Everything is mixed up at VDNKh: pavilions originally from the USSR, fountains, robots, a rocket, ancient books, European streets, an aquarium and an orbital station. The guide from Dorogi-ne-dorogi.ru will help you figure out where to go to VDNKh, what to see and what to do.
VDNH is a city within a city. There is everything here, even a church. It was erected already in modern Russia. In total, there are 49 architectural masterpieces on the territory, which are recognized as cultural heritage monuments. There are also mysteries here. For example, a shelter bunker with an exit under the Lenin monument.
At VDNKh with the whole family
Autumn at VDNKh / photo by the author
of VDNKh, just to show off, you can walk around in an hour (to the rocket and back). If you get to know the museums, a whole day is not enough. It’s fun for the whole family to come here at least every weekend. Walk, eat donuts, ride bicycles and rollerblades in the summer, and go to the largest ice skating rink in Europe in the winter.
5 routes around VDNKh
- Route for first acquaintance (1.5 hours). Main entrance arch - Central pavilion - Friendship of Peoples fountain - Stone Flower fountain - Word pavilion - model of the East launch vehicle and Space pavilion - landscape park - pavilions Azerbaijan, Armenia, Tajikistan.
- Route along the fountains of VDNKh (1 hour). Fountains of the Central Alley - Friendship of Peoples fountain - new fountains at the Azerbaijan pavilion - Stone Flower fountain - Boy with a Fish fountain - Kolos fountain.
- Route through the VDNKh museums (5-6 hours). Model of Moscow - Cosmonautics and Aviation Pavilion - Cinema Museum - Slovo Center.
- Eco-route around VDNKh (3 hours). Fountains and flowers of the Central Alley - Ryazan site - Latvian square - Oak grove - Ecopath - Green labyrinth - Water road and beach - Golden Spike fountain.
- Best for kids (all day). City farm - playgrounds and dry fountains - Moskvarium - Robostation.
All of these routes depart from the Main Entrance Arch . But this is not the only way to VDNH, there are other entrances: Khovansky, Ostankino, Likhoborsky and Sovkhozny.
The area of VDNH with Ostankino Park is 317 hectares.
There are maps and signs everywhere (they glow at night), so it’s difficult to get lost here.
Free electric buses run along the ring road - environmentally friendly and silent (from 9:00 to 21:00). You can rent bicycles, electric scooters, roller skates, skateboards, even boats.
Exhibitions
Exhibition “The First Wooden Reserve” in pavilion No. 67. Every day from 11:00 to 22:00 (closed on Monday).
Guests can see original objects of folk architectural wood carving from the 16th to 19th centuries and get acquainted with the unique monuments of wooden architecture located on the territory of the Kolomenskoye Museum-Reserve.
Free admission.
The exhibition runs until October 17. Details on the website. Open-air exhibition “Ludwig van Beethoven – Ode to Joy” in Northern Square. Daily.
The installation “Ludwig van Beethoven - Ode to Joy” consists of 80 gold and malachite meter figures of Beethoven. The author is artist and sculptor Ottmar Hörl, known for his serial sculptures on social, historical and cultural themes.
Free admission.
The exhibition runs until November 3. Details on the website. Exhibition of illustrations “Alice” in the Book Pavilion. Every day from 10:00 to 22:00.
The exhibition is dedicated to the work “Alice in Wonderland”.
It presents 60 paintings by 12 Moscow artists, each of whom reinterprets Lewis Carroll's classics in their own way. The exhibition also features a new edition of Alice in Wonderland, children's master classes and a drawing competition among visitors. Free admission. The exhibition runs until November 8. Details on the website.
What to see at VDNH: interesting pavilions
The Worker and Kolkhoz Woman Pavilion is a symbol of VDNKh
The Worker and the Collective Farm Woman is a masterpiece of Soviet monumental art.
The main thing here is not even the pavilion, but the monument itself.
