nike campus visit

Serena's garden

US Open Café

Australian Open Café

French Open Café

The Wimbledon Bar

The ancient tree

Wall of Athletes in Activism

The rooftop garden

Go inside the largest structure at Nike WHQ, covering 1 million square feet.

Tap To Explore

• When to visit Portland
• How to Reach Portland
• Events & Festivals in Portland
• Restaurants in Portland
• Portland Map
• Things To Do in Portland
• Portland Itineraries
• Portland Tours
• Portland Hotels

Nike World Headquarters Ticket Price, Hours, Address and Reviews

• North America
• United States
• Things To Do In Portland

Nike World Headquarters

• Address: 1 One Bowerman Dr, Beaverton, OR 97005, USA, Portland, United States Map
• Timings: 07:30 am - 05:30 pm Details
• Phone: +1-5036716453
• Time Required: 01:30 Hrs
• Tags: Museums , Family And Kids

Nike World Headquarters in Beaverton, Oregon serves as an office and a nike museum that hosts various artefacts from Nike journey from more than 50 years ago. Visitors can take a bus to Nikes main campus where the nike headquarters tour begin. The buildings on the Nike campus are named after athletes that have signed various Nike endorsements. As you go on Nike campus tour to explore the places where you will see many missions of Nike through years, the original Nike logo, waffle iron that was used to make the first Nike running shoes, original Nike shoes, called "moon shoes", the van in which the shoes were first sold and many more.

Nike World Headquarters Travel Tips

• Head out to Nike Company Store where everything is sold at half the price.
• Nike factory tours currently does not offer public.
• nike headquarters phone number - 1-503-671-6453

Entrance Ticket Details For Nike World Headquarters

• Check the company website to know more about various tour prices.

Nike World Headquarters Hours

Nike headquarters portland timing -

• Mon - Fri: 7:30 am – 5:30 pm

How to Reach Nike World Headquarters

Love this? Explore the entire list of places to visit in Portland before you plan your trip.

Fancy a good night's sleep after a tiring day? Check out where to stay in Portland and book an accommodation of your choice.

• Nike World Headquarters Address: 1 One Bowerman Dr, Beaverton, OR 97005, USA, Portland, United States
• Nike World Headquarters Contact Number: +1-5036716453
• Nike World Headquarters Timing: 07:30 am - 05:30 pm
• Best time to visit Nike World Headquarters(preferred time): 09:00 am - 04:00 pm
• Time required to visit Nike World Headquarters: 01:30 Hrs
• Try the best online travel planner to plan your travel itinerary!

8.88% of people who visit Portland include Nike World Headquarters in their plan

• 08 AM - 09 AM

93.17% of people start their Nike World Headquarters visit around 08 AM - 09 AM

• 1 Hr 30 Minutes

People usually take around 1 Hr 30 Minutes to see Nike World Headquarters

95% of people prefer to travel by car while visiting Nike World Headquarters

People normally club together St. Johns Bridge and Forest Park while planning their visit to Nike World Headquarters.

People also prefer to start their day with Nike World Headquarters.

Nike World Headquarters Reviews & Ratings

Attractions Nearby

• International Rose Test Garden
• Washington Park
• Lan Su Chinese Garden
• Portland Japanese Garden
• Forest Park
• Pittock Mansion

Hi my name is joann grabusky I mailed this headquarters a year or so ago and never heard back my question is I'd like to help design a particular sneaker for my son who is special needs I speak for all parents of special needs children and adults

How can we get passes to visit the Nike Store in Beaverton OR while touring Oregon for my 70th birthday. Thank you Roger

I can’t find air Jordan 1 size 7.5 anywhere, I need them to surprise my nephew

Is there a yoga/dance shoe section?

How much for a tour

How much for tour

The Nike World Headquarters at Beaverton is not open to the public and does not offer tours. But, if you want to confirm, you can call them on 503-671-6453. 

Why oh why is a wonderful company like Nike kowtowing to a scumbag like Colin Kapernick???? How can you let an ill informed has-been jock dictate what you can and can't sell? NI'm no longer a customer.

I would like to take a tour as I’m in the fitness industry in Australia

I am not sure if the Nike World Headquarters' campus is open to the public for tour. You may call on 1-503-671-6453 and inquire about it. 

• Aldrich Museum-Contemporary
• Maxwells Pub & Grill
• Portland Itinerary for 2 days
• Portland Itinerary for 3 days
• Portland Itinerary for 5 days

• pop Culture
• Facebook Navigation Icon
• Twitter Navigation Icon
• WhatsApp icon
• Instagram Navigation Icon
• Youtube Navigation Icon
• Snapchat Navigation Icon
• TikTok Navigation Icon
• pigeons & planes
• newsletters
• Youtube logo nav bar 0 youtube
• Instagram Navigation Icon instagram
• Twitter Navigation Icon x
• Facebook logo facebook
• TikTok Navigation Icon tiktok
• Snapchat Navigation Icon snapchat
• Apple logo apple news
• Flipboard logo nav bar 1 flipboard
• Instagram Navigation Icon google news
• WhatsApp icon whatsapp
• RSS feed icon rss feed

Complex Global

• united states
• united kingdom
• netherlands
• philippines
• complex chinese

Work with us

terms of use

privacy policy

cookie settings

california privacy

public notice

accessibility statement

COMPLEX participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means COMPLEX gets paid commissions on purchases made through our links to retailer sites. Our editorial content is not influenced by any commissions we receive.

