duke university chapel tour

Duke University Chapel

Features the Flentrop Organ (5,200 pipes), 50-bell carillon and stained glass windows. Numerous chapel services and recitals each week. Check our website for the calendar of events and to ensure we're open (and not closed due a private event). On weekends, a guided tour is offered every Sunday after the 11:00 a.m. worship service or by special request. No reservations are necessary.

  • Tours: Guided

Duke University 401 Chapel Dr. Durham, NC 27706

(919) 681-9488 www.chapel.duke.edu

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Public Tour of Duke Chapel

Learn about the history, architecture, and life of Duke Chapel in this tour, which is free and open to the public. The tour begins at 12:15 p.m., or immediately following the conclusion of the Sunday morning service, and lasts approximately forty-five minutes. No reservation is required but if you plan to bring a large group please notify us in advance. Meet the docent on the front steps of the Chapel.

Paid parking is available on a first come, first served basis in the Bryan Center Parking Lot at 125 Science Drive. ADA parking is available in the Bryan Center Surface Lot at the same address.

duke university chapel tour

Upcoming Dates For This Event:

  • Sunday, March 24
  • Sunday, March 31
  • Sunday, April 7
  • Sunday, April 14
  • Sunday, April 21
  • Sunday, April 28
  • Sunday, May 5
  • Sunday, May 12
  • Sunday, May 19
  • Sunday, May 26
  • Sunday, June 2
  • Sunday, June 9
  • Sunday, June 16
  • Sunday, June 23
  • Sunday, June 30
  • Sunday, July 7
  • Sunday, July 14
  • Sunday, July 21
  • Sunday, July 28
  • Sunday, August 4
  • Sunday, August 11
  • Sunday, August 18
  • Sunday, August 25
  • Sunday, September 1
  • Sunday, September 8
  • Sunday, September 15
  • 401 Chapel Dr
  • Durham, North Carolina 27708
  • Time: 12:15 PM to 12:45 PM
  • Location: Duke University Chapel
  • Admission: FREE
  • [email protected]
  • 919-681-9488
  • Add to calendar: Ical , Google

duke university chapel tour

duke student doing homework on a tall bench outside on West Campus

EXPERIENCE DUKE

The best way to enjoy Duke’s warm and welcoming spirit is to meet the people who create it: our students, faculty, and alumni. When you meet us, you’ll feel the connection, collaboration, and creativity that are the hallmark of the Duke experience. Join us virtually, in person, or both — whatever works best for you. There’s no preference in the admissions process for students who have been to campus.

duke student doing homework on a tall bench outside on West Campus

See It for Yourself

Visit in person.

Duke’s campus is considered one of the most beautiful college campuses in the country. But it’s not just the physical campus that makes Duke unlike anywhere else. It’s the warmth and welcoming spirit you feel from everyone who makes up our special community. Duke’s campus is now open to visitors who adhere to the University visitor policies .

GUIDED WALKING TOUR

Led by a student tour guide, our outdoor walking tours give you a chance to see campus highlights, ask questions, and hear why we love our vibrant community. In the event of severe weather or campus closures, tours could be canceled or delayed.

90 minutes; Reservations required

REGISTER HERE

If you plan to visit campus on your own, download the Duke Admissions Tour app, which is now available for iPhone and Android users. You may also stop by the Undergraduate Admissions Office to pick up a campus map from our outside information box.

Admissions staff are not available for in-person meetings, nor are we able to accommodate walk-in visitors for student-led tours or special requests of any kind.

INFORMATION SESSION + GUIDED WALKING TOUR

This two-part event introduces you to the Duke experience. Led by an admissions officer, our 30-minute information session includes an overview of our academic opportunities and student life. You’ll also have a chance to ask questions and hear why we love our vibrant community. A 90-minute, student-led campus walking tour will follow.

2 hours; Registration required

DIRECTIONS TO CAMPUS

Duke is located in Durham, North Carolina. The closest airport is Raleigh-Durham International Airport, which is a 20-minute drive to Duke. An Amtrak train station and Greyhound bus station are located in downtown Durham, a 7-minute drive from the Undergraduate Admissions Office.

Complimentary visitor parking for Undergraduate Admissions programs is available in the gravel lot on Duke University Road, directly across from the Karsh Alumni and Visitors Center, which is located at 2080 Duke University Road, Durham, North Carolina, 27708 .

Duke Undergraduate Admissions is located at 2138 Campus Drive, Durham, North Carolina, 27706 .

Tours originate from McClendon Commons in the Duke Undergraduate Admissions Office or the Karsh Alumni and Visitors Center. Please check tour confirmation messages for details.

Most major hotel chains are located in the Raleigh-Durham area. You may find a list of hotels closest to Duke at the Durham Convention and Visitors Bureau here .

VISITING CAMPUS

Duke University Office of Undergraduate Admissions is offering a limited number of group tours .

Please review the Group Tour Policy below before requesting a visit. These are set in place to ensure the best possible visit for you and your students.  

  • Group visits are only available to High Schools, Community Based Organizations, and Educational Non-Profits working with current high school students. 
  • All group visits must include the supervision of an adult chaperone/teacher at all times. Students are expected to conduct themselves in a respectful manner and not demonstrate disruptive behavior during the presentation. 
  • Requests for group tours are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis and may be restricted during peak visitation seasons. 
  • During the 2023-2024 academic year, Group Tours are available on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays only. Available tour times are 10:00 a.m. and 12 Noon. We do not offer visits on the weekend or on University/Federal Holidays.  
  • Group tours are not available during semester finals, winter recess, or the months of March, April, May, and August 2024.
  • To request a Group Tour, please fill out the Group Tour Request form . 
  • If you have any questions, please call our office at 919-684-3214 or email [email protected]  

After we receive your request, we will confirm whether or not we are able to accommodate your request.   Please note that w e cannot guarantee we will be able to accommodate all group requests. Y our tour is not confirmed until you receive an email that includes the tour date, time, location, and directions. If confirmed, p lease plan to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your confirmed event.

We do not offer meetings with admissions officers at this time. However, we invite you to register for our live virtual events, which include information sessions led by admissions officers, student chats, and more.

If you plan to visit campus on your own, download the  Duke Admissions Tour  app which is now available for IPHONE and ANDROID  users. You may also stop by the Office of Undergraduate Admissions to pick up a campus map from our outside information box.  

VIRTUAL PROGRAMMING

We welcome those we would have previously organized a group visit to campus to sign up for our virtual programming. If you are a community-based organization or college access program with questions about separate programming, please reach out to  [email protected] .

DISCOVER DUKE

Discover Duke events are admissions information sessions that typically last about sixty minutes. Duke admissions officers will provide an overview of the various academic and signature opportunities available to our undergraduates and will share information about our application and financial aid processes.

EXPLORING COLLEGE OPTIONS

If you are unable to attend a Discover Duke program, you may also join us for  Exploring College Options  with Georgetown University, Harvard University, Stanford University, and the University of Pennsylvania.

INTERNATIONAL EVENTS

Please register for one of our upcoming events in Mexico or Central America below. The events will be hosted jointly with other universities including Brown, Georgetown, Harvard, and Penn. Please see each registration form for the universities participating in your city. Registrant data will be shared amongst our universities.

Mexico City, Mexico Las Américas, Álvaro Obregón Monday, October 9 6:00 p.m.

Mexico City, Mexico Cuauthemoc, Juarez Tuesday, October 10 7:00 p.m.

Santa Catarina, Mexico Wednesday, October 11 6:00 p.m.

San Jose, Costa Rica Thursday, October 12 7:00 p.m.

Panama City, Panama Monday, October 16 6:00 p.m.

PRATT SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING

Explore Pratt’s newest facilities and get information on various opportunities available to engineering students. Reservations required.

CONNECT WITH FACULTY

If you would like to speak with a faculty member in a particular department or program, we encourage you to reach out directly to the Director of Undergraduate Studies in the department(s) or program(s) of interest to you.

For majors/programs in Trinity College of Arts and Sciences, click here .

For the Pratt School of Engineering, click here .

RESERVE OFFICER TRAINING CORPS (ROTC)

Duke provides Army, Navy, and Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) programs for interested students, all of which offer the possibility of financial aid. Representatives from each division are available to answer specific questions.

Air Force (AFROTC) Recruiting Officer: Prof. Ryan Allen 919-660-1869

Army (AROTC) Recruiting Officer: Jeff Daye 919-660-3091

Navy/Marine Corps (NROTC) Recruiting Officer: LT Webb Pierson 919-660-3708

OTHER TOURS

The following options are available when Duke’s campus is open to visitors.

Duke Kunshan University

Did you know Duke has launched a joint-venture university in China, where you could earn a Duke degree while studying internationally ? Request an add-on visit to the DKU Admissions House while at Duke or attend one of our weekly info sessions to learn more about DKU.

Nasher Museum of Art

Check out the collection’s rotating exhibitions and permanent installations. Plan your visit with the self-guided tour map.

Duke Chapel

A new 360-degree virtual tour presents the sights and sounds of Duke Chapel with highlights and anecdotes from the building’s history.

Cameron Indoor Stadium

Discover the Duke Basketball Museum & Duke Athletics Hall of Fame, located adjacent to Cameron in the Schwartz-Butters Athletic Center.

Tours of the Duke University Marine Laboratory , located about 180 miles east of Duke’s main campus, are available to high school or college-aged students who are interested in enrolling. To schedule a tour, please complete this Tour Request Survey  and a staff member will connect with you to schedule via email. Prospective Tours are generally available Monday – Friday from 9 am to 4 pm.

The Lemur Center

Visit Duke’s internationally acclaimed Lemur Center to acquaint yourself with more than 200 animals across 14 species housed at the noninvasive research facility.

JOIN US IN DURHAM, NC!

Make duke yours, visit virtually.

Not seeing Duke in person doesn’t mean you can’t experience everything that makes Duke an amazing place to learn, explore, live, and connect. We hope you’ll join us for some or all of our virtual programs.

For help deciding what options are best for you, click below or check out our guide here .

VIRTUAL INFORMATION SESSION

Hosted by a Duke admissions officer, information sessions introduce you to Duke University. Learn about our academic choices, signature programs, and community experience.

45 minutes; Live; Year-round; Registration Required

REGISTER NOW

If you’re unable to join us live, view a recorded session with admissions officer Milan Hamilton ’20 here:

ADMISSION & FINANCIAL AID AT DUKE

Want to hear more about applying, how Duke admissions officers evaluate applications, and what we look for when reviewing applications? Join us to get all the details!

45 minutes; Live; Year-round; Registration required

DUKE FINANCIAL AID 101

College is a significant expense, but we’re committed to making a Duke education affordable for as many students as possible. Join Duke Financial Support Officers to learn about our financial aid policies and how to apply.

If you aren’t able to join us live, you can view a recorded session with Nicole Knight from Karsh Office of Undergraduate Financial Support here:

VIRTUAL CAMPUS TOUR

Virtual tours offer an opportunity to visit campus from the comfort of your own home. Current student ambassadors guide you through popular spots on campus.

