Sights of Tomsk: where to go and what to see in one day

The most interesting places in Tomsk - TOP-5

First, we will talk about the sights of Tomsk, which both tourists and citizens are rightly called symbols of the city.

Monument to Happiness

Address: st. Shevchenko 19/1. Transport stop "Shevchenko Street".

One of the most original attractions of the city is the bronze figure of the hero of the cult Soviet cartoon “Once upon a time there was a dog.” The sculpture of an overfed, extremely satisfied and arrogant wolf, lounging on a granite pedestal, is especially loved by the townspeople. If you press on the character’s rounded tummy in a certain place, you can hear one of the famous phrases firmly entrenched in folklore - “God help you,” “I’ll sing right now,” etc.

Monument to A.P. Chekhov

Address: embankment of the Tom River.

There are many sculptural compositions installed on the main city embankment of Tomsk. As reviews say, the most popular is the one that depicts Anton Pavlovich Chekhov. But the writer here is depicted not quite traditionally - in a funny caricature, in a funny hat, a simple coat and with an umbrella behind him.

A bronze figure of Chekhov with a total height of 2 m was installed in Tomsk in 2004 - in honor of the 400th anniversary of the city. The authors of the funny attraction were the sculpture L. Usov and the foundry worker M. Petrov. It was sponsored by city authorities and local businessmen. Chekhov, during his visit to Sakhalin in 1890, stayed in Tomsk for a week.

Mansion S.V. Khomich

Address: Belinskogo, 19. Transport stop “House of Scientists”.

Tomsk architect Khomich built this stunning mansion according to his own design for himself and his household in 1904. Its architecture is so eclectic that the building rather resembles a fairy-tale gingerbread house. The exterior harmoniously coexists with Gothic turrets with high spiers, hipped domes, church domes, attic bay windows, and stunningly fine wood carvings. At different times, the premises of the building were occupied by a railway school, TSU students, a maternity hospital, and a children's hospital. Now the structures of the Licensing Chamber are located here.

Complex of Novo-Cathedral Square

Address: Transport stop Novosobornaya Square.

This place is a must-see for tourist excursions and a favorite promenade spot for townspeople. The architectural ensemble, part of which consists of historical buildings, includes the colorful mansion of the city Assembly and a magnificent fountain. The real decoration of the square is the sculptural composition dedicated to students.

A luxurious marble column is installed on a pedestal of polished granite, with a bronze sculpture on the capital of two child figures sitting in front of an open book. Next to the column is a statue of St. Tatiana, the eternal patroness of schoolchildren.

Art Museum

Opening hours: daily, except Mondays, from 10:00 to 18:00.
Ticket prices: adult 100 rubles, student 50 rubles, children 20 rubles, children under 5 years old are free.
Telephone.
Website: https://www.artmuseumtomsk.ru.
Address: Nakhanovich Lane, 3. Transport stop “Theater of Young Spectators”.

The museum, located in a magnificent merchant mansion made of red brick and sandstone, built in 1903, has an excellent collection of works by masters of painting, graphics, sculpture, decorative and applied arts, and a wonderful collection of icons.

The exhibition includes paintings by European painters of the 16th-21st centuries, Russian and Soviet artists of the 18th-21st centuries. During the excursion you will admire the works of Aivazovsky, Konchalovsky, Korovin, Kustodiev, Polenov, Serov, Surikov. The museum's holdings contain more than 11 thousand works of art.

HAVE FUN!

What else to do in Tomsk? In summer you can ride bicycles and scooters. Along city streets or along green areas - the terraces of the Camp Garden, the paths of the Mikhailovskaya Grove, the Polytechnic stadium, Novo-Cathedral Square and the Tom embankment.

In winter, skating rinks with skate rentals open throughout the city. Cross-country ski rental centers are opening next to forested areas.

Tomsk pearls of architecture

Tomsk residents carefully preserve their historical heritage, so there is something to see in the city. Perhaps the main attractions of Tomsk are the architectural monuments kept in excellent condition.

Tomsk State University

Address: Lenin Avenue, 36. Transport stop "Tomsk State University".