© Complex Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Complex.com is a part of

An In-Depth Look Inside Nike's Sprawling Oregon Headquarters

Nike's campus in Beaverton, Oregon, is the mecca for anyone who loves sneakers, and here's an in-depth, detailed look at what to expect if you were to visit the World Headquarters and see the many buildings that make it up.

Banners of athletes that line the Nike Campus. Image via author.

The mystique of Nike lies behind a berm near Beaverton, Oregon. It is there, where the Nike Worldwide Headquarters spreads across 286 acres and more than 75 buildings, that Jordan lovers can visit the lobby of the Jordan Building to peruse a collection of drool-worthy sneakers. Or maybe you want to check out that replica Pebble Beach #18 tee box and subsequent green a mere 315 yards away. Or tie back to a bit of Nike’s New England history and stop in the Boston Deli inside the Joan Benoit Samuelson Building, a deli-meets-sports bar with a treasure trove of signed athlete photos and memorabilia, much of it dedicated to Nike co-founder Phil Knight .

And that’s just a start.

In my many years covering Nike, writing for publications such as Sports Illustrated and Popular Mechanics ,  I’ve had the pleasure of multiple invites onto the campus to interview athletes and designers and witness the creation process live in search of a better story. Whether with a group of other journalists in a coach weaving through the security-guarded entrance of the Tiger Woods Conference Center (my first official visit to campus), pulling up to the main entrance (past the 48 flags signifying the countries Nike did business with when it was founded), or even meeting a Nike employee on campus after meandering through a wooded walking path south of it that connects the local light rail line—and hundreds of employees using the stop—to the main campus, arriving at the site always offers an entry into what feels like a rarefied world.

Once there, I’ve tossed a football, kicked a soccer ball and fielded a lacrosse ball on Ronaldo Field, explored the Nike Museum in “Pre Hall,” chatted with Tobie Hatfield while overlooking the six-acre, seven-foot-deep manmade Lake Nike—the earth removed from the lake creates the berm that surrounds much of the campus, offering a physical and metaphorical barrier to the surrounding area—and toured the site multiple times, even jumping from interview to interview across campus and wishing I had a golf cart to quicken my pace.

Lake Nike. Image via author

As you explore the campus, it comes to you in layers. First-time visitors are wowed by the sheer volume of buildings named after sports stars, the banners, the pedestrian activity, and even the 281 bronze castings of famous athletes and key figures in Nike history that line walkways.

Any initial visit requires you to duck into Prefontaine Hall to view the mainstay relics of the company. Perched on a mini-peninsula into the lake, the mini Nike museum includes the Volkswagen van used to sell Nike sneakers from decades ago, the once-lost, now-found waffle iron that co-founder Bill Bowerman used to create the outsole of the first Nike Waffle Trainer, and all the little knick-knacks that make a museum.

But venturing beyond Pre Hall, the polished story of Nike, and the shores of Lake Nike allows you to make the campus experience your own, akin to exploring a university campus beyond the traditional tour or, perhaps more appropriately, how you’d explore the archives of your favorite Nike sneaker.

Image via Nike

The campus started in the 1980s, with 69.5 acres, but quickly grew after opening in October 1990, at 1 Bowerman Drive, with eight buildings. Knight’s plan from the beginning was to name buildings for sports figures key in Nike’s growth, starting with Joan Benoit Samuelson, Dan Fouts, Bo Jackson, Michael Jordan, John McEnroe, Alberto Salazar, Mike Schmidt, and Steve Prefontaine.

Over the years, the additions—Nolan Ryan, Ken Griffey Jr., Jerry Rice, Pete Sampras, and possibly one of the most famous buildings on campus, the Mia Hamm Building, home to the Nike Sport Research Lab and, my favorite part, a prototype center that makes gear for Nike’s biggest stars—have continued to pile up. But the growth hasn’t stopped, with the company currently in the midst of opening four new buildings.

The Serena Williams Building will become the largest structure at the headquarters, with more than 1 million square feet spread across nearly three city blocks. Expected to open in 2019, the office building will feature plenty of curved glass to contrast some of the early 1990 designs. A New York-themed parking garage and six-floor Sebastian Coe office building also mark key 2018 expansions. Named after the famed British middle-distance runner, the Sebastian Coe Building includes hand-kept training logs, a carved wood mural with Cole quotes created by Nike NFL art director Tom Andrich, a mesh metal graphic and hardwood Swoosh bench, and a stainless-steel sculpture in the outdoor upper plaza. The café in the 475,000-square-foot building was inspired by Blue Note Records and the jazz it’s released, Cole’s favorite music.

The Sebastian Coe building. Image via Nike

A fitness center opened in 2018, named after Coach Mike Krzyzewski (the building’s third floor features a basketball court paying homage to Coach K), gives the campus a fresh perspective. The 47,000-square-foot Coach K building features a stainless steel statue of Coach K in his “coaching position,” silver eyes above the reception desk that come to life when viewed through a phone, quotes on the walls, an ode to every one of his 1,000 Duke wins, a specialized scoreboard in the gym, a court designed to mimic the sole pattern of the Nike Cortez shoe, and even an elevator conductor lever with an inscription dedicated to Coach K’s father, William, who worked as an elevator conductor in Chicago.