60 minutes; Live; Year-round; Registration required

If you aren’t able to join us live,  VIEW ONE OF OUR RECORDED TOURS .

VIRTUAL PRATT SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING TOUR

Interested in engineering? Join current students to explore Pratt’s newest facilities and get information on various opportunities available to engineering students.

60 minutes; Live; Registration required

BLUE DEVIL CHATS

These hour-long programs provide the opportunity to hear from current students about what it’s like to be a Blue Devil and engage with live Q&A. Blue Devil Chats serve as a casual way to connect with Duke students from a variety of backgrounds and interests to help you gain insight into the Duke experience.

More information to come.

COMMUNITY PANELS

Moderated by our admissions staff, Duke Community Panels are 75-minutes long and bring together current students, alumni, parents, faculty, and staff from across the Duke community to share their personal experiences, stories, and connections to Duke. This is your opportunity to learn more about why Duke is such an extraordinary place.

Information Session (English)

Hosted by a Duke admissions officer, our information session introduces you to Duke University. Learn about our academic choices, signature programs, and community experience.

30 minutes; Recorded; View anytime

Sesión de Información en Español

Presentado por un oficial de admisiones de Duke, nuestra sesión informativa le presenta Duke University.

18 minutos; Ver en cualquier momento

Financial Aid 101

60 minutes; Recorded; View anytime

West Campus Tour

Duke’s Gothic West Campus is central to the Duke experience. It’s home to many academic departments, residential quads for sophomores, juniors, and seniors, Duke’s professional schools, Duke Chapel, our main library, and major athletic facilities.

5 minutes; Recorded; View anytime

East Campus Tour

At Duke, all first-year undergraduates live together on East Campus, a housing community designed to support the needs and interests of students who are new to college life. On East Campus, students quickly meet classmates from diverse backgrounds and start building life-long friendships.

Virtual Reality Campus Tour

Get a feel for the student experience through our recorded virtual reality tour. The tour explores Duke’s campus highlights as well as residence halls, libraries, and dining locations. START THE TOUR

Join Us Virtually!

When Duke was founded in 1924, the construction of its campus was the single largest Depression-era project in the United States. Today, the Georgian East Campus and neo-Gothic West Campus serve as the core of Duke’s sprawling campus. With more than 250 buildings situated on 8,600+ acres of land, 7,044 of which are forest, you will immediately feel immersed in a “Gothic Wonderland.”

BALDWIN AUDITORIUM

Built in 1927, designed by Duke’s founding architect Julian Abele and situated on East Campus, Baldwin Auditorium serves as one of the university’s core venues in which leading classical soloists and ensembles, vocal ensembles, and jazz ensembles perform.

Built in 1932 at the center of West Campus, Duke Chapel, with its 210-foot tower and a 50-bell carillon, is the architectural symbol of the university.

PERKINS LIBRARY

Perkins Library, together with Duke’s other libraries, comprises one of the nation’s top 10 private research library systems. The libraries’ services and resources include more than six million volumes, more than 20 million manuscripts, more than two million electronic resources, 100,000+ items in digital collections, and tens of thousands of films and videos.

FITZPATRICK CENTER

This 322,000-square-foot collaborative research center brings together faculty in four research initiatives: biology, photonics, materials, and integrated sensors. The $97 million facility also expands the Pratt School of Engineering’s partnership with the School of Medicine by providing laboratories for collaborative research in healthcare, genomics, and biotechnology.

CAMERON INDOOR STADIUM

The crown jewel of college basketball, Cameron Indoor boasts intimate seating arrangements for more than 9,000 fans, including bleacher-style seats alongside the court reserved for students (nicknamed the Cameron Crazies).

Baldwin Auditorium

Perkins Library

Fitzpatrick Center

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Live well in the Triangle on a budget. Find fun, free things to do in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, NC

Organ Recital Series at Duke University Chapel, and more

Duke University Chapel, 401 Chapel Drive, Durham, is often filled with music, and much of the time it’s available for the public to listen to, for free. During weekdays, there is typically a 15-minute Carillon recita at 5 p.m.

Duke University Chapel

Events at Duke Chapel

See all upcoming events on the Duke University Chapel website.

Here’s some of what’s coming up:

Bach Cantata Series: Music for Candlemas Sunday, February 4, 2024 5 p.m. Free

Johann Sebastian Bach’s church cantatas are often considered the pinnacle of German sacred music, works whose theological depth and emotional resonance touch deep places in the human soul. The Bach Cantata Series presents these musical masterpieces accompanied by other notable choral and instrumental works of the Baroque era.

Jazz Vespers: A Service of Celebration Thursday, February 8, 2024 7 p.m. Free

Rest, pray, celebrate, and sing in this worship service that combines the ancient Christian tradition of evening vespers with the musical idioms of jazz and gospel. Chapel ministers lead the prayers and readings for the service while Professor John Brown’s Little Big Band leads the music.

The Musical Offering: Roseen Giles, flute; Gabriel Richard, violin; Caroline Stinson, cello; Joseph Causby, keyboard Sunday, February 25, 2024 5 p.m. Free

Program: J.S. Bach’s The Musical Offering, BWV 1079. Free admission: no tickets or reservations are needed. Roseen Giles is Assistant Professor of Music at Duke. A musicologist with a specialty in early modern musical culture, she is also the curator of DUMIC (Duke University Musical Instrument Collections). Gabriel Richard is Associate Research Professor of Romance Studies and Music at Duke. He has served as Solo Violin at the Opéra de Lyon, First Violin at the Paris Orchestra, and First Violin of the Thymos String Quartet. Caroline Stinson came to Duke in 2018, where she is cellist in the resident Ciompi Quartet, Associate Professor of the Practice of Music and director of the Chamber Music Program. Joseph Causby is the Director of Music and Organist of the Chapel of the Cross in Chapel Hill, NC. As a frequent guest artist at Duke University Chapel, he plays the organ for special services, guest conducts the Duke Evensong Singers, and teaches the chapel’s organ scholars. This concert is presented in association with the Duke University Musical Instrument Collections (DUMIC).

Organ Recital Series: Robert Parkins Sunday, March 17, 2024 5 p.m. Free

Robert Parkins is the University Organist and a Professor of the Practice of Music at Duke. His solo recordings have appeared on the Calcante, Gothic, Loft, Musical Heritage Society, and Naxos labels. Salome’s Dance, his most recent release, elicited the following comment from a reviewer in American Record Guide: “His playing is expressive, musical, technically accomplished, [and] uses the instrument superbly, [demonstrating] a fine ear for color-something many organists would do well to emulate.” This year’s recital of “Music for the Lenten Season” will feature works by early Italian and Spanish composers, as well as music of Brahms and J. S. Bach, on the Brombaugh and Flentrop organs.

J. Samuel Hammond Carillon Recital Series: Jonathan Lehrer Sunday, April 28, 2024 5 p.m. Free

Duke Chapel’s fifty-bell carillon is among the oldest and largest such instruments in the American South. Both the instrument and the recital series are named in honor of the late J. Samuel Hammond (1947-2021), University Carillonneur Emeritus, who played Duke’s carillon from 1964 until his retirement in 2018. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, and enjoy the music from the beautiful surroundings of Abele Quad. These recitals will be presented rain or shine.

Interior of Duke University Chapel

Docent-Led Tour of Duke Chapel Sundays (check Duke Chapel website for exceptions) 12:15 p.m. Free

Learn about the history, architecture, and life of Duke Chapel in this tour, which is free and open to the public. The tour begins at 12:15 p.m., or immediately following the conclusion of the Sunday morning service, and lasts approximately forty-five minutes. No reservation is required but if you plan to bring a large group please notify the Chapel in advance. Meet the docent on the front steps of the Chapel.

Pipe organ and pews in Duke University Chapel

Parking at Duke Chapel

Paid parking is available on a first come, first served basis in the Bryan Center Parking Lot at 125 Science Drive. ADA parking is available in the Bryan Center Surface Lot at the same address.

Duke University Chapel

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72 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Moscow

fun things to do in Moscow

Sure, Moscow is the Russian political capital and the nation’s most populous city, but describing it as such couldn’t be any further from the truth. More accurately, Moscow is a city of contrasts.

It exudes history — its Kremlin dates back centuries, nodding to royalty and leadership old and now, while the famed Red Square, the poster child of the city, blends striking color with ancient tradition and religion.

On the other hand, it’s a city of modern pop culture and towering skyscrapers; a place where you’ll come across new-age museums, arts centers, manmade parks, and an efficient transportation system that’s one of the most beautiful in Europe.

It’s a city of longstanding culture — the Bolshoi Theater is an international symbol for excellence in classical dance, while Russia’s National Ballet Company remains renowned worldwide — as well as upbeat nightlife, with some of the world’s most celebrated rooftop bars and nightclubs.

While it’s a city filled with opposites, there remains no shortage of things to do in Moscow for all types of travelers — from those who want cultural immersion to those looking for an epic night out, you’ll be spoiled for choice. And if you’re not sure where to start, here’s a list of suggestions!

The Moscow Kremlin

If there’s any particular district begging to be the first place you visit on your trip, it’s the Kremlin.

Built in the 16th century by Ivan the Terrible, the UNESCO-listed area has since become the heart of Russia’s capital city, where you’ll find several churches, palaces, and other noteworthy buildings.

We’ll dive into each of its main attractions in a second, but regardless of what you visit, try to make it to the Kremlin in time for sunset — because seeing its golden domes glinting in the late-afternoon light makes for one spectacular tourist photo!

Click here to learn about Kremlin tickets prices .

1 – Admire the abundance of Kremlin towers | the Kremlin

Kremlin towers, Moscow

As your eyes dart down the towering red-brick Kremlin wall, the first thing you’ll notice is its large towers of all different styles and sizes.

With a whopping 20 separate minarets towering above the historic area, each with its own name, colors, features and history, a guided tour to learn each of their fascinating stories is a must.

To give you a little taste, the Konstantin-Yeleninskaya Tower once housed a torture chamber. Saviour’s Tower at the main entrance boasts a famous chiming clock, the Secret Tower houses a secret escape tunnel, and the Trinity Tower is the tallest of them all.

  • Moscow Kremlin tours

2 – Visit the enormous Grand Kremlin Palace | the Kremlin

Grand Kremlin Palace, Moscow

A remarkable attraction in terms of both beauty and history, the Grand Kremlin Palace is an ornate rococo-style building that was commissioned during the reign of Nicholas I, and today acts as the official residence of none other than the Russian president, Vladimir Putin.

Perched atop Borovitsky Hill, its 125-meter-long facade is unmissable, making for impressive photos.

Take note: guided tours are few and far between, so you’ll have to book a few weeks in advance if you want to check out the decorated inner sanctum.

Directions in Google Maps

3 – People-watch in Cathedral Square | the Kremlin

Cathedral Square, Moscow

One of the most popular areas in all of Moscow (sometimes called Sobornaya Square), with multiple massive churches at its heart, Cathedral Square is flanked by several historic buildings and is never shy of a tourist crowd.

