A Walk in the Sokolniki Park: The City of Moscow

In Russian: “Я глуяю в парке”

One of my favourite things to do is walk around a city park. Here you are able to watch how people and nature interact.  Visitors are exposed to the importance of nature as it contrasts with the city around them.  Often, parks are the areas of cities with the most life.  Moscow has no shortage of parks and they are very much alive. This weekend I was able to romp around Sokolniki Park.

This Sokolniki park is located just outside of the central ring in Sokolniki District. There is an adjacent metro station of the same name.  A few younger Muscovites reported that the park was too far outside of the center for them to frequent; however, I found the trip very easy. Most definitely worth it! Sokolniki is six square kilometers with a broad array of activities. There are so many options for food it is impossible to go hungry. From fast food and ice cream to cafes and legitimate restaurants, you can go the whole day without exiting the park.

Aside from the beautiful autumn leaves, the park’s highlight was the children. Sokolniki is full of happy families and children all bundled up for the cool weather. The Sokolniki park is equipped for kids! As my friend and I strolled around the perimeter, we both exclaimed (multiple times, mind you) “I wish I had something like this as a kid! Or, “If only it was socially acceptable for me to go play on that playground too…” We witnessed ropes courses, skate ramps, bicycles for 1-4 people and an amusement park. These deti have it made!

Adults, do not despair. Sokolniki does have a playground for you, in the form of an outdoor gym! I had never seen something like that before – a free, beautiful place to work out if you do not mind the occasional spectator.  The park also features an expansive convention center with multiple pavilions. Some of the exhibits/events will charge you admissions, but there are so many things to investigate! A curious mind will definitely be able to enjoy this part of the park, even on a rainy Moscow day.

Happy Travels 🙂

Sam Cramer is currently studying Russian at Liden & Denz Moscow