Chelyabinsk is not only a city of harsh railway workers. The millionaire city, located on the slope of the Ural Mountains, on the border of Siberia and the Urals, will find something to please and entertain its guests and citizens: these are interesting stories of outstanding residents, places full of historical events, and architectural monuments.
We have selected the main things that a tourist who has little time should look at in Chelyabinsk.
- Not far from Chelyabinsk is the most interesting city in the Urals, where you should definitely go for a couple of days - Yekaterinburg. A smaller and closer, but equally interesting place is Kamensk-Uralsky.
- A complete list of the most interesting and important places in the Chelyabinsk region - near Chelyabinsk and beyond.
Kirovka
Yes, we know that in almost all guidebooks Kirovka (or Chelyabinsk Arbat) invariably flaunts first place. But it’s really cool there! A large pedestrian street with wonderful sculptures, where it’s pleasant to walk, do some shopping, and pop into cafes - there’s just an unreal amount of all this per square meter. Street musicians have settled comfortably here: they play classics, rock, pop and invariably attract a crowd of spectators. There is also a cool place with playgrounds “House Upside Down” (as you guessed, everything is upside down there, yes), “Mirror Maze” and “Labyrinth of Fear” (only allowed there from 9 years old).
In the center of Kirovka there is a business building (111 meters high with a spire!): on the 23rd floor there is an observation deck with an incredible panoramic view. You can order a photo shoot on the roof, arrange a romantic dinner, a buffet, or even propose to your beloved - any whim for your money.
In general, Kirovka is crowded, fun and interesting - be sure to look and take a photo for memory.
Chelyabinsk Arbat
First of all, in Chelyabinsk you should go to the most beautiful and memorable street in the city. The idea to create your own Arbat appeared in 2000: as a result, part of Kirov Street turned into a real cultural masterpiece. Young and cozy “Kirovka,” as it was affectionately nicknamed by local residents, has become a place where mass celebrations and flash mobs take place, musicians sing songs, and artists offer their canvases. There are also many attractions of Chelyabinsk, including preserved unique old merchant houses, nice bronze sculptures and interesting monuments. Chelyabinsk Arbat creates a special spiritual atmosphere.
Revolution Square and Theater Square
Literally across the street from Kirovka is Chelyabinsk Revolution Square, where loud mass movements regularly take place: concerts, parades and actions. In winter they build a beautiful ice town (slides, sculptures, attractions and that’s all), and in summer they equip a whole skate park for those who like to skate.
Behind the monument to Lenin on Revolution Square, you can relax in a nice park with a fountain, which in warm weather becomes singing - music plays, streams of water turn into figures and glow (really very beautiful!).
Take a short walk and reach the small Theater Square (yup, there’s another square there) and the Drama Theater - if you want to add culture and entertainment to your leisure time.
Art Museum
The Museum of Art (also right next to the Square) has several halls. In the “Ural Pavilion” you can see artistic casting - and no, it’s not boring at all: the figures are so good and high quality that they even cause bewilderment (how is it possible to make such “live” things from metal?!). There is a spacious stylish hall for changing exhibitions, a small hall for temporary exhibitions and an art salon. The latter sells exclusive gifts: engravings, sculptures and, again, castings.
Drama Theater named after Naum Orlov
The history of the main theater of Chelyabinsk goes back almost a hundred years: the date of its foundation is considered to be 1921. The theater is not afraid of searches and new productions. The repertoire is very diverse: both serious productions that receive top marks at festivals and simple comedies find their audience here. The theater actively cooperates with directors from Moscow, St. Petersburg and other major cities of the country, which makes it possible to work with actors from different schools and open up new creative perspectives.
Science Square and monument to Kurchatov
The monument to Academician Kurchatov, who managed to split the atom, is located near the Kurchatov shopping center on Science Square (and from there you can go straight to Gagarin Park). This is a very interesting architectural composition 27 meters high (!): two columns, each with a hemisphere of an atom, and between them is Kurchatov himself in full height. Every evening the monument is illuminated by spotlights. By the way, young people always hang out and skate on the square - after all, the SUSU campus is nearby. And in winter, this is how they set up an ice skating rink!
