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Life in the Lehigh Valley

Welcome to big city sites, with small town charm!

Nestled among the Appalachian hills in eastern Pennsylvania, just an hour north of Philadelphia and 1.5 hours west of New York City, the Lehigh Valley is home to three historic cities- Allentown, Bethlehem and Easton. Equally known for its bustling city sites and attractions like the Lehigh Valley Zoo and Dorney Park, as well as quaint country towns, the Valley is home to almost a million people. With major highways, Lehigh Valley International Airport, top rated secondary schools, and nationally ranked colleges, the Valley is ready to take individuals and families where they want to go, literally and figuratively!

Founded by William Allen — a former Philadelphia mayor — in 1762, Allentown has swelled from a rural Pennsylvania Dutch farming community to the largest city in the Lehigh Valley. The city grew tremendously since a 2009 state law to encourage development and revitalization in the downtown. The only program of its kind in the state, Allentown’s Neighborhood Improvement Zone (NIZ) has spurred more than a billion dollars in new and planned development and generated a record $86 million in state and local tax revenue in 2019 alone.

Allentown’s 120,000 residents have benefited from the revival. You can live in one of the new luxury apartments within walking distance of Ideal Concepts, grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants on Hamilton Street, and take in a show or game at PPL Center, just a block away from our building!

Founded by a small religious group, the Moravians, Bethlehem is one of Pennsylvania’s most picturesque and historic cities. Once a bustling steel city, Bethlehem Steel helped produce steel for some of America’s most prominent landmarks: the Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, Golden Gate Bridge, and Hoover Dam. After the company closed in 1995, the city found new life as a magnet for history buffs, art lovers, musicians, and Christmas fanatics as “The Christmas City.”

Bethlehem is unique in that it boasts two “downtowns”, with northside Historic Bethlehem featuring restaurants, bars, and shops on Main Street, and Southside Bethlehem’s Wind Creek casino and restaurants and bars on 3rd and 4th Streets.

Easton is the third largest city in the Lehigh Valley, with nearly 27,000 residents. The city is split into four sections: College Hill, West Ward, South Side, and historic Downtown. Lafayette College rests on College Hill while the West Ward and South Side offer beautiful homes and apartments in family-friendly neighborhoods.

Easton is one of three cities where the Declaration of Independence was read publicly on July 8, 1776. The city celebrates this history every year on Heritage Day, when residents assemble at the square for a dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence. If you’re looking for more fun things to do, Easton’s historic Downtown has many exciting attractions, including the Crayola Experience, the State Theatre, and the Sigal Museum.

Key metrics

Population 850k People

GDP 4.4% Growth Rate

Family Income $68k Median

Home Cost $174k Median

Monthly Rent $990 Median

Unemployment Rate 4% In 2019

Crime Rate 45% Lower Than National Average

Named to Top 100 “Best Places to Live” in 2019 by US News and World Report, beating out Philadelphia, Chicago, and Los Angeles.

When it comes to education, the Lehigh Valley has a lot to offer. Whether you’re looking for a school district for your children or a college to continue your studies, you’ll find just what you need at one of the Lehigh Valley’s prestigious schools.

More Than 30 Private & Public High Schools

Graduation rate 93% Public High Schools

Over 13 Institutes Of Higher Learning

Average Of 10k LV College Grads Annually

Lehigh University

Bethlehem, PA

Lehigh University is a private research university established in 1865. The school has over 5,000 undergraduate students and 2,000 postgraduates. Lehigh is made up of four colleges: the P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science, the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Business and Economics, and the College of Education.

Lafayette College

Lafayette College is a private liberal arts college established in 1826. Located on College Hill in Easton, more than 2,500 undergraduates attend. The performing arts center, Williams Center for the Arts, is where you’ll find the Performance Series, the Williams Art Gallery and College Collections, the College Theater program, the Art and Music departments, and more.

Muhlenberg College

Allentown, PA

Muhlenberg College is a private liberal arts college founded in 1848. The school has over 2,000 undergraduates enrolled and boasts an 85% graduation rate. In 2020, Muhlenberg College ranked #72 on the list of Best National Liberal Arts Colleges. The college is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and its sports team compete in the Centennial Conference.

Bethlehem Catholic High School

Bethlehem Catholic High School (grades 9-12), is a private school with more than 750 students. Founded in 1925, the school takes pride in a quality education through faith-based values. Students are encouraged to explore creative and athletic outlets outside of the classroom, such as band, theater, football, and basketball.

Moravian Academy

Moravian Academy (grades PK-12) is a college preparatory school located in historic Bethlehem. It is the 9th oldest independent school in the United States, with its origins dating back to Moravians, who settled in Bethlehem in 1741. Moravian is divided into The Upper (grades 9-12), Middle (grades 6-8), and Lower Schools (grades PK-5).

The Swain School

The Swain School (grades PK-8) is independent school in Allentown. The school started as a kindergarten in 1929 and has grown into a coeducational, secular, college-preparatory school with 300 students. The average class size is 14, and the student-teacher ratio is 7:1. Swain offers a variety of unique team sports, including archery, ski club and CrossFit.

Southern Lehigh School District

Center Valley, PA

Southern Lehigh School District (grades K-12) serves the borough of Coopersburg as well as Lower Milford and Upper Saucon Townships. Southern Lehigh High School enrolls over 1,000 students. In 2021, the high school ranked #1 in the metro area based on its student performance, graduation rate, and college preparedness.

Parkland School District

Parkland School District (grades K-12) is one of the largest high schools in the Valley, with almost 10,000 students. Parkland High School has more than 3,000 students alone. In 2021, the high school was rated #7 among high schools in the metro area for its performance on state-required tests, graduation rates, and college preparedness.

East Penn School District

East Penn School District (grades K-12) is known for its academic excellence. In 2013, Emmaus High School was named the top academically performing high school in Lehigh County. In 2021, the high school ranked #8 in the metro area. 90% of East Penn’s teachers hold a master’s degree or higher, and the average student-teacher ratio is 16:1.

Saucon Valley School District

Hellertown, PA

Saucon Valley School District (grades K-12) has a single campus for the Saucon Valley High School, Middle School, and Elementary School. The campus is also home to a freshwater stream, a stadium with track facilities, and more. In 2021, the high school was rated #4 in the metro area for its performance on state-required tests, graduation rates, and college preparedness.

Healthcare has become one of the largest and fastest growing industries in the area- not only because as the third largest metropolis in the state, the Lehigh Valley features the most medical networks and facilities, but also because those networks rank among the best in the nation.  Hundreds of medical students come from around the country to learn from our exceptional medical teams.

St. Luke’s  University Health Network

Founded in 1872, St. Luke’s is a non-profit network of 11 hospitals and more than 300 outpatient facilities. Their network covers all of the Lehigh Valley, plus parts of the Poconos and New Jersey.

In its partnership with Temple University, St. Luke’s hosts the Valley’s only regional medical school campus and boasts the nation’s longest continuously operating School of Nursing (est. 1884). It’s the only Lehigh Valley-based health network with Medicare’s 4- and 5-star rating for quality, efficiency, and patient satisfaction.

St. Luke’s acquired Sacred Heart Hospital in 2018 and Easton Hospital in 2020. They partnered with Geisinger health care system to build the state’s first partnered and co-owned hospital in Schuylkill County in 2019.

14k Physicians

15k Employees

11 Hospitals

Lehigh Valley Health Network

The LVHN story begins in its humble roots- 13 charitable women raised $5,300 for plot of land at 17th and Chew Streets in Allentown and opened the Allentown Hospital in 1899. Now featuring eight hospitals and 22 health centers in five counties, LVHN has grown into one of the country’s most respected health networks.

LVHN partners with the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine to train doctors of tomorrow through a SELECT program. LV Reilly Children’s Hospital is the only children’s hospital in the Lehigh Valley, offering both inpatient and ambulatory care, a children’s ER, and a surgery center.

Coordinated Health became a part of the LVHN network in December 2019.

2k Physicians

17k Employees

8 Hospitals

Activities & attractions

It’s easy to find something fun to do in the Lehigh Valley! The region is sprawling with exciting activities and attractions, including golf courses, festivals, amusement parks, outdoor activities, shopping centers, and historical sites. Plus, the Lehigh Valley is close to vibrant cities like New York City and Philadelphia!

