Amusement parks in Alma Ata -
Where to take a walk with children in Almaty -
The Maxim Gorky Central Park of Culture and Recreation (CPKiO) is the oldest and most famous park in Almaty. For the townspeople, it has long become a symbol of tranquility, meetings and relaxation, and for tourists it is a must–walk place where you can feel the rhythm of life in the southern capital of Kazakhstan. Located in the heart of the metropolis, this park combines Soviet architecture, national traditions, memorial complexes and an atmosphere of comfort that attracts both locals and tourists from all over the world. From the park, from the pond where you can ride catamarans and boats, you can enjoy a beautiful mountain panorama of the mountains of Almaty and the mountains of the Trans-Ili Alatau. Mount Koktobe and the Koktobe TV Tower are also well visible from here.
History -
The history of the Central Park began back in 1856, when the military horticulturist G. Krishtopenko laid out the “State Garden” – a small botanical corner in the center of Vernoye (as Almaty was called at that time). The first trees were brought here from different regions of the Russian Empire: lime trees, maples, oaks, chestnuts, firs and even rare ornamental species. Gradually, the park expanded, turning into a favorite place for walking among the townspeople.
During the Soviet years, the park was named after Maxim Gorky and became a real center of cultural life. Mass celebrations, folk festivals, brass band concerts took place here, and on weekends the park was filled with families with children. In the Soviet era, it occupied more than 100 hectares, but over time its territory decreased to 42 hectares. Despite this, the park has retained the status of the main "green heart" of Almaty.
How to get there and visit -
Maxim Gorky Central Park of Culture and Recreation is located in Almaty at 1 Gogol Street, Medeu district, Republic of Kazakhstan.
GPS coordinates: 43°15'40"N 76°57'56"E
By bus or trolleybus – just take any of these routes and it will take you right to the entrance to the park: buses: 13, 16, 118, 126; trolleybuses: 1, 12, 25
By metro, get off at Almaly or Zhibek Zholy stations. From Almala, you walk along Kunaeva Street, turn onto Tole bi – and here it is, the park! It takes a little longer from Zhibek Zhola, but it's also easy: you go up to Gogol and walk straight for 5-7 minutes.
Opening hours: daily from 11.00 to 21.00
The attractions are open from March to October.
Contacts: +7 727 367 21 30
The official website of the CPKiO.
Atmosphere and nature -
Central Park has a special atmosphere. Coming here, it's like being transported from a bustling metropolis to a peaceful oasis. The alleys are surrounded by greenery, old trees create a dense tent, and numerous flower beds decorate the space with bright colors. In summer it is cool here even in the heat, and in spring the park is filled with the aroma of apple and lilac flowers.
There are ponds in the park where ducks and fish live. Their calm surface reflects the crowns of the trees, and a walk along the water always brings peace. In autumn, the park transforms into a golden gallery: maples and poplars are painted in bright crimson and yellow tones, and artists, photographers and couples come here.
Gorky Park is not just a green area, but a real entertainment center.:
• Attractions
There are dozens of carousels and entertainment for every taste. For children, there are kind swings, steam trains and carousels with animal figures. For adults, there are extreme attractions such as roller coasters, "free fall" and rotating "plates". The special pride of the park is the Ferris wheel, which offers a magnificent panorama of Almaty and the mountains of the Trans-Ili Alatau.
• Dinopark
This is a separate area where life-size dinosaur figures are installed. They move, growl and make sounds, creating the illusion of a real prehistoric world. Here you can take vivid photos and spend unforgettable time with children.
• Water Park
In the summer, Central Park turns into a water paradise. The water park has pools for adults and children, water slides of various heights, recreation areas with sun loungers and cafes. On a hot day, this is one of the most popular places for family holidays. In winter, there is an indoor option, which makes the park attractive all year round.
• Pond with boats and catamarans
A walk on the water is a visiting card of the park. Boats and catamarans can be rented during the warm season, and a leisurely ride on the mirrored surface of the pond is especially romantic in the evening, when the lanterns are lit in the park.
• Sports grounds
For outdoor enthusiasts, there are workout areas, outdoor exercise equipment, a skatepark, tennis courts and jogging paths. Here you can meet both professional athletes and simple fitness enthusiasts.
• Cafes and restaurants
There are many establishments in the park, from ice cream and cotton candy kiosks to cozy restaurants where you can taste national and European cuisine. This makes the walk even more pleasant and convenient for tourists.
Modern look -
The Central Park is regularly updated and is becoming more comfortable. In recent years, a large-scale reconstruction has been carried out: the paths have been restored, new lighting has been installed, landscaping has been improved, modern children's and sports areas have appeared. Concerts, festivals, exhibitions and city celebrations are held here – from Nauryz to City Day.
During the warm season, artists, musicians, animators and street performers can be found in the alleys of the park. This creates a unique atmosphere of celebration and a vibrant city.
Conclusion -
The Central Park of Culture and Recreation in Almaty is a place where the past meets the present. The history of the city, the warm memories of generations and the modern energy of entertainment have been preserved here. The Park is suitable for those who are looking for a relaxing walk in the shade of trees, and for those who want to have fun with friends or family. For a tourist, this is an opportunity to see Almaty from a different perspective – as a city where nature and culture are intertwined in the very heart of the metropolis.
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