The sculpture was made in 1937 for an exhibition in Paris. Picasso admired her. Initially, they planned to erect the monument in Rybinsk, but then Mother Volga settled there, and they decided to redirect the main workers of the USSR to Moscow to VDNKh.
The roof of the pavilion is a concert and observation deck.
How to find
The pavilion stands alone, not on the territory of VDNKh. From the metro (northern lobby) you need to walk along Mira Avenue against the direction of the cars for about 10 minutes. Exact address: Mira Avenue, 123B.
Central Pavilion – House of Friendship
Central pavilion at VDNKh / photo by the author
The central pavilion can be seen immediately behind the Entrance Arch to VDNKh. This is an example of the Stalinist Empire style with a high spire ending with a five-pointed star.
The pavilion is decorated with the coat of arms of the USSR and 16 medallions. 15 have the coats of arms of the republics of the USSR, and the 16th (far right) is empty: the image of the coat of arms of the Karelo-Finnish SSR was erased after the republic returned its autonomous status within the RSFSR in 1956 (then it became the Karelian Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic).
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The most interesting thing inside is a shelter bunker for 300 people, which was made in case of atomic attacks. Nowadays you can’t get there, but in the past there were excursions. There is an underground exit from the bunker. It ends under the Lenin monument, which stands in front of the pavilion.
Pavilion Kazakhstan - an oriental fairy tale
The Pavilion of the Republic of Kazakhstan (No. 11) is the pearl of the central alley / photo by the author
You simply cannot help but stare at it: a glass blue dome with a spire, colored majolica, openwork on the facade.
For half a century, oriental beauty was walled up in a gray concrete box - a metallurgical exhibition was held here. Reconstruction restored the historical appearance.
You will find the pavilion on the left side of the Central Alley, passing the Fountain of Friendship of Peoples.
Other historical pavilions of VDNKh
Azerbaijan Pavilion / photo by the author
In total, there are more than 80 pavilions at VDNH, each one is unique.
- The House of Books pavilion (No. 516) is built in the shape of an ancient Greek temple - a classic of the archaic Doric style. Inside there is a lecture hall and a reading room (they keep an eye on new book releases). There are lectures and film screenings, and there is a cafe. Located near the Green Theater.
- The Azerbaijan Pavilion (No. 14) is Stalinist eclecticism, but with bright accents. The spectacular portico ends with a majolica cornice. The malachite niche is decorated with gilded vines. Because of the photogenic half-dome, Instagram bloggers loved the place.
- The Meat Industry Pavilion (No. 51) attracts attention with a huge bull on the roof and a man fighting with him. Take a closer look at the windows; they are decorated with elegant metal decor. The building is located away from the central alley.
- The Pavilion of the Republic of Belarus (No. 18) is topped with a sculpture with the name Motherland. In the image of her native country - a gilded collective farmer with a sheaf of wheat and a wreath in her hands.
- The Armenia Pavilion (No. 68) was previously dedicated to Siberia. So don't be surprised to find a hunter, a sheep farmer and a miner on the façade.
Many pavilions are now closed for restoration and cannot be seen behind construction fences. For example, the original Glavtabak is exquisite, tea-like. It looks like an intricate nomad hat in three colors: terracotta, yellow, green. Located behind the ponds. We expect the opening in 2021. They promise a cafe or restaurant here.
The most beautiful fountains of VDNKh
Fountains at VDNKh are all around. Kids love European flat (dry) ones - those with jets coming out of the ground, it’s fun to run between them. These are in front of the Moskvarium and next to the Geology pavilion.
The youngest fountains are the bowls at the pavilion of the Republic of Azerbaijan. More precisely, the bowls have been standing since 1954, but they turned into fountains in 2021. The Boy Pulling Out a Fish (behind Pavilion No. 64 Optics) experienced the same transformation many years ago.
The remaining 4 fountains are not just beautiful and with history, but cultural objects of federal significance, built in 1954.