SUSU
One of the largest educational institutions in the Urals is often compared to Moscow State University. And for good reason - they are really similar in appearance (but not in size, of course). For the anniversary of the university, 2 copper sculptures, each 8 meters long, were placed on the roof: Prometheus carrying fire - a symbol of knowledge, and Glory with a wreath - a reward for educational aspirations. A monument to a student was erected near the main building, near which students are resting on benches. By the way, there are many places nearby where you can have a snack or drink coffee.
Mansion house of merchant Ryabinin
Address: st. Kaslinskaya, 137
This architectural creation has been a monument of regional significance since 2010.
In 1894, the tradesman Ryabinin acquired real estate, which consisted of a wooden house of 6 rooms, 3 imports (buildings for storing carts and sleighs), 2 stables, a barn, a barn and a bathhouse. At the beginning of the twentieth century. within 4 years it was thoroughly reconstructed in the pseudo-Russian tower style, and became a house with a 9-room basement, with stone buildings: 2 storerooms, a workshop and a stable, as well as a wooden bathhouse. Its cost has increased from 1000 rubles. up to 3000.
Ryabinin's mansion is one of the few pre-revolutionary buildings in Chelyabinsk that have survived to this day.
Gagarin Park
A huge cozy area and almost the most favorite vacation spot of all Chelyabinsk residents. In the Gagarin Park in Chelyabinsk there are ponds (with catamaran rentals, by the way), a lot of trees and greenery. It's nice to take part in city events, take a walk and eat fried ice cream with cotton candy, ride a roller coaster or go-kart, jump on a trampoline, shoot at a shooting range, or just relax on a bench watching squirrels. In general, a holiday for every taste: you can have great fun with the whole family or go on a date with your significant other (especially since in the summer they show open-air films here).
Zoo
You buy an inexpensive entrance ticket (price - 150 rubles for an adult, 80 rubles for a child) and immerse yourself in the world of animals. Lions and tigers, monkeys, snakes, eagles, bears and many other animals live here. You can book an excursion, ride a pony, or even go to the petting zoo and touch rabbits with mini pigs. The children are delighted - of course, to see in real life those whom they have only seen in the picture. Fun family competitions are also constantly held on the territory - stay tuned for news. Chelyabinsk Zoo schedule: in winter - from 10:00 to 18:00, in summer (from April 15 to October 1) - from 10:00 to 20:00.
Museum of Local Lore
If you are more into historical things and are thinking about what to see in Chelyabinsk, then, for example, in the Museum of Local Lore there are more than 300 thousand items (even of all-Russian significance, not just local ones). There are permanent exhibitions, a children's museum (with entertaining workshops for kids and schoolchildren), a library, a rooftop museum and even a rock garden. Opening hours: on weekdays from 10:00 to 18:00, on weekends from 11:00 to 19:00. Single ticket price for all exhibitions: 250 rubles for schoolchildren and students, 350 rubles for adults.
In general, the building itself is located on the Miass embankment and it is gorgeous (see photo of the Museum of Local Lore) - it’s worth going if only to admire this architectural masterpiece or take stylish photos for Instagram.
Within walking distance is another cultural attraction of Chelyabinsk - the Memorial to Soldiers of Law and Order. Near the monument there is a place to sit and relax with a view of the museum and the Miass River.
Church of the Holy Trinity
Address: st. Kirova, 60A < Phone: Website: https://kirillmefody.ru/ Opening hours: 08:00 - 18:00, Mon - Sun
The church was moved to its place in 1768. in connection with the erection of the Nativity Cathedral (the largest at that time). In 1829 the building was rebuilt from wood to stone. And in 1919, the church was closed (which saved it from demolition, unlike the largest temple), and, when used for the needs of the city, it housed a local history museum. After many years, in 1990, the building was returned to the Russian Orthodox Church.
The Holy Trinity Church is valued not only for its long history, but also for its original layout, reminiscent of Noah's Ark, and unique acoustics, thanks to which a stereo sound effect is achieved, and audibility is excellent from anywhere in the temple. Therefore, chants and choir performances here are performed without accompaniment.
In addition, people come to the temple to see healing shrines: the icon of the Mother of God of the Sign, particles of the relics of the saints Apostle Andrew the First-Called, the Great Martyr Tryphon, the Venerable Seraphim of Sarov, the Holy Blessed Matrona of Moscow and the healer Great Martyr Panteleimon.