The three main churches — each spectacular works of architecture in their own right — are the Cathedral of the Assumption (the oldest and the biggest of all Kremlin churches), the 16th-century Cathedral of the Archangel Michael (known for its beautiful Corinthian gables and turrets), and the golden-domed Cathedral of the Annunciation (which connects to the Grand Kremlin Palace’s main building).

Throw in the 60-meter-high Ivan the Great Bell Tower, the lesser-known Church of the Twelve Apostles , the Church of the Deposition of the Virgin’s Robe (underrated yet famous for its marvelous stained-glass windows), and the medieval residence-turned-museum that is The Patriarch’s Palace, and you can see why this square is regularly number one on any visitor’s list of things to do in Moscow.

4 – See a show at the State Kremlin Palace | the Kremlin

State Kremlin Palace, Moscow

Just like the Grand Kremlin Palace , this theater and prestigious concert hall — with its grandiose facade and multiple sculptures — is another ornate building that’s worth admiring.

A popular place to hold conferences, the State Kremlin Palace was originally built as part of a larger complex for Communist Party meetings, but today hosts some of the biggest events in Moscow — we’re talkin’ sold-old ballet performances, world-famous concerts, opera shows, and festivals.

Check the website to see what’s on the calendar for your visit!

5 – See centuries worth of national treasures at the Armoury Chamber | the Kremlin

Armoury Chamber, Moscow

For anyone with an interest in historical weaponry and armor, this museum — which dates back to the early 1500s when it was created as the royal armory — is a must-see.

The Armoury Chamber (as well as the Diamond Fund Exhibition) is home to some of the most valuable objects that were originally owned by Russian monarchs — from jeweled heirlooms and intricate boxes to ornately decorated pistols and swords — many of which are centuries old.

Within the armoury chamber, you’ll also find the Russian historical regalia, a collection of artifacts that belonged to Russian tsars and emperors between the 13th and 20th centuries, highlighted by the Ivory Throne and the Monomakh’s Cap.

  • Armoury Chamber tours

6 – Step inside the Palace of the Facets | the Kremlin

Palace of the Facets, Moscow

The Palace of the Facets is one of the most underrated buildings in all of Moscow, largely because it’s not as widely promoted or photographed even though its exterior adorns some postcards.

From the outside, it blends in with the crowd. But step inside and you’ll discover a world of beauty and wonder — its frescoes, golden columns and enormous rooms are a sight to behold

The Palace of the Facets is not only a piece of art (literally, with painted walls), dating back over 500 years, but also acted as the dining hall for the Tsars.

7 – Feel small next to the Tsar Bell | the Kremlin

Tsar Bell, Moscow

Making Philadelphia’s famous Liberty Bell look diminutive in size, this monument , which never actually functioned as a bell due to its immense size (at 205 tons and standing 20.1 feet high!), has found fame in recent years for being the heaviest attraction inside The Kremlin.

With the bronze landmark’s claim to fame of being the biggest bell in the world, it presents as a great, quick photo op when roaming through the Kremlin.

8 – Check out the Senate Palace | the Kremlin

Senate Palace, Moscow

Another architectural masterpiece that’s tucked away within the Kremlin, this palace is famous for being one of Moscow’s most beautiful buildings — its yellow façade curves around to face inward and truly engulf anyone who stands near it.

Built back in the late 1700s, today it houses the Russian presidential administration and, unfortunately for us, is off limits to the general public.

Still, admiring it from outside, with the nearby Tsar Cannon, is certainly good enough.

9 – Grab a photo in front of the Tsar Cannon | the Kremlin

Tsar Cannon, Moscow

One of Moscow’s most iconic symbols, Tsar Cannon (or Royal Cannon) is a cannon that was manufactured in 1586 and resides — yep, you guessed it — within The Kremlin.

Following the theme of the enormous Tsar Bell, it weighs a whopping 39 tons — making it one of the world’s largest cannons even though it has never been shot.

And while its size may be impressive on its own, what makes this cannon so special is that it’s adorned with intricate carvings, ornaments, inscriptions, and a figure of a horse-riding Tsar Feodor the Bellringer.

  • walking tours in Moscow

10 – Join a tour of the Terem Palace | the Kremlin

Terem Palace, Moscow

A stunning, fairytale-like palace that’s steeped in history and detail, the five-story Terem Palace is one of the most underrated attractions within The Kremlin. However, as part of the official residence of the Russian President, much of it is off-limits to snap-happy tourists.

That said, there’s still plenty to be seen in the accessible areas by joining a group tour: a beautiful white-stone carved staircase; curved, decorated, and painted ceilings; and an enchanting low-vaulted Antechamber with lancet windows.

The Red Square

As we move away from the Kremlin, our next stop is the most photographed, picturesque public area in the country.

Flanked by gorgeous, colorful towers and buildings, the Red Square is the most famous square in all of Russia — and one that’s steeped in history, patriotism, and communist symbolism.

Home to some of Moscow’s greatest landmarks including St Basil’s Cathedral (featuring its iconic onion domes), Lenin Mausoleum, GUM department store (an architectural masterpiece that is the most famous shopping mall in Russia), The State History Museum, and more, it’s not just a sight to see in Moscow but also one that has been seen by hundreds of millions from around the world.

11 – Make your way inside St. Basil’s Cathedral | Red Square

St. Basil’s Cathedral, Moscow

Built back in the early 1500s, this quirky-looking, 65-meter-tall Orthodox church is so unique and detailed that it’s earned its place as one of 16 UNESCO cultural sites in Russia — and, thanks to many Hollywood productions like Bond: Skyfall (2012), has only continued to increase in fame.

Its exterior boasts multi-colored domes crowned with golden onion top spires. Meanwhile, inside, you’ll find nine small, separate chapels, and plenty of decorated walls and windows — all best viewed as part of a walking tour of Red Square.

  • Red Square tours in Moscow

12 – Visit the State Historical Museum | Red Square

State Historical Museum, Moscow

One of seven museums that can be found around the expansive Red Square, the State Historical Museum is one of Moscow’s most revered.

Housed in a neoclassical building (the same as GUM), it features more than 4 million items relating to Russian history — making it so vast and incredible that you’ll need at least two hours inside to see just a fraction.

While you’re in the area, be sure to check out the Marshal Georgy Zhukov Monument, a towering horse-riding statue of arguably the most famous and heroic Soviet military commander of WWII, which can be found in front of the museum.

13 – Shop till you drop at GUM | Red Square

GUM department store, Moscow

The official state department store of Russia, having opened in 1893 and become one of Moscow’s most iconic attractions for shopaholics over the years, is known for its gorgeous architecture that looks more like a palace than anything else.

Entering through its massive golden doors, you’ll be surprised to find an extensive shopping center with more than 100 luxury and world-renowned brands of clothing and accessories for men, women, and youngsters.

Even if you don’t plan on buying anything, stop into the Gastronom №1 for a bite to eat or take a stroll through its corridors to appreciate the building’s history and beauty.

14 – Visit Lenin’s Mausoleum | Red Square

Lenin's Mausoleum, Moscow

Another iconic Red Square attraction is Lenin’s Mausoleum, a small yet foreboding building that houses the embalmed corpse of Communist leader Vladimir Lenin (who led Russia through the Bolshevik Revolution of 1917).

Opened in 1930 after his death and standing at more than 12 meters tall, it presents as both a unique and macabre site — and, considering the life-like nature of the body, certainly isn’t for the faint of heart.

Note: Entrance is free of charge, but expect to be searched by security before being allowed in.

15 – Ride the Moscow Metro, enjoying the beautiful stations along the way

Moscow Metro, Russia

As we leave the Red Square, the next cab off the rank is Moscow’s unbelievable artistic Metro network (rivaled only in beauty by that of Stockholm). Constructed between the 1930s and 1950s, its stations were built by hand with a wide range of artistic themes — from socialist realist to Slavic pagan.

Tips: The best way to experience them is as part of a Moscow Metro tour, which can be booked online. However, if you prefer exploring solo, then make sure to visit the Mayakovskaya Metro Station which is known for its seemingly endless archways.

You may also check out Dostoyevskaya, named after a famous writer with murals depicting his stories. The Ploshchad Revolutsii Metro Station is another option where a handful of Socialist statues provide a wonderful contrast to the red marble arches.

  • metro tours in Moscow

16 – Spend the afternoon exploring the State Tretyakov Gallery

State Tretyakov Gallery, Moscow

Boasting the reputation of being one of the world’s leading art museums, the State Tretyakov Gallery is home to a stunning collection that features well over 100,000 works from Russia and around the globe.

Featuring everything from ancient Russian icons to Soviet-era artifacts and contemporary pieces, the museum also houses a charming green garden perfect for recharging.

Visitors are advised to allocate at least three hours inside to properly appreciate everything on show — or consider booking a private VIP tour to skip the lines and focus on the best sections.

  • Tretyakov Gallery tickets

Click here to find out the best Moscow tours .

17 – Get out of town to the Tsaritsyno Museum & Nature Reserve

Tsaritsyno Museum & Nature Reserve, Moscow

Located a short drive from the hustle and bustle of the Red Square, this incredible attraction is both a palatial museum and cultural center, with an enchanting open-air garden to boot — spread across 405 hectares altogether.

Boasting beautiful 18th-century baroque architecture, it was originally built as a country retreat for Catherine the Great. However, it has since been transformed into an outdoor museum with several museums inside — including exhibits dedicated to Russian history and culture.

18 – Tick off the main haunts with a hop-on hop-off bus ride

bus tours in Moscow

Short on time or just can’t be bothered walking around anymore? Then make sure to check out the double-decker Hop-on-Hop-off Bus, a convenient and cheap way of seeing all the main attractions in one go.

With unlimited-ride tickets lasting between 24 and 72 hours, there’s plenty of flexibility to soak in must-see areas like Red Square, the Kremlin, Arbatskaya Square, Theatre Square, and the Red October neighborhood — and with a free audio tour (in English) throughout the ride, you’re sure to learn a thing or two as well.

Busses usually run every 15 minutes, with the full city loop taking roughly an hour — of course, you can disembark and reboard to your heart’s content.

  • bus tours in Moscow

19 – Learn about military history on Poklonnaya Hill

Poklonnaya Hill, Moscow

For an up-close and personal experience with the past, make sure to check out Poklonnaya Hill — a UNESCO World Heritage Site about 20 minutes out from the city center that’s home to several relics from Russia’s pre-revolutionary era.

It has everything from Great Patriotic War memorials dedicated to fallen soldiers of the Russian military forces, to the Eternal Flame and the Museum of Great Patriotic War. This is an unmissable opportunity for history buffs.

Hot tip: While you’re in the area, be sure to stop into the Victory Museum (the nation’s biggest military history museum) and check out the gold-tipped Church of St. George the Victorious .

20 – Get artsy at the Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts

Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts, Moscow

Home to one of the finest and most significant art collections in Russia, the highly-regarded Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts showcases everything from medieval icons and paintings. With over 500,000 pieces of works by renowned artists like Rembrandt, Renoir, Picasso, Matisse, Karl Bryullov and Rubens, the museum is undeniably one of the best things to do in Moscow for art lovers.