Close To New York & Philadelphia

With New York City to the east and Philadelphia to the south, the Lehigh Valley is the hidden gem of eastern Pennsylvania. The Lehigh Valley International Airport has 15 non-stop destinations around the country, and Newark Liberty International Airport and Philadelphia International Airport are an easy 1.5-hour drive away.

The Lehigh Valley has access to three major interstates- I-78, I-80, and the Northeast Extension, and Lehigh and Northampton Public Transportation Authority (LANTA) make it easy to get around the Valley, or to Philly or NYC.

Restaurants & bars

The Lehigh Valley is a foodie’s dream destination. With award winning eateries that rival New York City and Philadelphia restaurants, it’s difficult to pick just a few! Rather than play favorites, we’d like to spotlight a few “Restaurant Rows” where you can eat, drink, and be merry at multiple hotspots!

Main St., Bethlehem

Northside Bethlehem’s Main Street is a destination for summertime al fresco dining. Plan a Saturday night on the town, eating and drinking your way through the many delectable restaurants and bars.

• Tapas on Main: featuring Spanish-style tapas and sangria
• Mama Nina’s Foccacheria: NYC-style with pastas and pizzas
• Fegley’s Brew Works: known for their in-house brewed craft beer
• Bethlehem Hotel’s 1741 on the Terrace: delicious brunches
• Thai Thai II & Touch Thai: two tasty Thai restaurants on Main
• Apollo Grill, Edge, & Melting Pot: all high-end spots on Walnut

The Circle, Easton

Centre Square, more often known as “The Circle” due to the roundabout, hosts great bar and restaurant choices. The Circle and its off-streets attract more than half a million visitors a year to Easton.

• The Bayou Southern Kitchen & Bar: New Orleans classics
• Oak Steakhouse: in-house aged steaks with a salt aging room
• Maxim’s 22: French bistro and brasserie in the old Pomeroy’s
• Easton Public Market: houses 13 restaurants and a winery
• Simon Silk Mill: a five-minute drive from The Circle, the redevelopment project houses a mix of eateries like Easton Wine Project, Böser Geister Brewing, and Tucker Silk Mill

Hamilton St., Allentown

Allentown’s “restaurant row” is in the midst of a successful revitalization and is known for its live music on every patio. Centering the district is PPL Center, which houses fine dining establishment, The Dime.

• Sports & Social Allentown is a new restaurant next to the PPL Center
• Tacos Y Tequila: classic Mexican food and drinks with a patio
• Brü Daddy’s Brewing Co.: focus on local craft beers
• Billy’s Downtown Diner: award-winning brunch and lunch
• Frutta Bowl: chain café with healthy açaí bowls and smoothies
• Downtown Allentown Market: the Market houses a mix of eateries like Tavola, Zahra, Batch Microcreamery and more

Southside, Bethlehem

Bethlehem is known for having two “downtowns”. On Southside, the restaurants are spaced out between the casino, 3rd and 4th streets, plus offshoot streets, but it’s no less impressive!

• Zest bar+grille: rooftop restaurant with amazing views
• Social Still: a restaurant, bar and distillery with craft cocktails
• Southside 313 Bar & Grill: locally sourced beef and produce
• Wind Creek Bethlehem Casino and Hotel: home to three Emeril Lagasse restaurants, plus famed baker Buddy Valastro has two eateries- Carlo’s Bakery and Buddy V’s Ristorante

Summer in Bethlehem is synonymous with Musikfest, a 10-day free music festival considered the largest in the country. But it’s not the only one: there’s Blues, Brews & Barbecue, Celtic Classic, Kutztown Folk Festival, and Sangria Fest, just to name a few! The Valley really loves any excuse to “’fest”!

There are lots of reasons why USA Today named Musikfest the “Best Music Festival in North America”. The largest non-gated, free music festival in the country was started in 1984, at a time when Bethlehem Steel was declining, and local businesses needed a boost. Today, it’s grown to include 17 stages (“platzes”) with more than 500 concerts and hundreds of vendors! Held annually in early August, more than a million people attend the festival. Past headliners have included names as big as Foreigner, Lynard Skynard, and The Chainsmokers.

The Great Allentown Fair

As one of the oldest fairs in the country (celebrating its 170th year in 2022), the fair offers music, fun, and agricultural education for the whole family! Started to showcase agricultural advancements, it has evolved to include more dining and entertainment options. While big names like Johnny Cash and Britney Spears have drawn in thousands of festers, the festival remains true to its roots, offering petting zoos, livestock contests and a farmers’ market, in addition to carnival rides and talent shows.

Christkindlmarkt

South Bethlehem

It wouldn’t be Christmas in Christmas City without Christkindlmarkt! Twice recognized as one of the best holiday markets in the U.S. by Travel & Leisure, this annual event started in 1993 and is based on the German tradition of Christmas markets. It features hundreds of artisans selling handmade items like Christmas ornaments, toys, and decorations. There’s also live music, ice carving, glassblowing, festival food, and breakfast with St. Nicholas, all outdoors or within heated tents on Southside Bethlehem.

In recent years, bacon has grown from a breakfast food to a way of life, especially in the Lehigh Valley. Just look at the Philadelphia Phillies’ farm team’s mascot, the IronPigs! For two days in November, visitors to Easton can enjoy bacon-centered food from more than 100 vendors and musical acts on 8 stages. Ranked in the Top 300 Festivals in the World by 300Fest.com, BaconFest draws tens of thousands of attendees for a weekend full of fun, music, shopping, and of course, bacon!

Celtic Fest

North Bethlehem

For more than 30 years, Bethlehem’s Celtic Classic festival has drawn in close to 300,000 visitors eager to learn about and celebrate all things Irish, Scottish and Welsh. The three-day annual festival of Celtic culture and heritage features education, music, food, and traditional competitions. One of the biggest draws is the Highland Games, where athletes display feats of strength, speed, and skill as they compete for the title of U.S. Champion as part of the U.S. National Highland Games Championship.

The Lehigh Valley is a shopper’s paradise. There are four downtowns full of treasures in Allentown, Bethlehem and Easton, plus many of the surrounding towns have quaint Main Streets. Don’t forget to take advantage of Pennsylvania’s tax-free clothing!

Lehigh Valley Mall

If you ask any Lehigh Valley-ian where they go shopping, they’ll probably mention the Lehigh Valley Mall. LVM boasts more than 150 stores and restaurants. You’ll find everything from boutiques to department stores. While shopping, you can take a break and have a sit-down lunch at Bonefish Grill, grab coffee from one of two Starbucks, or treat the kids to Chick-fil-A. In addition to the Mall and its outdoor promenade shops, there are also shopping and dining options in the mile-radius of the Mall.

The Promenade

Center Valley

If you’re looking to get some fresh air while shopping, look no further than The Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley, an outdoor Lifestyle Center located in Center Valley. The Promenade also features a movie theater, grocery store, and lots of food! Some of the Valley’s best restaurants include White Orchids Thai Cuisine, Melt, and hibachi grill Kome. You can take a walk through the downtown-style promenade with its picturesque sidewalks, water fountains, fire pits, and seating areas.

The Outlets at Wind Creek

Located between the Wind Creek Casino floor and Wind Creek Hotel, savvy shoppers can find a deal on lots of premier labels at Wind Creek Bethlehem. Built on and incorporating the historic Bethlehem Steel factory, there’s more than 25 stores. Besides the discount shopping on brand names, there’s many eateries on premise, and the Wind Creek Casino is in the same building. Featuring slots, table games, and everything in between, it’s become a hot destination for visitors to Bethlehem.

King of Prussia Mall

King of Prussia

As the second largest mall in the country, the King of Prussia Mall is just an hour from the Lehigh Valley. There are seven major department stores and more than 450 stores, boutiques, and restaurants. The mall features 3 million square feet of retail space, 30+ restaurants, and attracts more than 20 million shoppers a year. First opened in 1963, KoP as the locals call it, draws shoppers looking for anything they need- from staples to luxury brands, and even a Tesla showroom!

Art & entertainment

It’s important to take time to appreciate the arts, and the Lehigh Valley has a lot to offer in the form of museums and programs! There’s also local sports teams, live concerts, and other entertainment events.

The PPL Center is a sports arena in the center of downtown Allentown. The arena is used for live events, including concerts and shows, but most notably is hosts the Lehigh Valley Phantoms, the Philadelphia Flyers’ farm team. PPL Center also houses a variety of restaurants, and Ideal Concepts’ newest office is only a block away.

