soak up the culture, fresh air, and enchanting architecture, I’ve rounded up my favorite day trips outside of Moscow. I often get asked: What are the best cities to visit in Russia? And these are places that I’ve been and loved.

My Favorite Easy Day Trips from Moscow:

Dmitrov Kolomna Zvenigorod Sergiyev Posad Yaroslavl Arkhangelskoye Estate Vladimir Suzdal Korolev Borodino Patriot Park in Kubinka Melikhovo Gorki Leninskie Kaluga Monino

1. Day Trip to Dmitrov from Moscow

Dmitrov may not be as popular as other cities in Russia, but the fact that the city was founded only 7 years earlier than Moscow makes for a great day trip. This small city some 90 kilometers from Moscow is particularly beautiful in the summer. As you walk the streets you can see sparkling fountains, charming centuries-old buildings, yachts and boats transiting through the canal and, of course, the Museum-Reserve Dmitrov Kremlin.

The Kremlin (castle) is the city’s main draw. The 10m high and about 1km long earthen rampart remained behind the wooden wall and gives an idea of how the castle looked like 400 years ago. The oldest surviving building on the Kremlin grounds is the 16th-century Assumption Cathedral with a unique five-tier iconostasis.

Not far from the Kremlin there is a compact 15th-century Borisoglebsky convent. Its main building – the 16th-century Cathedral of Sts. Boris and Gleb is open to the visitors only for services of worship. In the 1930s in the convent housed a labor camp, which contained the builders of the Canal named after Moscow.

Getting There: Dmitrov sits an easy hour and sixteen minutes by train from Savyelovskiy Rail Terminal. This cheap day trip from Moscow is a great chance to soak up the historic charm to be found in Moscow Oblast.

2. Day Trip to Kolomna from Moscow

Situated to the south-east of Moscow, Kolomna is a beautiful port city on the Oka River. This is one of the oldest Russian cities in the region. So you can discover the old history in museums and monasteries. Interestingly, the city was a site for important weapon factories under the Soviet Union. Although it was opened up in 1994 Kolomna is not as popular as other day-trip destinations in the region.

Nevertheless, it is a great place to visit with friends and family where you can explore the 15th-century Kremlin made of red brick, try incredibly sweet traditional pastila (marshmallow), and visit some of the cute little churches and 19th-century mansions.

Getting There: Take the express train (commuter line train) from the Kazansky rail terminal to Golutvin station. The trip lasts one hour and forty minutes.

3. Day Trip to Zvenigorod from Moscow

This one is usually a given due to its proximity to and ease of transport from Moscow. It’s one of the easiest day trips from Moscow by train. You can easily hop on the train from the city and land right in the town of Zvenigorod where you can visit the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery and sample the sparkly and refreshing kvass, a Russian specialty beverage that’s enjoyed in the summer months.

Zvenigorod is an adorable little town just under an hour away from the Moscow city and is an amazing place to visit as it will give a relaxing break from the hectic life of Moscow. Check this day trip if you don’t feel like planning.

If you have a sweet tooth, spend some time in the quirky Museum of Russian Desserts, where you can indulge in uniquely delicious treats and explore the intersection of food and culture.

Then you may want to pay the Zvenigorod Museum of History, Architecture, and Art a visit. The museum’s exposition is located on the territory of the Savvino-Storozhevsky monastery, or rather, in the 17th-century Tsaritsyny chambers, built for the wife of Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich. Stroll through the museum halls to view the permanent exhibitions, which offer insights into various aspects of Russian history. The intricate museum’s building is adorned with a decorative porch, complex patterned elements, and looks very impressive in general.

4. Day Trip to Sergiyev Posad from Moscow

If you’re looking for cheap day trips from Moscow, Sergiyev Posad is a good choice at just a few dollar train ride away. Known as a major center of pilgrimage and home to one of the largest Russian Orthodox Monastery which has been here for hundreds of years, Sergiyev Posad is a fun day trip from Moscow and can be combined with Abramtsevo Museum Estate. As the only town in Moscow Region which is included in the Golden Ring of Russian cities, Sergiyev Posad is an incredible destination for a day trip from Moscow that packs UNESCO-protected Trinity Sergius Lavra, great museums, and gorgeous architecture into one day.