Aloe Pole Square
The Aloe Pole Park, by the way, is more than a hundred years old: once upon a time there was a Fair Square, and over time it was replaced by a beautiful square, the Palace of Pioneers, a basketball field and a children's playground. The Alexander Nevsky Temple flaunts, which just a few years ago was, imagine, an organ hall (it's a long story). And there is also a monument-mausoleum to Lenin with a bronze bust of the leader of the revolution on top: by the way, rallies often take place near it (well, that’s true, by the way).
Alexander Nevsky Church
Address: Aloe Pole, 1 Phone: Website: https://www.hram-nevskogo.ru/ Opening hours: 08:00 - 18:00, Mon - Sun
The Orthodox church located on Alom Pole is an object of cultural heritage of the Chelyabinsk region. Previously, it housed chamber and organ music halls, but in 2013 it was renovated. the organ was dismantled.
In 1881, on what was once the outskirts of the city, a chapel was founded by the merchant Kutyrev and named in honor of the commander Alexander Nevsky. After 3 years, the Orenburg Conservatory proposes to “turn the chapel into a church.” Construction was suspended several times. In 1907 The world-famous architect A.N. Pomerantsev took on the project and completed it absolutely free of charge in the new Russian-Byzantine style. Alexander Nevskaya Church is the only surviving temple of Pomerantsev in Russia.
Like most churches, during the Soviet years it was used for various purposes: for a newspaper printing shop, a warehouse for military equipment, art gallery collections, a state archive storage facility, a planetarium, a chess school and clubs for the Palace of Pioneers.
In the 80s the building was transferred to the Chelyabinsk Philharmonic, and restoration was carried out in 1987. the organ was installed. In the 90s The building was transferred to the Russian Orthodox Church, and many years of discussions began about moving the instrument. And, despite the assurances of experts that moving it risks losing sound (since each instrument is made for a specific acoustic room); statements by the creators of the Chelyabinsk organ that its transfer to another premises is unacceptable, and an official refusal to participate in the transfer; winter 2013 the organ was taken out.
Sculpture “Sphere of Love”
We won’t be lying if we say that this composition is especially popular among newlyweds: people come here for the sake of beautiful photos, and also to seal the relationship not only with rings, but also with a strong kiss. Afterwards, according to tradition, a padlock with the names of the spouses is hung on the fence. The sculpture itself, by the way, was made in Italy, and it consists of four connected bronze trees with a blue glass dome: under it are two lovers flying towards each other (feminine and masculine). The sculpture “Sphere of Love” in Chelyabinsk is located right next to the Kinomax-Ural cinema: you definitely won’t miss it!
Museum of entertaining science "Experimentus"
The youngest and most amazing museum in the city has already won love and popularity among its residents. Dozens of amazing experiments can be carried out independently in this unusual museum. The exhibits not only demonstrate physical and chemical phenomena, but also make them visual and entertaining, which not every museum can boast of. Here you can literally touch a tornado, look at yourself through the eyes of a predator, or launch lightning from your hands. At the same time, practical experiments will be equally exciting both for children, who will not be distracted from launching new mechanisms, and for adults, for whom the museum’s exhibits will seem to take them back to their school years. This is one of the best places in Chelyabinsk to visit with children.
Ferris wheel "360" next to the Megapolis cultural complex
The Ferris wheel at Megapolis operates all year round: the booths are closed, the seats are soft and climate control is working. In general, this is the second tallest wheel in Russia (73 meters, just for a second!): look at Chelyabinsk and all its main attractions in detail and even comfortably. By the way, you can order a program for a date or a holiday: they will ride three laps, and they will also set a whole table of goodies. Opening hours: from 10:00 to 01:00 (Monday and Thursday - from 13:00 to 01:00). For adults, the ticket price on weekdays is 180 rubles, and on weekends - 250 rubles (for children - 100 rubles and 150 rubles, respectively). Read the cost of individual offers on the company’s official website.