The building of the oldest university in Siberia, founded in 1888, is one of the most recognizable symbols of Tomsk. The author of the project of a majestic structure in a strict classical style, above the arches of the entrance to which four slender columns rise, supporting an antique portico, was the famous architect Alexander Bruni.

He was actively advised by the Florinskys and Mendeleev. The palace turned out to be truly impressive. However, for all its massiveness, it does not look heavy or too pompous.

City Hall building

Address: Lenin Avenue, 73. Transport stop “Novosobornaya Square”.

The eclectic three-story mansion in the city center, which is now occupied by City Hall, was erected in 1899 for the wealthy trading house “E. Kukhterin and sons." The architecture of the building clearly shows the unique style inherent to the author of the project K.K. Lygin.

The combination of red brick and light sandstone in the exterior looks amazing. Beautiful domes, graceful balustrades, carved pediments create a magnificent composition in which neo-Baroque and neo-Renaissance dominate.

Estate I.D. Astasheva

Address: Lenin Avenue, 75. Transport stop "Museum of Local Lore".

The magnificent palace, which became the center of the estate of the richest gold miner Astashev, is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. The construction of the architectural monument, which lasted 4 years, was completed in 1842.

The elegant building, the facades of which are decorated with bay windows with delightful columns on both sides, is an excellent example of the Empire architectural style. Over the many years of its existence, the estate managed to be the residence of Tomsk bishops and was used as a House of Education Workers. Since 1925, expositions of the local history museum have been located here.

House with a tent

Address: st. Krasnoarmeyskaya, 71. Transport stop “Herzen Street”.

This elegant mansion, built at the beginning of the last century for the wealthy merchant G.M. Golovanov, is considered one of the masterpieces of wooden architecture not only in Tomsk, but throughout Siberia. The light blue color of the facade, the elegance of the figured roofs of the wings and the decor of openwork wooden elements covering the pediments with lace work create a feeling of unique lightness.

The house seems fabulous, weightless, floating in the air. The building is decorated with a small tower with a hipped dome and a high spire. This miracle, created by the golden hands of masters and carefully preserved to this day, is definitely worth admiring.

House with firebirds

Address: Lenin Avenue, 15B. Transport stop "Sovetskaya Street".

Only slightly inferior in splendor to the Khomich mansion is the house with firebirds, built for the family of the merchant L.D. Zhelyabo in 1890. The building amazes not only with its elegance, but also with the variety of architectural solutions. Its façade is decorated with spacious bay windows supported by wooden columns.

The small square mezzanine above the central part is decorated with pointed turrets, and the main spire is covered with a flock of fabulous firebirds. Particularly worth highlighting are the stunning window frames. They are framed by semi-columns with elegant capitals. Relief carved decorative elements amaze with the subtlety of work.

WHERE TO GO FOR EXTREME?

to Akademgorodok, where you can rent alpine skis and cheesecakes;
to a park near the village of Kolarovo, where there is also a rope tow, ski equipment rental, and a tubing slope;
to an extreme park between Tomsk and neighboring Seversk, where there is an obstacle course, bungee jumping, a shooting range, a climbing wall, and where you can also ride snowmobiles, ATVs and play paintball.

Like everywhere else, Tomsk has cinemas, nightclubs, cafés and cafés, coffee shops and bakeries. What's worth trying? The choice is wide - from Siberian classics like pancakes and dumplings to street food of all stripes: from burgers for every taste, excellent pizza, to Mexican tacos, Chinese woks, Vietnamese pho-bo.

And also, of course, branded cedar candies, Tomsk cake and many different versions of coffee, tea and lemonade.

Tatyana Bratchenko, 2nd year student of the Faculty of Agricultural Engineering, Altai State Agrarian University (Barnaul):

My sister studies in Tomsk - I wanted to see her and see the city. We lived in the TPU sanatorium, the conditions were good - comfortable, convenient, close to everything. We looked at the two main Tomsk universities, TSU and TPU. Overall, I really liked Tomsk: it’s small, comfortable, there’s incredible architecture here—it’s very exciting. I’m also considering the option of studying for a master’s degree in Tomsk. Tomsk is a city of students, great opportunities!