Make sure you see the six-pillared Assumption Cathedral that was commissioned by Ivan the Terrible in mid-16th-century and go inside to marvel at the impressive iconostasis that features Simon Ushakov’s masterpiece, the icon of Last Supper. Enjoy a delicious lamb steak with wheat kasha, Ukha fish soup, or hand-made dumplings as you learn a lot about religious and cultural history.

Getting There: Known for its small-town charm and welcoming feel, you can get to Sergiyev Posad by train, by bus, or by car. Trains depart from Yaroslavsky Rail Terminal every thirty minutes, and the trip lasts about an hour and a half. Alternatively, you can hop on a bus at the ‘VDNKh’ metro station. A bus trip to Sergiyev Posad takes two hours on average but can be reached in 90 minutes depending on traffic. If you go by car expect to spend about an hour and a half attempting to traverse the congested Yaroslavskoye highway.

5. Day Trip to Yaroslavl from Moscow

Going from Moscow to Yaroslavl may seem like a really long day trip, but honestly, if you take the comfortable train, it only takes about four hours to reach the city, so making a Yaroslavl day trip is totally doable. Although I do recommend much more than one day in Yaroslavl, especially if it’s your first time.

Cultural tourists visiting Yaroslavl should start their exploration by strolling the historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A spacious 100-hectare area enclosed by Sobinova and Republican streets is home to most popular attractions – the 17th-century Church of Elijah the Prophet that survived almost exactly in its original form, and in contrast to it, the white stone Assumption Cathedral, restored in the 2000s.

If you walk a bit further passing the Holy Trinity sculpture and city’s foundation stone, you will find yourself at Strelka, a park on the cape, which offers panoramic views of the spot at the confluence of Volga and Kotorosl rivers. On the way back, there is a pleasant walk along the picturesque Volga embankment to the Governor’s Garden with shadowy alleys and an open-air Sculpture museum.

Getting There: Yaroslavl is about 280 km (173 miles) northeast of Moscow, so the best way to get there is to take a morning train from Yaroslavskiy Rail Terminal. A tour is also a great way to see the Yaroslavl without having to worry about driving or searching for trains. You can book a tour here.

6. Day Trip to Arkhangelskoye Estate from Moscow

Situated on the outskirts of Moscow and dates back to the late 18th-century, Arkhangelskoye Estate was the domain of the nobility for over a century until the Russian Revolution swept people who owned the estate out of the country. The estate was turned into a museum, which it remains today.

The Arkhangelskoye Estate Museum holds the largest rare-book collection. The exhibition also includes old manuscripts, historical documents, photos from the past, a vast collection of sculpture, paintings, engravings, and exceptional examples of decorative art. These art objects once belonged to Prince Nikolai Yusupov, the former owner of the estate.

Arkhangelskoye Estate is often referred to as the Russian version of Versailles because of the intricately manicured garden and beautiful 18th-century park. Famous Russian writers and poets such as Pushkin, Herzen, Mayakovsky loved to spend their free time here making long excursions in the surrounding area. Arkhangelskoye is a perfect place to appreciate the terraces decorated by delightful statues, exquisite vases, and busts.

Visitors can take tours, which introduce them to vibrant examples of Russian art and culture.

Getting There: To reach the estate it’s best to take a bus or a privately-owned minibus that departs from Tushinskaya metro station.

7. Day Trip to Vladimir from Moscow

Situated only two hours east of Moscow, Vladimir is absolutely one of the best places to visit near Moscow for a day trip. This splendid city dates back to the 12th century and has a very rich history. If magnificent Orthodox cathedrals and traditional white-stone architecture entice you, then this place is perfect for a day trip with your significant other.

First things first, you need to see the Golden Gate, which indicates the entrance into the old town. This 12th-century medieval masterpiece of military architecture is associated not only with Vladimir but with the Golden Ring tourist route itself. At the top of the gate, where once was the Church of the Deposition of the Robe, there is the Museum of Weapons. Great looking arrowheads and spear points date back to the Grand Principality of Vladimir, while the exhibition in an impressively majestic setting features a number of Batu-Khan related artifacts.

