Entertainment for adults in Astana: interesting places and night establishments.
Astana is the capital of Kazakhstan, where modernity is closely intertwined with national traditions. Futuristic architecture, wide and spacious avenues, interesting cultural sights - what else is needed?
When planning where to go in Astana, you should definitely take into account the weather. In winter there are severe frosts and strong winds, and in summer - heat. Astana is not the most comfortable city for long hiking routes because of its long distances, but if you plan your journey and breaks wisely, you can get a lot of impressions.
Best places for walking in Astana
Although the capital of Kazakhstan is most often traveled by transport or car, there are many interesting locations that are pleasant to explore while hiking in Astana. Here you will find both modern urban attractions and cozy natural areas for recreation. We have collected the best ideas!
City Center
The center of Astana is the place where the main attractions and the most curious architectural structures are gathered. So this is the first and most obvious answer to the question of where to go in Astana.
Baiterek is the visiting card of the city and a symbol of the transfer of the capital to Astana. Climbing up to the observation deck, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the entire city. This monument symbolizes the ancient legend about the sacred bird Samruk, which lays a golden egg on the top of the world tree.
Akorda is the residence of the president and an interesting architectural landmark. It is a concrete monolith, but the Italian marble cladding immediately catches the eye. Akorda is located right next to Baiterek, so you won't have to walk far.
Nurzhol Boulevard is a great place for walking, connecting Baiterek with the Presidential Palace. All tourist routes of Astana pass through it in one way or another. Here you can admire modern architecture, sit in cozy squares, take photos and enjoy the atmosphere of the capital.
Khan Shatyr is a famous shopping and entertainment center in the form of a tent. Inside you can find cafes, restaurants, stores and even a beach with a pool on the top floor. Looking for where to go in Astana to have fun? Start there!
The center's coffee shops and restaurants offer a variety of cuisine, from Kazakh dishes to European delicacies. There are a lot of establishments, so you can choose an option for every taste and purse.
Historical and cultural locations
Although Astana is a young city, it is rich in cultural sites. History and art lovers will definitely find something to see and go to in Astana.
Khazret Sultan Mosque is a classic mosque in the traditional Kazakh style. It is the largest dome in all of Kazakhstan. Here you can admire the exquisite paintings, mosaics and stained glass windows, and at the same time to get acquainted with the traditions of Islam.
The Central Mosque of Astana is the largest mosque in Central Asia. In addition to halls for prayers, there are study halls, a TV studio, stores, a museum and much more. There is even a banquet hall right by the giant parking lot.
The National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan is the largest museum in the country with as many as 7 different blocks. Here you can see the Golden Man, one of the most famous archeological artifacts. In addition, the museum has exhibits dedicated to the history of nomadic civilization, Kazakh culture and modern development of the republic.
The Museum of the First President is an interesting place to learn about the political history of the country. Personal belongings, documents and photos revealing the key moments of political formation of Kazakhstan are kept here.
The Palace of Peace and Concord is a spectacular glass pyramid that symbolizes the unity of all religions in the world. It also houses an opera hall. All the main routes in Astana pass through it.
Monument "Mangilik El" is a spectacular triumphal arch to the 20th anniversary of Kazakhstan's independence. The observation deck offers a beautiful view. The monument depicts scenes from the history of the country, which makes it interesting not only from the artistic but also from the historical point of view.
The Astana Opera House is one of the best places for art lovers, where world classical operas and ballets are staged. The interior decoration of the theater is amazingly luxurious, and the repertoire includes both traditional productions and modern performances.
We can also add other equally interesting museums - the Museum of Future Energy, the Museum of Modern Art, the Space Museum, the National Art Gallery and several memorial cemeteries. Major religious sites include the city's remaining mosques, two cathedrals and a synagogue.
And if you need to think of where to go in Astana, when the main attractions are over, take a walk to interesting monuments - the monument "Cossack Ely", the fountain "Tree of Life" or the mosaic panel "Space". If you wish, you can even find a monument to A. S. Pushkin.
Embankment
A stroll along the Ishim River embankment is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Astana and the second item on a traveler's obligatory program. Here you can enjoy beautiful views, take a boat ride or rent a catamaran, look at the works of street artists and listen to musicians.
In winter, an ice skating rink is poured on the embankment. You can also ride a bicycle or scooter along the paths along the river. And, of course, make cool photos against the background of architectural ensembles. Where to go in Astana, if not here?
Green areas and parks
Despite its urban style, Astana has plenty of green areas for recreation. Be sure to add a few of them to your Astana itinerary.
Central or Stolichny Park is a park of culture and recreation with a huge area and a huge amount of entertainment for the whole family. An ideal place for active recreation in nature.
Arai Park is a cozy family place that claims to be a cultural attraction. There are cozy alleys and playgrounds for walks with children.
Presidential Park is a park around the Palace of Peace and Concord. It saves in the heat, because there are a lot of fountains and artificial streams. And also - beautiful flowerbeds and panoramic views for photos.
Astana Botanical Garden is a garden with 63 hectares of green areas and 2 greenhouses. There is also the largest fountain in Astana - Taikazan. The giant copper bowl is decorated with decorative elements.
Local squares are perfect to take a break during a walk along Astana's routes. The squares of Teachers and Lovers are especially good.
Entertainment
If you want to have fun, Astana offers a lot of entertainment for adults and children.
The Alau Ice Palace is an indoor skating stadium where you can skate even in summer.
Oceanarium "Duman" - an amazing place where you can see sea creatures in the center of the steppe city.
Ailand Water Park - the only water park in Astana, located on two floors and accommodating 1500 people.
MEGA Silk Way is one of the largest shopping and entertainment centers with stores, a cinema and restaurants.
Children will enjoy the Astana Circus, and connoisseurs of classics will enjoy the Central Concert Hall "Kazakhstan". The Triumph Astana LCD and the Transport Tower complex have observation decks with luxurious views of the city.
Additional tips for tourists
Before you go for a walk around Astana, take into account a few important points. In winter you definitely need warm clothes, and in summer - a hat and sunglasses. Comfortable shoes will come in handy at any time of year, because the distances in the city are large enough for walking routes.
If desired, use public transportation or cabs - all this is perfectly developed in the capital. In the warm season, you can relax in parks or at the seafront. And if the weather is unlucky - visit museums, shopping centers or water parks.
In the warm season the city has a project of free walking tours. Details should be clarified on the spot, because it depends on the dates of your trip. To rent an audio guide with a guidebook, just leave a deposit, which will be returned later.
For relaxation during a long walk, local restaurants are ideal. Among them are the exquisite European La Rivière, Salter's with a huge meat menu, Emiliya with excellent breakfasts and "Saxaul" with national cuisine. There are also a lot of coffee shops in the city. For example, the widespread chains Coffee Boom or Espresso bar.
Conclusions
Astana is a city of contrasts, where you can find both modern entertainment and quiet areas for recreation. It is not always convenient for hiking, but if you plan your route properly, you can get a lot of bright impressions. Whether it is architectural sights, cozy cafes or active rest in nature - there is something for everyone. Enjoy your trip around Astana!