ArtsQuest is a non-profit organization offering art, culture, and educational programs in the Valley. ArtsQuest owns and operates the ArtsQuest Center at the SteelStacks, as well as the Banana Factory Arts Center in Bethlehem. ArtsQuest hosts festivals like MusikFest, which brings hundreds of music acts to the Lehigh Valley every August.

Coca-Cola Park

Play ball! Coca-Cola Park hosts the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, a minor league baseball team that’s a triple-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies. The stadium is right next to one of Ideal Concepts’ buildings! Coca-Cola Park also offers fun festivals, on-field movies, fireworks, concerts, and other family-friendly activities throughout the spring, summer, and fall.

Crayola Experience

There’s so much to learn and do at the Crayola Experience! The 65,000-square-foot facility offers 25 family-friendly attractions. From crafts and coloring, to drip art and a live theatre show, there’s always something exciting to do at the Crayola Experience. Buy tickets for a day or get passes that last all year long!

Allentown Art Museum

The Allentown Art Museum is a major regional art institution with over 19,000 works of art. Located just a few blocks from our downtown office, the museum contains more than 16,000 titles and 40 current periodicals in its library and archives. We suggest you take in the art, and then stroll along Arts Walk, which starts at the Museum.

Allentown Arts Walk

The Allentown Arts Walk begins at Allentown Arts Park, and connects the Allentown Art Museum, Baum School of Art, Community Music School, Miller Symphony Hall, and Youth Education in the Arts. Ideal Concepts employees can enjoy the Arts Walk during their lunch break or after work since it’s since it’s just a block away from our building.

Da Vinci Science Center

The Da Vinci Science Center is a science museum focusing on providing fun, hands-on science experiences for kids. With 18 exhibits to explore, the science center is the ideal destination for kids of all ages. The science Center’s new location is planned for right next to our downtown Allentown office. The new Center is scheduled to open in 2023.

Historical sites

It’s always exciting to learn about the past, which is why the Lehigh Valley is a perfect destination for history buffs and casual observers alike. Bethlehem alone boasts 20 historic sites and tons of 18th-century architecture for historians of all ages.

Main Street, Bethlehem

North Bethlehem, PA

Northside Bethlehem, centered around Main Street, is now a National Landmark District called Historic Moravian Bethlehem. There are only 200 of these districts in the U.S., and Bethlehem’s offers a rich history focused on the small group of Moravians who settled there in 1741. The area includes a complex of the oldest surviving buildings from the original settlement.

Bethlehem Steel

Bethlehem Steel was one of the world’s largest steel producers and shipping companies for most of the 20th century. After it closed in 2003, the original Bethlehem Steel plant was converted to an arts and entertainment district called SteelStacks. The SteelStacks complex features the ArtsQuest Center and the Wind Creek Bethlehem casino resort.

Historic Crystal Cave

Kutztown, PA

The Historic Crystal Cave is one of the oldest American show caves still in operation today. Discovered in 1871, Crystal Cave soon became an attraction for its crystalline structures made of calcium. Some of the rock formations are over half a million years old! You can take a guided tour of the cave, which takes you 125 feet underground.

Liberty Bell Museum

During the Revolutionary War, the now-famous Liberty Bell was hidden in present-day Allentown so that the British couldn’t melt it down to make weapons. The bell remained under the church floor of Zion Reformed Church for nearly a year, when it was then returned to the State House in 1778. You can ring a replica of the bell, cast in 1769, at the Liberty Bell Museum.

Moravian Book Shop

The Moravian Book Shop is famous for being one of the oldest bookstores in America and the oldest continually operating bookstore in the world. Established in 1745, the bookstore is located in the historic Downtown Bethlehem and serves as the student bookstore for Moravian College. The book shop even offers a wide range of craft beers, live music, and delectable food.

America on Wheels

America on Wheels is a museum that features automobiles, trucks, motorcycles, and bikes from throughout history. The museum also contains many historic vehicles from Mack Trucks, a local American truck manufacturing company that also used to make buses and trolleybuses. The museum can even host your next event, special occasion, or holiday party!

Outdoor activities

There’s nothing quite like spending time in the great outdoors. Luckily, there are tons of outdoor activities available in and near the Lehigh Valley! Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or lake, or spend time camping and hiking in the mountains, there is always something to do not too far away.

Pennsylvania is not as landlocked as you may imagine! The Lehigh Valley is just a 1.5 hour drive from the famous “Jersey Shore”, which offers a great selection of seaside towns and beaches. Some of the best Jersey shore towns include Point Pleasant, Ocean City, and Cape May. If you want to stay local, there are also lots of local lakeside beaches like Blue Marsh Lake and Beltzville State Park.

Like many northeastern states, PA hosts parts of the Appalachian Mountains, with the Allegheny and Pocono Mountains being the state's most significant subranges. This makes for lots of options for skiers, snowboarders, hikers, campers, and others looking enjoy the beautiful, ancient mountains. Be sure to visit Hawk Mountain, Jacobsburg State Park, and Montage Mountain!

When you want to relax near the water but don’t have time for a beach vacation, there are many lakes in the area for you to enjoy, including Lake Wallenpaupack and Beltzville Lake in the Poconos, Lake Nockamixon in Bucks County, and Lake Harmony in Carbon County. Some allow boating, canoeing, paddle boating, kayaking, water skiing, and jet skiing!

Camping and hiking

The Pocono Mountains stretch across four counties and offers homey campgrounds, beautiful trails, 150 lakes, and historic towns. Make sure to visit Bushkill Falls, the “Niagara of Pennsylvania.” You can also check out the Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor for its multi-use trail spanning 165 miles or stop by the Hickory Run State Park with 40+ miles of hiking trails.

Zoos & animal sanctuaries

If you want to see lively animals, be sure to check out the Lehigh Valley Zoo! Located just a half hour from Allentown, the zoo has more than 300 animals and over 100 species. The Philadelphia Zoo, which features almost 1,300 animals, is also only 1.5 hours away. There’s also nearby animal sanctuaries offering educational programs, like the Hawk Mountain Sanctuary and Gress Mountain Ranch.

Golf courses

It could be our beautiful countryside, or the fact that many of America’s premier golf course architects came from the Philadelphia School of Golf. Whatever the reason, the Valley has four of PA’s best courses (out of 700), according to Golf Digest. Plus, we’re close to many other nationally ranked golf courses!

Saucon Valley Country Club

Saucon Valley CC boasts sixty holes of golf on three championship courses, one six-hole course, ten dining venues, four swimming pools, and racquet ball and fitness facilities, in addition to a thirteen room Guest House from the 18th Century. LINKS Magazine named club as one of its top 100 most prestigious private clubs in the world. The country club is located on what was once a dairy farm owned by an executive at Bethlehem Steel. It was transformed into a golf course in 1920 by a group of Steel executives, and now offers facilities for the whole family.

• Membership required

Lehigh Country Club

Lehigh Country Club began as the Allentown Golf Club in the early 1900's with a golf course near 17th and Walnut Streets in Allentown. Renamed in 1910, the current course was designed by Master Golf Architect William Flynn in 1927. With three sets of tees ranging from 5800 to 6600 yards and playing to a par 70, Lehigh’s course offers an interesting and fun game for golfers of all levels. The course is situated along the Little Lehigh, offering beautiful views of the stream and the rolling hills. It also features paddle tennis, pickle ball and tennis courts, as well as three pools!

Old Homestead Golf

New Tripoli

Not only does Olde Homestead Golf Club offer an award-winning 18-Hole Championship Course, it also offers an interesting history as a potato farm. Formerly the Schneider family homestead for 100 years, the Club features a hilly course that follows waterways and trees typical of the foot of Blue Mountain. There’s a summer kitchen from the original 1700s homestead, a restored one-room schoolhouse built in 1880, a refurbished 1910 farmhouse, and a couple of drive-through corn cribs. In addition to the main course, the Homestead also features a 9-hole, doubling as a FootGolf course.

Morgan Hill Golf Course

Nestled at the top of the mountains of Easton, with amazing views of Easton, New Jersey, and the Delaware River, Morgan Hill Golf Course is ranked both statewide and nationally. It’s been named one of the "Top places to play in the nation" by Golf Digest, and Golf Weeks’ "Top daily fee golf course in PA." Opened in 2004, Morgan Hill features ponds, rolling bunkers, grassy hollows, natural wetlands, and all the best Easton nature Easton! Morgan Hill’s most unique feature is its split fairways and elevations of 300+ feet. There’s also a great clubhouse and restaurant, The View at Morgan Hill.