Editorial Board of "Bulletin ATOR"

Photo provided by the project office “Creative Industries and Tourism” in Tomsk

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Monuments and sculptures in Tomsk

An integral part of the attractions of Tomsk are monuments, the number of which the city can easily compete with Krasnoyarsk and Novosibirsk. Mostly they are dedicated to important historical events, but some are created just to make you smile and improve your mood.

Monument of Glory to Tomsk Warriors

Address: Camp Garden. Transport stop "Camp Garden".

Residents of the city sacredly honor the memory of their fellow countrymen who gave their lives for the Victory over fascism. In 1979, a monument was opened on the territory of the Camp Garden in honor of the 57,934 residents of the city who did not return from the Great Patriotic War.

The composition consists of two grandiose granite figures depicting a mother presenting a weapon to her son going to the front and the Eternal Flame. Around there are 15 stone steles with aluminum slabs containing the names of the heroes engraved on the metal surface. The monument is part of the Victory Alley complex.

Monument “400 years of Tomsk”

Address: Lenin Avenue. Transport stop "TSUM".

A magnificent monument appeared in the city in 2004, when the 400th anniversary of its foundation was celebrated. The center of the composition is a bronze sculpture composed of heraldic shields, which depict city coats of arms from various periods of the history of Tomsk, topped with the crown of the Russian Empire.

Conical tetrahedral obelisks are installed in the corners of the square area. They rise on pedestals decorated with bas-reliefs telling about the main milestones of the city chronicle.

Monument to the soldiers of the 39th Infantry Regiment

Address: st. Karl Marx, 34. Transport stop "River Station".

Although the monument appeared on the square near the River Station only in 2012, it has already become one of the calling cards of the city. The opening of the monument to the Siberian heroes, who amazed the French generals with their courage shown during the Patriotic War of 1812, was timed to coincide with the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Borodino.

In the center of the composition is a 10-meter column, topped with a bronze figure of an eagle with outstretched wings. It is installed on a pedestal, on the sides of which there are memorial plaques and bas-reliefs with fragments of the battles of Smolensk and Borodino.

Memorial to the Creators of Space Technology

Address: Kirov Square. Transport stop "Kyiv".

Tomsk residents made an invaluable contribution to the creation of technology that allowed first the USSR and then Russia to take a leading position in space exploration. In 2011, when the famous NPO Polyus celebrated its 60th anniversary, a monument appeared, the opening of which was timed to coincide with this glorious date.

The central figure of the monumental ensemble, behind which is a sculptural image of two satellites in low-Earth orbit, is a monument to the State Prize laureate P.V. Golubev, who stood at the origins of the scientific and production association. The figure is made of bronze on a scale of 1:3. On the left is a model of the Proton launch vehicle, 12.5 m high.

Sculpture “Baby in Cabbage”

Address: Lenin Avenue, 65.

This sculptural composition, located next to Maternity Hospital No. 1, is also a popular place for photographs among tourists in Tomsk. Many citizens call it the best in the city and wish that there were more such symbolic attractions in the city. There is also a belief that if you rub this “child” in cabbage, you will definitely be lucky, especially in family matters. It is not surprising that the sculpture has many abrasions.

Monument to the Lover

Address: st. Bakunina, 3.

One of the amazing and bright sculptures of Tomsk is this one - a monument to the Lover. Located next to the Museum of the History of the City, it is always in sight of tourists, and many townspeople come here to admire what outfit the figure is wearing at the moment. The whole point is that a lover's panties are changed periodically - such a funny fact. Having visited Tomsk, you must take a photo as a souvenir at this funny monument.

WHERE ELSE ARE INTERESTING STORIES ABOUT TOMSK TOLD?

in the regional museum of local lore - here you can learn a lot about the ancestors of today's Siberians;
in the private museum “Professor's Apartment” - here you will be introduced to Tomsk life of the early 20th century;
on excursions with Tomsk guides who will tell you about the secrets of Tomsk dungeons, the life of universities and the historical districts of the city.
using the free QR quest “Creative Tomsk”, which you can complete at any free time from your smartphone.