Whether dedicating brand-new buildings or long-existing structures, Nike does more than simply name everything after people. It tries to fill them with personality. Every building adorned with the name of a famous athlete on the outside contains levels of that athlete’s history inside. Maybe it is the PGA Championship trophy in the Tiger Woods Convention Center, the revolving collection of glass-encased Air Jordans in the lobby of the Michael Jordan Building, or the signed cleats from every stop in Jerry Rice’s career. Each building is worthy of a stop.

To go deep into the memorabilia Nike contains, go well beyond the walls of Pre Hall and pick your favorite athlete, visit their building and take in their history. The Dan Fouts Building, for example, shows off the aesthetic touches that embrace the history of the athlete and their sport. Fouts, who played for the San Diego Chargers, can take in the suspended lightning-bolt “Surge” sculpture that lights the south lobby. The 254 dots around the perimeter of a steel floor seal summarizing Fouts’ achievements with the University of Oregon and San Diego represents the number of touchdowns in his professional career. The door handles are large 11s, his number with the Ducks, and the new café area—now featuring Pok Pok—includes the Air Coryell Café, named after Fouts’ first coach with the Chargers. Tables in the café include hand sketches of Coryell passing plays.

The Coach K gym. Image via author

The grounds offers a few extras, too. Outside the expansive Tiger Woods Conference Center, overlooking Ronaldo Field’s two international-sized soccer pitches, a replica tee from Pebble Beach’s 18th hole seems logical enough. But look 317 yards away, next to the Sports Performance Center, and you’ll see the Pebble Beach green, too, protected by a bunker.

Statues pepper the property. There are the expected characters—Coach K, Michael Johnson, and Steve Prefontaine—but there’s also the more abstract like Nolan Ryan or the unexpected “Nike Girl,” a couple on a bench, or even two children playing on the shore of Lake Nike. And if statues aren’t your thing, get a cultural lesson with a visit to the on-site Nissho Iwai Gardens, honoring the Japanese trading company that helped Knight start Nike.

It being Nike Worldwide Headquarters, though, means some of the most impressive things on campus come in the form of sporting facilities. So it isn’t shocking the campus now boasts three fitness centers. The original, The Bo, named after Bo Jackson, has plenty in the way of weight rooms, cross-training, yoga, racquetball, and squash on three floors, as employees and athletes test product and work out. But the most fun comes on the upper floor, where a glass-encased basketball court welcomes the Oregon sunshine and NBA teams desiring a workout ahead of games against the Blazers. Nike employees sign up for lunchtime leagues, but have to give way when the likes of Kevin Durant stop in—as has happened—to shoot around.

Serena Williams building. Image via Nike

The Sports Performance Center, opened in 2001 at 75,000 square feet (it was once named after Lance Armstrong), includes a glass-encased, Olympic-size swimming pool. The two-story center’s 30-foot-high glass window walls also hold weight rooms, workout studios, a spin room, and a rock-climbing wall.

The Coach K facility trumps them both, though, especially with that specially designed basketball court on the third floor.

Exploring outside—whether you brought your umbrella or not—comes in many forms. A 1.3-mile trail loop inside campus includes four footbridges, and a 1.9-mile loop reaches outside campus. The best area for stretching those legs, though, come near that MAX stop, where the Michael Johnson track nestles into the landscape. A five-lane, 400-meter track made from 50,000 recycled athletic shoes lets the red of the surface play against the greens and browns of the environment. With so many aspects to the university-like campus—often closed off at key points with security—it allows both employees and riff-raff like me to enjoy the odes to sports sprinkled about. The Nike Worldwide Headquarters serves as a workplace environment with the hustle of folks going about their jobs, but the campus is one with grand gestures, intriguing history, and a setting that gives it a unique character. For many lovers of sport and the gear tied to it, Nike is significant. A visit to the campus connects gear creation with experience. Or, at the very least, we can take in a bite of history at the Boston Deli.

SHARE THIS STORY

Never miss a sneaker release with

RELEASE ROUNDUP Newsletter

Each send includes the details you need on the biggest drops from adidas, Nike, Jordan, Puma, New Balance and more happening each week.

By entering your email and clicking Sign Up, you’re agreeing to let us send you customized marketing messages about us and our advertising partners. You are also agreeing to our

Latest in Sneakers

| BY VICTOR DENG

How to Buy the 'Shadow' Air Jordan 1 Low

| BY BRANDON RICHARD

Official Look at the 'Space Jam' Air Jordan 11 Low

Charles Barkley Apparently Didn't Have Much Input on His Nike Shoes

| BY ANDREW D. LUECKE

Dime’s Dropping An Adidas ADI2000 Skate Shoe This Weekend

'Bred' Air Jordan 1 Expected to Return for 2025 All-Star Weekend

| BY MATT WELTY

Kith Is Bringing Back the Real Adidas 350

Dylan Raasch, Designer of the Roshe Run and Air Max 270, Is Leaving Nike

How to Buy the 'Mambacita' Nike Kobe 8 Protro

| BY COMPLEX

Aaron Cooper on Designing Nikes for Scottie Pippen, Charles Barkley, and Kevin Garnett | The Complex Sneakers Show

LaMelo Ball Is Getting His Own Puma Lifestyle Shoe

Can You Visit Nike Headquarters?