Riverview Country Club

Riverview Country Club is set along the scenic Delaware River Corridor, offering 18-holes and some of the most picturesque panoramic views of any Valley golf course. With a hole for every level of golfer, Riverview offers 76 bunkers and 5 ponds, and an island green complex on the par 4, 17th hole. Riverview is also host to several local professional/amateur events like the annual Pocono Pro-Am, the Philadelphia Section PGA KNBT Lehigh Valley Open, and the Golf Association of the Lehigh Valley Better Ball of Partner's Championship.

Bethlehem Golf Club

Featuring an excellent 18-hole championship golf course, Bethlehem Golf Club was established in 1956. BGC is a challenging course within with rolling terrains and premier club conditions. The Club’s been voted Best in the Valley three times by Lehigh Valley Magazine, hit the top 100 list of “Must Play Courses” in the Philadelphia area, and earned a 4-star rating from Golf Digest. In addition to their 18-hole course, there’s also a 9-hole executive course. In 2020, the city of Bethlehem completed a $1.75 million makeover that included tree removal, irrigation and drainage system install, and fixed sand traps.

Skiing & snowboarding

When it comes to winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, the Lehigh Valley has a lot to offer. There are top-notch resorts located both in and around the area, so excitement is never far away.

Blue Mountain Resort

Palmerton, PA

Blue Mountain Resort is an amazing option if you’re looking to get your skiing, snowboarding, or snow tubing fix. It has Pennsylvania’s highest vertical drop at 1,087 feet, as well as the longest runs and the most diverse terrain. With 40 slopes of varying difficulty, Blue Mountain Resort is the ideal destination for family fun.

Camelback Mountain Resort

Tannersville, PA

Camelback Mountain Resort has 39 trails and 16 lifts spread over 166 acres of land. With over 1,200 snowmaking guns at its disposal, Camelback offers 100% snowmaking on all trails to ensure you have the perfect conditions for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. Skiing and snowboarding lessons are available for kids and adults!

Jack Frost Ski Resort

White Haven, PA

Jack Frost Ski Resort has been operating since 1972. It offers 20 pristine trails of varying difficulties, 12 lifts, and 2 terrain parks. Visit for a day of skiing, snowboarding, or tubing. Jack Frost’s 100% snowmaking ensures each trail is adequately covered. Jack Frost is only 5 miles away from its companion resort, Big Boulder Ski Resort.

Big Boulder Ski Resort

Lake Harmony, PA

Big Boulder Ski Resort takes pride in being the first ski area to open every year. It was also the first commercial ski resort in Pennsylvania. Big Boulder boasts the most progressive and innovative terrain park program in the Poconos, and 50% of its overall terrain is devoted to park features. The mountain is 5 miles away from Jack Frost Ski Resort.

Bear Creek Mountain Resort

Macungie, PA

Bear Creek Mountain Resort offers skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing in the winter. With over 86 acres of slopes, trails, and terrain parks, there is something for the whole family to enjoy. Bear Creek has 100% snowmaking capabilities, as well as lighted trails and a mountainside lodge. After a long day on the slopes, you can wind down at on-site spa and restaurants.

Shawnee Mountain Ski Area

East Stroudsburg, PA

Shawnee Mountain Ski Area is the place to go for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing in the Pocono Mountains. You will find 23 trails with 100% snowmaking, 9 lifts, 2 terrain parks, and a snow tubing park for the whole family to enjoy. Shawnee Mountain has a 700-foot vertical drop, and its longest trail is 5,100 feet.

Amusement parks

If you’re a thrill-seeker with an appetite for excitement, you’re in for a real treat! Not only does the Lehigh Valley have an amusement and water park in its own backyard, but it’s also located near other exciting parks within driving distance!

Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom

Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom prides itself in offering two great parks for the price of one! The park features seven exciting roller coasters, including Steel Force, which is the tenth-longest roller coast in the world and the second-longest on the East Coast! You’ll also find all kinds of rides and games for adults and children alike. And if you visit during the summer, you can cool off by visiting the water park’s wide array of rides and pools.

Knoebels Amusement Resort

Elysburg, PA

Knoebels Amusement Resort is the largest free-admission park in the country. The park boasts over 63 attractions, including six roller coasters and two water rides. You can also cool off in the park’s large outdoor pool. Knoebels even has its own campground so you can pitch a tent, stay in your RV or camper, or relax in a rustic log cabin. Knoebels is about 1.5 hours from Allentown.

Great Wolf Lodge Water Park

Scotrun, PA

If you love water parks, you’ll want to visit Great Wolf Lodge Water Park. Located in the Pocono Mountains, Great Wolf is an indoor water park with water slides, pools, and raft rides. The park also offers exciting family attractions like a ropes course, bowling alley, arcade, play park, minigolf, Build-A-Bear Workshop, and more. You can drive to the Great Wolf Lodge from Allentown in about 45 minutes.

Hersheypark

Hershey, PA

Not just an amusement park, but an amusement park with a chocolate and candy theme, Hersheypark has everything you could want, including over a dozen roller coasters and even more water rides. Right next to Hersheypark is Chocolate World, which offers a free chocolate-making tour. You can even make your own candy bar! Hersheypark and Hershey’s Chocolate World are roughly 1.5 hours from Allentown.

Six Flags Great Adventure

Jackson, NJ

Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime when you visit Six Flags Great Adventure! The park offers exciting rides like Fantasy Forest, Adventure Alley, Frontier Adventures, and many more. Right next to Six Flags Great Adventure is Hurricane Harbor New Jersey, a water park with numerous slides, play areas, and a wave pool! Hurricane Harbor requires separate admission. Both parks are about 1.5 hours from Allentown.

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

Featured city guides.

15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Moscow

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Dec 23, 2023

Moscow is one of Europe's most enigmatic destinations, home to a fascinating history and colorful, awe-inspiring architecture you won't find anywhere else in the world. Moscow might be one of the most populous cities in the world with over 11 million inhabitants, but this hasn't changed its strong cultural and social traditions.

Walk the cobblestone streets of the Red Square or the banks of the Moskva River early in the morning, and it's hard to tell what century you're in.

Tsarist architecture, must-see churches, and glamorous shopping opportunities blend together for a visual experience you won't forget. For ideas on what to see and do while visiting Russia, here's our list of top tourist attractions in Moscow.

Marvel at the Size of the Kremlin

Catch a performance at the bolshoi theatre, shop at the luxurious gum, make your way into lenin's mausoleum, spend an hour (or three) at red square, discover history at the museum of cosmonautics, ride the stunning moscow metro, explore the moscow state integrated museum-reserve, spend a rainy day at the tretyakov gallery, walk up and down arbat street, stop by the vdnkh all-russian exhibition centre, wander around gorky park, where to stay in moscow for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions & things to do in moscow.

Moscow's most recognizable structure is without a doubt the Kremlin, a 15th-century fortified complex that covers an area of 275,000 square meters surrounded by walls built in the 1400s.

The Grand Kremlin Palace -which has over 700 rooms- was once home to the Tsar family and is now the official residence of the president of the Russian Federation, although most heads of state choose to reside elsewhere.

The massive complex also includes many other buildings, some of which are open to the public and can be visited regularly. Aside from three cathedrals (including one where the Tsars were once crowned) and a number of towers, the Kremlin is also home to the Armory building, a museum holding everything from the royal crown and imperial carriages to the ivory throne of Ivan the Terrible and Fabergé eggs.

The Bolshoi Theater is home to the largest and one of the oldest ballet and opera companies in the world . While the theater has undergone several major renovations over the past century-including a recent one in 2011 to restore some of the imperial architectural details-it still retains all of its Neoclassical grandeur.

The Bolshoi Theater you see today opened in 1824, after several older versions burned down. Inside, red velvet, a three-tiered crystal chandelier, and gilt moldings give the place a Byzantine-Renassaince grandiose feel like no other.

Catching a show from the resident ballet and opera troupes is a treat, as the theater often presents a number of classic performances, such as Tchaikovsky's Mazeppa and Rachmaninoff's Francesca da Rimini, both of which originally premiered here.

Moscow's oldest and most upscale shopping center is an architectural marvel. GUM (short for Glávnyj Universálnyj Magazín or "Main Universal Store") was built in the late 1800s in neo-Russian style to showcase a beautiful mix of a steel skeleton and 20,000 panels of glass forming an arched roof.

