Kirov is a city in Russia that has been frozen in time. Sprawling along the Vyatka River, Kirov is not just an ancient city but also a bustling center for science, commerce, and culture. There are so many things to see and do in Kirov that it is not just a local favorite but also attracts tourists from all over the world. The best time to visit is between May and September when the weather is pleasant and perfect for outdoor sightseeing. So if you are planning to travel to this forgotten part of the country, then you need to check out this list of things to do in Kirov, Russia, to plan a well-rounded trip!
1. Delight all your senses at Chocolate History Museum
Imagine spending a day amid the delectable smell of chocolate and coffee! If that doesn’t perk you up for your holiday, we don’t know what does. Explore the real chocolate factory with an interesting history and an even better collection of chocolatey delight. But most importantly, you can participate in one of the many daily activities held at the museum that you and your kids will enjoy. Keep an eye out for the ongoing events and join the one you know will be the most fun!
Chocolate History Museum
Address: Spasskaya Ulitsa,15, Kirov, Kirovskaya oblast’, Russia, 610020
Website: Chocolate History Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 8pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 7 USD
2. Bask in the sun at Alexander Garden
Known to be one of the oldest parks in Kirov, Alexander Garden has the finest landscape that will give you a perfect opportunity to spend some time outdoors. The garden goes all the way back to 1825 for Emperor Alexander I and was later opened up for public access in 1835. Explore the richness of Russian architecture as you soak up the sun. So if you really love greenery and the variety in blossoms, this is definitely the place to visit. Put this in your itinerary while planning your vacation in Kirov.
Alexander Garden
Address: Kirov, Kirov Oblast, Russia, 610000
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
3. Visit Holy Uspensky Trifonov Monastery, a cathedral frozen in time
The Holy Uspensky Trifonov Monastery is a must-visit place if you want to witness magnificent architecture and murals from a bygone era. Don’t forget to take a calming stroll in its sprawling gardens that have been groomed for its visitors. This is a fantastic attraction if you are even minutely religious, but also have an eye for architecture. Come with your family. Visit in happiness and in grief but leave the holy place with a smile.
Holy Uspensky Trifonov Monastery
Address: Gorbachev Street 4, Kirov 610000, Russia
Price: Free
4. Check out the collection of fossils at Vyatka Paleontological Museum
Museum of Paleontology in Kirov showcases a collection of fossils that goes back to the Permian period (255 - 260 Mya). These exclusive fossils are one-of-a-kind in the world and were found in the territory of Kotelnich locality of Pareiasaurs. If you are bringing your children along, don’t forget to attend the Dino-tours Kirov in summers! This is definitely a trip for the whole family, including cousins and friends.
Vyatka Paleontological Museum
Address: Spasskaya st., 22, Kirov 610000, Russia
Website: Vyatka Paleontological Museum
Opening hours: Tue, Wed, Fri & Sat: 10am - 6pm; Thu: 12pm - 8pm; Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 2.83 USD
5. Sample delicious ice cream at Museum of History of Ice Cream
No visit to Kirov is complete unless you visit the Museum of History of Ice Cream. It will not only be a fun excursion for the kids, but also a tasty one. Don’t worry, even adults will love their day out at the ice cream museum. Sample more than 20 types of fresh ice cream. And if you are one of those who love to recreate everything that they find delicious attend a master class to learn how professionals make this awesome dessert.
Museum of History of Ice Cream
Address: Spasskaya Ulitsa, 15, Kirov, Kirovskaya oblast’, Russia, 610020
Website: Museum of History of Ice Cream
Opening hours: 9am - 7pm (daily)
Price: 6.34 USD
6. Experience Russia’s aesthetics at Kirov Regional Drama Theater
Founded in 1877, the Kirov Regional Drama Theater is an epitome of classic Soviet architecture. As many as 30 performances happen every day that includes names like Chekov, Tolstoy, Gogol, etc. The Kirov Drama Theater was first ever to open up a theatrical museum that introduces visitors to the history of one of the oldest theaters. For those guests who have been looking forward to immersing themselves in the cultural side of Russia, then voila! This is where you should be to rejuvenate your yearning soul.
Kirov Regional Drama Theater
Address: Ulitsa Moskovskaya, 37, Kirov, Kirovskaya oblast’, Russia, 610000
Website: Kirov Regional Drama Theater
Price: 5 USD
7. Take a historic walk along the Embankment of Grin
Touted as one of the most beautiful places in Kirov, Embankment of Grin will take you along the Vyatka River while you take a gentle stroll. As you walk, you will be able to see sculptures inspired by Alexander Grin’s novels speckled along the park. The embankment was restored in 2012. It took a number of trials and went through many phases before it could be permanently restored. Soon it became a tourist draw for its natural beauty and easy walkways accessible to all kinds of travelers.
