navy pier field trips

Thank you for visiting our site! We noticed you are using a browser we no longer support. To have the best overall experience and avoid issues navigating the site, please click one of the supported browsers to the right to download the latest version for free:

Vote Navy Pier Best Place to See Fireworks!

Navy Pier Seeks to Defend Title as ‘ Best Place to Watch Fireworks ’ in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Travel Awards! Cast your vote once per day now-May 13th.

Search Site

Back to Menu

Groups & Field Trips

Plan a group trip at navy pier.

Navy Pier offers groups of 20 or more discounted tickets to Navy Pier-produced events, including the Centennial Wheel, and more.

Other benefits exclusive to include Food Court Certificates which give a selection of meal options at various eateries within Navy Pier.

For more information for your group visit, submit the form below.

Additional Information

Your representative can also provide direct group sales contacts for Navy Pier restaurants, attractions and cruises.

Group Parking

Bus & motorcoach parking.

Navy Pier does not provide bus or motorcoach parking onsite.

Please  click here  for information on where you can park your bus.

Bus Drop-Off Plan

Due to ongoing construction, buses must follow the  Bus Drop-Off Plan  when dropping off groups. Please contact your group leader to arrange a pick-up time. Any standing buses will be asked to leave Navy Pier and return when their groups are present for pickup.

Vote Tall Ship Windy for USA Today's 10 Best - Best Boat Tour. Click to vote!

Tall Ship Windy

The official flagship of the city of chicago chicago skyline tours & boat excursions sailing on lake michigan from navy pier, the official flagship of the city of chicago chicago skyline sails & tours.

Initial Public Offering Announcement

AMDI plans to conduct its initial public offering (IPO) through the New York Stock Exchange American with the symbol ‘AMDI’ through its underwriter, Kingswood Investments, a division of Kingswood Capital Partners, LLC (or Kingswood), which is acting as the sole representative of the underwriters. AMDI anticipates a public offering price between $3.50 to $4.50.

AMDI is a maritime tour activity and attractions operator with the following wholly-owned operating units: Seas the Day Charters in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Tall Ship Windy in Chicago, Illinois and Paradise Adventures in Panama City Beach, Florida. The Company plans to use the proceeds of its IPO to acquire Paradise Yacht Management and Charter Smarter in the U.S. and British Virgin Islands and the Bahamas.

Interested parties may subscribe to the IPO or obtain a prospectus and more information at  Webull .

You may also obtain the Company’s prospectus and other information at the  SEC website .

Join us for Opening Weekend May 17 – May 19, 2024!

Tall Ship Windy offers an unforgettable sailing experience. Explore Chicago’s Skyline and choose from Sunset Sails, Skyline Sails and Educational Sails.

Sail in Florida and the Virgin Islands!

Thank you for another fantastic season! We’re already counting down the days until we can set sail with you again aboard Tall Ship Windy in 2024.

If you’re looking for other ways to sail, we invite you to explore our other exciting locations! Tall Ship Windy is proud to be a part of the Amphitrite Digital family of companies.

Join us at Paradise Adventures in Panama City Beach, Florida, where sun-kissed shores await. If you’re dreaming of a week-long yacht vacation, Charter Smarter in the Virgin Islands promises an unforgettable experience. For a full or half day on the water from St. Thomas and St. John in the US Virgin Islands, our team at Seas the Day Charters USVI is ready to make your dreams a reality.

No matter where your compass points, we’re here to create more unforgettable memories with you. Until then, fair winds and following seas.

Paradise Adventures Catamarans and Watersports

Enjoy top-rated boating adventures on the Florida Gulf Coast at Paradise Adventures Catamarans and Watersports!

• Experience inflatable fun on a Privateer Adventure Tour
• Snorkel and explore Shell Island
• Look for dolphins on a Sightseeing Tour or enjoy a Breathtaking Sunset Sail
• Book a private charter on a catamaran, sailboat, powerboat or pontoon boat

Learn more about Paradise Adventures

Charter Smarter

Explore the wonders of the Virgin Islands with an all-inclusive Charter Smarter yacht charter!

• Each week-long adventure includes a professional captain, a skilled chef and all meals and drinks
• Take advantage of all your catamaran’s amenities, water toys and land-based activities in paradise
• Bring your family or friends and create memories that will last a lifetime

Learn more about Charter Smarter

Seas the Day Charters USVI

Enjoy a full or a half-day adventure with Seas the Day Charters USVI!