Are you a die-hard fan of Nike and its products? Ever dreamed of visiting the iconic Nike headquarters? Well, if you’re curious about the home of the famous swoosh, you’ll be glad to know that Nike headquarters is open to the public! In this article, we’ll discuss the details of a visit to Nike headquarters, including what you can expect to see and do while you’re there. So, if you’re ready to learn more, let’s get started!

Yes, you can visit the Nike Headquarters. The headquarters are located in Beaverton, Oregon, and visitors must schedule an appointment in advance by contacting Nike’s Global Public Relations team. Nike offers guided tours of the world headquarters, which includes the Nike Employee Store, the Nike Archives, and the Nike Employee Fitness Center. Visitors can also enjoy complimentary beverages and snacks.

Nike is one of the world’s most recognizable brands, and their headquarters in Beaverton, Oregon is an iconic modern workplace. While the facility is not open to the public, it is possible to visit the Nike campus.

Tours of the Nike Campus

Nike offers a limited number of tours of its headquarters. These tours include a visit to the Nike employee store, where visitors can purchase Nike apparel and merchandise at discounted prices. The tour also includes a look at the Nike campus, which features the iconic Nike Swoosh logo.

How to Book a Tour

Tours of the Nike campus are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. To book a tour, you can visit the Nike website and fill out the online form. You will need to provide your name, contact information, and the date and time you would like to visit.

Requirements to Visit

Visitors must follow Nike’s campus regulations while on the tour. This includes wearing closed-toed shoes, avoiding loud noises, and not taking any photos or videos. Additionally, visitors must be at least 18 years old, and provide valid photo identification.

What to See

During the tour, visitors will have the opportunity to see the iconic Nike Swoosh logo, as well as the Nike Employee Store. Visitors will also have the opportunity to take a look at the Nike Innovation Kitchen, where Nike’s team of designers and engineers creates prototypes for the company’s products.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. where is the nike headquarters located.

The Nike headquarters is located in Beaverton, Oregon in the United States. It is a campus-style complex that covers more than 500 acres and contains two main buildings, the Nike World Headquarters and the Nike Employee Fitness Center. The main campus also includes a soccer complex, tennis complex, basketball court, and sand volleyball court. The headquarters also houses the Nike Innovation Kitchen, where the company researches and develops new products.

2. Can You Visit the Nike Headquarters?

Yes, it is possible to visit the Nike headquarters. However, tours of the facility are by invitation only and must be arranged in advance. Nike hosts a variety of events and activities at their headquarters, such as the Nike+ Run Club and the Nike+ FuelLab. Visiting the campus is a great opportunity to learn more about the company and their products, and to experience the Nike culture and values first hand.

3. What Should You Bring to the Nike Headquarters?

When visiting the Nike headquarters, it is important to bring a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license or passport. Additionally, visitors should dress appropriately and wear comfortable shoes as the tour will involve walking. It is also recommended to bring a camera and take plenty of pictures.

4. Is There a Museum at the Nike Headquarters?

Yes, the Nike headquarters has an on-site museum called the Nike+ Fuel Lab. This museum showcases the company’s history, culture, and products, and is an interactive experience that allows visitors to explore the Nike story. The museum also features a gallery of Nike’s most iconic products and a display of the company’s most innovative technologies.

5. What is the Address of the Nike Headquarters?

The address of the Nike headquarters is One Bowerman Drive, Beaverton, Oregon 97005. The headquarters is located near the intersection of Highway 26 and Highway 217.

6. Are There Other Nike Locations Near the Headquarters?

Yes, there are several other Nike locations near the headquarters. These locations include the Nike+ Run Club and the Nike+ FuelLab, both of which are located on the Nike campus in Beaverton. Additionally, there is the Nike+ Store located in downtown Portland, Oregon, as well as several Nike Factory stores located throughout the state.

Visiting Nike Headquarters is a great way to learn more about the company and the people behind the brand. It is a unique experience that provides an insight into the company’s culture, products and innovation. If you’re looking for a unique way to experience the Nike brand, then a visit to the Nike Headquarters is a must. So don’t miss out on the opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes look at the home of the world’s leading sports brand.

Share your love

About the author.

Federico Lopez

Related posts, where can i sell my dr martens.

If you’re looking to sell your Dr Martens, there are a few different options available to you. You could try selling them online through websites…

Read More »

How To Stretch Out Dr Martens?

Stretching out a pair of Dr Martens can be a challenging but rewarding task. It is important to ensure that the boots are stretched correctly…

Are Nike Air Force 1 Good for Wide Feet?

If you’re on the hunt for a new pair of sneakers and have wide feet, you may be wondering if Nike Air Force 1 shoes…

ONE BOWERMAN DRIVE, BEAVERTON, OR 97005 UNITED STATES

Nike World Headquarters

Beaverton and beyond.