Fountains of the Central Alley
Fountains of the Central Alley / photo by the author
165 meters of water splendor begin almost immediately behind the Arch of the main entrance. One after another, in bowls made of red granite, there are 14 fountains. Transparent streams fan out, and there are fresh flowers all around. In the evening, the splashes turn different colors thanks to the lighting.
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Fountain Friendship of Peoples
Friendship of Peoples Fountain at sunset / photo by the author
The fountain is a symbol of VDNKh. The 16 beauties who rallied around the giant sheaf in a round dance represent the republics of the USSR. It was not possible to remove the Karelo-Finnish Republic, as in the case of the coat of arms on the Central Pavilion - the fountain would have failed and lost its beauty. Find a hard worker - this is a girl with a Christmas tree at her feet and flowers in her hand.
Fountain Stone Flower
Fountain Stone Flower and Pavilion Word
From Bazhov's Fairy Tale right at VDNKh - the creation of the architect Konstantin Topuridze's masterpiece was inspired by Ural fairy tales. Among the gems shining in the sun, the main flower “blooms”. The fountain has 1000 thin jets - a sign of abundance and prosperity. Around the composition are bronze still lifes and small fountains: figures of geese and cast iron sturgeons.
Fountain Golden Ear
One of the most spectacular and definitely the “earliest” fountain at VDNKh. The first Golden Ear in this Kamensky pond appeared in the 1930s, then in 1954 it was updated.
The fountain rises to a height of 16 meters, the jets of water rise to a maximum of 25 meters.
To see the fountain up close, rent a boat.
On the mosaic at the base of the Golden Ear there are fruits and vegetables.
In summer, mini sun loungers and comfortable chairs are placed in the recreation areas near the water (free of charge).
Traditionally, the fountains at VDNKh operate from the end of April until the last day of September (from 7 am to midnight).
Fountain "Friendship of Peoples"
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The Friendship of Peoples fountain is essentially a symbol of VDNKh. For the first time in 65 years of operation, it was restored: work was completed in 2019. A composition of 16 golden figures of girls, which are arranged in a circle, symbolizes the former Soviet republics. “Friendship of Peoples” is a complex system of 784 jets reaching a height of 20 meters. The area of the pool is almost four thousand square meters.
In four months, specialists restored the sculptures, removing the remnants of the old coating, carried out additional work, and only then moved on to gilding - this required almost five kilograms of gold leaf. In addition, the lost copper sculptures were restored: 7 dolphins, 15 fish, 16 cast-iron shells on the cascade of the fountain were restored, and the granite lining of the fountain was restored. In addition to external changes to the fountain, internal ones have also occurred. Over almost 70 years of operation, the hydraulic systems and frame had become dilapidated, so the pipes were replaced and new equipment was installed.
VDNKh with children: the best activities
Free playgrounds
At VDNKh there are playgrounds here and there. Free, modern, all with safety coating and some kind of idea.
- Space site next to the Buran model. Children slide down rocket slides in pipes, test the lunar rover and climb into the capsule. There is also a game model of the Earth.
- Fantastic city - the design is similar to a fortress or tower with a climbing wall, steep slopes, and interactive touch panels. Two zones: for kids and schoolchildren. Look for the site between the Chess Club and the Palace of Culture.
- Neftegrad is positioned as an educational platform in which one can understand the principle of operation of the oil refining complex. If you forget about it, it's just fun to watch kids climb into pipes, jump on trampolines, and stomp on race cars. Located to the right of Moskvarium.
- The playground at McDonald's is inclusive, suitable for both ordinary children and disabled children. Located to the right of the Central Alley, not far from the Main Entrance Arch.
There are also play complexes next to the Cosmos pavilion, in Transit Square, between Lipovaya and Sportivnaya alleys, and several in Ostankino Park.
Urban farm
Reindeer at the VDNKh city farm / photo by the author
The city farm is pure joy. Goats, ponies, rabbits, and geese live here and brazenly beg for food. Alpacas are less hungry and rarely beg. The reindeer always has a crowd of children because he is very sociable and lets you pet his nose.