This was a unique construction at the time, since the glass had to be strong enough to support the snow-heavy Russian winters. The building is just as impressive outside, with all three levels covered in marble and granite.

While GUM is no longer the largest shopping center in Moscow, it's still by far the most beautiful. Home to brands like Gucci and Manolo Blahnik, this might not be the ideal destination for most budget-conscious visitors, but the beauty of the building itself is worth a visit.

On the third floor, there are also great dining options, including a Soviet-style canteen that serves traditional Russian food, and a stand selling ice cream made by hand using an original 1954 recipe originally approved by the Soviet government.

Lenin's Mausoleum, the final resting place of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin, occupies a central spot in Red Square. His body has been in the mausoleum since his death in 1924-and although the original plan was for him to be buried after a short period of public display for mourning, the plan quickly changed.

After over 100,000 visited the tomb over a period of six weeks, it was decided that a new sarcophagus and a more permanent display space could actually preserve Lenin's body for much longer than expected-and Lenin's Mausoleum was built.

Over the years, the mausoleum and its marble stairs also became the main spot from where Soviet leaders would watch parades and events happening in Red Square.

Lenin's embalmed body can still be seen today, lying down in a bulletproof glass sarcophagus as if he's sleeping. While a visit to the mausoleum is certainly unusual, it has become a must-do for history buffs looking to understand how Lenin's legacy truly changed the nation. Come ready to wait, though -there are usually lines to get in.

All of Moscow's main streets start at Red Square, so it's easy to see why this is considered the heart of the city. A massive space of 330 meters by 70 meters, the square is flanked by the Kremlin, Lenin's Mausoleum, two cathedrals, and the State Historical Museum.

In 1945, a massive Victory Parade was held here to celebrate the defeat of Nazi Germany by the Soviet Armed Forces.

St. Basil's Cathedral , one of the most recognizable buildings on the square, was built in 1555. The unique cathedral has architectural details inspired by Byzantine and Asian design, as well as details that resemble those found in famous mosques. There are nine individual chapels inside the church, all decorated with colorful mural art.

Both the square itself and the Kremlin are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites . On weekends, there are sometimes stalls selling souvenirs and traditional items here, such as matryoshka (Russian nesting dolls), at the entrance of the square.

At one point, Russia and the US were toe-to-toe when it came to space exploration. While that might no longer be the case, the museum's amazing collection-which includes over 85,000 items-is still awe-inspiring.

Main exhibits include the space capsule used by Yuri Gagarin , the first human to travel into outer space; a USSR flag with moon fragments; a Soviet spacesuit; and a rocket propulsion unit from the 1960s. A special two-story hall showcases sections of the Mir space station interior, and there are also models of the first sputniks and a replica miniature spaceship.

English-language tours are available, and there's also a Cinema Hall showing subtitled short films about the history of space exploration programs and the first manned space flight.

The museum is located inside the base of the monument to the Conquerors of Space, which was built almost 20 years before the museum opened.

Riding the Moscow metro is an experience all in itself, but even just heading underground to walk through the stations is something no visitor should miss. With 223 stations and 12 metro lines crosscutting through Moscow, however, this can be tricky, so visiting at least a few of the most impressive ones is a good start.

Arbatskaya station was designed by a skyscraper architect, so it's no surprise that it features multicolored granite slabs and impressive bronze chandeliers.

Park Kultury station , located next to Gorky Park, is covered in marble and features reliefs of people involved in sports, while Teatralnaya station is decorated with porcelain figures dancing and wearing traditional Russian costumes.

The metro is open between 5:30am and 1:00am but it's very crowded in the early morning and after 4pm, so it's better to visit in the late morning or early afternoon to really appreciate the architecture without the crowds.

The Moscow State Integrated Art and Historical Architectural and Natural Landscape Museum-Reserve is a cultural open-air museum complex comprised of four different historical sites.

The most important site, the Kolomenskoye Estate, was once the summer residence of Tsars as far back as the 14 th century. The complex, which covers almost 300 hectares, is home to fairy-tale wooden palaces; a tent-roof stone church built in the 1500s; a water tower; fort towers and structures; and the 24-room Museum of Wooden Architecture , which includes the restored dining room of Tsar Alexei I.

Beautiful manicured gardens , riverside picnic areas, and a massive collection of both artifacts and structures make this a great destination to help you see what medieval Russia looked like. English-language tours are available, but you're also free to wander the grounds on your own.

The largest collection of Russian art in the world sits here, with over 180,000 paintings, sculptures, and religious art dating back to over a millennia ago. The gallery, built using beautiful red and white colors from classical Russian architecture, is located near the Kremlin and it was built in the early 20 th century.

Significant art pieces include the Vladimir Mother of God; a Byzantine icon of the Virgin and child dating back to the 1100s; Andrei Rublev's The Trinity icon from the 15 th century; and several works by Ilya Repin, the most famous realist painter in Russia.

On the grounds of the museum, there is also an 86-meter-tall statue of Peter the Great, as well as a number of Socialist Realism sculptures.

Moscow's one-kilometer-long pedestrian street has been around since the 15 th century. Originally a trade route in the outskirts of the city, Arbat Street is now very centrally located, home to posh buildings and lots of places to eat and shop.

Beautiful street lamps and two significant statues-one of Princess Turandot (from Puccini's last opera) and one of Soviet-era poet Bulat Okudzhava-adorn the street, which fills up with both locals and tourists on evenings and weekends.

A great place to pick up souvenirs or sit down at an outdoor café, Arbat Street also offers a chance to visit the former home of poet Alexander Pushkin and the café both Anton Chekhov and Leo Tolstoy used to visit.

Although it was originally designed as a general-purpose trade show venue, this park complex now houses amusement rides , ice rinks , and a number of galleries and other attractions for all ages.

The park's most famous landmarks are the Moskvarium, a marine biology center home to over 8000 species of marine animals, the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art, and a shopping center selling traditional products from former Soviet countries.

There's even a film museum showing Soviet cartoons or even a full-length film (for an extra fee) and an education center offering masterclasses on everything from becoming a barista to video montage (call or write in advance to find out which ones are English-friendly).

Soviet-era pavilions, sculptures, and fountains abound here as well, including the famous Friendship of the Peoples Fountain, which features statues of women dressed in costumes from different former Soviet countries.

Named after the famous Russian writer Maxim Gorky (who was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature five times but never won it) and sitting right across the Moskva River, Gorky Park covers 120 hectares of beautiful ponds and green spaces.

Popular with both locals and tourists, the park offers a variety of things to enjoy-from sunbeds, hammocks, and drinking fountains to free yoga classes and children's playgrounds. There's free Wi-Fi and sockets for charging your phone, as well as many food stands and plenty of wild animals, including deer, rabbits, and pheasants.

Visitors can rent paddle boats and bicycles to explore the park-and from May to October, there is also an open-air movie theater, as well as scheduled presentations by street performers, musicians, and artists. Gorky Park attracts the young and old, so don't be surprised to see a mix of people exercising, playing chess, and sunbathing.

Luxury Hotels :

• Lotte Hotel Moscow is one of the top 5-star properties in Moscow offering the largest Royal Suite in Russia. The trendy rooms and suites here all have contemporary style and great city views. On-site amenities are plentiful. There are two restaurants: one serving contemporary Italian fare, and the other Japanese. There is an impressively lit indoor swimming pool, a well-known spa, and a state-of-the-art gym.
• Another excellent luxury hotel is the Ararat Park Hyatt Moscow . The residential-style property is in the heart of Moscow just next to the Bolshoi Theatre and within walking distance of the Kremlin and Red Square. The rooms and suites have been opulently designed by Tony Chi. The on-site restaurant serves a mix of European and Armenian specialities. There is also a Japanese sushi bar and a rooftop lounge with fabulous city views.
• The St. Regis Moscow Nikolskaya also has a central location just a few minutes from the Kremlin and Red Square. The 5-star property has a mix of elegant rooms and suites, including interconnecting room options for families with kids. There are multiple restaurants on-site including an Italian bistro. Other amenities include the fabulous Iridium Spa, which does a full range of treatments and has an indoor swimming pool, sauna, and steam room.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Palmira Business Club is a top mid-range choice. The contemporary lifestyle hotel offers well-appointed rooms and suites, including options for families. Suites are quite spacious and have kitchenettes. Amenities here include a complimentary breakfast at the on-site restaurant, a hot tub, sauna, and spa. There is also a fitness center.
• The trendy Mercure Moscow Baumanskaya offers a mix of rooms and suites with contemporary decor. The mid-range hotel can arrange airport transportation and offers baggage storage. Other amenities include a restaurant and room service. The front desk is open 24 hours.
• Boutique Hotel Brighton is about 10 minutes from the city center in a leafy park area. It offers excellent value for money and has charming rooms and suites with sound-proof windows and doors, as well as blackout curtains. A complimentary breakfast is served, and there is also an indoor swimming pool.