At Nike World Headquarters, breakthrough products are designed and developed for the world’s athletes*. This stems from a constant drive to imagine, invent and deliver the future of sport — a mission facilitated by workspaces that support rapid iteration and creation through collaboration. Whether it’s facilities like an Olympic-sized swimming pool or workspaces like one of our sports research labs, employees gather here to obsess about and innovate the future of sport.

INDOOR TRACK AND SPORT COURTS

Running trails and tracks, exclusive employee events and products, by the numbers, beaverton, or, biketown bikes, miles from downtown portland, world-class fitness facilities, full-size outdoor fields, japanese garden, miles to forest park, hour to coast and mountains, licensed portland food trucks, benefits and perks, medical, dental, and vision plans, performance sharing plan (psp), employee stock purchase plan (espp), health savings account (hsa), healthcare fsa, dependent care fsa, commuter expense reimbursement account (cera), paid time off (pto), sabbaticals, family care, paid military leave, surrogacy and adoption assistance, resources and support to care for children with learning, social or behavioral challenges, tuition assistance, nike scholarship fund, employee assistance plan (eap), lifecare resource and referral service, employee giving, basic and supplemental life insurance, short-term and long-term disability, accidental death and dismemberment insurance (ad&d), long-term care insurance, group legal insurance, auto and homeowners insurance, behavioral health, lifetime shopping discount, campus perks and features, mobile auto cleaning and detailing services, electric vehicle charging stations, hair and nail salon, world-class fitness center and fitness classes, gifts and convenience stores, on-demand bicycle fleet, cafes, restaurants, bars and food trucks, three full-size soccer fields, miles of running trails, employee store, exclusive employee events, free transit passes, summer hours, striking a balance between work and sport.

At Nike, our mission is to bring inspiration and innovation to every athlete* in the world. Why the asterisk after "athlete”? Nike co-founder Bill Bowerman added it to note that "if you have a body, you are an athlete." Learn how Nike employees exemplify this belief in their own lives.

RALLYING THE TEAM AT AIRMI

Take a tour of Nike's swanky Oregon headquarters

Nike World Headquarters in Beaverton, Oregon, is as much a museum as an office. 

There are all sorts of artifacts from Nike's 51 year journey to becoming one of the  most dominant shoe companies on Earth . 

We went on a tour of the campus last week.

Nike had a bunch of reporters come out for the reveal of the Untouchable Vapor II football cleat. Tech Insider interviewed designers at the Nike Football facility ...

Then took a bus to Nike's main campus.

Given that it was winter in Oregon, we got wet.

The buildings on the Nike campus, we learned, are named for athletes that signed Nike endorsement contracts. Athlete's have been a huge part of brand building. Take, for example, runner Steve Prefontaine — who helped make jogging (and jogging shoes) a trend back in the 1970s.

Quite naturally, the Prefontaine Building has tons of gear from the guy who once held seven different American track records at the same time.

We began by learning about Nike's mission statements — the current one is to "bring inspiration and innovation to every athlete in the world."

We moved on to artifacts from Nike's origin story, like cofounder Phil Knight pitching cofounder Bill Bowerman on sourcing shoes from Japan.

This was the original Nike logo.

And the waffle iron that Bowerman used to make the first Nike running shoes.

And one of the original Nike shoes, called "moon shoes."

And the van that the Bowerman and Knight sold shoes out of when they launched the company.

We headed to the next building — more rain.

Along the way, it's impossible not to notice the plaques all over the place featuring Bowerman's favorite athletes, like New York Mets legend Dwight Gooden.

You can guess whose name is on the side of this building.

Inside, there is an epic display of Air Jordans, from the original 1984 model to present day.

There's a gorgeous Japanese garden, named in honor of the Iwai family that Nike partnered with on manufacturing partners in the early days.

After being sufficiently soaked with rain, we hopped back on the bus, bound for the Nike Company Store.

It's a cavernous space.

And everything is half off — making for some insane deals. Roshe's for $38? Yes please.

The key is to escape without doing too much damage to your wallet.

BONUS: The next day we went to the University of Oregon's gorgeous football facility.

And met quarterback Marcus Mariota's 2014 Heisman Trophy. So awesome.

• Main content

Find anything you save across the site in your account

Exclusive Tour of the Stunning New LeBron James Innovation Center on Nike’s Campus

By Nick Mafi

Photography by Nike

Since his teenage years in northeast Ohio, an ever-intensifying celebrity has surrounded LeBron James. Almost all of it swirls from the otherworldliness of his ability on the basketball court. But some comes from what he does off the court too. The multi-time NBA MVP has more endorsement deals than can be said in a breath, several roles in blockbuster movies, his own HBO show, an investment in a popular pizza chain—the list of his accomplishments seems to be as endless as the comments section of a James YouTube highlight reel . And now, perhaps among his most lasting off-the-court legacy has come with Nike’s newly unveiled LeBron James Innovation Center.

AD100 architect Tom Kundig (second to left) standing outside the new LeBron James Innovation Center. 