• Luxury sailing excursions & fast powerboat adventures
• Private & semi-private charters available
• Snorkel with beautiful fish, coral and sea turtles and explore white sandy beaches
• Explore the US Virgin Islands or the British Virgin Islands

Learn more about Seas the Day Charters USVI

Chicago Skyline Sail

Explore Chicago’s scenic shores and enjoy this Windy City boat tour with a relaxing sail around Lake Michigan. Take in the world-famous Chicago skyline, enjoy spectacular city views and discover the Windy City from the water. Select from Pirates and Maritime stories at 1pm, Architectural Tour and Skyline at 3pm and 5pm or a Chicago Sunset Cruise at 7pm.

Hour Glass 75 Minutes | Starting at $39

• Hour Glass 2 Hours

Monday Night Blues Summer Concert Series

There is something special about sailing in Chicago combined by kicking off your week and joining us for a 2-hour concert sail. This Navy Pier boat tour sails from 7pm-9pm every Monday this summer. We’ll help you chase your Monday BLUES away aboard the 148-foot Tall Ship Windy as you enjoy the breathtaking views of Chicago at sunset from the waters of Lake Michigan, accompanied by the sweet sounds of the blues.

• Hour Glass 90 Minutes

Fireworks Cruise From Navy Pier Aboard Tall Ship Windy!

Watching fireworks from Navy Pier has become a Chicago tradition and there is no better seat in the house to watch the show than sailing aboard 148′ Tall Ship Windy – the Official Flagship of the City of Chicago! Order a cold drink from our bar and enjoy a thrilling fireworks performance as you sail along the stunning and iconic Chicago skyline during this special event sail.

• Frequently Sells Out
• Hour Glass 75 Minutes

Chicago Skyline Sunset Sail

For the best Chicago sunset, visitors and residents alike, join us aboard the 148′ Tall Ship Windy – the official ambassador for the City of Chicago. Departing from Navy Pier daily, you will enjoy a spectacular sailing cruise and enjoy the breathtaking moments as the sun sets gently behind the Chicago Skyline. There is nothing like Chicago at sunset.

Chicago’s Famous Friday Night Pirates Pub Sail

Sail into the night and embark on a two-hour party sail from Navy Pier; join us for Chicago’s only Pirates Pub. Sail onboard a 148-foot Tall Ship in the Windy City! This popular Chicago event is one you will not want to miss; it is unlike all other boat excursions in Chicago. Enjoy an onboard DJ and the wind in your hair as you dance the night away with the mesmerizing Chicago skyline as your backdrop. Sing along to traditional pirate tunes and your favorite party anthems while soaking in the breathtaking sights on Lake Michigan.

• Great for Children!

Educational Sail: Tall Ship Discovery Sail

History comes alive on this exciting Windy City boat tour. Enjoy an educational adventure for curious minds of all ages with the backdrop of the iconic Chicago skyline always in view. Led by our crew-educators, experience a hands-on sailing excursion in Chicago aboard Windy.

• Every night at 5pm!

Happy Arr-our Chicago Architecture and Skyline Sail

Enjoy happy hour drink specials onboard this Navy Pier Boat Tour every night at 5pm and experience breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline from the water! It’s the perfect way to end your workday or kick off your weekend plans. Learn about the people, plans and persistence that shaped Chicago’s most famous sights and join us on the main deck to enjoy the lively narration and an Architectural Tour of Chicago from the water.

Explore Chicago Sailing Special Events

Chicago fireworks cruises, special event sails, welcome aboard tall ship windy.

Tall Ship Windy, sailing from Chicago’s Navy Pier, brings you exciting boat tours that are educational, creative and inspiring. From our daily storytelling adventures and field trips for students to our concert sails to lively Chicago Architectural Tours, there is something for everyone. Enjoy the Chicago skyline as you sail on our tall ship!

For group boat excursions and private sailing charters, email us at [email protected] or call us at (312) 451-2700 .

Tall Ship Windy offers the most spectacular Chicago fireworks cruises during the summer.

Our boat tours are both fun and educational, which makes them the perfect way to see Lake Michigan.

Feel the spirit of centuries past and hoist the sails as part of your Chicago boat excursion on Tall Ship Windy.

There is simply no better way to experience Chicago’s world-famous skyline than on a Windy City Boat Tour with Tall Ship Windy.

Choose Tall Ship Windy For Your Special Event

Tall ship windy chicago sailing reviews.