The museum also houses impressive exhibits dedicated to ancient Greece, archaeological collections, decorative arts and a 200,000-item Numismatic library.

21 – Take a charming stroll down Arbat Street

Arbat Street, Moscow

Boasting everything from galleries and craft stores to souvenir shops, cafes, and some of Russia’s finest restaurants and hotels — as well as top-notch street performers (like jugglers and caricaturists) — Arbat Street is one of Moscow’s most famous pedestrian hubs for good reason.

The entire walkway, flanked by colorful buildings, stretches about a kilometer through the historic district, making it the perfect start to any day of inner-city exploring.

22 – Lounge around at the Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure, Moscow

One of Moscow’s biggest and most beloved green spaces, Gorky Central Park is a must-visit for anyone looking to soak in some fresh air.

The park boasts 45 hectares of picturesque grassland, forests, Golitsinsky Ponds (home to squirrels and ducks), walking trails, fountains and the Neskuchny Garden. This place is also home to the wooden Olivkovy beach, a hot spot for photographers looking to appreciate the Moskva river.

Plenty of cafes line the well-manicured park, likewise public art projects and picnic spots and an open-air cinema in the summertime!

While a relaxing day in the gardens is never a bad idea, if you’re looking for something a little more interactive, there’s the 18-meter-tall Observation Platform and a handful of museums on site. The Gorky Park Museum , Muzeon Park of Arts , Garage Museum of Contemporary Art and New Tretyakov Gallery are all noteworthy stops within walking distance.

23 – Stare at the ceiling of the Christ the Savior Cathedral

Christ the Savior Cathedral, Moscow

On an easy stroll from the southwest side of the Kremlin, you’ll find a majestic memorial cathedral doused in history: the 5-golden-domed Christ the Savior Cathedral .

With a beautiful color-contrasting exterior that still falls short of the intricately painted inner walls and ceiling, this underrated (due to not being in Red Square with the other main cathedrals) attraction is a must for the bucket list.

24 – Zoom around town in a Soviet van

Soviet van tours in Moscow

If a hop-on-hop-off bus screams of cliche tourism, why not get a little more cultured by skirting around the city’s main haunts in a real, war-era soviet van?

Undeniably one of Russia’s most emblematic vehicles as both a symbol of a Soviet past and a comical cultural nod to its boring exterior (dubbed the “loaf of bread”), the UAZ-452 vans are iconic.

So whether you opt for a pub crawl, landmark sightseeing tour, or day of adventure with wintertime off-roading, be sure to ride shotgun in one of the loaves of bread at some stage!

  • soviet tours

25 – See sharks up close at the Moskvarium

Moskvarium, Moscow

The mightiest aquarium in Europe (by size), the Moskvarium is an impressive modern space dedicated to the beauty and diversity of aquatic life.

Located right on the outskirts of Moscow’s city center (about 20 minutes drive from Red Square), this huge complex encompasses over 70 interactive exhibits. These include live shows, and the chance to go swimming with dolphins — that are sure to impress the whole family.

26 – Go underground at the Bunker 42 Cold War Museum

Bunker 42 Cold War Museum, Moscow

In the depths of Moscow’s shadow-strewn streets, hidden 65 meters beneath the tourist crowds are a Cold War-era bunker and former secret communications center.

Bunker 42 was built in 1955 as a nuclear-proof hideaway, but today you can book tours that reveal its secrets and stories — a must for the common history buff.

  • Bunker 42 tickets

27 – Immserve yourself in the soviet culture at the VDNKh theme park and exhibition space

VDNKh, Moscow

Sprawling across the Ostankinsky District, VDNKh is a massive open-air museum and theme park paying homage to Russian industry and Soviet values.

The enormous complex is decked out with several gold-clad statues and palatial pavilions, each uniquely designed to represent different Soviet interests and endeavors, such as geology and the space race.

Hot tip: For a wonderful view of the Moscow skyline, be sure to jump on the Ferris wheel after riding the small roller coasters and merry-go-round.

28 – Take a trip to the Kolomenskoye Palace

Kolomenskoye Palace, Moscow

Overlooking the sparkling Moskva River about 20 kiometers south of central Moscow, the postcard-worthy Kolomenskoye Palace is a former royal estate. It’s now open to the public as an extensive park with carefully-kept gardens, including one of Russia’s oldest white stone churches (the tent-looking UNESCO-listed Ascension Church ).

It has walking trails through peaceful wooded areas and gorgeous views out over the region from its high hilltop location. The park has long been considered one of the hidden gems when it comes to things to do in Moscow.

29 – Enjoy the view from the Ostankino TV Tower

Ostankino TV Tower. Moscow

With the coveted claim to fame of being the tallest free-standing structure in Europe (and 11th tallest in the world) — standing above the Empire State Building, for reference — the 540.1-meter-tall Ostankino Tower is picturesquely located next to Park Dubovaya Roshcha, not too far from VDNH, the Moskvarium, and the widespread Park Ostankind.

So long as you’re not left lighthearted by heights, the 337-meter-high observation deck is the go-to spot for panoramic views.

30 – Blast off at the Museum of Cosmonautics

Museum of Cosmonautics, Moscow

One for the space nerds and future astronauts, the Museum of Cosmonautics is dedicated to the history, present-day relevance, and future possibilities of space exploration. It provides a spectacular insight into the Soviet perspective of the 1960s space race.

Located on a lovely green site in one corner of VDNKh, the museum features an outdoor planetarium, interactive displays for children, as well as inside exhibits that showcase original spacecraft parts.

For the best experience, consider a pre-arranged tour that includes access to both the Museum and VDNKh.

31 – Complete your Moscow culinary experience with a food tour

food tours in Moscow

Foodies, listen up! Moscow has gained a reputation for being one of the finest cities in Europe for foodies, with an excellent range of restaurants and bars.

For those looking for a complete Moscow culinary experience that includes some of the best hidden gems and experiences, food tours are an ideal way to go.

Depending on your tour of choice, expect to sample a few Pelmeni (dumplings), Blini (wafer-thin pancakes), and world-famous Ponchiki doughnuts. Then wash it all down with some locally-distilled vodka or Nalivka (a sweet berry-infused liquor).

  • food tours in Moscow

32 – Smell the flowers at the Main Botanical Garden — the largest botanical garden in Europe

Main Botanical Garden of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow

Constructed in 1945, the Main Botanical Garden of the Russian Academy of Sciences is a 340-hectare space of plant collections and lakeside walkways to explore.

It’s one of those places that gets better as you make your way around it on foot (or even rollerblades). There are many well-kept gardens, beautiful ponds filled with turtles and waterfowl, a charming Japanese Garden and some very rare trees.

33 – Wander around the Novodevichy Monastery

Novodevichy Monastery, Moscow

The Novodevichy Convent and surrounding Kremlin-style walls combine to be one of Moscow’s most picturesque sites — a UNESCO-listed complex that was founded in the 1500s and includes an interweaving of churches, cathedrals, bell towers and a cemetery.

After admiring the buildings, check out the monastery which is surrounded by green spaces perfect for a stroll and a snack.

To learn all about its architecture and history, opt for a guided tour as recommended by most travelers.

34 – Ride the coasters at Family Park SKAZKA

Family Park SKAZKA, Moscow

If you’re traveling with youngsters who seem to never be able to burn off their energy then make a beeline for the Krylatskoye District neighborhood, home to the popular SKAZKA adventure park.

Kids can enjoy everything from bumper cars to the petting zoo, while parents might want to pop into one of the cafes or restaurants.

Even if you don’t have kids in tow, the adrenaline-pumping roller coasters invite thrill-seekers of all ages.

35 – Understand the deeper meanings of “Soviet Jew” at the Jewish Museum & Centre of Tolerance

Jewish Museum & Centre of Tolerance, Moscow

Opened in 2012, the Jewish Museum and Centre of Tolerance is a fascinating institution dedicated to exploring and honoring the diverse complex Russian-Jewish history and culture.

Explore every facet of the role of Russian Jewry throughout the centuries — including food, artifacts, religious beliefs and cultural traditions. Visitors can also see an array of exhibits made from testimonial footage, as well as a large collection of works of Jewish artists.

For history buffs, the museum dives into the intriguing role that Jewish soldiers played during World War II.

36 – Cruise down the Moscow River!

boat tours in Moscow

For those looking for a unique perspective on the city, there are stacks of tours (romantic, sightseeing, luxury-themed or party-vibed) that explore Moscow from its riverfront.

Take in some of the most iconic landmarks around the Kremlin and Gorky Park on a boat. Cruises can also take you underneath bridges, entertain you with live music and offer insights into the landmarks that pass by with live audio narration.

  • boat tours in Moscow

37 – Grab a table at Café Pushkin

Café Pushkin, Moscow

A favorite of many Muscovites, Cafe Pushkin on Tverskoy Boulevard is an intimate spot to enjoy some authentic Russian dishes.

It’s hand-picked by locals for its traditional décor resembling a nobleman’s house and charming atmosphere (thanks largely to the rustic bookshelves). You’ll find that the menu consists mainly of classic European cuisine mixed with a few local favorites. It’s complemented by a wooden bar with a fine collection of vintage wines and regular live music.

38 – Spend the day at the Karibiya Aquapark

Karibiya Aquapark, Moscow

After a hard day exploring the city, why not spend some time out to relax and unwind at one of Moscow’s largest water parks?

Karibiya has a handful of pools (including a heated salt-water spa) and fun but not too wild slides, plus a bowling alley for the kids, a fitness center and bar for the adults. There’s something to keep everyone entertained.

39 – Take a day trip to Sergiev Posad

Sergiev Posad day trips from Moscow

A photographer’s dream with blue-and-gold cupolas contrasted by snow-white walls, the ancient town of Sergiev Posad (just over an hour’s drive from Moscow) is a quaint tourist favorite. It’s famous for being home to one of Russia’s most important and sacred monasteries — the free-to-visit Trinity Lavra St. Sergius monastery complex.

Founded in 1340 AD by Saint Sergius, today it serves as an active monastery where visitors are free to attend daily services. Admire its truly remarkable artworks and historic museum collections.

  • Sergiev Posad day trip

40 – Spot starfish (and monkeys?) at the Crocus City Oceanarium

Crocus City Oceanarium, Moscow

One of the latest attractions in Moscow, Crocus City Mall’s iceberg-shaped  Oceanarium is a vast three-floor aquarium. It has more than 5,000 species swimming gracefully under one roof — not to mention the reptiles, birds, and monkeys that also call this place home.

Since the mall also boasts shopping centers, a pair of concert halls and a skating rink, there’s no shortage of activities on offer to whisk away a rainy day.

41 – Button-mash at the Museum of Soviet Arcade Machines

Museum of Soviet Arcade Machines, Moscow

Where are the gamers at?

For anyone curious about the video games and technology of Russia’s yesteryear, there’s no better place to visit than this retro museum (complete with Soviet-era soda).

Filled with an impressive collection of more than 100 vintage arcade machines dating back as far as the late 1970s (like ”Pull the Turnip”), it’s sure to take you on a trip down memory lane.