And all guests of the city, without exception, are recommended to visit the TSU Botanical Garden. It's always hot, green and very beautiful here.

Polina Kuznetsova, 2nd year student at the Institute of Fundamental Biology and Biotechnology of the Siberian Federal University (Krasnoyarsk):

Tomsk is located not far from Krasnoyarsk, getting here is easier and cheaper. And there were also friends here. We walked around the city, they showed us the TPU buildings and its museums. We liked that the university has such an interesting history. We visited a cafe in Tomsk and got acquainted with the local cuisine. In general, the student tourism program is great, I really hope that it will continue to work.

Museums and theaters of the city of Tomsk

Tourists who prefer educational leisure and an extensive cultural program will have plenty to visit in Tomsk. The city will delight you with an abundance of theaters and, especially, museums.

Mineral Museum

Working hours: Monday-Friday, from 10:00 to 17:00.
Ticket price: 100 rub.
Telephone.
Website: https://www.ggf.tsu.ru.
Address: Lenin Avenue, 36. TSU building, room. 142. Transport stop "University".

An extremely educational and exciting excursion is offered to visitors of the museum. I.K. Bazhenov, organized back in 1888 at the local university. Behind the display cases of stands here you can see more than 700 varieties of minerals collected by expeditions in Altai, the Urals, Kuznetsk Alatau, the Sayan Mountains, Transbaikalia and Mongolia. In total, the collection includes more than 50 thousand samples of various rocks, semi-precious and precious stones. An experienced guide will tell you a lot of interesting things about the secrets of the mineral kingdom.

Beer Museum

Working hours: Monday-Friday, from 9:00 to 18:00.
Ticket price: 120 rub.
Phone: +7-913-829-78-49.
Website: https://www.tomskbeer.ru.
Address: Moskovsky tract, 46. Transport stop "Pivzavod".

Fans of the foamy drink in Siberia appreciate the products of Tomskoe Beer OJSC for their rich taste and impeccable quality. In 2004, an original museum was opened at the plant. Its exhibitions tell about the history of the enterprise, the traditions of the art of brewing from ancient times to the present day.

Visitors will be able to see an extensive collection of beer mugs, labels, coasters and other accessories. Among the exhibits there are real rarities of the 18th century. The excursion includes a visit to the plant's workshops and tasting of beer and non-alcoholic products of the plant.

Tomsk Local Lore Museum

Address: ave. Lenina, 75.

One of the main museums not only in the city, but throughout the entire Tomsk region, is dedicated to the history and culture of the region. The main museum building is located in a historical building - an estate of the 19th century. This house once belonged to a local businessman named Astashev, who was engaged in gold mining. The museum's richest collection numbers more than 140 thousand items.

The museum presents exhibitions about the lives of famous townspeople, about local nature - the flora and fauna of the region. Two halls are occupied by the “prehistoric era” - the exhibition talks about “stones”, the geology of the Paleolithic and Neolithic. One of the exhibitions bears the “musical” name “Heavy Metal,” but it is dedicated not to the direction of heavy music, but to the material. It contains various metal objects.

See: Sights of the Tomsk region

Museum of Tomsk History

Address: st. Bakunina, 3.

Along with the local history museum, there is also a historical museum in Tomsk. It appeared relatively recently - in 2003, but its exhibition will allow you to take a fascinating excursion into the past and learn about the life of Tomsk residents in different eras.

Visitors are invited to visit the Streltsy Tower, which defended the city several centuries ago, and see Tomsk from the height of the fire tower.

The museum presents exhibitions telling about the life of peasants and merchants, you can see a collection of famous local porcelain produced at the enterprise of the manufacturer Kuznetsov and many more interesting historical and archaeological exhibits.

The first museum of Slavic mythology

Address: Zagornaya st., 12.

Mythology has always played an important role in the life of society. Great philosophers and scientists believed that the mythological view of the world preceded the “religious” and modern “scientific” ones. Tomsk has a unique, one-of-a-kind museum that immerses residents and guests of the city in ancient times, in the era of Slavic paganism.

