Gorky Park

Gorky Park Review

Muscovites usually refer to this park made famous by Martin Cruz Smith's Cold War novel Gorky Park as Park Kultury (Park of Culture); its official title is actually the Central Park of Culture and Leisure. The park was laid out in 1928 and covers an area of 275 acres. It's the city's most popular all-around recreation center, and in summer, especially on weekends, it's crowded with children and adults enjoying its many attractions. A giant Ferris wheel dominates the park's green; if you're brave enough to ride it, you'll be rewarded with great views of the city. The even braver may want to venture onto the roller coaster. Note that the park's admission price does not include individual rides. The park also has a boating pond, a fairground, sports grounds, and numerous cafés. In summer, boats leave from the pier for excursions along the Moskva River, and in winter the ponds are transformed into skating rinks.