42 – Take a walk through the Alexander Garden

Alexander Garden, Moscow

While the majority of Moscow’s other top attractions require a ticket or entry fee, there is at least one gem that doesn’t. It happens to be right on your doorstep if you’re staying anywhere near the Kremlin.

Alexander Garden (also known as Alexandrovsky Sad) is an expansive park that stretches the entire western wall of the Kremlin (nearly 1km in length). It’s filled to the brim with colorful flower beds, winding walkways and calming fountains.

Don’t miss the tomb of the Unknown Soldier while you’re there.

43 – Sign up for a dog sledding adventure!

dog sledding in Moscow

Cliche? Sure, maybe a little. Seriously fun? You better believe it!

Winter is coming, and that means it’s time to get out there and experience Russia the way only locals can — by dog sledding.

Typically lasting seven or eight hours, these outdoor adventures (which include hotel pick up and drop off) are a wonderful way to experience nature and immerse yourself in ancient Russian traditions — and hang out with a handful of adorable huskies, of course!

Seriously though, this is one of those things you’re going to want photos (and videos) for when you get back home because, really, words just wouldn’t do it justice.

44 – Walk beneath the Iberian Gate and Chapel

Iberian Gate and Chapel, Moscow

Facing away from the Red Square and linking Manezhnaya Square, the Iberian Gate and Chapel (sometimes called the Resurrection Gate) is overflowing with history. It acts as the spiritual entrance to the Red Square and the home of the wooden chapel that houses icons of the Iberian Virgin.

Many believe it is customary to kiss the Iberian icon before entering the gate and for boys to take off their hats. For an insight into the local culture, join a walking tour and learn more about the gate’s significance to religion and history.

To add to the importance, the gate is also the location of ‘Kilometer Zero’ — the official central point of Moscow.

45 – Play all day at the Dream Island theme park

Dream Island, Moscow

After opening its gates early in 2020, Dream Island earned itself the coveted title of being the largest indoor theme park in Europe (yep, that means it’s even open in the harsh winter).

It’s a delight for kids and adults alike. Throughout the park you’ll find an array of rides themed around classic cartoons like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Pinocchio, the Smurfs, Hotel Transylvania and Hello Kitty. It also has charming and well-arranged streets that transport you to bustling cities like London and Barcelona!

Throw in live performances, plenty of eateries, a cinema and a hotel, and you can see why it’s become all the rage recently.

46 – Race against the clock in an escape room

escape rooms in Moscow

An unmissable and quick activity for any budding Sherlock Holmes out there, escape rooms challenge your mind and require wit, teamwork, and logic. Figure out the puzzles and escape from each room before time runs up.

Moscow’s escape room games usually last around 60 minutes and cover a range of themes (like a USSR Nuclear Bunker or even an outdoor, app-led scavenger game) — perfect for the whole family.

47 – Chill out by the Patriarch’s Ponds

Patriarch's Ponds, Moscow

Surrounded by residential buildings in the fancy downtown Presnensky District, the enormous (9,900 square meters, to be exact) the Patriarshiye Prudy is a beautiful oasis. It’s frequented by dog walkers, picnickers, artists and musicians alike.

In summertime, you’ll find people picnicking on the grassy banks or sunbathing by the ponds. In the winter, it transforms into a magical wonderland of snow and ice, morphing into a popular public skating rink.

Directions on Google Maps

48 – Go behind the scenes at Luzhniki Stadium

Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow

Moscow’s Lujniki Stadium is one of Europe’s biggest soccer complexes, capable of hosting some 80,000 fans with an electric-like atmosphere — as we saw during its phase as the main stadium of the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

Besides being the current home ground of Russia’s National Football Team, it also hosts concerts by some of the biggest international acts and was also the focal point of the 1980 Olympic Games.

If your trip doesn’t line up with any sellout matches, you can still join a backstage stadium tour that explores the dressing rooms, press conference room and the field.

49 – Head to Suzdal and Vladimir for a day

Suzdal and Vladimir day trips from Moscow

A fantastic option for anyone who wants to get out of the chaos of Moscow for a minute, these two towns are parts of the Golden Ring of ancient Russian cities. They present as perfect day trips, thanks to their rich history, diverse culture and white-drenched architecture.

In Suzdal , the Kremlin fortress is the main event, with the Cathedral of the Nativity (and its 13th-century Golden Doors) captivating visitors year after year. In Vladimir , the awe-inspiring Assumption Cathedral (Dormition Cathedral) teaks center stage, with its five golden domes making for a wonderful photo backdrop

Don’t feel like hiring a car? Take the hassle out of your getaway and book a pre-arranged tour that visits both ancient towns on the same day.

50 – Escape the crowds at the Botanic Gardens of Moscow State University

Botanic Gardens of Moscow State University, Moscow

Wielding the title of Russia’s oldest botanic garden, the Botanic Gardens of Moscow State University (founded in 1706) is a fantastic place to escape the city and learn about Russia’s rich flora.

The beautifully arranged garden boasts more than 6,000 plant species that span various climates across the world, allowing visitors to see everything from roses and tulips to cacti and bamboo trees!

51 – Climb inside a tank at the Kubinka Tank Museum

Kubinka Tank Museum, Moscow

A must-see for any military history buff, the Kubinka Tank Museum showcases dozens of tanks and armored vehicles from across the globe, with a particularly heavy focus on Soviet Union models (to be expected, right?).

The collection includes everything from Polish TKS tankettes to the only remaining Panzer VIII Maus, a captured WWI British Mark V and the Object 172 — as well as plenty of cannons, weapons and missiles.

Serving traditional Russian military meals and national staples, even the cafe-restaurant is military-themed!

52 – Sit front row at the Moscow International House of Music

Moscow International House of Music

A world-renowned performance complex on the picturesque Kosmodamianskaya Embankment, this state-of-the-art venue is best known for hosting Vladimir Spivakov’s Virtuosi of Moscow Chamber Orchestra. It showcases everything from classical concerts to jazz, folk music and more!

The venue’s three magnificent concert halls welcome an array of local and international performers. Check the website to see who’s taking center stage during your visit!

53 – Drift through fresh powder on a snowmobile!

snowmobiling in Moscow

While it’s not always winter (though if you want to make the most of your snowy trip, come between December and March), as soon as that first snowfall hits, it’s time for snowmobile tours. Make for a fantastic way to explore the out-of-the-way locations and magical forests beyond Moscow’s city limits.

Even if you’ve never ridden a ski-doo or snowmobile before, the friendly expert instructors will be with you every step of the way, with safety and enjoyment always priorities.

54 – Crank your head skywards in Moscow City

Moscow International Business Center, Moscow

A stark contrast to the ancient and colorful onion domes in the Red Square, Moscow City’s skyscape (aka the Moscow International Business Center ) is full of towering, modern glass-heavy (even twisting) skyscrapers. Many of which are vying at the top of the list of Europe’s tallest buildings.

At 374 meters tall and with 95 floors — and a wonderful restaurant on its 60th floor — the Moscow Federation Tower is a popular choice for tourists. Meanwhile, the 85th and 86th floor of the OKO Towers play host to a Russian restaurant and skating rink respectively.

Be sure to walk through the modern Bagration Bridge and, for the shopaholics, check out the stores and IMAX theater inside AFIMALL City.

55 – Check out Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye Park, Moscow

Within arm’s reach of the famed Red Square, the peaceful slice of greenery that is Zaryadye Park is a breath of beautiful and natural air amidst the concrete jungle. It’s the first new city park to be opened in Moscow for more than half a century.

At various points around the 10-hectare park, you’ll find a few restaurant pavilions, a media center, a museum and a botanical collection housing over a million plants. It also houses the two-stage Zaryadye Concert Hall where thousands of passersby take a seat on the steps every day.

While you’re there, don’t miss the Chambers of the Romanov Boyars, an unusual museum above the northern side of the park.

56 – Stroll around the cozy Hermitage Garden

Hermitage Garden, Moscow

Small yet incredibly charming and found conveniently smack-bang in the middle of the city, the Hermitage Garden is a perfect spot to relax and unwind after a day of learning about Russia’s vast history.

Surrounded by the Sfera Theatre and The Kolobov Novaya Opera Theatre of Moscow , this lovely, leafy garden can be both a relaxing oasis or the prelude to an entertaining evening out.

57 – Treat yourself to a ballet show at the Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre, Moscow

With a reputation that precedes it, the impressive and world-famous Bolshoi Theatre is a must for any theater lover. Its rich history is making it one of the most iconic theaters in Europe.

While there are several performances to choose from throughout the year — from ballet to opera, classic dramas and even acrobatic shows — you can also get your own private backstage tour.

58 – Get artsy, then party at ArtPlay

ArtPlay, Moscow

This old tea factory turned cultural hub of Moscow’s creative arts is heaven on earth for rotating exhibitions by local artists.

Depending on what piques your interest, you can join in on everything from live music to dance classes, art studio workshops, flea markets and film screenings here. However, after the sun goes down, its alter-ego comes out to play.

So, if you’re feeling peckish, stop into the Domozhilov restaurant nearby for a shashlik. Then wash it down at the English pub with a beer before partying it up at Rodnya, a pumping techno club.

59 – Head to the PANORAMA360 Observation Deck

PANORAMA360 Observation Deck, Moscow

A surefire hit for the social media feed, the observation deck at the top of Moscow’s Federation Tower skyscraper — PANORAMA360 — is a must-see selfie stop for its killer views and … ice cream factory.

From the 89th floor, you can soak in the wonder of Moscow old and new from above. It has floor-to-ceiling windows providing 360-degree vistas, a rotating restaurant and mini-cinema to boot.

60 – Throw down a picnic blanket in Sokolniki Park

Sokolniki Park, Moscow

One of the largest green spaces in Moscow, Sokolniki Park is a very popular gathering place for locals and visitors alike.

Spread across the northeastern Sokolniki District, it’s the perfect distance from the city’s main haunts where the crowds remain small but the accessibility stays high.

With its many activities — from sports to live music to festivals — not much beats this park when it comes to outdoor fun!

61 – Catch a traditional Russian dance show

Russian dance shows in Moscow

To get a true sense of the rich and diverse culture in Moscow, you can’t go past one of its many folk dance shows.

While there are several to choose from, “Kostroma” and “The Golden Ring” are two crowd favorite choices. Each is thoroughly unique with traditional music and costumes sure to make for a once-in-a-lifetime night of entertainment.

Of course, due to high popularity, be sure to book in advance.

62 – Book a table at the White Rabbit restaurant bar

White Rabbit restaurant bar, Moscow

Perched above the historical center of Moscow on the 16th floor of the Smolensky Passage building, this lavish restaurant is a must-visit for any foodie-obsessed traveler. Why? Because it continually ranks as one of the top 50 restaurants in the world.

The drool-worthy menu made by fifth-generation chef Vladimir Mukhin consists of creative, beautiful plated meals. The coveted eaterie also boasts 360-degree panoramic views of the city and a fine collection of wines and cocktails.