We went on the "pirate" cruise. They told tales of actual Lake Michigan pirates and made it very entertaining for the kids and the adults. I want to go on this cruise again!

We went on the Lakeside Architecture Tour. It was a very educational and relaxing seventy-five minutes. I highly recommend the experience.

I've set sail on Tall Ship Windy 4-5 times over the past few years, and it is always a good time. You get a nice view of the city and the crew is entertaining and knowledgeable.

If you want humor, entertainment, and an inclusive experience for young and the old, don’t miss this! I appreciate everything about this adventure, and Austin you’re the best!

Had a wonderful sail on a chilly, overcast night! Crew was professional, friendly and informative. Would recommend this trip to anyone, so relaxing. Oh, used a Groupon, an extra bonus!

Best view of the city! Highly recommend the 7pm sail to watch the sunset between the buildings. Fun and knowledgeable crew made the Windy the highlight of our Chicago visit.

The most fun tour we’ve had of Chicago. The crew is fantastic and the tour guide is hilarious. His sense of humor really sets this tour apart from the rest, while still offering interesting insights on the city’s unique skyline. Loved it.

Loved our sail! I love sunsets and this in my opinion was the best way to experience the Chicago skyline. When I return I’d love to do another tour!

Honestly, a perfect experience. Exactly on-time departure and arrival. Perfect boat - size and look. The Captain and crew were friendly and knowledgable. My son raised the sail. Hard. Fun. An experience. The frozen drinks and cold beers were excellent. The views? Wow. A great soundtrack plays during the excursion at perfect volume level. A great time for all ages of Pirates. I guess I liked it :) Just do it. Thank me later.

The Tall Ship Windy is a must thing to do at Navy Pier. Very friendly and funny staff and always a good time, with beautiful views of the city of Chicago.

My husband and I just did the "Pirate and Maritime Stories" tour with Tall Ship Windy and it was fabulous. A lovely cruise around the Navy Pier, while hearing some fascinating pirate history about Chicago. We highly recommend this experience for any age!

I’m a life long Chicagoan and I brought my out of town relatives on this cruise and we all loved it! It was a gorgeous summer late afternoon and the city was just sparkling. I loved having a new view of the city. Crew excellent. My nephew helped hoist a sail. Narrator very entertaining and informative. I thought the price was great for the experience.

What a great experience! Beautiful and ever-changing views of the night skyline from the lake. When they hoisted the sails and turned off the motor, it was so peaceful. The incredible fireworks were the perfect ending to this cruise. Highly suggest!!

Your guide to Navy Pier

Completed in 1916, Navy Pier is undeniably one of Chicago’s top attractions. Stretching into Lake Michigan, this year-round destination truly comes to life in the summer, with fireworks displays, live music, theatre, and cruises setting sail daily. Come fall and winter, Navy Pier is still hopping, with special events, sights, and activities that span all ages and interests. Here’s just a glimpse of the fun to be had at Navy Pier.

Rides and games at Navy Pier

Centennial Wheel : The Centennial Wheel soars to nearly 200 feet, with year-round, climate-controlled gondolas for the most spectacular Ferris wheel ride ever. It’s an iconic part of the Chicago skyline and a treasured piece of Chicago history, harkening to the city’s 1893 World’s Fair. You can even book a VIP Centennial Wheel experience in a glass-bottomed, plush-seated gondola.

Pier Park : Pier Park is the epitome of fun. It’s where you’ll find the amazing Centennial Wheel, the Pepsi Wave Swinger, a 1920s-inspired musical carousel, and other nostalgic fairground rides — all with breathtaking skyline and waterfront views.

Amazing Chicago’s Funhouse Maze : This is Chicago’s only self-paced, full sensory maze experience. Navigate your way through 4,000 square feet of tunnels, mazes, and games.

Amazing Chicago’s Time Freak Game : Race against the block to gather points during this high-speed, all-ages game.

Cultural attractions and museums

Chicago Children’s Museum : Kids dig for bones on a dinosaur expedition, scale a three-story schooner, and even make a splash in a water playground. Chicago Children’s Museum is three floors of unadulterated fun for kids aged 10 and under. Don’t miss the Chicago Children’s Museum store while you’re there for fun, educational, and imagination-expanding toys and games.