There’s a variety of attractions to put on your must-see list: the Old Believers Trinity Church right behind it, the Cathedral of St Demetrius, and Dormition (Uspensky) Cathedral. If you plan on shopping for souvenirs like birch-bark masterpieces of Kunov’s masters, drawings, carving, embossing, figures of people and animals, stop by the Lacquer Miniature, the Museum of Crystal, and the Gingerbread Museum. Many of the local attractions were added to UNESCO’s list of World Heritage sites.

Getting There: The best way to visit this area is to catch an early train from Moscow and book a full-day tour of Vladimir in advance. This one includes the town of Suzdal as well.

8. Day Trip to Suzdal from Moscow

This gem of a little medieval town perched on a hill just a 30-minute ride from Vladimir is one of those places I’ve visited and could move there permanently and be happy! It’s a charming little piece of history that also has a Kremlin and visiting it feels like stepping back in time. if you’re a culture enthusiast you’ll be glad to know there are numerous churches, five monasteries, including Spaso-Yevfimiev Monastery in Suzdal. Check them out if you want to get a real taste of the country!

pend some time shopping at the Torgovaya ploshchad (Market Square), where you can buy baskets made of birch bark, ceramic handmade plates, honey or souvenirs and, of course, grab some afternoon tea!

Getting There: Trains leave regularly from Moscow’s Kurskiy Rail Terminal to Vladimir where you can hop on a bus to Suzdal. You can also take a bus from Moscow. In this case, it might take longer and you’ll probably encounter infamous traffic jams. If you go by express train the trip takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. There are slower trains of course, but I’d recommend going with the fast one and save a lot of time!

9. Day Trip to Korolev from Moscow

Located some 30 kilometers northeast of Moscow, Korolev has become arguably the most important space research center with skilled workers from across the Soviet Union who came here to expand the space program.

It became a leading institute dedicated to aerospace research in the country. Today, that tendency can still be clearly seen on the streets and in the buildings. When the Soviet Union collapsed, the city retained its status as the headquarters of Russia’s space surveillance network and now it hosts the Russian Mission Control Center, an analogue of the American Mission Control Center at NASA’s Space Center in Houston.

If you want to learn more about Mission Control Center and the former Russian Mir space station, book a tour with a knowledgeable guide who can clearly tell the history of this place.

If you’re not into space exploration there is also a Memorial Apartment Museum of Marina Tsvetaeva in Bolshevo. With a picturesque park next to the museum, it’s a great place for walking in the fresh air. The highlight of the park is memorial stones with quotes from Tsvetaeva’s poems.

Getting There: I’d recommend going by train. Catch one at Yaroslavskiy Rail Terminal that departs every 30 minutes to reach Bolshevo station.

10. Day Trip to Borodino from Moscow

The historic Battle of Borodino on September 7, 1812, took place just outside the small village of Borodino, about 140 km west of Moscow, and about 15 km from the nearest town of Mozhaysk. Although the French won the Battle of Borodino and went to capture Moscow, it was one of the bloodiest battles of the pre-twentieth-century that is also predetermined Napoleon’s defeat.

While it was a battlefield back then, not much remains today. It’s mostly a green and grassy field now with a few monuments of military honor, architectural objects dated back to 19th and 20th century, and fortification facilities scattered throughout the area. The largest of these is the 27-meter high obelisk located right at the heart of the former battlefield.

Every year the military and patriotic festival and theatrical performance take place in Borodino. Early September is considered to be the best for visiting. But if you just want to feel the spirit of the battle, it’s better to go at any other time of the year.

Getting there: Hop on a train from the Belorussky rail terminal, disembark in Mozhaysk, and then take a bus to the museum. The whole travel time is about 2 hours.

11. Day Trip to Patriot Park in Kubinka from Moscow

Once a Red Army tank training ground, now it’s a military Disneyland with history, structure, guns, and armored vehicles! The tank museum originally housed one of the world’s largest and rarest collections of tanks. In 2016 they combined the training grounds with the newly-created Patriot Park. Since then, some of the notable and rare items have been moved to the Patriot Park site, so you may want to combine both sites into one tour (only about 20 minutes apart).

The exhibition grounds include some very rare specimens that are must-see for any military enthusiasts out there. The staff is friendly, helpful and kind, while the museum has a small shop. As this site is part of an operating military base, they may ask you to show your passport, or provide them with a photocopy of the front pages. There are vending machines for snacks and drinks, and there are bathroom facilities. There’s plenty to see, so I recommend setting aside an entire day!