63 – Have dinner inside the Vysoko-Petrovskiy Monastery

Vysoko-Petrovskiy Monastery, Moscow

Whether you’re an architecture or history buff, while visiting Moscow, it would be a shame to miss out on the rare chance to eat in an actual monastery.

This one is particularly special as it dates back some 700 years. Not only will you get to dig into an authentic Russian menu, but learn about the history of the building and (depending on your booking package) get a guided tour too.

64 – Pass by the ‘Children Are the Victims of Adult Vices’ sculpture

Children Are the Victims of Adult Vices sculpture, Moscow

This free public art installation in Bolotnaya square was created by Mihail Chemaikin in 2001. A somewhat controversial landmark, it depicts how children are influenced by vices — alcohol, theft, ignorance, violence, addiction, poverty and war, to name a few.

The sculpture’s uniqueness and thought-provoking nature makes it an essential stop on any day of wandering around.

65 – Get wild on a pub crawl!

pub crawls in Moscow

You’re on vacation, so it’s time to let your hair down, mingle with some fellow thirsty travelers and party it up Moscow-style!

High-energy pub crawls are a great way to get acquainted with new friends while seeing Moscow’s unique nightlife scene first-hand. Let the locals lead you to hidden gems, tourist hot spots and quirky dive bars.

If you don’t feel like walking, why not join a Soviet minivan crawl instead (where you can drink Soviet champagne onboard!)?

66 – Roll up for the Nikulin Circus!

Nikulin Circus, Moscow

If you haven’t had the chance to see a live circus before — and especially if you’re traveling with kids — why not head over to the Nikulin Circus on Tsvetnoy Boulevard?

It blends traditional Russian acrobatics with modern-day technology, animals, and the classic circular circus stage. This beloved local entertainment is also considered one of the most enjoyable things to do in Moscow!

67 – Get romantic on a Moskva River dinner cruise

dinner cruises in Moscow

What better way to take in the city’s skyline than from a luxury yacht as you enjoy entertainment, fine dining, and (strong) specialty drinks?

Whether you’re looking for something large that can accommodate groups of friends or something smaller with a bit more VIP style, there are several dinner cruises available to suit any taste and budget.

68 – Explore the wonderful Izmailovo District

Izmailovo District, Moscow

One of the city’s best-kept secrets, Izmailovo ‘s focal point is its Kremlin, a colorful wooden complex. Built in 2007, it has had unique museums and flea markets pop up nearby in the years since.

Throughout the area, you’ll uncover museums dedicated to vodka, break and Russian folk art. The district’s charming open-air flea market has all kinds of crafts and souvenirs are haggled on the daily.

Don’t miss Izmailovo Park , which is an enormous 300-hectare space that plays host to souvenir vendors, forest walking paths and even an ice rink in winter.

With so much to see in the district, savvy travelers typically opt for a guided tour.

  • Izmailovo tours

69 – Sip on a cocktail at the award-winning City Space Bar and Lounge

City Space Bar and Lounge, Moscow

Self-dubbed as one of the world’s top 10 bars, with accolades like Luxury Travel Guide’s Bar of the Year 2018, this iconic and luxurious watering hole doesn’t need much of an introduction.

Perched sky-high on the 34th floor of Swissotel Krasnye Holmy, the circular lounge bar slings signature cocktails and dishes up truly stunning views of the city.

Hot tip: While there’s never a poor time to visit, aim to arrive an hour or so before sunset, that’s when the city will truly sparkle below.

70 – Pamper yourself at the Sanduny Baths

Sanduny Baths, Moscow

If you’re looking for something to ease that throbbing headache after a night of pub crawling, why not try the famous Sanduny Baths , a quintessentially Russian experience?

Famed as one of the world’s most beautiful public bathhouses, Sanduny’s steam rooms and pools are said to be some of the best in Moscow. But for something totally unique, you can’t go past the birch twigs massage (read: beating).

71 – Spruce up your social media feed at some Insta-worthy restaurants

insta-worthy restaurants in Moscow

While a good meal is always part of the restaurant experience, getting a good pic for Instagram is half the fun!

Luckily, there are tons of excellent eateries that combine great food with gorgeous aesthetics.

Big Wine Freaks has a fantastic drink selection (naturally), and its dark, classy rooms full of elegant light fixtures and plush furniture bring to mind a spy’s hideout.

Meanwhile, Sempre adopts more of a naturalistic approach, surrounding diners with ferns and greenery.

And at Black Market Moscow , you can choose between indoor and outdoor spaces, each featuring their own unique designs and dining experiences.

Take a bite and snap some pics!

72 – Unleash your inner party animal at the Night clubs

nightlife in Moscow

When the sun goes down, you’ll get to see a whole new side of Moscow: its amazing nightlife!

Head to Propaganda for a bite or a beverage, then dance to some quality club tunes.

Or get a little wild at Chesterfield , where you can pay a flat fee and drink as much as you want – the perfect recipe for fun!

And at Rock’N’ Roll , there’s a new form of excitement every day, from DJ sets to live bands, all playing a lively mix of rock music from across the decades.

With all this excitement, you won’t want to book anything early the next day!

How to get to Moscow?

Unless you’re feeling up to the challenge of a long train journey, you’ll most likely be flying into Moscow.

Luckily, it has three international airports to choose from: Sheremetyevo, Vnukovo, and Domodedovo.

Once you’ve arrived, you’ll be able to easily reach the city via the Aeroexpress train.

Where to stay in Moscow?

Golden Ring Hotel  will make you feel like you’re on top of the world, whether you’re getting pampered at the beauty salon or enjoying a meal in the rooftop restaurants.

Or check in to Radisson Slavyanskaya Hotel & Business Center , which boasts everything from riverside views and a gym to nearby shopping areas and relaxing Turkish baths.

At AZIMUT Hotel Olympic Moscow , the massages, international cuisine, sauna, and swimming pool will keep you happily occupied in between excursions.

And at sister property AZIMUT Hotel Smolenskaya Moscow , you can savor a nice meal or admire the scenery from the lounge, or stroll over to Gorky Park or roam along Stary Arbat Street.

Meanwhile, Oblaka Hotel blends simple charm and a convenient location, with charming red brick exteriors and easy access to historic sites and a metro station.

  • best hotels in Moscow

Visiting Moscow on a budget?

There’s nothing like seeing a city on foot… especially on a free walking tour !

These excursions aren’t just a way to save money while still learning a lot; they also offer a wonderful opportunity to gain local perspectives, courtesy of your guides.

But despite the name, they do accept tips for a job well done, so bring a bit of money with you!

Where to go next?

If you’re short on time but still want to see the best of Moscow, try some multi-day tours ; they’ll provide all of the coolest sights and experiences in an efficient format.

After that, it’s time to start exploring further afield!

Though it’s a bit of a trek, St. Petersburg is well worth the journey!

With its famously decadent buildings to its lively arts scene, this is the perfect place to soak up some culture; but there are also some more offbeat options, like folk shows, vodka tastings, and even an amusement park!

And from the jaw-dropping designs of the metro stations (yes, you read that correctly) to the glimmer of Faberge eggs, it showcases beauty at every turn.

Ready to go beyond Russia?

Dive into the best places to visit in Europe , a smorgasbord of art and history, nature and architecture, showcasing some of the most beloved cities and countries in the world.

Final thoughts

While Russia’s capital may seem imposing, its dynamic culture, live-wire entertainment scene, and remarkable history make it an unbeatable destination, with unique adventures that will linger in your memory long after you’ve returned home.

You may feel a little overwhelmed by all of the incredible things to do in Moscow… but that’s all the more reason to come back!

If you have any other must-see suggestions, noteworthy day trips or quintessential tours worth booking, feel free to write in the comments!

As always, happy travels!

5 Free Things to do at Duke in March 2024

Arrival of spring delivers opportunities to enjoy nature, music and events for curious minds

A collage of photos

At Duke, the month of March provides options for fans of nature, music and literature, as well as unique events for curious minds.

Whether a lunch break spent wandering Sarah P. Duke Gardens or a Saturday afternoon open house at one of Duke’s hidden gems, check out some fun things you can do for free at Duke in March.

During the academic year, the Working@Duke editorial team searches the Duke Event Calendar and elsewhere to find five free things to do at Duke. Check back in April for the next batch of events.

duke university chapel tour

March 14 – Duke Gardens Midday Meander

From 12:15-1 p.m. on Thursday, March 14, join Duke Gardens Director of Learning and Community Engagement Kavanah Anderson for an informal guided tour of the gardens. The tour features little-known facts about Duke Gardens, tidbits of horticultural history and opportunities to experience the plants and scenes found in the gardens with all of your senses. Participants are also encouraged to bring along their questions and stories about the wonders of plants.

Registration for the event is required.

duke university chapel tour

March 20 – Author Talk with T. Kingfisher

T. Kingfisher, an award-winning writer and illustrator, and the author of several popular fantasy books for children and adults, will visit Duke for a reading and discussion at 6 p.m. Wednesday, March 20. The event is sponsored by Duke’s Department of German Studies and takes place in the Reuben-Cooke Building’s Zener Auditorium.

Kingfisher will read from her newest books Swordheart and What Feasts at Night. A Q&A session will follow.

duke university chapel tour

March 21 – Ciompi Quartet’s Downtown Durham Performance

Duke’s Ciompi Quartet, which features acclaimed faculty string musicians, will perform at the NorthStar Church of the Arts in downtown Durham at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, March 21. The quartet will be joined by North Carolina-born clarinetist Allan Ware, who has performed on stages across Europe. The musicians will perform works by composers Paul Ben-Haim and Arnold Schonberg.

The Ciompi Quartet will also perform with Allan Ware at noon on Friday, March 22 at Goodson Chapel as part of the Lunchtime Classics series.

And at 5 p.m. Friday, March 29, Ciompi Quartet cellist Caroline Stinson will perform with Jennifer Streeter on harpsichord and Huijuan Ling on the organ.

duke university chapel tour

March 22 – Land and Listen

The Duke Campus Farm’s new Land and Listen event offers students, staff, faculty and community members a chance to reflect and relax at the peaceful surroundings of Duke’s one-acre working farm in Duke Forest.

The event , which takes place at 4 p.m. Friday, March 22, begins with the reading of a short piece of poetry and a loosely facilitated discussion, and features unstructured time during which visitors can explore the farm, do crafts and harvest flowers.

For those interested in a hands-on experience at the Duke Campus Farm, community workdays will be held from 1-4 p.m. each Friday in March.

duke university chapel tour

March 30 – Duke Lemur Center Museum Open House

The Duke Lemur Center Museum of Natural History , which is located on Broad Street, is one of Duke’s hidden gems. And from 1-4 p.m. on Saturday, March 30, the public is invited to pop in for a glimpse into primate history.

Visitors to the museum’s open house can check out a new exhibit which traces primates from their lemur-like beginnings to today’s diversity. See real fossils and bones from around the world and get a look at how they are preserved and studied.

In addition to getting an up-close look at the fossils, the museum team members will be on hand to talk about their research and answer any questions from guests young and old.

Send story ideas, shout-outs and photographs through  our story idea form  or write  [email protected] .