Chicago Shakespeare Theater : This Tony Award-winning theatre hosts more than 650 performances a year, with a year-round season that presents plays, musicals, world premieres, and visiting touring companies. The theatre is particularly celebrated for The Yard, an engineering marvel in stage design, consisting of nine moveable towers that can be reconfigured to accomplish the vision of each production.

Outdoor adventures at Navy Pier

Boat cruises and tours : Whatever’s on your cruise wish list, you’ll find it at Navy Pier. Cruise on Lake Michigan and the Chicago River and experience everything from laid-back sightseeing and elegant dining to heart-pumping thrill rides and private charters. There’s even a cruise you and your dog can enjoy.

Bus and bike tours : Access any number of Chicago tours from Navy Pier, including Chicago Big Bus Tours, architecture and sightseeing cruises, Navy Pier food and history tours, and Bike & Roll Chicago tours. You can also rent bicycles to explore the lakefront at your own pace.

Public art and exhibitions : Navy Pier presents a rotating array of contemporary art designed to excite and inspire visitors. An ever-evolving schedule of art installations and exhibits keeps Navy Pier’s art scene hopping throughout the year.

Polk Bros Park : Polk Bros Fountain and Plaza at the entry to Navy Pier features a dramatic fountain with more than 150 jets that mimic the movement of waves, schools of fish, or flocks of birds. The Performance Lawns include two performance spaces to host live arts and cultural events, with Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline as their backdrops. Definitely stop in at The Peoples Energy Welcome Pavilion, too, for information about things to do and see at the pier, guest maps, and more.

Navy Pier restaurants and bars

Beer Garden : This seasonal beer garden is one of Chicago’s go-to destinations for free, live, outdoor music. This lakeside venue also offers some of the city’s best lake and skyline views.

Offshore Rooftop & Bar : The nation’s largest rooftop bar, Offshore Rooftop & Bar offers panoramic lakefront and city views from atop Navy Pier’s Festival Hall. The space features a full-service kitchen, creative cocktails, cozy fire pits, and lounge seating.

Chef Art Smith’s Reunion : It’s all about coming together over simple, delicious food at Reunion, a welcoming and family-oriented spot helmed by acclaimed chef Art Smith. The menu offers comforting dishes with Southern flavors.

There’s a never-ending array of food options on the Pier , representing some of Chicago’s most well-known cuisine. Here are just a few options:

• America’s Dog & Burger : Classic Chicago-style dogs and more
• Beat Kitchen Cantina : An outpost of a beloved neighborhood venue
• Big Bowl Chinese Express : Fast and casual Asian cuisine
• Billy Goat Tavern : Home of the world famous “cheezborger”
• Garrett Popcorn Shops : A local legend, don’t miss the classic Garrett’s Mix
• Giordano’s : Iconic deep dish pizza, an only-in-Chicago experience
• Harry Caray’s Tavern : Barbecue, local craft beer, and sports memorabilia
• Lirica : Elevated Latin-inspired fare with sweeping waterfront views
• The Original Rainbow Cone : A Chicago classic, five flavors piled high on a cake cone

Navy Pier summer fireworks and events

The annual summer fireworks at Navy Pier are a favorite among locals and visitors alike, drawing crowds to the lakefront for the twice-weekly show.

The summer fireworks display traditionally takes place on Wednesdays and Saturdays between Memorial Day and Labor Day. The show typically starts between 9:30 and 10:15 p.m., check the latest schedule for details.

You can see the fireworks from most areas of the lakefront immediately north and south of Navy Pier. But the show is particularly stunning from atop the Centennial Wheel or on an evening lakefront fireworks cruise.

Summer also brings a full line-up of fun and free events to the Pier. Check out some of the music, fitness, food, and family-friendly events you can expect each summer:

• Neighborhood Artisan Markets and Workshops
• Wave Wall Moves dance series and Wave Wall Wax DJ sets
• Live on the Lake! concerts at the Miller Lite Beer Garden
• Pier Fitness classes and Sunset Yoga
• Water Colors live jazz series
• Water Flicks outdoor movie screenings

Check out the Navy Pier events calendar for more.

Sable at Navy Pier

Sable at Navy Pier , part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, is the first and only hotel right on Navy Pier. Each room features jaw-dropping vistas of the surrounding lake and city skylines. Along with can’t-be-beat views, the hotel also features Lirica , with Latin-inspired cuisine, an expansive bar, and spacious outdoor seating with waterfront vistas. The best part of the Sable hotel — it’s just steps away from everything Navy Pier has to offer.