Located on Nike’s World Headquarters near Beaverton, Oregon, the 750,000 square-foot building is where the brand plans to create the future in sports science, both in terms of data analytics and apparel. Much like the athlete that it’s named after, the structure stands out among its peers. While architecture is a static enterprise, there doesn’t appear to be much static about this building. “When I saw [the building] for the first time,” LeBron James says, “I was looking up, and it felt like it just kept getting higher, higher, and higher.” Many NBA opponents have likely said the same thing about James’s vertical leap.

LeBron James walking outside the new building named after him on Nike’s campus in Oregon.

Just as how LeBron James constantly pays homage to his upbringing in Akron, Ohio, Nike’s newest building has a distinct nod to its origin story too. The front of the building boasts a bold, cantilevering extension that greets each visitor. The space that juts out is where much of the 84,000 square-foot Nike Sport Research Lab is housed, featuring a full-size basketball court, a 200-meter track, and artificial turf field. But what really separates this space from any other sports research lab is the world’s largest motion-capture installation (over 400 cameras) and 97 force plates. These force plates are so sensitive, they can record someone’s heartbeat by simply standing on it. 

The cantilevered extension is where Nike's Sport Research Lab is now housed.

But in order to use such technical instruments, the Sport Research Lab needed to be located on the ground floor, a move that would’ve gone against the wishes to have the lab located on the top floor. So, AD100 architect Tom Kundig decided to get innovative. “When we asked a structural engineer what material would work to facilitate such sensitive floorboards above it, they gave us one answer: The waffle-iron pattern,” Kundig says. “It was so unthinkably serendipitous.” 

Visitors are first greeted by some of LeBron James’s most iconic footwear, which is enclosed in a small, intimate space meant to symbolize the feel of a shoebox.

By Sarah Archer

By David Nash

By Stefanie Waldek

The serendipity Kundig is referring to goes back to Nike’s very beginning. “Nike’s co-founder Bill Bowerman was famous for ruining his wife’s waffle iron,” says Tinker Hatfield, a legendary sneaker designer and current vice president for design and special projects at Nike. What Hatfield is referencing is how, in the early 1970’s, Bowerman was trying to create a waffle-iron rubber sole for new footwear that would grip but be lightweight at the same time. And voilà , the iconic waffle-iron sole was born. “But you know, Bowerman’s wife never told him to stop breaking the waffle irons because she knew that’s the process of being innovative," Hatfield continues. "It’s about experimenting, about being a failure and making mistakes and then coming up with something that’s actually quite wonderful.” 

LeBron James shooting a basketball amongst hundreds of tiny dots that Nike data scientists placed on the floor. The open circles represent James’s missed shots while the filled circles are his made shots on the way to set his record of 30,000 NBA points.

But the building was not just built for pushing boundaries inside its walls. It was designed to do so on the outside too. Directly outside of the front entrance, the architect has designed a 15.63% incline ramp that extends more than 500 feet. This space is not for sheer aesthetics (although it does look quite nice), but rather offers athletes the opportunity for training on a campus that is void of any natural hills. With this deft stroke in design, architecture firm Olson Kundig has turned the façade into something beautifully utilitarian. 

Much of the office space has an open, highly collaborative feel to it. The majority of the connecting points between floors, such as the stairs, are made of steel. “I think [steel] is such a beautiful material,” Tom Kundig explains. “Depending on whether you fold, weld, or shape it, you can take something unwieldy and turn it into art.”

The building was designed to house 700 Nike staffers such as developers in materials and apparel innovation. The interior space of the innovation center is highly polished, yet has an unfinished feel to it. Much can be said about the fine tuning of an elite athlete—the quality is there, but the room for growth is never-ending. Yet, perhaps the most important part of the building for LeBron is the restaurant “Glo’s,” named in honor of his mother, Gloria Marie James. Inside the restaurant is a mural showcasing highlights from LeBron’s career, including original basketball trophies from his early years embedded into the wall.

LeBron James looking at the wall mural inside Glo’s, a restaurant in the building named after his mother. 

Ultimately, what Nike hopes to accomplish with their stunning new innovation building is unlocking more ways to push athletes performances to higher levels. They plan to do this by way of data science and the most innovative apparel on the market. And in the 36-year-old James (a man who is still dunking over stars almost half his age) there is perhaps no better athlete for the brand to align with in this pursuit of long-lasting athletic perfection. “Having my name on the Nike’s innovation building feels fitting,” James says, “because I’m always trying to figure out ways in which I can continue to innovate and break the timeline of what they say is your prime. ” Perhaps we should add motivational speaker to the rolling list of LeBron’s abilities.

By Alia Akkam

By Kristi Kellogg

By Nicolas Milon

By Elizabeth Fazzare

• Portland Tourism
• Portland Hotels
• Portland Bed and Breakfast
• Portland Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Portland
• Portland Restaurants
• Things to Do in Portland
• Portland Travel Forum
• Portland Photos
• Portland Map
• All Portland Hotels
• Portland Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Portland
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Nike Campus / Tour - Portland Forum

• United States    
• Oregon (OR)    
• Portland    

Nike Campus / Tour

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Oregon forums
• Portland forum

I understand Nike has a head office in Beaverton, Oregon. We will have two children with me (2.5 & 6yr) and limited time. We are a sporty family and would love to fit a tour into our Oregon Coast Roadtrip. How long would we need? Is there a formal tour or activities? Is this something we'd just show up and find or can we (do we need to) pre-book something?

we'd be ok just driving and walking and checking things out. or is there a tourist thing? we'll be there second week of September.