Getting there: Situated halfway between Borodino and Moscow, the best way to reach Patriot Park in Kubinka is by car. Alternatively, if you don’t want to rent one, consider car-sharing apps like Gett or UBER. The price of ride-sharing services is cheap enough to make them a viable proposition for choosing them.

12. Day Trip to Melikhovo from Moscow

Located some 80 km from Moscow, Melikhovo is one of the most important museums dedicated to Anton Pavlovich Chekhov. This renowned Russian writer and playwright acquired Melikhovo in 1892. He lived there with his parents and close relatives for 7 years before moving to the Crimea in 1899. Melikhovo is where he wrote his plays “The Man in the Case” and “The Seagull”.

The estate faded into oblivion right after the Revolution but in 1939 Anton Chekhov’s sister Maria and his nephew established a museum based on Chekhov’s place of living. The museum opened its doors to the public in 1941.

Today museum’s exhibition reveals the legacy of a celebrated writer and shows his path not only as a writer but as a doctor and public figure as well. The collection also features some of the best-known paintings by famous artists like Isaac Levitan and Vasily Polenov, who were Chekhov’s friends. When it comes to fun and educational day trips from Moscow, Melikhovo is a nice place for learning more about Chekov’s life and work.

Getting There: You can reach Melikhovo by train from Kurskiy rail Terminal. Disembark in the town of Chekhov and hop on a minibus that will get to the estate. Alternatively, hop on a bus that departs from the Yuzhnaya metro station.

13. Day Trip to Gorki Leninskie from Moscow

Once the realm of Russian nobles, Gorki Leninskie was turned into Lenin’s museum some 25 years after his death. The estate sits some 30-minute bus ride from the Domodedovskaya metro station and houses Soviet-era memorabilia and Lenin’s memorial flat recently transferred from the Kremlin, as well as his vintage Rolls-Royce.

Most people only associate this place with the name of the first communist leader. In fact, the name of the estate was first mentioned in documents dating back to the 16th-century. Throughout its history, the estate was owned by a number of prominent figures. It’s in fact one of the best museums that holds the country’s finest collection 19th-century furnishings and a unique collection of domestic items owned by nobles. Plus, ancient Vyatichi native tribe or East Slavs who inhabited a part of the Oka basin’s burial mounds and a few notable sculptures are hidden behind the avenues of lime trees in the park.

Getting There: You could, of course, hop on a bus from Domodedovskaya metro station. But it would be much easier just to use UBER or Gett. The estate isn’t that far from the Moscow Circle Road but going there by bus may involve some navigating.

14. Day Trip to Kaluga from Moscow

If you’re looking for an educational day trip from Moscow, look no farther than Kaluga! This beautiful city could really entertain you for more than just a day, but to get a taste of science, be sure to visit the Tsiolkovsky State Museum of the History of Cosmonautics. Or in other words, the Space Museum.

Visitors to the museum will learn more about the history of space exploration. In fact, this is one of the largest Space Museums in Russia, which opened its doors in Kaluga in 1967. Here you can see a prototype of the iconic MIR space station and a duplicate of the Voskhod rocket. The very same rocket that took the first man to space. There’s also a planetarium, which from the outside resembles a spaceship.

Kaluga is a totally walkable city. Make sure to spend some time strolling Teatralnaya street with the authentic 19th-century pavement that now marks the Kilometer Zero. Then walk across the 18th-century Kamenniy Most (the Stone Bridge) that somewhat resembles a Roman aqueduct. If you’re an architecture buff marvel at the Church of St. Cosmas and Damian.

It is assumed that the church was erected by one of the followers of Francesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli in 1794. The church resembles the Smolny Convent in St. Petersburg. With five church towers directed upward and six tiers of oblong windows give the exterior a sense of lightness and airiness.

Getting There: Trains from Kiyevsky Rail Terminal to Kaluga leave every 90 minutes. The trip takes about 2 hours and 35 minutes.

15. Day Trip to Monino from Moscow

Are you looking for great family & kid-friendly day trips from Moscow? If so, consider visiting the Central Museum of the Air Forces at Monino. This unique military open-air museum is home to over 180 Russian aircraft and 100 aircraft engines and the perfect place to go when your crowd is looking for a break from hectic city life. Check this tour if you don’t feel like planning.