The Museum of Slavic Mythology displays examples of painting and sculpture inspired by the beliefs of our ancestors. Once upon a time it was a small private gallery, opened on the basis of a specialized library. Its history dates back to 2005. Today it is a large exhibition and educational center of the city of Tomsk.

Drama Theater

Opening hours: performances are given from Tuesday to Sunday inclusive, performances begin at 19:00 on weekdays, at 18:00 on weekends. On Sunday there are matinee performances for children.
Ticket price: from 200 to 350 rubles.
Telephone.
Website: https://tomskdrama.ru.
Address: Lenin Square, 4. Transport stop "Lenin Square".

Fans of performing arts simply need to visit the drama theater, founded back in 1850. First, it will amaze you with the grace of the architecture of the building, erected in 1978 according to the design of the architect G. I. Arrangereeva, and then with the splendor of the production and the excellent acting.

The theater's repertoire includes diverse performances of classical and modern plays. The troupe regularly participates in popular theater festivals, where it has received prizes more than once. The performances attract with the brightness of the scenery and costumes, and the stagecraft of the performers.

Theater "Skomorokh"

Opening hours: performances are given from Wednesday to Sunday inclusive.
Ticket price: 200-300 rub.
Telephone.
Website: https://www.skomoroh.tomsk.ru
Address: Solyanaya Square, 4. Transport stop "TGASU".

If you are traveling with children, be sure to take them to this wonderful theater, whose history dates back to 1946. Nowadays it is located in a colorful historical mansion built in 1913, which is also of interest as an architectural monument.

The child will be delighted by the exciting performance with the participation of amazing puppets. Young theatergoers are greeted in the hall by cheerful buffoons who invite them to take part in exciting competitions and quizzes. The theater's repertoire includes 27 performances for children and 4 for adults.

Pandemic situation in the region

Today, 7,249 cases of coronavirus infection have been identified in the Tomsk region.

Daria Pavlova, private tour guide in Tomsk:

During self-isolation, some switched to remote work, while others simply remained without it. It was allowed to go out only to the store and back. If people were going to work, then they needed a special certificate from the head of the company that you were going to work, and not just riding or walking around the city. From May 18, a mandatory wearing of masks and gloves in public transport and other places was introduced. In this regard, everything was very strict.

Tomsk

Ekaterina Zholnerova.

Later, Tomsk residents were allowed to walk in the fresh air with their families and play sports in open areas. From the second half of July, permission was given to open the first summer verandas of this season. Fitness centers and swimming pools opened at the end of July. The cafes were fully operational only by mid-August, but in compliance with social distancing and other safety rules during the pandemic. And more recently, cinemas were opened in Tomsk.

Daria Pavlova, private tour guide in Tomsk:

Today we can say that life in Tomsk is returning to normal. Events for up to 50 people are already allowed, excursions are held, museums, theaters, and private exhibitions are open, but masks are still an integral attribute that is best to always have with you.

Where to go in Tomsk with a child: the best entertainment

Both adults and children will be interested in seeing several objects in the city of Tomsk. You can take your child to the zoo or one of the play parks, or visit public gardens.

Contact Zoo "Raccoon Country"

Address: ave. Mira, 36, shopping center "MiraMix".

The name of this zoo speaks for itself. The main characters here are funny animals - raccoons. Little residents of our country, communicating with these animals, will probably remember the famous Soviet cartoon of 1974.

Tourists who come to Tomsk with children should definitely visit this amazing attraction with their child. The object is very popular among children. “Raccoon Country” is not a unique zoo, but a whole network scattered throughout the country. There are similar nurseries in other cities of Russia.

By visiting the petting zoo, you can meet more than just raccoons. In total, 10 different species of wildlife live here, including cute rabbits, prickly hedgehogs, as well as birds and reptiles.

Rural park "Okolitsa"

Address: s. Zorkaltsevo.

17 km from Tomsk, in the village of Zorkaltsevo, there is an interesting park with an area of 16 hectares. “Okolitsa” is an open-air museum of wooden sculpture. Every year the “Axe Festival” is held here, which includes a competition of craftsmen from different parts of Russia. The best works of the contestants become part of the exhibition. The park will be interesting for both adults and children.