Thanks in advance!

I've no idea why, but the Nike campus isn't open to the general public, and tours are not offered. The campus is bordered by public roads, so you can drive by if you like, but don't expect to see much more than this - http://pamplinmedia.com/images/artimg/00003490721537.jpg - as the property is mostly surrounded by a high earthen berm.

i'm not happy with this answer someone please tell me Thrumylens is wrong (sorry thrumylens). I have read a few reviews but these people maybe had an employee pass or something?

We tried to get into the one in Beaverton a few years ago and were met by rather rude gatekeepers who sent us on our way. I have bought nothing Nike since then. I had thought maybe they had changed but guess not. We drive by there fairly often. seeing the berms, kind of tees me off every time.

At least Phil Knight finally quit just gathering money in and has become major donor for many good projects. And I don't mean UofO which I am glad he now goes beyond. just them.

Industrial espionage is always on the mind of Nike, which is a multi-billion dollar operation with huge investments in product design and the "next big fashion thing" R&D. So their security measures are probably equal to or better than some of our military establishments. However, Nike does host a number of sports events during the year, to which the public is welcomed. The company does have informational displays at their outlets, as I noted above and considerable outreach and sports educational exhibits at various sports events, especially track and field meets.

My big problem with Nike is that their shoes are too narrow for my feet, even what they call "extra wide" (which tend to be no wider than Columbia's "regular." But I don't mind their protecting their core campus.

In addition to Uncle Phil's athletic largesse at the UofO, you'll also find the Knight name on the campus library and the law school. Plus, he and his wife put up a $500 million matching gift for Oregon Health Sciences University, which has been matched by university fundraising. In spite of the negative feelings so many people seem to have about him, he's just a regular guy in many respects. He often spurns the luxury trappings of exclusivity at track meets and sits among us regular folk (just a few seats away from my season ticket location). It's a viewpoint not often seen by his distractors.

The big OHSU donation was what I was thinking of when I say he got beyond UofO. . As a Beaver wish we had similar person. Though I do know he has given some money to OSU. No question he has been good to his home state

412cds, I believe this link is to Nike's Consumer Affairs Dept - http://tinyurl.com/ozarz9n . Note the question at the bottom of page 2. I've been on the campus a couple times for different events, so I'd guess the "reviews" you've read were written by people who'd attended an event or somehow gotten access to the employee store. That's the main reason I'd want to visit the campus, but the employee store passes are highly coveted, and again, you have to know someone.

FWIW, Nike does some product design at their campus in Beaverton, but no manufacturing -- there wouldn't be much for your kids to see except offices (and their exceptional rec facilities). I could tell you where Tinker Hatfield (their chief designer) lives (he's my neighbor), but that wouldn't probably be very interesting.

Hey gnetwerker, my husband is a HUGE Tinker Hatfield fan. He told me yesterday that seeing Nike or even having a chance to meet him is on his bucket list. He even told me what shoes he'd wear (his favorites are a pair that Tinker designed). If you have any insight into that, I would be greatly appreciative. We live in Atlanta and would plan a special trip out there just for this. (My hubs has over 100+ pair of shoes and is a huge Nike fan.)

Tinker is notoriously private. I would reach out to him through Nike. If people started stalking him in the 'hood, it would create great awkwardness at our occasional neighborhood cocktail and holiday parties. Sorry.

• Portland, Oregon Apr 24, 2024
• MAX from Airport safety at night? Apr 13, 2024
• Solo work trip staying downtown. Safety and food suggestions Apr 06, 2024
• One night hotel near hub Apr 04, 2024
• Safe place to Park and Hike Apr 04, 2024
• Events on Easter in Portland Mar 30, 2024
• July 4th family trip Mar 28, 2024
• Burnside Skate Park Mar 28, 2024
• Columbia River Gorge Mar 28, 2024
• McMenamins - Kennedy School Portland Mar 26, 2024
• Safe Place to Hike & Psrk Mar 18, 2024
• George Express bus and Gray Line /waterfall trolley Mar 07, 2024
• Add a day for sightseeing after our river cruise ends? Mar 01, 2024
• Lodging Location Question - Of course Feb 25, 2024
• Driving from Portland to San Francisco 12 replies
• Christmas lunch/dinner in Portland 18 replies
• Downtown hotels near MAX/Light Rail.. 9 replies
• weather in october 19 replies
• Car rental place(s) near the Amtrak Station? 4 replies
• Which Portland area hotel has best indoor pool for kids? 5 replies
• Driving time from San Francisco to Portland 7 replies
• Best area to stay in Portland 13 replies
• PDX park and fly...Best Value or Ramada? 11 replies
• Hot springs near Portland? 4 replies

Portland Hotels and Places to Stay

Get The Newsletter

• HeadlineToGo
• Inside the Boardroom
• Sneaker Game

About Boardroom

Boardroom is a sports, media and entertainment brand co-founded by Kevin Durant and Rich Kleiman and focused on the intersection of sports and entertainment. Boardroom’s flagship media arm features premium video/audio, editorial, daily and weekly newsletters, showcasing how athletes, executives, musicians and creators are moving the business world forward. Boardroom’s ecosystem encompasses B2B events and experiences (such as its renowned NBA and WNBA All-Star events) as well as ticketed conferences such as Game Plan in partnership with CNBC. Our advisory arm serves to consult and connect athletes, brands and executives with our broader network and initiatives.