This site was formerly an operational airbase from 1932 till 1956 and many of the Russian aviation Design bureaus have made a contribution to the operation and maintenance of the museum. Along with aircraft from the Second World War, there are the TU-95 Bear four-engine turboprop-powered strategic bomber and the TU-144 Charger a Soviet supersonic passenger airliner (which resembled the Concorde). The museum also has exhibits related to military aviation history such as the uniform of captured U2 pilot Gary Powers.

Getting There: This museum is located at Monino Town, about 30 km from Moscow. It is open on all days from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except Mondays and Tuesdays. To get there take a train departing from Yaroslavskiy Rail Terminal and disembark at Monino station. Alternatively, hop on a bus from Schelkovskaya or Partizanskaya metro station.

Final Thoughts on the Best Day Trips from Moscow

I hope this post has helped you discover some amazing day trips from Moscow. From imposing cathedrals, mighty fortresses and monasteries, there are a lot of incredible places to visit the Russian capital, and the best part is that getting there is always ways to get around on the cheap.

New here? Join hundreds of others and subscribe to the MindTheTravel blog via email.

Some of the links in this blog post are affiliate links. At no cost to you, I earn a small commission when you click on it and make a purchase. It doesn’t affect the way you shop, and it’s a great way to support MindTheTravel blog.

PIN IT FOR LATER!

JOIN MY FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER!

Email Address *

YOU WILL ALSO LIKE

10 Dishes You Must Try When Going To Moscow

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

When Is the Best Time To Visit Russia

Great article for visitors in Moscow , thanks for sharing

Marie Hernandez

I hadn’t considered traveling to Moscow until NOW! Fantastic post and ideas for visitors! Thanks!

Graham Marsden

Nice to see so many options outside of Moscow, but I have to say I wish this list had a recommendation for a hike or a beautiful natural areas or national parks. Maybe the next list!

I have to admit that I knew nothing about the area surrounding Moscow. This is definitely an inspiring list of places to go.

When I read this article about Moscow. I wanted to pack my bags and get there sooner. thank you for the great write up.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

My website uses cookies so that I can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to my website and helping me to understand which sections of Mind The Travel you find most interesting and useful.

You can adjust all of your cookie settings by navigating the tabs on the left hand side.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that I can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, I will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit my website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

Best Time To Visit Moscow

Where to stay in moscow, moscow itinerary, day 1 itinerary in moscow, day 2 itinerary in moscow, day 3 and beyond, staying safe in moscow, day trips from moscow, faq on moscow itinerary.

Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

• Russia Circle Trip: 20 Places To Visit In Moscow And St. Petersburg In 2024

23 Mar 2023

Comprising of palaces, monasteries, cathedrals, museum’s, parks, hills, towers, and galleries, travelers must include these places to visit in Moscow and St. Petersburg in their itinerary for a complete travel experience. Taking you through its modern culture, ancient traditions, and rich historical past, these places to see in Moscow are not just interesting, but are beyond magical.

20 Places To Visit In Moscow And St. Petersburg

Here is a list of places to explore in the beautiful city of Moscow and St. Petersburg on your trip that you might not want to miss. Keep scrolling down and read along:

• Hermitage Museum
• Krestovsky Stadium
• Peterhof Palace
• Pushkin Museum
• Kolomenskoye
• Novospassky Monastery
• Kremlin Armoury
• Sparrow Hills
• Cathedral Of The Archangel
• Diamond Fund
• Losiny Ostrov National Park
• Ostankino Tower
• Grand Kremlin Palace
• Bolshoi Theatre
• Memorial Museum Of Cosmonautics
• Saint Basil’s Cathedral
• Moscow Kremlin

20. Hermitage Museum

Hermitage Museum at St Petersburg is the second-largest art museum in the world, after The Louvre in Paris, France. The establishment was founded in 1764 by Empress Catherine the Great. From Egyptian antiquities, Renaissance art, Dutch and Flemish Baroque art to Neoclassical, Impressionist, Post-Impressionist and modern European fine art – Hermitage Museum artworks are any art-enthusiast’s paradise.