Budget Hotels :

• Hotel Ibis Budget Moscow Panfilovskaya is about a 15-minute drive from Moscow's downtown, and it's within walking distance from a metro station that will take you there. The soundproof rooms at this budget property are clean, comfortable, and can sleep up to three people. The hotel is pet friendly, has paid parking available on-site, and also has a salon.
• If you just need a budget hotel near the airport then check out Aviator Hotel Sheremetyevo . Located right at the airport, it has soundproof rooms, including options for families. Amenities include an indoor play area for kids, a sauna and swimming pool, and a free breakfast.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Exploring Russia: Whether you are interested in history, nature, or architecture, there's much to see in Russia. For a good introduction to some of the most fascinating spots in the country, take a look at our article on the Best Places to Visit in Russia . For more on Russia's second-largest city and all it has to offer, check out our piece on the Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in St. Petersburg .

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17 Top Tourist Attractions in Moscow

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

The capital of Russia is an incredible place to explore. Visitors to Moscow come away spellbound at all the amazing sights, impressed at the sheer size and grandeur of the city. Lying at the heart of Moscow, the Red Square and the Kremlin are just two of the must-see tourist attractions; they are the historical, political and spiritual heart of the city – and indeed Russia itself.

A fascinating city to wander around, stunning cathedrals, churches, and palaces lie side-by-side with bleak grey monuments and remains from the Soviet state. In addition to its plethora of historical and cultural tourist attractions, Moscow is home to world-class museums, theaters and art galleries.

Renowned for its performing arts, fantastic ballets and amazing circus acts, catching a show while in Moscow is a must. The wealth of brilliant restaurants, trendy bars, and lively nightlife means there is something for everyone to enjoy.

See also: Where to Stay in Moscow

17. Tsaritsyno Palace

Once the summer residence of Catherine the Great, the stunning Tsaritsyno Palace is now a museum-reserve. The architecture is magnificent and there is a lovely park surrounding it for visitors to explore.

Located in the south of Moscow, the palace was commissioned in 1775 and recent renovations mean its lavish interior looks better than ever before with its elegant halls and beautiful staircases.

The exhibits on display look at the life of the empress as well as the history of Tsaritsyno itself. The huge palace grounds are also home to some other delightful buildings with the elegant opera house and wonderful brickwork of the Small Palace being particularly impressive to gaze upon.

Starting out in 1935 as the ‘All-Union Agricultural Exhibition’, VDNKh has slowly morphed over the years into the fascinating open-air museum of today. Remarkably, over 400 buildings can now be found within its confines.

The huge park complex has numerous pavilions representing former Soviet republics on show, such as those of Armenia and Turkmenistan and the distinctive architecture of each of the buildings is always interesting to gaze upon. In addition to this there is the fascinating Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics which is dedicated to space exploration and the fun Moskvarium aquarium even offers you the chance to swim with dolphins.

With lots of eateries scattered about and numerous entertainment options such as horse-riding and zip-lining, there is something for everyone to enjoy; the Friendship of Nations fountain truly is wonderful.

15. Kremlin Armoury

One of the oldest museums in the city, the Kremlin Armoury has a wealth of treasures; highlights include the ornate Grand Siberian Railway egg, the historic Cap of Monomakh and the stunning Imperial Crown of Russia which often has a crowd of tourists around it, jostling to take a photo.

Once the royal armory, there are loads of fascinating objects on display. Perusing the many sabers, jewelry, armor and more is as interesting as it is educational and entertaining and the swords are so finely crafted that you’ll almost wish you could pick up one and wield if yourself.

Established in 1851, the museum is situated in the Moscow Kremlin.

14. GUM Department Store

Standing for ‘Main Universal Store’ in Russian, GUM is stunning. Its wonderful skylights and beautiful facades mean it doesn’t look out of place alongside its illustrious neighbors on Red Square.

With over 200 shops, boutiques and upmarket eateries inside, it is a shopaholic’s heaven and concerned partners will be glad to find more affordable options alongside luxury brands such as Dior and Prada.

The main department store in the city, GUM was opened in 1893. The stunning architecture makes it well worth a visit even if shopping isn’t your thing.

13. Moscow Metro

It’s not often that public transport looks like a work of art. So many stops on the Moscow Metro will astound visitors with their beauty and elegance.

Decked in marble and with frescoes covering the walls, the stations are amazing to gaze upon and are part of one of the longest metro systems in the world, with the first stations opened in 1935.

Using the metro is the quickest and easiest way to get around Moscow and braving the crowds of commuters is well worth it for the beauty all around you.

12. Arbat Street

An elegant yet lively street, Arbat is full of impressive architecture and was once a popular place to live for aristocrats, artists, and academics.

A historic place, it is down Arbat Street that Napoleon’s troops are said to have headed on their way to capture the Kremlin.

Nowadays, there are many cafes, restaurants, and shops, as well as various monuments and statues to former residents such as Alexander Pushkin who was reputed to be a lover of the Russian Empress due to his massive influence in court.

11. Novodevichy Convent

Drenched in history, the Novodevichy Convent is located in a striking building that was once a fortress. This captivating place is well worth visiting when in Moscow.

Founded in 1524, the convent houses four cathedrals; Smolensk Cathedral is the undoubted highlight due to its delightful 16th-century frescoes.

Wandering around the grounds is like stepping back in time. The Novodevichy Cemetery is where many famous leaders of the Soviet Union are buried, such as Yeltsin and Khrushchev.

10. Pushkin Museum

Despite its name, the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts actually has no connection at all to the famous poet other than that it was named in his honor after his death. A delight to visit, its extensive collection focuses on European art with masterpieces by Botticelli, Rembrandt, and van Gogh all featuring.

Sculptures, graphic art, paintings and more can be found in its beautiful galleries; various sections look at themes and epochs such as the Renaissance, the Dutch Golden Age, and Byzantine art.

Among the many highlights are the clownish characters which can be found in Cezanne’s Fastnacht (Mardi Gras) and the twirling ballerinas who look so elegant in Degas’ Blue Dancers. Picasso’s Young acrobat on a Ball is also well worth checking out for its interesting use of shapes and colors.

9. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This gorgeous Russian Orthodox cathedral is located on the banks of the Moskva River, just a stone’s throw away from the Kremlin.

The church as it stands today was consecrated in 2000, as the original church that stood here was destroyed on the command of Josef Stalin in 1931 due to the anti-religious campaign.

With its delightful golden dome, spires and dazzling white facades, the Christ the Savior Cathedral is stunning. The interior is just as captivating to wander around, with its beautifully tiled floors and impressive altar.

8. Lenin Mausoleum

Opened to the public in 1924, Lenin’s Mausoleum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Moscow. The red granite structure is located at the heart of the city in Red Square.

Lenin’s embalmed body lies in a glass sarcophagus; it is a somewhat eerie experience walking past the former leader of the Soviet Union but is well worth doing as you understandably can’t do it anywhere else in the world.

After visiting the mausoleum, head to the Kremlin wall right next to it for more graves of important communist figures such as Stalin and Brezhnev.

7. Tretyakov Gallery

Home to the most extensive and impressive collection of Russian fine art in the world, the State Tretyakov Gallery is definitely worth visiting when in Moscow for the wealth of amazing art pieces that it has on display.

Having started out as the private art collection of the Tretyakov brothers, there are now over 130,000 exhibits. Highlights include the iconic Theotokos of Vladimir which you will almost certainly recognise despite probably not knowing the name and Rublev’s Trinity which is considered to be one of highest achievements in Russian art.

An absolute must for art lovers, the State Tretyakov Gallery will delight visitors with all that is has to offer.

6. Kolomenskoye

Once a royal estate, Kolomenskoye is now a museum-reserve and lies a few kilometers outside of the city center. A captivating place to visit, there is a plethora of history on show and the site overlooks the Moskva River.