Embankment of Grin
Address: Vyatka River, Kirov, Russia
Price: Free
8. Walk along the shaded alleys of Kirov Botanical Garden
The botanical garden was constructed in 1912 by a retired military personnel Alexei Andreyevich Istomin. Sprawled in 1.7 hectares (4.2 acres), it is by no means small, but Botanical Garden in Kirov attracts tourists from all over the place. Here you can walk along the shaded alleys, amid peace and tranquility. Enjoy the rare plants and flower arrangements and take a refreshing walk into the heart of nature. This is definitely a place you would want your children or the little ones in the family to visit. It could easily turn into a very educational trip.
Botanicheskiy Sad
Address: 610017 Kirov, st. Karl Marx, 95
Website: Botanicheskiy Sad
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 7pm; Sat - Sun: 8am - 5pm
Price: 1.27 USD
9. Immerse yourself in history at Khlynov's History Museum
True to its name, the museum is located in the historical part of Kirov. The museum is dedicated to the medieval history of the Khlynovs city, also known as the predecessor of Vyatka, today’s Kirov. The museum has been designed in such a way that you can fully immerse yourself in the experience as you access the interactive halls. You can not only touch everything but also try things on, which will be an exciting experience for kids and adults alike.
Khlynov's History Museum
Address: Gertsena St., 15V, Kirov 610000, Russia
Website: Khlynov’s History Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 7pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 3.17 USD onwards
10. Explore the Tank T-34 Monument
If you are interested in the history of tanks, then this place is a must-visit for you. Simply walk along the alley on Oktyabrsky Avenue and marvel at this piece of history, glistening in all its glory! This monument was installed at the entry point of Matveev Kurgan. It was installed in the honor of the 27th anniversary of the culmination of the Great Patriotic War. It honors the fearless tankmen who liberated Matveev Kurgan in early 1943. Meet some locals along the way and learn about its exciting history and contribution to the war. This well-kept monument is a great attraction that draws locals and tourists in equal measures.
Tank T-34 Monument
Address: Oktyabskiy Prospekt, Kirov, Russia
Price: Free
11. Pay tribute to the Dymkova Dolls of the Monument Family
The Monument Family in Kirov pays tribute to the Dymkova Dolls, a sculptural group that reflects on the local Russian handicraft. Peculiar to the Vyatka region, this craft goes back at least four centuries. Sit by the family and get a picture clicked with this stunning work of art!
Monument Family
Address: Drelevskogo St., 22, Kirov, Russia
12. Take a diving lesson with Russian Diving Federation
World Diving Series FINA Kazan 10-12 May 2019 #russiandivingteam #bestmoments #wds #fina #diving #kazan...
Posted by Russian Masters Diving Federation on Wednesday, 15 May 2019
Learn how to dive in the city of Kirov with passionate divers who will not only give your kids an experience of a lifetime but also teach them a life skill! If you are an amateur diving enthusiast, then this is a must-visit attraction for you! With a team of expert divers and professional coaches, you know are in safe hands. So unleash the water baby in you and take a proverbial plunge!
Russian Diving Federation
Address: Pool “Rodina”, Kirov, st. Lepse, 4
Website: Russian Diving Federation
Price: 150 USD onwards
13. Fly high with Kirov Aeroclub
Looking for some challenge in your Kirov trip? Why not go for parachute jumps with Kirov Aeroclub? Skydiving is an ultimate sport that will give you the adventure streak you had been missing on this trip! You can also fly in a helicoptor or learn to fly it yourself. If you want to add an epic activity to your Kirov itinerary, then this is it!
Kirov AeroClub
Address: Vyatskaya Ulitsa, 18Kirov, Kirovskaya oblast ‘, Russia, 610018
Price: 72 USD
14. Enjoy the tranquil surroundings of Vyatka River from Old Vyatka River Bridge
The Old Vyatka River bridge has been recently restored to its former glory and makes for a perfect place to take a gentle stroll. Enjoy a peaceful evening as you overlook the Vyatka River from the bridge and take in the magnificence of old Soviet architecture. Come spend a quiet and romantic evening with your loved one.
Old Vyatka River Bridge
Address: Vyatka River, Kirov, Russia
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
15. Take a hike amid nature at Zarechny Park
If you want to spend some quality time outdoors and amid nature, then Zarechny Park in Kirov will serve your needs perfectly. Take long peaceful walks or plan a hike as per your fitness levels! Located right at the banks of Vyatka River, you will not only enjoy the leisurely stroll but also plenty of greenery and fresh breeze. The park is enjoyable in summers as well as winters.
Zarechny Park
Address: Kirov, Russia
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
Visit Kirov for a memorable holiday
Kirov doesn’t get the due it deserves. With so many activities and fun things to do, it should be on your travel list! From cuisine to architecture, and nature to adventure, there is no dearth of activities. Plan a solo trip or visit with your family because there is something for everyone! Just remember to check off at least a few items, if not all, from this list of things to do in Kirov, Russia.
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