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The SAT is coming back at some colleges. It’s stressing everyone out.

A patchwork of admissions test policies is wreaking havoc on students, parents and college admissions consultants.

A California mother drove 80 miles this month to find an SAT testing center with an open seat where her high school junior could take the exam. During college tours this spring, a teen recalled hearing some would-be applicants groan when admissions staffers announced they could not guarantee test-optional policies would continue.

And across the country, college counselors are fielding questions from teenagers alarmed, encouraged or simply confused by what seems like the return of the standardized test in admissions — maybe? Sort of? In some places, but not in others?

“You could be expecting and preparing for a certain way to apply to a college and present yourself — but then they change it mid-application process,” said Kai Talbert, a 17-year-old high school junior in Pennsylvania. “That’s really confusing. It can set back a lot of people.”

Colleges nationwide have been updating their coronavirus-era policies on standardized testing, which many dropped when the pandemic shut down in-person testing centers. Some of the most selective schools are declaring they will require tests again — including, across the last two months, Dartmouth College and Yale and Brown universities. Others, such as the University of Chicago and Columbia University, won’t. And still others have not yet picked a permanent policy: Princeton, Stanford, Cornell and the University of Pennsylvania have said they will remain test-optional for another year or two, and Harvard University plans to keep its test-optional policy at least through the 2025-26 application cycle.

Public universities have veered in different directions, too: The University of Tennessee system requires tests. The University of Michigan will be test-optional. The University of California system is test-blind, meaning schools refuse to consider SAT or ACT scores for admissions.

The patchwork of policies is wreaking havoc on applicants, parents and college admissions consultants nationwide, who are being forced to recalculate where and how they are willing to apply — or what to tell anxious teenagers about whether to test, retest or skip testing entirely — as decisions keep rolling out in real time.

Laurie Kopp Weingarten, founder of One-Stop College Counseling in New Jersey, said she has a new response whenever a student gives her a list of their school targets. She starts by going down the list, school by school, to review each institution’s testing rules and whether those seem likely to change.

Taking a breath, Weingarten rattled off a summary of the different testing requirements in place at every Ivy League school. It took her three minutes.

“Even just saying it, it sounds like insanity to me, and then we’re expecting kids to understand this?” Weingarten said. “Colleges should really analyze the data, come up with a decision and stop changing their mind.”

The shifting testing expectations are among many changes roiling college admissions this year. Colleges are still grappling with the fallout from the landmark Supreme Court ruling that ended the use of race-based affirmative action in admissions. Many are undertaking an array of experiments in response to the decision in a bid to maintain diverse admitted classes — ending legacy preferences in some cases, adding essay prompts on adversity or identity in others, or increasing outreach in low-income areas.

And the disastrous rollout of a federal financial aid form that was supposed to simplify the notoriously difficult process has left students, parents and schools scrambling .

This is the most hectic and distressing admissions cycle in recent memory, said Jennifer Nuechterlein, a college and career counselor at a New Jersey high school. She laid special blame on schools that reinstated testing mandates in the past two months, some of which affect the high school juniors who will begin applying in the fall. This class of teens will have to take the SAT or ACT, should they decide to do so, within the next six months.

“Students can’t just test overnight,” Nuechterlein said. “There are students who want to prep, there are students who are not math- or English-ready. ... Students are going to be unprepared.”

For the most ambitious, high-achieving students, the tests are another stressful hurdle to clear as they apply to the most selective colleges. And for many other students, the test scores — even if not required for admission — are mandatory if they want to qualify for some financial aid programs or, on some campuses, certain degree programs.

Critics of standardized tests have argued that they mirror, or exacerbate, societal inequities, in part because students from unstable homes or with limited resources cannot afford SAT or ACT tutors or testing preparation classes, or may not know of free resources such as Khan Academy . Even before the pandemic, some schools had moved to make the scores optional to avoid creating another barrier for students.

Then the pandemic hit, spurring a crisis response when students literally could not access spaces in which to take standardized tests, said Dominique J. Baker, a University of Delaware associate professor of education and public policy who studies admissions policies.

“There were a number of institutions that never would have chosen to have gone test-optional except the pandemic made them,” she said. “Those institutions, by and large, are going back to requiring test scores.”

MIT, Georgetown University and the University of Florida are among schools that quickly chose to reinstate the requirements, with MIT announcing the change in 2022. Many others have spent the years since the virus arrived studying what effect going test-optional had on their admitted classes.

At Brown, Yale and Dartmouth, officials said they had found something surprising: Considering test scores would help them identify more promising applicants from disadvantaged backgrounds, not fewer. After looking at their own data, leaders at the three Ivy League schools say they concluded that SAT and ACT scores are highly predictive of students’ academic performance in college, more so than high school grades. They also found that some less-advantaged students withheld their scores when sharing them would have boosted their chances.

Depriving admissions officers of SAT and ACT scores meant they were less able to evaluate an applicant’s chances of thriving at Brown, Provost Francis J. Doyle III said in an interview this month .

“Our analysis suggested our admissions could be more effective if we brought back testing as an instrument,” Doyle said.

The University of Texas at Austin is also choosing to require testing again, the school announced earlier this month. Jay Hartzell, the school’s president, said he and others worried the cost and preparation associated with the tests could keep students from applying. But about 90 percent of UT Austin applicants in the latest round took the SAT even though it was optional, Hartzell said. And the school found that students who declined to submit scores were less successful once enrolled.

John Friedman, a professor of economics and international and public affairs at Brown, said he wouldn’t be surprised if more of those highly selective schools reinstate a testing requirement. He was one of the authors of the study from Opportunity Insights, a nonprofit at Harvard University, on standardized test scores and student performance at a dozen “Ivy-plus” universities.

“It’s not just about the test scores being a good predictor,” he said. “We show in the paper that students who attend a school, having been admitted without a test score, perform at the bottom of the distribution.” He said schools should look at their own data to determine their policy.

Nonetheless, most schools nationwide will probably remain test-optional, predicted Angel Pérez, the chief executive of the National Association for College Admission Counseling. For many institutions, he said, the policy has been a huge success, bumping up the number of applicants and diversifying admitted classes.

He added that most American high-schoolers are applying to schools that admit nearly all applicants, to public schools or to colleges close to home, he said: “So the majority of students aren’t going to be impacted.”

Morehouse College is among those maintaining a test-optional policy, which the historically Black college adopted in 2020. Since going test-optional, Morehouse has seen an increased number of applicants and an increased acceptance rate from admitted students, said Michael Gumm, Morehouse’s director of admissions and recruitment.

The majority of Morehouse applicants choose not to submit scores, Gumm said, and more students are completing their applications than in the past. He said Morehouse is looking for leaders, so essays and letters of recommendation carry a lot of weight.

Gumm said he often preaches to students: “Your test scores do not make you who you are.”

But for some students, the tests remain a priority. Alina Bunch, a 16-year-old high school junior in Texas, said that even when she saw schools dropping test requirements, she never altered her plan to take the ACT. The exam, she says, is a way to demonstrate determination and academic rigor.

She thinks it’s generally a good thing that schools are bringing back testing requirements, because they can function as a mechanism of standardization in a sometimes subjective admissions process. She does fear the effects of reinstating test requirements for students who cannot afford tutoring.

But for herself — after taking a summer course to prepare for the ACT and scoring high on the exam — she has no real worries. “It was never a question for me, of whether I should do it or not,” Alina said.

Many students pursued similar strategies, continuing to take standardized tests throughout the test-optional trend. After a dramatic drop in 2020 spurred by the sudden closure of test sites, the number of students taking the SAT nationally has risen every year since, per the College Board, and reached 1.9 million for the class of 2023. That’s about 300,000 short of the last pre-pandemic total, when 2.2 million members of the class of 2019 sat for the exam — the largest-ever group to do so.

Joan Koven, who heads college consulting company Academic Access in Pennsylvania, said she never expected standardized testing to suffer a real drop in popularity.

“The ACTs and the SATs are Burger King and McDonald’s,” she said. “They’re not going away.”

But in some places, counselors wish they would. Priscilla Grijalva, a high school counselor in California’s San Jacinto Unified School District, said the elimination of test requirements in the UC system and California State University campuses was a godsend for the nearly 300 students she works with every year, a mix of White, Black and Latino teens, most of whom are socioeconomically disadvantaged.

In the past, many of her students applied only to community colleges. But now she has seen a sharp rise in those willing to aim for state universities.

“It has changed our students’ mindsets,” Grijalva said. “Now it’s like, ‘Hey, I can do this.’ They’re more confident in their leadership and their grades.”

But the flurry of recent announcements from schools altering their testing rules has proved alarming, she said. Her students “do feel the pressure coming back,” she said. “They’re starting to talk.”

Claire Elkin, 16, overheard some of this nervous chatter when she was touring colleges this spring with her family — making visits to places including the University of Virginia, Vanderbilt University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. At every school, recalled Claire, who took the ACT and intends to submit her scores, admissions tour leaders said something like: “Yeah, we’re test-optional now, but we can’t guarantee anything for you.”

Every time, the crowds of hopefuls around Claire broke into murmurs that ranged from anguished to angry, she said. She remembered one family whose daughters seemed especially upset, spurring the mother to jump into emergency action trying to calm the girls as the admissions presentation continued.

“A lot of kids my age can’t set a path right now for what they should be prioritizing when they’re applying for schools,” Claire said. “So there is definitely more panic.”

An earlier version of this article included incorrect information about the rise in the number of students who have taken the SAT since a drop sparked by the pandemic. The number of students taking the test reached 1.9 million for the class of 2023, about 300,000 fewer than for the class of 2019. The article has been corrected.

duke university chapel tour

Guided Tour of Duke Chapel

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Resurrection gate tours.

Resurrection Gate featuring heritage architecture

  • Things to do

I only need accommodations for part of my trip

Visit Resurrection Gate

Start your experience in Red Square by entering through the impressive Resurrection Gate, which has a colorful history matched only by its distinctive architecture. Be sure to bring your camera this sight is just as photogenic as other big-name attractions on Red Square, including St. Basil’s Cathedral and the Kremlin Wall. Notice the twin tall towers topped with two-headed golden eagles.

Though the gates have been demolished and resurrected a number of times, its name actually refers to the depiction of Jesus Christ’s Resurrection above the red and white building’s two archways. The gate first appeared in 1534 and was reconstructed in 1680, only to be torn down by Stalin to make way for large-scale Soviet ceremonies in the square. Gates were once again assembled between 1994 and 1995. Walk through these portals to reach all the sites of Red Square.

Notice the blue building in front of the gate as you approach Red Square. This is the Iveron Chapel. Although much smaller than the grand gates, it holds a special place in Muscovite tradition. Visitors to the square and even Russia’s rulers were encouraged to pay their respects to the chapel’s shrine on their way into Red Square. Inspect the religious art displayed on the gate as you get closer. Appreciate the two blue spires above the gates as well.

Before going into Red Square, make sure you look at the compass embedded in the ground near the chapel. This is the start of Russia’s highway network, Kilometer Zero. So, while it is the start of your journey into Red Square, it is also the starting point of a journey across Russia.