Consisting of four historical sites, there are extensive gardens for visitors to explore, as well as loads of interesting old buildings, the former village of Kolomenskoye itself and the impressive Palace of the Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich – once considered the Eighth Wonder of the World by contemporaries.

Among the many stunning sights, it is the brilliantly white Ascension Church that is the undoubted highlight – dating back to 1532.

5. Gorky Park

Lying alongside the Moskva River, the huge Gorky Park is a lovely place to visit. Its extensive gardens are home to numerous cultural institutions and visitors should definitely check out the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art and while the eclectic exhibits may not always feature such incredible sights as a balloon-covered rider on a zebra; they certainly always succeed in pushing back the boundaries of art.

Pop-up exhibitions and festivals can be found from time to time in the park itself and there is an open-air theatre and numerous eateries alongside a plethora of leisure activities.

Whether it’s cycling, table tennis or yoga that you are after or beach volleyball and rowing, Gorky Park certainly has it. In winter, there is a huge ice rink for visitors to enjoy.

4. Bolshoi Theatre

The Bolshoi Theatre is the main theater in the country. The amazing opera and ballet performances it has put on over the centuries go a long way in explaining Russia’s rich history of performing arts.

While the Bolshoi Ballet Company was established in 1776, the theater itself was opened in 1825. The glittering, six-tier auditorium is lavishly and decadently decorated; it is a fitting setting for the world-class performances that take place on its stage.

Spending a night watching a performance of such classics as The Nutcracker or Swan Lake at the Bolshoi Theatre is sure to be a memorable experience and the beauty all around you only adds to the sense of occasion.

3. Moscow Kremlin

This famously fortified complex is remarkably home to five palaces and four cathedrals and is the historic, political and spiritual center of the city. The Kremlin serves as the residence for the country’s president. It has been used as a fort, and this fact is made clear by its sheer size. The Kremlin’s outer walls were built in the late 1400s.

Under Ivan III, better known as Ivan the Great, the Kremlin became the center of a unified Russian state, and was extensively remodeled. Three of the Kremlin’s cathedrals date to his reign that lasted from 1462-1505. The Deposition Church and the Palace of Facets were also constructed during this time. The Ivan the Great Bell Tower was built in 1508. It is the tallest tower at the Kremlin with a height of 266 feet (81 meters).

Joseph Stalin removed many of the relics from the tsarist regimes. However, the Tsar Bell, the world’s largest bell, and the Tsar Cannon, the largest bombard by caliber in the world, are among the remaining items from that era. The Kremlin Armory is one of Moscow’s oldest museums as it was established more than 200 years ago. Its diamond collection is impressive.

The Kremlin’s gardens – Taynitsky, Grand Kremlin Public and Alexander – are beautiful. The Kremlin has also served as the religious center of the country, and there is a tremendous number of preserved churches and cathedrals here. The collections contained within the museums include more than 60,000 historical, cultural and artistic monuments. Those who enjoy the performing arts will want to consider attending a ballet or concert at the State Kremlin Palace. Completed in 1961, it is the only modern building in the Kremlin.

2. Red Square

Lying at the heart of Moscow, Red Square is the most important and impressive square in the city. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions due to its wealth of historical sights and cultural landmarks.

Drenched in history, the huge square is home to incredible sights such as the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s Mausoleum, among others. Consequently, it is not to be missed when in Moscow as it really is home to the city’s most stunning monuments.

It is here that many important moments in Russian history took place; the former marketplace has hosted everything from Tsar’s coronations and public ceremonies to rock concerts and Soviet military parades. Wandering around the massive square is a humbling experience and undoubtedly one of the highlights the city has to offer.

1. Saint Basil’s Cathedral

Located in the impressive Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral is gorgeous; its delightful spires appear as if out of a fairytale. The most recognizable building in the country, the cathedral is very much a symbol of Russia. No visit to Moscow is complete without having taken in its unique and distinctive features.

Ivan the Terrible ordered the cathedral’s construction in the mid-16th century, and legend holds that Ivan put out the architect’s eyes so that he would be unable to build another cathedral more glorious than St. Basil’s. Designed to resemble the shape of a bonfire in full flame, the architecture is not only unique to the period in which it was built but to any subsequent period. For various reasons, both Napoleon and Stalin wanted to destroy the cathedral but fortunately did not succeed.

Known for its various colors, shapes and geometric patterns, St. Basil’s Cathedral houses nine different chapels that are all connected by a winding labyrinth of corridors and stairways. On the lower floor, St. Basil’s Chapel contains a silver casket bearing the body of St. Basil the Blessed.

Throughout the cathedral are many beautiful murals, frescoes, wooden icons and other art works and artifacts. Outside the cathedral is a lovely garden with the bronze Monument to Minin and Pozharsky, who rallied an all-volunteer Russian army against Polish invaders during a period of the late 16th century known as the Times of Troubles.

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25 Best Things to Do in Moscow

 vladimir zakharov / Getty Images

If it's your first time visiting Moscow, it's normal to feel overwhelmed. The Russian capital has over 800 years of history and a population of nearly 13 million residents spread across a giant spider-web-shaped city, so finding your bearings takes some time. The sprawling metropolis includes major attractions you've probably heard of, like the Kremlin or St. Basil's Church, but there's so much more to be discovered in Moscow. From the era when tsars ruled to the post-Soviet capital of today, Moscow has always had an air of mystery to it. Pull back the veil and you're sure to be surprised at just how much is hiding beneath the surface.

Explore the Kremlin

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

First-time visitors must tour the Moscow Kremlin.  The heart of the historic district of the city and the long-time seat of government, the Kremlin contains palaces, churches, museums, and even a larger-than-life cannon, all of which can be viewed while touring the grounds. There is a lot to see just within the Kremlin walls, but the most important attraction is the Armory Chamber, which houses royal regalia, gowns, golden carriages, and other items that date back to the days of the tsardom in Russia.

Visit Novodevichy Convent

The Novodevichy Convent is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the most well-known cloister in all of Moscow. In a city where many ancient religious buildings were torn down after the revolution, the Novodevichy Convent is one of the surviving churches that's remained practically untouched for centuries. On the convent's grounds are the Novodevichy cemetery and necropolis, which have been the burial place for Russia's elite since the 16th century. Visitors can see the final resting places of the key figures in Russian history, from political leaders like Khrushchev and Yeltsin to artistic heroes like Chekhov and Gogol.

Meet Stalin's Seven Sisters

Moscow's Seven Sisters of Stalinist Architecture remember the mid-century leader's need for Russia to illustrate its size and might. These skyscrapers are an integral part of Moscow's skyline and are placed throughout the city, easily recognizable by their domineering presence. The seven are buildings are the Hotel Ukraina, Kotelnicheskaya Embankment Apartments, the Kudrinskaya Square Building, the Hilton Moscow Leningradskaya Hotel, the main building of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the main building of Moscow State University, and the Red Gates Administrative Building.

Get a Sparrow's-Eye View

For the best view in Moscow, take a trip to the summit of Sparrow Hills. Located on the outer rings of the city and right along the riverbank, it's one of the tallest points in Moscow and offers unbeatable views. Nearby landmarks include the Novodevichy Convent, the Olympic Luzhniki Stadium, and Moscow University, which is one of the Seven Sisters. You can hike up when the weather is nice or use the cable car for an easier ride, just make sure you have your camera to capture the views.

Ride the Metro

In most cities, the metro is a means for seeing attractions but not an actual attraction itself. That's not the case in Moscow. The Moscow metro is an incredible network of underground rails connected by architecturally splendid stations all designed around a theme or style. The design of the Moscow metro stations was overseen by Stalin and they were meant to be "palaces of the people" with ornate architecture, large chandeliers, and artistic sculptures for the people to enjoy on their daily commutes. Several stations are tourist landmarks in and of themselves, especially Komsomolskaya, Kiyevskaya, and Mayakovskaya.

Pay Your Respects to Lenin

Visiting Lenin's tomb is a free activity that you can do if you have the time. You'll enter the eerily lit interior, circle the embalmed form of Lenin, and then exit in the sunlight, perhaps a little bewildered. This experience will initiate you into the world of Russian political culture—a culture that is hardly dead and buried, despite the strides made in the past couple of decades.

Walk the Red Square in the Evening

The Red Square is the epicenter of Moscow—both literally and metaphorically. You can't visit the city without spending time in this iconic plaza, but try to dedicate at least one late evening or night to experience it without the hoards of people. If you want to see it in its less-crowded splendor, after dark is one of the best times for visiting. Though it probably won't be completely free of tourists, the size and grandeur of this important landmark will become more apparent when you take it all in.