Accessibility at Navy Pier

Navy Pier is continuously working to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. Accessibility accommodations include wheelchair rentals, accessible parking and attractions, resources for those who are deaf or blind, and beyond. Learn more about accessibility at Navy Pier .

Getting to Navy Pier

Navy Pier RTA The Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) trip planner makes it easy to use CTA, Metra, and Pace buses and trains with real-time next-bus and next-train travel information. Access the latest transit information and the RTA trip planner .

Navy Pier Metra Transfer from your Metra train to CTA buses and travel directly to Navy Pier. Use CTA bus #124 from Union Station, Ogilvie Station, and Millennium Station and CTA bus #29 from LaSalle Street Station and Millennium Station. Plan your route .

Navy Pier CTA bus The following bus routes all serve Navy Pier: #29 State (serving Metra lines from LaSalle Street Station and Millennium Station) #65 Grand #66 Chicago #124 Navy Pier (serving Metra lines from Union Station, Ogilvie Station, Millennium Station) #2 Hyde Park Express (during weekday morning and evening rush hours only)

Taxis and rideshare You can get to Navy Pier via taxi and rideshare from anywhere in the city. In addition to hailing taxis, you can e-Hail and e-Pay with CHICABS -approved apps ARRO and CURB . Credit cards are accepted in all taxis.

Parking Navy Pier has two on-site parking garages , West Garage and East Garage. Self-park rates start at $16 for one hour. Discounted parking is available at select off-site parking garages.

Valet parking is available at Entrance 2, located just past the entrance and exit to West Parking. The Pier offers complimentary electric vehicle charging stations in both the East and West garages.

From this article

Theater & Performing Arts

Chicago shakespeare theater.

Streeterville

Tours & Attractions

Food & Beverage

Offshore rooftop.

Sports & Recreation

Bike and roll chicago.

Chef Art Smith’s Reunion

Related articles.

Holidays , Tours & attractions

Chicago ghost tours for halloween.

Chicago boasts a long and fascinating history — and that includes quite a few ghost stories. This Halloween, explore the city’s spooky side, from supernatural…

Food & drink , Tours & attractions

Chicago brewery tours and experiences.

Craft beer lovers flock to Chicago to get a taste of our dynamic brewing scene. A brewery tour can take you behind the scenes of…

Chicago craft brewery itineraries: Lincoln Park and Lakeview

These scenic waterfront neighborhoods are home to a historic zoo, popular shopping corridors, an iconic stadium, an amazing restaurant scene — and lots of great…

Chicago craft brewery itineraries: Downtown and South Loop

Historic architecture and world-renowned cultural institutions aren’t the only things that define downtown Chicago. The heart of the city, made up of the Loop and…

Chicago craft brewery itineraries: Wicker Park and Logan Square

One of Chicago’s hippest areas is also overflowing with beer options. This stretch of Milwaukee — which runs through Wicker Park and Logan Square —…

Chicago craft brewery itineraries: Pilsen and Bridgeport

There’s always something cool happening in Pilsen and Bridgeport on the southwest side. These distinct neighborhoods — from a vibrant, Hispanic enclave known for its…

Chicago craft brewery itineraries: Ravenswood Corridor

An industrial stretch of Chicago’s Ravenswood neighborhood has taken on a second life as one of Chicago’s most bustling brewing corridors. The area, which earned…

Chicago craft brewery itineraries: Beverly and beyond

Chicago’s Beverly neighborhood and surrounding communities have a rich, fascinating history. Get a taste for the area through their unique breweries near Beverly, a neighborhood known…

Architecture & history , Tours & attractions

Chicago architecture center.

The Chicago Architecture Center offers an engaging overview of the city’s long history of groundbreaking architecture, from Frank Lloyd Wright to Daniel Burnham to Jeanne…

Explore hotels, flights, deals, and more

Plan your trip.

Chicago Newsletter

Stay in the know.

Visitors Guide

Start planning today.

Get the guide

Your Favorites

Quick access links.

• Attractions

• « Previous post
• Next Post »

Welcome to the #1 leisure destination in the Midwest that attracts nearly 9 million visitors annually, Navy Pier. Originally used for shipping and recreation purposes, this pier has been transformed over the years into a premiere entertainment center that also offers exposition facilities. This is also one of Chicago’s most important historical landmarks, celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2016. Aiming to be a ‘people’s pier’, this is an exciting and bustling place where local residents and visitors from all around the world come to experience the natural beauty of the Lakefront and Chicago skyline. Be sure to save some stomach space for this visit, packed with fun places to eat like Bubba Gump’s, Giordano’s, and Margaritaville.