Location: Palace Square, 2, Sankt-Peterburg, Russia, 190000 Timings: 10:30 am – 6:00 pm (Monday closed)

19. Krestovsky Stadium

Named after Sergey Kirov, the stadium was also home to the Zenit Football Club for certain periods in the 1900’s. The Fifa Confederations Cup took place in the Krestovsky Stadium, with several group matches and the final between Germany and Chile taking place at the stadium. The 2018 Fifa World Cup also took place there, when Russia hosted the competition.

Location: Futbol’naya Alleya, 1, Sankt-Peterburg, Russia, 197110 Timings: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm

18. Peterhof Palace

One of the most important sites of cultural importance in Russia is the Peterhof Palace. It is a series of palaces and gardens which are located in Peterhof, St Petersburg. One of the best features of the area that catches the eyes of the many tourists who come to visit the area is a 16-metre high cliff. One of the best features of the Palace is the Chesma Hall. The Hall is decorated with painting from the Battle of Chesma, where Russia won a naval victory during the Russo-Turkish war.

Location: Razvodnaya Ulitsa, 2, Sankt-Peterburg, Russia Timings: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm

17. Pushkin Museum

Image Source

If you want to visit one of the best tourist places in Moscow to explore a wide selection of European masterpieces, then you must visit the Pushkin Museum. Here, you can explore The museum is divided into three sections which cover the themes: Byzantine art, the Renaissance, and the Dutch Golden Age. For a collection donated by individuals, you can also visit the Museum of Private Collections.

Location: Ulitsa Volkhonka, 12, Moskva, Russia, 119019 Timings: 11:00 am – 8:00 pm

Must Read: Villas In Moscow: 7 Places That Offer Unparalleled Luxury In The Heart Of Russia

16. Kolomenskoye

Nestled just a few kilometers outside of the city center, Kolomenskoye was once a royal estate which is now converted into a museum-reserve. Overlooking the Moskva River, you will get to gain a plethora of history from this museum. You can take a stroll in the garden at this museum which is one of the top places to visit in Moscow, Russia.

Location: Andropova Ave, 39, Moskva, Russia, 115487 Timings: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm

15. Novospassky Monastery

With attractions like Novospassky Monastery, there is no need to worry as to what to see in Moscow . Dating back to the times of the 14th century, Novospassky Monastery happens to be the first monastery established in the heart of Moscow. Located in the southeastern region, it is one of the must-visit places in Moscow.

Location: Krest’yanskaya Ploshchad’, 10, Moskva, Russia, 115172

Suggested Read: Russia Plans To Open A Luxury Hotel In Space By 2022 Since Earth Is Too Mainstream!

14. Kremlin Armoury

Kremlin Armoury is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Moscow which is located within the premises of Moscow Kremlin. A treasure house in the heart of Moscow, Kremlin Armoury is a unique museum that has put up about 4000 unique and precious belongings from 1851 on display.

Location: The Moscow Kremlin, Moskva, Russia, 125009 Timings: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM (Closed on all public holidays)

Suggested Read: 8 Cities With Best Russia Nightlife; Say It Aloud, “Lights, Vodka, & Russians!”

13. Sparrow Hills

Much famed as the Lenin Hills until 1999, it is a must for every traveler to include a visit to the Sparrow Hills on their Moscow city tour . Standing tall at an elevation of 220 meters, it is the highest viewpoints in the city that rises above the Moskva River. Get atop the hills to enjoy breathtaking views of the Moscow skyline.

Location: Moscow, Russia, 119270

Suggested Read: 15 Interesting Things To Do In Moscow: Trekking, Opera, And More

12. Cathedral Of The Archangel

Perched in between the attractions of Ivan the Great Bell Tower and the great Great Kremlin Palace, this orthodox cathedral in the heart of Moscow and the mighty Archangel Michael is the patron saint of the cathedral. Reflecting the charm of the Italian Renaissance architectural style, this cathedral is built on the site of the original structure which dates back to 1333.

Location: Cathedral Square, Moscow Kremlin, Moscow, Russia, 103073 Timings: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM (Closed on all public holidays)

Suggested Read: The Glass Beach In Russia Turns Empty Beer Bottles Into A Stunning Kaleidoscope Of Colourful Pebbles!