Pass the Time at Patriarch's Ponds

The infamous setting to the introductory scene in The Master and Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov, Patriarch's Ponds is nearby Bulgakov's house-museum. Visit to honor the Russian writer or escape a scorching summer day by the cool water. During the winter, Patriarch's Ponds transforms into a romantic skating rink. Take a walk around the waters and grab a bite in one of the surrounding bistros for a pleasant afternoon in one of Moscow's most charming neighborhoods.

Visit the Cathedral of Christ the Savior

Visit the rebuilt Cathedral of Christ the Savior for a glimpse into Russian history. One of the tallest Orthodox cathedrals in the world, it was originally built in the 19th century to be the grandest church in Russia but was then demolished in 1931 by Joseph Stalin in his quest to secularize the country. The current building was modeled off of the original cathedral and only finished in 2000. The Byzantine architecture is impressive from the outside, but the majesty of the painted frescoes and elaborate altars on the inside are even more spectacular.

Step Back in Time on Old Arbat Street

When people say "The Arbat," they're referring to the neighborhood around Old Arbat Street —not to be confused with New Arbat Street. This pedestrian district is a part of Moscow's historic core and maintains the look and feel of Old Moscow, with street vendors, old shops, and classic eateries. It was also the stomping grounds for famous writers like Pushkin and Tolstoy, and you can even visit the former's old house-turned-museum. Since this is a prime tourist destination in Moscow, it's also a hotspot for pickpockets, so be sure to keep your valuables close.

Marvel at St. Basil's Cathedral

The colorful onion-shaped domes of St. Basil's Cathedral are perhaps the most recognizable symbol of Russian architecture. Located in the Red Square, it was originally commissioned by Ivan the Terrible in the 1500s (the legend says that he blinded the architects after it was done so they could never again create something so beautiful). It was nearly destroyed by Stalin in the 20th century, but in the end, he decided to keep the building and turn it into a state-run museum, which is still its main function today.

Take in History at Victory Park

Victory Park is, essentially, a massive war memorial celebrating Russia's victory in the Great Patriotic War, known outside of the former-Soviet Union as World War II. The area is more of an open-air museum than a park, filled with monuments, war artifacts, and statues. Fountains—over 1,400 of them—symbolize each day of Russia's participation in this international conflict. Apart from an Orthodox church, there are also a memorial mosque and a memorial synagogue at the park to commemorate persecuted Muslims and Jews.

View Russian Masterpieces

The Tretyakov Gallery is the foremost museum of Russian art in the world, housing priceless works dating as far back as the Byzantine Empire to contemporary masterpieces. Enter the fairytale building and view portraits of historical figures, famous landscape scenes, and illustrations of cultural life in Russia through the centuries. Highlights include the likes of centuries-old Byzantine religious paintings and pieces by Kandinsky.

Go Big at the Bolshoi Theater

If you're a fan of ballet or opera, the Bolshoi Theater isn't just the most renowned venue in Russia, but one of the most celebrated in the world. The name literally translates to "big theater," to distinguish it from the Maly Theater—or "small theater"—also in Moscow. The imposing facade and elaborate interior all date back to Imperial Russia, as does the prestigious Bolshoi Ballet Academy. If you can snag tickets to a show, it's sure to be one of the most memorable parts of your time in Moscow.

Mull Over Modern Art

Artists have been attracted to Moscow's art scene for centuries, from the icon painters who decorated the cathedrals of ancient Muscovy to painters like Kandinsky, who changed the art world with his abstract “musical” works. Artists in Moscow continue to push the envelope with innovative artistic endeavors that shock and wow, which is all on display at the Moscow Museum of Modern Art. While there is a focus on avant-garde Russian artists, the museum also displays established 20th and 21st-century artists from around the world.

Space Out at the Museum of Cosmonautics

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Since the days of the Space Race during the Cold War, space exploration has been an important part of Russian and Soviet history. The country is supremely proud of its space travel achievements, not least of which was sending the first human being outside of Earth's atmosphere. There are over 85,000 items on display at the Museum of Cosmonautics, including Yuri Gagarin's original space capsule, astronaut suits, and moon rovers. While the museum once focused on Soviet accomplishments, a major renovation in 2009 expanded the display to include the feats of American, Chinese, European, and other international space programs.

Improve Your Spirits

Learn all about the national drink of Russia at the History of Vodka Museum. Dive into its history and find out why it became the beverage of choice for Russians both rich and poor. It's a small museum inside the charming Izmailovo Kremlin cultural center and easy to walk through when you're short on time. It's ideal for a pitstop on a cold winter's day when you need some indoor heating and a shot of artisan vodka to stave off the chill outside.

Treat Yourself to Russian Tea

Russian tea culture differs from Western tea-drinking practices. For starters, the samovar takes center stage, a traditional kettle that originated in Russia and then spread through Eastern Europe and the Middle East. A strong pot of tea concentrate called zavarka is brewed on the samovar and each person serves themself as much as they want, controlling how strong their own tea is. First-rate hotels and fancy tea rooms often prepare the drink in a samovar, so definitely take the opportunity to enjoy it whenever you see one.

Dig into Traditional Cuisine at Cafe Pushkin

 Cafe Pushkin

Russian food is comforting and delightful, with hearty meats, light dill-seasoned salads, stick-to-your-ribs dumplings, and more. Authentic Russian cuisine is usually served with dense black bread and generous amounts of butter or sour cream to accompany every part of the meal. While you can enjoy traditional food at many places around the city, Cafe Pushkin is a landmark in itself. The ornate and historic cafe is like stepping inside a place where Tolstoy or Chekhov may have penned their works (in fact, it's named for another famous Russian writer). The restaurant is one of the highest-rated in the city, albeit a bit expensive. But if you feel like splurging on a meal, there's nowhere more iconic to do so.

Kiss Winter Goodbye During Maslenitsa

The Maslenitsa farewell-to-winter festival takes the pent-up energy from the long, cold winter and expends it in a thrilling festival of games, food, drink, and Russian traditions. It's the Orthodox version of Mardi Gras or Carnival, although since the calendar is different the dates can differ drastically. Stack your plate high with Russian pancakes called bliny and enjoy this pre-Lenten feast with traditional activities that include sleigh rides and burning the Maslenitsa effigy.

Go Ice Skating

Russians love ice sports, ice skating included. Ice rinks spring up around Moscow for the winter season, and they are regularly enjoyed by everyone. The most famous is the one erected in front of GUM every year, but Patriarch's Ponds also serves as a rink when the ice becomes thick enough. There are dozens across the city in the wintertime, although the biggest can be found at the central Gorky Park—a massive rink that takes about 15 minutes to skate around the entire perimeter!

​Weather the Cold at the Winter Festival

The Moscow Winter Festival is a celebration of the coldest season of the year, typically lasting from mid-December through mid-January and overlapping with Russian Christmas and Russian New Year. Ice sculptures, games, and other associated events make this festival an anticipated occasion for locals and visitors of all ages. Take a troika ride on a horse-drawn carriage, warm up with fresh-baked pastries, or learn all about Ded Moroz, the Russian version of Santa Claus.

Go Shopping at GUM

GUM was the state department store during the Soviet era, the place where residents could buy anything and everything. After the fall of the Soviet Union, the chain was privatized and the most famous GUM store—the one in Moscow—turned into a shopping mall of luxury goods. Facing the Red Square, GUM is still a Moscow institution for its high-end shopping and Italian-inspired architecture. Whether you want to make a purchase or just duck out of the cold weather, GUM is a place you can't miss on your trip.

Pick Up Souvenirs at Izmailovo Market

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Izmailovo Market is where dozens of vendors sell traditional Russian items like matryoshka dolls, khokhloma art, fur hats, shot glasses, paintings, embroidery, and more. You can shop to your heart's content and snag souvenirs, gifts, and conversation pieces. This fun bazaar is located inside the Izmailovo Kremlin, which feels like a small enchanting Russian town of yesteryear nestled inside busy Moscow.

Be a Bookworm

Moscow's giant bookstore, Dom Knigi, is a great location for picking up Russian-language souvenirs. Here you can find best-selling English-language books translated into Russian, Russian-language classics, dictionaries, language guides, and more. Whether you're fluent in Russian or just interested in foreign tongues, Dom Knigi is a book lover's dream.

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