Here, fairy tale characters, animals and mythical creatures are embodied in wood; one of the sculptures reproduces the famous home of Baba Yaga - a hut on chicken legs. The park complex also has several “thematic areas” dedicated to different peoples and cultures. In one of the parts of the park there is a Russian village; there are also Tatar and Uzbek corners.

Family amusement park "Gaming"

Address: st. Vershinina, 38.

How to entertain your child while traveling? In Tomsk, little tourists will love “Gaming” - an amusement park with many attractions and slot machines with prizes. A 6D cinema experience will capture the imagination of both children and their parents.

Entertainment here can also be educational. Be sure to visit Project X, a park inside Gambling Mania dedicated to science. Here the children will learn about what gravity is, will be able to walk through labyrinths and learn some of the secrets of nature.

Extreme Park

Address: Sosnovaya st., 26, Sosnovka microdistrict.

Jump off the bungee, tickle your nerves, play active sports games, ride horses and simply enjoy nature - all this can be done by visitors to the extreme park in Tomsk. In addition to a wide range of active entertainment located in the forest, the park has gazebos for contemplating nature and food outlets.

On the territory of this attraction of Tomsk you have the opportunity to stay for several days to experience all the facets of relaxation. Here you can choose a simple guest house, rent an Ail or stay in a summer tent. Fans of the “pirate theme” will find a specialized “Sea House” in the park.

Creative fun

When planning a vacation with children in Tomsk, you can include creative activities in the entertainment program. Thus, there is a family entertainment center in the city (Frunze Avenue, 92g). This is a traditional amusement park with a twist. In addition to trampolines, labyrinths, swings and slot machines, there is a stage. It is equipped with professional lighting devices, microphones, and sound equipment.

Cheerful animators conduct exciting programs with children. In this entertainment center, kids can try themselves as a singer, actor or dancer. A child finds himself in a fairy tale. He will be able to show his talents and take part in a brilliant show. Moreover, parents can also join this action. Family holidays will be fun, creative and unusual.

Another interesting place to take your child to is the Multistory cartoon workshop. Here children come up with cartoons and then turn their ideas into reality. Professionals help children master various animation and animation techniques.

In the course of work, a child can become a screenwriter, director, artist, cameraman or photographer. They are given complete freedom to express themselves. This is a very useful activity. It allows you not only to show talent, but also to express yourself in creativity. Perhaps after going to Multistory, parents will begin to understand their child more.

Natural attractions of the city and surrounding area

In the city itself, several walking squares and streets are available for visiting, but in the outskirts of Tomsk you can also find a place worth going to, for example, on a weekend.

Siberian Botanical Garden

Address: ave. Lenina, 34/1.

The greenhouse complex occupies an area of 10 hectares. The botanical garden is both an excursion and a research facility. It belongs to Tomsk State University. In total, the botanical garden presents 8,000 plant species, including many exotic ones. About half of the specimens are representatives of the tropics and subtropics, that is, a climate zone uncharacteristic for the region.

White Lake

Coordinates on the map: 56.495683, 84.963666.

The reservoir in the very center of the city historically served as a source of fresh water; it was clean here, and residents sincerely believed in its healing properties. Today White Lake is a recreational site, recognized as a natural monument, and is a favorite vacation spot for Tomsk residents and tourists.

Adults and children relax and have fun here. In summer, the lake serves as a place for swimming and sunbathing; vacationers go on catamarans. In winter there is an ice skating rink. Near the lake there is a playground where children frolic. The Chunga-Changa amusement park is also located nearby.

WHAT ELSE DO YOU DO WHILE WALKING?

on Novo-Cathedral Square: in the summer - have a snack by the fountain and lie on the grass; in winter - look at the ice sculptures created for the Crystal Tomsk festival;
in the City Garden: read books on sun loungers by the pond, eat ice cream and go on rides;
in the Camp Garden: photograph the meander of the Tom River and meet friendly squirrels;
in Mikhailovskaya Grove: find the foundation of an ancient fountain with a cedar tree in the center, go down to the spring and make a circle along the walking path.