Theater "Mannequin"
Originating as a student platform for variety miniatures, from the moment of its creation the Manneken Theater in Chelyabinsk strived for professionalism and growth. Hard work quickly bore fruit: in 1992 the theater received municipal status, and in 2000 a new stage in. Any production presented in this theater is always a bright and extraordinary event. They are not afraid to experiment; they are always looking for new forms and ideas. The theater's playbill presents truly exciting performances with an unconventional director's vision. Both local artists and troupes that come on tour take part in the productions. It will be very interesting to visit this place in Chelyabinsk.
Abandoned State Bank Elevator
This place, the hero of creepy urban legends, gives many people chills, especially at night: a high abandoned building with black holes instead of windows looks mystical and mysterious. But the building was once considered the hallmark of Chelyabinsk! According to the townspeople, the people who live there are, however, not ghosts, but, as a rule, roofers, diggers and homeless people (but who knows?). Of course, we won’t recommend going inside the Chelyabinsk elevator (address: Kirova, 130v/1), but it’s definitely worth tickling your nerves while walking nearby.
Lake Smolino
In the southeast of Chelyabinsk the waves of the region's best natural attraction splash. Lake Smolino is a natural slightly salted reservoir, which has been listed as a natural monument since 1969. Smolino is a fragment of an ancient sea - the waters filled a bowl with a clay bottom. Once upon a time, the silt and mud of the lake had healing properties, and swimming in its waters had a beneficial effect on the body and cured many diseases. Now the lake is heavily polluted due to its proximity to a large industrial center and the Shershnevsky reservoir.
City Park named after Pushkin
The cozy family park of Pushkin with lots of greenery, sculptures, benches and a fountain is a kind of island of relaxation from the bustle of the city. There are summer cafes on the territory, various events are regularly held, and horseback riding. And, of course, we should mention the attractions: a Ferris wheel, trampolines, carousels, trains, roller coasters - especially a lot of fun for children of all ages.
On the territory of the park there is a real steam locomotive “Red Communard” (this is not a model or a copy!). At one time, he traveled around Siberia and transported pounds of bread for starving Moscow in 1920. Subsequently, the real hero took pride of place on the pedestal.
Opera and Ballet Theater named after M. V. Glinka
The function of artistic and moral education of residents has long rested on the mighty shoulders of the Opera and Ballet Theater, the construction of which began in 1937. The repertoire widely includes classical operas by Soviet and Western European composers, as well as familiar ballet performances in new interpretations. The uniform style, manner, and composition of the ballet troupe helped to win many prizes, awards and titles.
Victory Garden Park
The second largest park in the city, “Garden of Victory,” is located in the Traktorozavodsky district, and it was developed already in the 1930s (it managed to be the garden of the tractor district and the socialist city of ChTZ). On the main square there is a monument of glory, the Alley of Veterans, the Alley of Peace, the Alley of Youth, an indoor theater and a children's playground.
In 2008, the “Good Angel of the World” monument was opened in the “Victory Garden”, and, by the way, it is of international significance: a ten-meter column with a hemisphere (symbol of the Earth), on which stands a golden angel with a dove in his hands.
In addition, there is a museum of military equipment in the park and, they say, there is no other similar exhibition in the Urals anywhere except in Chelyabinsk. There are also self-propelled artillery units, a ZIS-5 vehicle, tanks and other powerful vehicles - by the way, children really like to climb on them.
Mansion of M.P.Arkhipov
Address: st. Communes, 68
The building, built in 1911, is the only one in Chelyabinsk that has preserved its interior decoration and interior from pre-revolutionary times. Since 1977 it has been under state protection as an architectural monument.
The first floor of this building is brick, the second is wooden. It is in excellent condition due to the quality of finishing and construction work, despite the fact that it has not been repaired for almost 90 years. Not only the plaster stucco on the ceilings and wooden doors have been preserved; but also paintings, tiled stoves, forged railings of stone stairs. You can see unique decor in each room; even lampshades on the theme “Seasons” have been preserved.
The personality of the owner of the house is of interest: having grown up in a peasant family, he achieved significant heights in trade, organized the Arkhipov and Co. trading house, became a philanthropist, gained authority in society and was awarded several medals.
Not so long ago, the building turned 100 years old, and during this time it managed to be an orphanage, newspaper editorial offices, housing administration and other organizations. Since 1997, it has been given over to the Chelyabinsk Scientific Center of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, and in 2012 it was transferred to the Main Directorate of the Ministry of Internal Affairs for free use. There was a proposal to open a museum of Chelyabinsk merchants in the building, the question remains open.