Where to take a walk at VDNKh: unusual eco-places
If you have never walked in the forest at a 6-meter height, then be sure to climb the Air Eco-Trail . You won’t see any supernatural beauty, but it’s unusual. The elevation changes are small, there are information signs about plants and animals. The aerial eco-trail starts from pavilion No. 27 (Physical education and sports). Its length is 500 m.
Several interesting places were laid out next to the Floriculture pavilion No. 29:
- The picture of the fields is a unique system of flower beds that pleases the eye from early spring to late autumn,
- Michurinsky Garden - cherries, apple trees and other fruit trees grow here,
- Siringariy is only here in May, when the lilacs bloom.
Another interesting place is the Green Labyrinth. The walls in it are hedges. Each “room” of the labyrinth with a secret evokes certain emotions. Spruces are responsible for fear - they are tall and prickly. Linden gives love and joy, especially during the flowering period. Look for the labyrinth across the street from Pavilion 27.
Where else to go at VDNKh: butterflies and crafts
Cozy recreation areas at VDNKh / photo by the author
If the main routes are well-trodden, all the sights have been reviewed, then go educate yourself, make crafts and listen to music on old records.
- In the House of Crafts (pavilion No. 47) they teach how to make ceramics, work with glass, create natural cosmetics, brew coffee and make bouquets.
- Technograd (pavilion No. 63) is a supermarket of real professions with a certificate for children and adults. If you wish, master everything: from culinary science to programming.
- The House of Vintage Music (pavilion No. 84) has rare radios, gramophones, and jukeboxes. The oldest gramophone, the smallest record in the world and sound equipment from the studio where The Beatles recorded their hits are kept here.
- In the Butterfly House (pavilion No. 519) it is summer all year round. Tropical beauties will sit on your shoulders, head, face. An unusual place for dates and photo sessions.
They promise that in 2021 VDNKh will be even cooler. Here they plan to open the Sun of Moscow - the largest Ferris wheel in Europe with a height of 140 m. And in pavilion No. 20 they want to create a Motorsport House with interactive zones. For example, it will be possible to arrange a car battle on a simulator with an active Formula 1 racer.
Complex "Technograd"
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In 2021, the Technograd educational complex opened at VDNH - a unique space where you can master various specialties (there are more than 40 of them). The site is equipped with the most modern equipment. Professional teachers and employer representatives work here. Training at Technograd takes place in the format of short-term courses, modular and full-fledged programs developed based on the real requirements of employers. In addition, there is a Vocational Navigation and Career Center, where those interested can receive support in finding a job.
What to do at VDNKh in winter: tubing and fishing
At the end of November, VDNKh turns into the City of Winter. The largest ice skating rink in Europe opens here Read more about it in the article “The 8 best skating rinks in Moscow.”
In December, the craft park becomes a factory for Father Frost and Santa Claus: in the workshops they teach you how to make designer Christmas tree decorations and prepare colorful candies. On New Year's Eve at VDNKh there is a free festive program (usually behind pavilion No. 58 Agriculture), an ice show-carnival at the skating rink, and fireworks.
On snowy days at VDNKh, people ride snowmobiles, play snowballs in Japanese (called “yukigassen”), and ride sleds pulled by huskies. But tubing slides are beyond competition.
And in the Fisherman’s Village at VDNKh (25 m from the Likhoborsky entrance) in winter they teach ice fishing, and children too.
Moskvarium
An unusual gift for National Unity Day was prepared by the Moskvarium Center for Oceanography and Marine Biology at VDNKh. At 1:00 p.m., divers will dive into the main aquarium and unfurl a giant two-meter-long card with holiday wishes underwater.
Participants in the performance will include sharks, rays, golden trevally, moray eels, giant grouper and other exotic fish. And at 15:00 everyone will be able to see the video congratulations on the center’s official pages on Instagram, Facebook, VKontakte and on the YouTube channel.
National Unity Day at VDNKh 2020
