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First President's Park, Kazakhstan - Things to Do in First President's Park

Things to Do in First President's Park

First President's Park, Kazakhstan - Complete Travel Guide

Almaty's First President's Park doubles as the city's political monument and its most popular picnic spot. Named after Nursultan Nazarbayev, the park sits in central Almaty where families gather under massive trees and joggers circle past manicured gardens. Soviet buildings meet glass towers here. The dramatic Tian Shan mountains rise just behind the city, close enough to feel like you could touch them.

Top Things to Do in First President's Park

Walking the Central Alley and Monument Area

The main path leads past manicured lawns to the central monument. Evening crowds gather here. You'll spot wedding parties posing for photos and teenagers skateboarding around the formal spaces—somehow it all works together.

Booking Tip: No booking required - it's free to enter. Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light and fewer crowds. Weekends get busy with families, so weekdays are better for peaceful walks.

Picnicking in the Shaded Groves

Mature trees create natural picnic spots throughout the park. Locals spread blankets and share meals underneath them. This is where the space feels most real. Less monument, more neighborhood hangout.

Booking Tip: Bring your own supplies from nearby markets or cafes. The best spots fill up on weekends, so arrive early if you want prime real estate under the larger trees.

Photography Around the Fountain Areas

Several fountains break up the landscape and create photo opportunities. They draw visitors and locals alike during hot weather. Good spots for people-watching too.

Booking Tip: Golden hour lighting works best, typically 2-3 hours before sunset. Spring through early fall offers the most active fountains - some may be turned off during winter months.

Observing Local Life and Social Gatherings

The most interesting part is watching how locals use the space. Morning tai chi practitioners, evening chess games, families claiming their regular spots. You get a real sense of daily Almaty life here.

Booking Tip: No cost involved, just time and patience. Weekday evenings and weekend afternoons offer the most activity. Bring a book or something to do while you settle in and observe.

Connecting to Nearby Attractions

The central location makes this park perfect as a starting or ending point for city exploration. Many visitors use it as a rest stop between museums, markets, and other downtown attractions. Smart approach.

Booking Tip: Plan this as part of a larger walking route through the city center. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, and having a map or GPS helps since street signs might not always be in English.

Getting There

Almaty International Airport sits ~15 kilometers northeast of downtown. Taxis and shuttles connect you to the city center most easily, though trains run from other major Kazakhstani cities for domestic travelers. The park is walkable from most hotels. You can also catch a bus or taxi if you're staying further out.

Getting Around

Buses and a growing metro serve Almaty, but taxis work best for visitors. The park and surrounding downtown stay compact—you can walk to most attractions from here. Just know the city sprawls. You'll need transport for the foothills or outer attractions.

Where to Stay

Almaty City Center
Kok-Tobe Hill Area
Republic Square District
Dostyk Avenue
Al-Farabi Avenue
Medeu District

Food & Dining

Almaty's food mixes Soviet influence with ancient trade route flavors. You'll find traditional beshbarmak alongside Russian, Korean, and international options near the park—casual spots serving plov and lagman plus upscale hotel restaurants. The Green Bazaar has authentic local eating. The downtown restaurant scene has gotten surprisingly good recently.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Almaty

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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Mamma Mia

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Villa Dei Fiori

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Mamamia

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PASTA LA VISTA

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PASTA LA VISTA

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When to Visit

May through September gives you the best park weather. Warm days and comfortable evenings bring out the locals, though summer heat can be intense—the mature trees provide solid shade. Winter drops well below freezing but creates a different park atmosphere with snow. Spring and fall offer perfect walking weather. Fountain displays work best then too.

Insider Tips

Visit weekday evenings to see how locals use the park. Weekend tourist crowds change the whole atmosphere.
The park connects easily to other downtown spots. Plan it as part of a walking route, not a standalone destination.
Bring layers even in summer—Almaty's mountain location means quick temperature drops. Evening weather shifts fast here.

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Itineraries

Sample trip routes and plans for First President's Park

Getting Around

Transport options and tips for First President's Park

Where to Stay

Accommodation guide for First President's Park

Budget Guide

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