Though c urrently closed, the fun portion of the park known as Navy Pier Park will reopen in 2016 with a bigger and better Ferris Wheel. You can ride the Wave Swinger, the Light Tower, the Carousel, play with remote controlled boats or a round of mini golf within this area! Another fun stop is l ocated in the middle of the pier, called Amazing Chicago. This funhouse maze is Chicago’s only self-paced, the full sensory maze full of fun history and sitting at an impressive 4,000 square feet.  Also be sure to stop at Crystal Gardens ,  a gorgeous indoor, 1-acre, botanical garden features a 6-story glass atrium. Inside you will see a 50 ft arched ceiling that holds over 80 live palm trees, hanging foliage, and leaping fountains. You won't want to forget your camera here! 

Related Posts

Are you looking for an affordable, customized group trip?

[recaptcha theme:dark]

#NeverDoneWithFun

creativity amid chaos lifestyle blog

Family Field Trip: Chicago Children’s Museum at Navy Pier

Love it? Share it!

Spring Break when you’re a working mom isn’t too different than a regular school week. My boys still have to go to school, and I still have to go to work. But even though we weren’t jetting off to Florida or Mexico for a week of sun and fun, we did want to make Easton’s very first “Spring Break” (from the rigors of kindergarten life, obviously) a little out of the ordinary.

We took the Friday of Spring Break off for a little staycation to explore our own city. I realized the boys had never been to Navy Pier so it was a logical choice. When I started browsing the Chicago Children’s Museum website, I was sold: dinosaurs and Hot Wheels and construction, oh my! Keep reading for my tips to make Navy Pier your next family fun destination.

Where: Chicago Children’s Museum at Navy Pier 700 East Grand Avenue Chicago, IL 60611-3428 Get directions

Plan your visit: https://www.chicagochildrensmuseum.org/

Make the most of your visit with these tips:

DO: Go first thing in the morning and arrive when the doors open. The first hour after opening was the best hour there. There weren’t crowds yet and the boys could explore at their leisure. After 11 AM, it started to get busier and busier … and louder and louder!

DON’T: Go on weekends or common school holidays (if you can help it). See note above about the general busy-ness. We went during the week on Spring Break, strategically planned because it wasn’t Chicago Public Schools break, just the suburbs. It still got pretty slammed by lunchtime, and I can’t imagine how packed it might be on a Saturday afternoon.

DO: Head for the limited-spaces exhibits when you first arrive. The Tinkering Lab, a DIY space where families can use real tools to create projects, and Skyline, where families can design their own skyscrapers, are both exhibits that allow only a limited number of participants at a time. They don’t offer time slots, so you have to check back for availability. Getting started at these exhibits early in the day helps you beat the crowds.

DON’T: Forget a change of clothes for after the WaterWorks exhibit. WaterWorks is the best children’s museum water exploration exhibit I’ve seen … but it’s also the wettest. Despite smocks and raincoats provided, both my boys left the exhibit with soaked pants and shirts. The hand dryers on site to help made some impact, but having a full change of clothes for each kid (including socks!) was necessary.

DO: Bring your own snacks. The museum has several designated snack areas where you can grab a table, rest your legs, and refuel your body. If you bring your own snacks, there’s no reason to exit the museum and re-enter for a quick bite to recharge.

DO: Dig for dinosaur bones in the Dinosaur Expedition. My boys put on the paleontologist vests and grabbed their tools to start excavating for fossils in the dino dig pit. This exhibit was the highlight of our visit.

DON’T: Structure and plan every minute of your visit . Let your kids explore on their time, at their own pace. Want to pause for a game of bowling or giant dominos? The Treehouse Trails play exhibit will still be there when you’re finished. Part of the magic of any children’s museum is the focus on kids exploring. Let your kids decide what to see next and how long to spend at each experience. They are the reason you’re there, after all.

DO: Expect that you won’t be able to tear your kids away from some exhibits. First, it was the Play It Safe space, with dress-up Chicago Fire Department costumes and a cool game where you could practice putting out a fire with a laser-pointer “fire hose.” (Spoiler alert: It takes a really, really long time and my kids got bored before actually accomplishing it.)

After that, we moved to the Zoom Room — a little boy’s delight of multiple ramps and endless Hot Wheels cars. A lesson in physics or cause-and-effect never hurt anyone.