To see Resurrection Gate and other Red Square attractions, use Moscow’s metro system via Ploshchad Revolyutsii or other nearby stations. The square and Iveron Chapel are open every day.

Popular places to visit

Kazan cathedral.

This salmon-and-white Russian Orthodox Church is a faithful replica of an earlier cathedral, which was blown up during Communist rule.

  • State Historical Museum

Take a walk through many different eras of Russian history at this expansive museum on Red Square.

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Find out about the history of Moscow when you take a trip to Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Experience the area's fascinating museums and acclaimed theater scene.

You can learn about the history of Moscow with a trip to Red Square. Experience the area's acclaimed theater scene and fascinating museums.

  • Lenin's Mausoleum

Mourners and curious visitors stream to the grave to see the embalmed Vladimir Lenin, the famous revolutionary and one-time leader of the Soviet Union.

GUM Department Store

You can do some window-shopping at GUM Department Store during your stay in Moscow. Experience the area's fascinating museums and acclaimed theater scene.

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Grounds for sculpture tour.

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Date: Saturday, April 27, 2024 | 11:30 am - 01:30 pm EDT

Price:  Varies

Location:  Grounds For Sculpture 80 Sculptors Way Hamilton, New Jersey  08619 United States

Join us for a tour at Grounds For Sculpture, a 42-acre sculpture park, museum, and arboretum where art and nature are at play.

Outdoors, nearly 300 contemporary sculptures are sited across 42 landscaped acres. Indoors, temporary exhibitions from established and emerging artists are featured in six galleries.

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Event Contact Kimberly Whitehead M.B.A.'11

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Event Cancellation by Sponsor Duke Alumni Engagement and Development (AED) reserves the right to cancel an event due to low enrollment or other circumstances which would make the event non-viable. If AED cancels an event, registrants will be offered a full refund. Should circumstances arise that result in the postponement of an event, registrants will have the option to either receive a full refund or transfer registration to the same event at the new, future date. Registration Cancellation by Participant Unless specifically stated on registration materials, the deadline to receive a refund for your registration is 5 business days before the event. Cancellations received after the stated deadline will not be eligible for a refund. Refunds will not be available for registrants who choose not to attend an event. Cancellations will be accepted via phone, fax or e-mail, and must be received by the stated cancellation deadline. All refund requests must be made by the attendee or credit card holder. Refund requests must include the name of the attendee and/or transaction number. Refunds will be credited back to the original credit card used for payment. These above policies apply to all AED Events unless otherwise noted in the corresponding event materials. Please read all individual event information thoroughly.

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COMMENTS

  1. Visit

    Tours and events: 919-681-9488 Weddings: 919-684-8150 Media inquiries: 919-681-0332 Email: [email protected] Address: 401 Chapel Drive Box 90974 Durham, NC 27708. Parking

  2. Welcome

    Sunday, March 24, 2024. 11 to 12. Webcast Archives Sermon Podcast. Duke University Chapel affirms the value of every human being and welcomes all who seek to respond to the all-inclusive love of God in Jesus Christ. The Chapel extends an open invitation to the campus and the community to engage in our mission and ministries.

  3. DukeChapel

    Duke Chapel has a vision "to respond to God's all-inclusive love at Duke, in Durham, and in the world." Its mission is: Rooted in the love of God in Jesus Christ, Duke Chapel bridges faith and ...

  4. Visit & Events

    A popular destination, the Chapel welcomes hundreds of visitors every day for services, concerts, ceremonies, tours, and moments of personal reflection and prayer. As a widely recognized symbol of the university, the Chapel offers a magnificent gathering space for significant events in the life of the university and its members.

  5. Duke Chapel Virtual Tour

    Duke University Chapel is, indeed, the "great towering church" that James B. Duke requested and has become a widely recognized symbol of the university. As s...

  6. New Virtual Tour Presents Chapel's Sights and Sounds

    A new 360-degree virtual tour presents the sights and sounds of Duke Chapel with highlights and anecdotes from the building's history. Watch it here: Duke Chapel Virtual Tour. Watch on. The twelve-minute, narrated video shows the statues at the entrance, the vaulted ceiling in the main sanctuary, the beauty of the stained-glass windows, the ...

  7. 2022-2023 Concert Season

    March 19, 2023, at 5:00 p.m. We celebrate the arrival of Duke Chapel's new Bösendorfer 225 Grand Piano with this dedicatory recital, performed by pianist Cole Burger and featuring repertoire by Albéniz, Bach, Alexina Louie, and more. Burger teaches piano at Bowling Green State University and Lutheran Summer Music.

  8. Public Tour of Duke Chapel

    Learn about the history, architecture, and life of Duke Chapel in this tour, which is free and open to the public. The tour begins at 12:15 p.m., or immediately following the conclusion of the Sunday morning service, and lasts approximately forty-five minutes. No reservation is required but if you plan to bring a large group please notify us in ...

  9. A Tour of Duke University Chapel

    Explore Duke University Chapel with Dean Luke Powery, who provides unique insight on the pulpit, crypt, Memorial Chapel and other special sections of the bel...

  10. Duke Chapel Tour

    Duke University Chapel is an icon of the university, a vibrant center for ecumenical Christian worship, and a sanctuary for all people. INSTRUCTIONS. To begin your tour of Duke Chapel tap the Start Tour button below. VISITOR INFORMATION. ACADEMIC YEAR - 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. SUMMER & ACADEMIC BREAKS - 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

  11. Guided Tour of Duke Chapel

    To attend a tour, meet the docent on the front steps of the Chapel following the morning worship service, which typically ends at 12:15 p.m. No reservations are necessary but large groups as asked to notify the Chapel in advance at 919-681-9488 or [email protected] . Parking is available on a first-come-first-served basis in the Bryan Center ...

  12. Duke University Chapel

    Duke University Chapel. Features the Flentrop Organ (5,200 pipes), 50-bell carillon and stained glass windows. ... On weekends, a guided tour is offered every Sunday after the 11:00 a.m. worship service or by special request. No reservations are necessary. Website (919) 681-9488 Directions. Map Amenities. Tours: Guided; Location. Duke ...

  13. Public Tour of Duke Chapel

    Sunday, July 21. Sunday, July 28. Sunday, August 4. Sunday, August 11. Learn about the history, architecture, and life of Duke Chapel in this tour, which is free and open to the public. The tour begins at 12:15 p.m., or.

  14. Visit

    Duke Chapel. A new 360-degree virtual tour presents the sights and sounds of Duke Chapel with highlights and anecdotes from the building's history. ... located adjacent to Cameron in the Schwartz-Butters Athletic Center. Learn more. Marine Lab. Tours of the Duke University Marine Laboratory, located about 180 miles east of Duke's main ...

  15. Plan a Visit

    We participate in the University Worship service at 11:00 a.m. every Sunday morning (except for graduation weekend) held in Duke University Chapel. Parking. Free parking is available on Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the Bryan Center Parking Deck next to the Chapel. A Sunday morning parking pass can be obtained from the Visitor's Desk in ...

  16. Organ Recital Series at Duke University Chapel, and more

    Docent-Led Tour of Duke Chapel Sundays (check Duke Chapel website for exceptions) 12:15 p.m. Free. Learn about the history, architecture, and life of Duke Chapel in this tour, which is free and open to the public. The tour begins at 12:15 p.m., or immediately following the conclusion of the Sunday morning service, and lasts approximately forty ...

  17. Chapel Support

    Tours are offered at 12:15 p.m. after worship service most Sundays. Tours may also be scheduled during the week by contacting Mark King at 919-668-0286 or emailing [email protected]. Choir Engagement. During the academic year, the Duke Chapel Choir enriches the Sunday morning worship service with wonderful music.

  18. Playing Tour Guide? Visit These Duke Stops

    When it comes to showing off Duke, few people are better equipped than the people who work here every day. We asked staff and faculty to suggest their favorite campus tour stops, and here are a few answers. Duke University Chapel. Hilary Bouton-Verville has a few must-visit spots for friends and family.

  19. Welcome to Duke Chapel—Maintenance Work in April to Affect Science

    Located at the heart of Duke's West Campus, Duke Chapel is a sanctuary for all people. Students are invited to participate in all aspects of the life of the Chapel. Beginning April 1, maintenance work will result in the closure of one lane of Science Drive near the Biological Sciences Building during the day and a total closure of the road from 8:15 p.m. to 6 a.m. Monday through Friday.

  20. 72 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Moscow

    For the best experience, consider a pre-arranged tour that includes access to both the Museum and VDNKh. 31 - Complete your Moscow culinary experience with a food tour. Foodies, listen up! Moscow has gained a reputation for being one of the finest cities in Europe for foodies, with an excellent range of restaurants and bars.

  21. 5 Free Things to do at Duke in March 2024

    March 14 - Duke Gardens Midday Meander. From 12:15-1 p.m. on Thursday, March 14, join Duke Gardens Director of Learning and Community Engagement Kavanah Anderson for an informal guided tour of the gardens. The tour features little-known facts about Duke Gardens, tidbits of horticultural history and opportunities to experience the plants and scenes found in the gardens with all of your senses.

  22. [4K] Walking Streets Moscow. Moscow-City

    Walking tour around Moscow-City.Thanks for watching!MY GEAR THAT I USEMinimalist Handheld SetupiPhone 11 128GB https://amzn.to/3zfqbboMic for Street https://...

  23. Return of some SAT requirements scramble college admissions again

    A student takes a practice test for the digital SAT in March. (Butch Dill/AP) A California mother drove 80 miles this month to find an SAT testing center with an open seat where her high school ...

  24. Guided Tour of Duke Chapel

    The Duke Chapel Logo Bridging Faith & Learning Student Engagement. Back Student Engagement. Chapel Student Ministries. Back; Chapel Scholars; C. Eric Lincoln Fellowship; Duke Chapel Reads; Mission Trips; Student Preacher; ... Guided Tour of Duke Chapel.

  25. Resurrection Gate Tours

    Notice the blue building in front of the gate as you approach Red Square. This is the Iveron Chapel. Although much smaller than the grand gates, it holds a special place in Muscovite tradition. Visitors to the square and even Russia's rulers were encouraged to pay their respects to the chapel's shrine on their way into Red Square.

  26. Grounds for Sculpture Tour

    Join us for a tour at Grounds For Sculpture, a 42-acre sculpture park, museum, and arboretum where art and nature are at play. ... 2080 Duke University Road Durham, NC 27708. Mail and deliveries: 615 Chapel Drive, Box 90572 Durham, NC 27708. P: (919) 684-5114 F: (919) 684-6022 [email protected]. Connect With Us. Facebook Twitter LinkedIn ...

  27. Moscow City Tour, City Sightseeing, Nightlife Tour, Travel Guide

    Panoramic city tour which includes the most interesting historical sights of the city: the Red Square with St.Basil's Cathedral (outside), Lenin's tomb (outside), State Department Store (GUM), the Christ the Savior Cathedral (inside), the New Maiden Convent (outside), Moscow City business center, the Victory Park, Moscow State university, Sparrow hills observation platform where the ...