10. Diamond Fund

Image Credit: Shakko for wikipedia

A mine of precious stones, jewelry, Diamond Fund is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Moscow for those whose love for diamonds is limitless. Established by Emperor Peter I of Russia in the year of 1719, this gem of a place resides within the premises of the famous Moscow Kremlin.

Location: Proyezd Proyektiruyemyy 813, Moskva, Russia, 125009 Timings: Friday to Wednesday – 10 AM to 1 PM, and 2 PM to 5:20 PM (Closed on Thursdays)

9. Losiny Ostrov National Park

Of all the Moscow points of interest , Losiny Ostrov National Park offers a perfect amalgamation of nature and wildlife. Often compared to the Pedra Branca State Park in Rio de Janeiro, and the Table Mountain National Park of Cape Town, in terms of its size and grandeur, it is the first-ever national park of the Russian capital wherein one can witness many species of birds, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles.

Location: Poperechny Prosek, 1G, Moscow 107014, Russia

Suggested Read: Trans Siberian Railway: World’s Longest Rail Network That Crosses 8 Time Zones Across 9300 Kms!

8. Ostankino Tower

Standing tall at a height of 1,772 feet, Ostankino Tower is famous for being the only free-standing structure in the whole of Europe. Apart from being the eleventh high-rising structures of the world, the observation deck at Ostankino Tower is the place to be for those who wish to relish the best views of Moscow’s skyline.

Location: Akademika Koroleva St, 15, Moskva, Russia, 127427 Timings: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 9 PM

7. Grand Kremlin Palace

Established in the year of 1849, Great or Grand Kremlin Palace is one of those places to visit in Moscow that will leave you beyond astonished. Constructed beautifully and with a great eye for detail, the intricate decor inside the Grand Kremlin Palace reflects the pure charm of the Revival architecture in Russian that blends perfectly with the architectural style of Byzantine Revival.

Location: Moscow Kremlin, Moscow 103073, Russia

Suggested Read: 19 Cool And Unusual Things To Do In Russia That You’ve Never Heard Before!

Image Courtesy: publicdomainpictures.net

What Pragati Maidan is to Delhi, VDNKh is for Moscow. Being one of the popular Moscow sightseeing places , VDNKh or Vystavka Dostizheniy Narodnogo Khozyaystva is a grand trade and exhibition center in Moscow that assures the travelers an experience like none other. Home to numerous palaces, fountains, architectural marvels, arches, and pavilions, there will never be a dull moment on your visit to VDNKh during your trip to Moscow .

Location: Prospekt Mira, 119, Moskva, Russia, 129223 Timings: Monday to Sunday – 24 Hours

5. Bolshoi Theatre

Image Credit: DmitriyGuryanov for wikipedia

For the lovers of art, and culture, Bolshoi Theatre is the place to be for them to witness one of the finest live performances of opera and ballet performances. Famous for featuring a neoclassical facade, Bolshoi Theatre is one of the renowned landmarks of the city.

Location: Theatre Square, 1, Moskva, Russia, 125009

Suggested Read: Moscow In Winter: 10 Things To Do In The City That Holds To The Key To Russia’s Past

4. Memorial Museum Of Cosmonautics

Striking, unique, and aiming to touch the sky, the Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is one of the best Moscow tourist sites which the travelers cannot afford to miss. Educating the visitors about the significant part of Russia’s history in the domain of space, it is a strict no-no to miss out on visiting the Museum of Cosmonautics when in the city.

Location: Prospekt Mira, 111, Moskva, Russia, 129223 Timings: Thursdays & Saturdays – 10 AM to 9 PM; Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, & Sundays – 10 AM to 7 PM; Closed on Mondays

3. Saint Basil’s Cathedral

Considered to be one of the top places to visit in Moscow , Saint Basil’s Cathedral is also famed as the Cathedral of Vasily the Blessed amongst the locals. Being one of the crucial landmarks of Moscow located in the heart of Red Square, the cathedral dates back to the times of 16th century. Serving as a visual treat to the travelers, it happens to be one of the most-captured attractions in Moscow.

Location: Krasnaya Square, 2, Moscow 109012, Russia

Suggested Read: The List Of Top 10 Places Travelers Are Eager To Visit Is Out!