DO: Take a lunch break and go back for more fun. When your littles are hitting the wall on fun, it’s time for a snack break, and the food court at Navy Pier has a ton of options. Of course, my picky eaters only wanted McDonald’s but I ate Freshii myself and finished with a slice of caramel cake from Brown Sugar Bakery — literally THE BEST cake I have ever eaten. I’ll be venturing back to Navy Pier soon just for another slice.

Once you’ve eaten, reenter the museum to continue to fun. Your ticket includes admission all day long, and at a price of $15.95 per ticket, adult or child, it makes sense to get your money’s worth.

DON’T: Let your kids go into the gift shop on the way out. I’m not saying it’s not a lovely gift shop. It is. It’s well-curated with thoughtful toys and more. But if your kids are gift-crazed, a trip through the gift shop always ends an otherwise fun day on a sour note. Set your boundaries by making sure your kids know you are there to play and explore, and the gift shop is off limits.

DO: Let your kids indulge at Navy Pier’s IT’SUGAR candy store on your way out instead. Give them each the cellophane bag and let them pick out an assortment of fun-shaped gummies or candy LEGO bricks. We left the store for a grand total of $7 — and that included a selection of cocktail flavored Beary Buzzed Gummy Bears for me too. A much cheaper treat than the museum gift shop would be!

DON’T: Miss the “Enchanted Waters” installation inside. Get a little energy out before the commute home by dancing in front of this interactive wall. It translates your movements onto a large electronic screen with an underwater-like interaction. #DoneWithFun Daddy showed Easton how to dance-fight to everyone’s pure delight.

DO: Walk all the way down the Pier to see the boats, the Ferris Wheel, and the Chicago skyline in the distance. We’ll come back in summer to see the Tall Ship but the boys loved exploring the Pier’s landmark ships like the Odyssey and the Spirit of Chicago from the docks. We weren’t brave enough to try the Ferris Wheel as a family this visit … again, maybe in summer time.

DO: Realize it won’t be a cheap day but it will be a fun one. Between parking, museum entry, and lunch, the fun added up quickly. But as a staycation destination, Navy Pier didn’t disappoint, and the exhibits at the Chicago Children’s Museum were perfectly suited to my boys’ ages and interests.

What are your kids into — science, art, technology, music? Where do they head first at a museum? Let me know in the comments below and follow my Instagram  and  Pinterest for more daily ideas and inspiration for finding the fun in the chaos of #momlife.

Are you exploring Chicago? Don’t miss the Garfield Park Conservatory for an inexpensive afternoon amid stunning foliage. It’s a literal breath of fresh air in there.

You may also like...

Minecraft Valentine Free Printable

Road Trip Bingo Free Printable

Family Field Trip: Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve

Free Printable Holiday Bingo

Chapter 2: A Love(-is-Love) Story

Simple Peppa Pig Cupcakes

Popular posts....

Outer Space Kids’ Bedroom: Walls and Ceiling

In Praise of One Little Pill

Finding Motivation

The Uphill Battle for Balance

Searching for Stillness

THE BEST Museums in Woodlawn (Chicago)

Museums in woodlawn.

• Specialty Museums
• Near North Side
• Downtown / The Loop
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Johnny Twist Blues Museum

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

Read Next: Things To Do on Socotra

To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

How to Get a Decent Haircut in a Foreign Country

Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

Travel Itinerary for One Week in Beijing

If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

How I Planned My Trip to Vietnam

The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

Places to Visit in Barcelona That Aren’t Beaches

First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

20 Travel Tips I’ve Learned From Travelling The World

There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

12 Stunning National Parks and Regional Parks In France

If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

How To Stop Procrastinating When Trip Planning

Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

Two Weeks In Thailand: The Perfect 14-Day Itinerary

I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

You Will Also Like: 3-Day London Itinerary

Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

How to Save Money While Traveling in Europe

The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

JOIN MY FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER!

Email Address *

YOU WILL ALSO LIKE

10 Dishes You Must Try When Going To Moscow

15 Fantastic and Easy Day Trips Close to Moscow

When Is the Best Time To Visit Russia

24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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.

• Bahasa Indonesia
• Slovenščina
• Science & Tech
• Russian Kitchen

Cruising the Moskva River: A short guide to boat trips in Russia’s capital

There’s hardly a better way to absorb Moscow’s atmosphere than on a ship sailing up and down the Moskva River. While complicated ticketing, loud music and chilling winds might dampen the anticipated fun, this checklist will help you to enjoy the scenic views and not fall into common tourist traps.