Ice Arena "Traktor"
“Home” of Chelyabinsk love and pride - the Traktor hockey team. According to fans, everything in the arena is thought out: a great box, shops for fan paraphernalia, drinks, hot hot dogs and hot competitions - well, it’s like some kind of fairy tale! In addition to hockey games, all sorts of sporting events and concerts are held here. Follow the poster and look for the light.
Botanical Garden of ChelSU
The unique botanical garden is cared for by students and teachers of the Faculty of Ecology. Entrance is absolutely free and free: residents of the residential area love to walk here with their children and admire the flowers and greenery. Many plants are even listed in the Red Book (for example, fragrant violet and northern shiverekia).
But the most important thing is that a whole family of fearless gophers lives on the territory (they have already become a local meme and received a separate public page on VKontakte)! True, they complain a little about them - they eat the very greens that the volunteers diligently grow, but what can you do? They also made a pond in the botanical garden, with old boats installed next to it. Beauty! Now you know what a tourist can see in Chelyabinsk: and if you choose a few of your favorite places, you can get around them in just one day (most of them are in the center)!
Photos from the sites chelyabinsk.tourslife.ru, Yandex.Pictures (nik-0397, nefrina90), culture.ru, eurasia174.ru, cheladmin.ru, tonkosti.ru, rutraveller.ru, megapolis.mega74.ru, zabaka.ru, kultura174.ru, pmd74.ru, rest.chelsity.rf, 1obl.ru
Beautiful places in Chelyabinsk, natural attractions
Interesting places in Chelyabinsk are not only historical, architectural and cultural monuments. It is also a wonderful natural attraction.
City Forest
Just a 10-minute walk from the main city square begins a specially protected area, a natural monument - the city forest, originally called Chelyabi-Karagay (sacred forest). The city inherited its name from him. Chelyabinsk is the only metropolis in the Russian Federation with a full-fledged forest within the city limits.
A forest with an area of more than 1200 hectares appeared on the right bank of the Miass River in the final phase of the Ice Age more than 10 thousand years ago. He grew up on a huge granite massif. More than 90% of the trees on its territory are relict pine trees.
The forest has more than 20 reservoirs, several springs, the Chikinka River, artificial caves, and picturesque stone ruins. It has become home to 150 species of birds; here you can see about 500 species of plants, including those listed in the Red Book.
City Forest is a favorite vacation spot for townspeople and tourists. A bicycle path stretches through the entire forest from the monument to Kurchatov to the Shershnevsky reservoir. The Explorers' Trail, more than 2 km long, recently opened. Popular among visitors are the Monakhi tract, the Izumrudny and Goluboy quarries.
There are several cultural and entertainment facilities located on the territory of the city forest:
- Central Park of Culture and Culture named after. Gagarin.
- Zoo.
- Toy railway.
Lake Smolino
The huge Lake Smolino on the southeastern outskirts of the Leninsky district of the metropolis is a remnant of the ancient sea, the cleanest body of water in Chelyabinsk. Thanks to the salty sea water and healing mud, several decades ago it was a real resort pearl.
As a result of human activity, water is gradually desalinated, losing its medicinal properties. The lake today is a piece of paradise, a popular place for summer residents and lovers of recreation by the water.
Kashtaksky pine forest
Half an hour's drive from Chelyabinsk, on an area of more than 2,800 hectares, lies the Kashtaksky pine forest, a botanical monument of regional significance. It is located near the Metallurgical district of the city. There are several recreation centers on its territory, where thousands of tourists and local residents vacation every year.
Shershnevskoye Reservoir
In the southwest of the metropolis there is an artificially created reservoir on the Miass River - the Shershnevskoye Reservoir, which ensures an uninterrupted supply of drinking water to the city and several villages. The Chelyabinsk Sea is also a vacation spot for city residents at any time of the year.
In the summer, several beaches open here, as well as rental points for jet skis and ATVs (for them there are roads along the coast). In winter, skiing and snowmobiling are enjoyed here. At any time of the year, fish can be caught in a stocked reservoir by purchasing a ticket in advance. At school, children actively engage in rowing and kayaking.