2. Red Square

Separating the royal citadel of Kremlin from the ancient merchant quarter of Kitai-gorod, Red Square is one of the most interesting places in Moscow . Bearing the weight of Russia’s history to a great extent, Red Square serves not just as an attraction but as the heart, soul, and symbol of the whole country.

Location: Krasnaya Ploshchad, Moscow, Russia

1. Moscow Kremlin

If all the attractions serve as members of the city, then Moscow Kremlin serves as the home in which all these tourist sites reside. Encompassing of almost all the famous sightseeing attractions, the royal residence of the President of Russia, the Moscow Kremlin is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Moscow . Offering breathtaking views of River Moskva and located at the heart of the city, it is a must for everyone to explore this fortified complex once in their lifetime.

Location: Moscow, Russia, 103073 Timings: Friday to Wednesday – 10 AM to 5 PM; Closed on Thursday

How To Get There

Air Astana has resumed daily operations, and with the launch of 2 additional flights starting 2nd September 2019, they will now be operating 11 times a week offering even more onward connections. You can now make the most of this special offer by Air Astana and plan your trip to the biggest metropolitan city of Kazakhstan. Transit passengers can also visit Nur – Sultan and Almaty hassle – free in their journey with Kazakhstan’s 72-hour transit visa-free regime . You can now also apply for an e-visa before traveling to Kazakhstan. The process is very simple!

Explore Two Countries In One Trip

There is good news for all transiting passengers. With Air Astana’s 1$ Stopover Holiday Package, you can enjoy a one-night stay in Almaty or Astana starting at just 1$ for the first night. Simply pay online and you will receive instant confirmation for your Stopover Holiday Package with Air Astana . The package includes a one-night stay in 3-4 star hotel, buffet breakfast, and airport transfers. What more could you possibly need!

Further Read: 101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30

While these are some of the famous places to visit in Moscow and St.Petersburg, this is just the beginning of what this incredible city has to offer. Hence, make sure you include these Moscow attractions and St. Petersburg sights to your bucket list while you gear up to fulfill your dream on your sojourn to Russia !

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Moscow

What is the best time to visit Moscow?

April to August happens to be the best time to visit Moscow when the summer season lets the tourists make the most of their journey.

What is that one experience that one must not miss out when planning a trip to Russia?

A ride on the Trans-Siberian Railway that crosses eight time zones across 9300 kms is one of the most unique experiences that one should not miss out on their trip to Moscow!

What are some of the must-visit attractions in Moscow?

Moscow Kremlin, Saint Basil’s Cathedral, Red Square, and Bolshoi Theatre are some of the famous must visit attractions in Moscow.

People Also Read:

Places To Visit In Ireland Places To Visit In Milan Places To Visit In Germany

Recent Posts

11 Villages In France: Perfect For Adventure Seekers

10 Picturesque Villages In Switzerland Loaded With Natural Charm

10 Charming Villages In Austria That You Can Explore Off The Beaten Path

12 Hidden Gems In Maryland: Seek Offbeat Experience

10 Captivating Reasons To Visit Japan: Unveiling The Land Of Endless Wonders

Hidden Gems In Spain You Won’t Find On Any Other List

Trending Blogs

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2023 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

• TravelTriangle
• Destinations » Russia »
• Tour Packages
• Honeymoon Packages
• Family Packages
• Budget Tour Packages
• Luxury Tour Packages
• Adventure Tour Packages
• Group Tour Packages
• Kerala Tour Packages
• Goa Tour Packages
• Andaman Tour Packages
• Sikkim Tour Packages
• Himachal Tour Packages
• Uttarakhand Tour Packages
• Rajasthan Tour Packages
• Tour Packages From Delhi
• Tour Packages From Mumbai
• Tour Packages From Bangalore
• Tour Packages From Chennai
• Tour Packages From Kolkata
• Tour Packages From Hyderabad
• Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
• Kerala Tourism
• Goa Tourism
• Sikkim Tourism
• Andaman Tourism
• Himachal Tourism
• Uttarakhand Tourism
• Rajasthan Tourism
• Hotels in Kerala
• Hotels in Goa
• Hotels in Sikkim
• Hotels in Andaman
• Hotels in Himachal
• Hotels in Uttarakhand
• Hotels in Rajasthan