How to find the right boat?

There are plenty of boats and selecting the right one might be challenging. The size of the boat should be your main criteria.

Plenty of small boats cruise the Moskva River, and the most vivid one is this yellow Lay’s-branded boat. Everyone who has ever visited Moscow probably has seen it.

This option might leave a passenger disembarking partially deaf as the merciless Russian pop music blasts onboard. A free spirit, however, will find partying on such a vessel to be an unforgettable and authentic experience that’s almost a metaphor for life in modern Russia: too loud, and sometimes too welcoming. Tickets start at $13 (800 rubles) per person.

Bigger boats offer smoother sailing and tend to attract foreign visitors because of their distinct Soviet aura. Indeed, many of the older vessels must have seen better days. They are still afloat, however, and getting aboard is a unique ‘cultural’ experience. Sometimes the crew might offer lunch or dinner to passengers, but this option must be purchased with the ticket. Here is one such  option  offering dinner for $24 (1,490 rubles).

If you want to travel in style, consider Flotilla Radisson. These large, modern vessels are quite posh, with a cozy restaurant and an attentive crew at your service. Even though the selection of wines and food is modest, these vessels are still much better than other boats.

Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

How to buy tickets?

Women holding photos of ships promise huge discounts to “the young and beautiful,” and give personal invitations for river tours. They sound and look nice, but there’s a small catch: their ticket prices are usually more than those purchased online.

“We bought tickets from street hawkers for 900 rubles each, only to later discover that the other passengers bought their tickets twice as cheap!”  wrote  (in Russian) a disappointed Rostislav on a travel company website.

Nevertheless, buying from street hawkers has one considerable advantage: they personally escort you to the vessel so that you don’t waste time looking for the boat on your own.

Prices start at $13 (800 rubles) for one ride, and for an additional $6.5 (400 rubles) you can purchase an unlimited number of tours on the same boat on any given day.

Flotilla Radisson has official ticket offices at Gorky Park and Hotel Ukraine, but they’re often sold out.

Buying online is an option that might save some cash. Websites such as  this   offer considerable discounts for tickets sold online. On a busy Friday night an online purchase might be the only chance to get a ticket on a Flotilla Radisson boat.

This  website  (in Russian) offers multiple options for short river cruises in and around the city center, including offbeat options such as ‘disco cruises’ and ‘children cruises.’ This other  website  sells tickets online, but doesn’t have an English version. The interface is intuitive, however.

Buying tickets online has its bad points, however. The most common is confusing which pier you should go to and missing your river tour.

“I once bought tickets online to save with the discount that the website offered,” said Igor Shvarkin from Moscow. “The pier was initially marked as ‘Park Kultury,’ but when I arrived it wasn’t easy to find my boat because there were too many there. My guests had to walk a considerable distance before I finally found the vessel that accepted my tickets purchased online,” said the man.

There are two main boarding piers in the city center:  Hotel Ukraine  and  Park Kultury . Always take note of your particular berth when buying tickets online.

Where to sit onboard?

Even on a warm day, the headwind might be chilly for passengers on deck. Make sure you have warm clothes, or that the crew has blankets ready upon request.

The glass-encased hold makes the tour much more comfortable, but not at the expense of having an enjoyable experience.

Getting off the boat requires preparation as well. Ideally, you should be able to disembark on any pier along the way. In reality, passengers never know where the boat’s captain will make the next stop. Street hawkers often tell passengers in advance where they’ll be able to disembark. If you buy tickets online then you’ll have to research it yourself.

There’s a chance that the captain won’t make any stops at all and will take you back to where the tour began, which is the case with Flotilla Radisson. The safest option is to automatically expect that you’ll return to the pier where you started.

If using any of Russia Beyond's content, partly or in full, always provide an active hyperlink to the original material.

to our newsletter!

Get the week's best stories straight to your inbox

• What to do in Moscow City, if you’re not mega-rich
• Moscow after dusk: 10 places to drink, dance, and groove
• 5 things you must do in Moscow in 2018 between football matches (or without them)
• Sandwiched between Moscow and St. Petersburg: How to spend a perfect weekend in Tver 
• 24 or 48 hours in Moscow: Where to go and what to do in 2019

This website uses cookies. Click here to find out more.