Recent film and TV projects also under the Boardroom umbrella include the Academy Award-winning Two Distant Strangers (Netflix), the critically acclaimed scripted series SWAGGER (Apple TV+) and Emmy-nominated documentary NYC Point Gods (Showtime).

Boardroom’s sister company, Boardroom Sports Holdings, features investments in emerging sports teams and leagues, including the Major League Pickleball team, the Brooklyn Aces, NWSL champions Gotham FC, and MLS’ Philadelphia Union.

New Serena Williams Building Becomes Nike Campus’ Biggest

The latest structure named in honor of a sports icon at Nike’s Oregon HQ, The Serena Williams Building is now the brand’s largest at 1,000,000 square feet.

As Nike continues to expand heading into its 50 th  anniversary this year, the iconic footwear and apparel brand officially unveiled the latest addition to its sprawling Beaverton, Oregon campus – The Serena Williams Building.

“When I was just a kid, I visited the Nike  campus and I saw that athletes get buildings!” Williams captioned on Instagram . “After that visit, I knew I wanted two things: to be a Nike athlete and to have a building.”

Nike unveils The Serena Williams Building, a 1 Million sq ft creation center. “When I was just a kid I visited the Nike campus and I saw that athletes get buildings!” said @SerenaWilliams . “After that visit, I knew I wanted 2 things: to be a Nike athlete and to have a building.” pic.twitter.com/pw9teo50Bd — Nick DePaula (@NickDePaula) April 27, 2022

Named after the undisputed tennis GOAT and two-decade-long Nike endorser , the new building sits on the north end of the campus, with a three-pronged design creating ample space for a variety of usages. The Serena Williams Building represents the first time Nike’s design , insights, and product merchandising teams are all housed in one office space.

There’s a combined 140,000 square feet of showrooms, workspaces, and color labs, along with the two-story, 140-seat Olympia Theater named after her daughter. There’s also an additional 200,000 square feet of wear test lab space where new ideas can be tested out and products and presented and merchandised in full collections. 

More than 20% of the LEED Platinum-certified building is comprised of locally manufactured recycled content. A collection of 648 solar panels provide for an expected energy-cost saving of more than 40%, according to Nike. 

Throughout all of the spaces, there are additional touches and details tying back to Serena. Her ‘SW’ logo can be found along the entryway, along with murals and artwork throughout the booth-lined cafeteria. Of course, tennis ball neon green accents can be found in lounges and throughout the building.

In addition to the corporate office spaces and ways in which the building can be utilized to continue fueling Nike’s product design and innovation quest, the gem of the grounds surrounding “The SW” is most certainly The East Compton Hills Country Club. 

A full regulation tennis court with wooden bleachers for crowd viewing, the campus court name is a nod to Serena’s father Richard Williams’ nickname for the childhood public courts that she and sister Venus played on at Atlantic Avenue and Compton Boulevard. 

“The whole building takes your breath away. Every element, everywhere you go, is an opportunity to be inspired,” added Williams. “I hope this building encourages people to bring out the best of themselves and to dream bigger than they thought possible.”

Get on our list for weekly sports business, industry trends, interviews, and more.

Sign up for Boardroom’s newsletters to get the biggest stories in the business of sports, music, and entertainment directly in your inbox, daily.

Subscribe for the biggest stories in the business of sports and entertainment, daily.

• Join/Log In
• United Kingdom

CAMPUS VISIT

Fresh off their On-Air wins, all six contestants from across the globe visited the Nike World Campus this week. The long-awaited visit included a hands-on tour that saw the contestants stop by the Department of Nike Archives, Nike's Sport Research Lab, and concluded with a look at the first-round samples of each contestant's winning design.

Stay tuned to SNEAKRS for the latest in the On-Air journey.

Lou Matheron

@loumatheron

Jasmine Lasode

Gabrielle Serrano

@queenleo_ny

Yuta Takuman

@shin.gwang

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

Read Next: Things To Do on Socotra

To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

How to Get a Decent Haircut in a Foreign Country

Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

Travel Itinerary for One Week in Beijing

If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

How I Planned My Trip to Vietnam

The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

Places to Visit in Barcelona That Aren’t Beaches

First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

20 Travel Tips I’ve Learned From Travelling The World

There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

12 Stunning National Parks and Regional Parks In France

If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

How To Stop Procrastinating When Trip Planning

Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

Two Weeks In Thailand: The Perfect 14-Day Itinerary

I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

You Will Also Like: 3-Day London Itinerary

Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

How to Save Money While Traveling in Europe

The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

JOIN MY FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER!

Email Address *

YOU WILL ALSO LIKE

10 Dishes You Must Try When Going To Moscow

15 Fantastic and Easy Day Trips Close to Moscow

When Is the Best Time To Visit Russia

24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

My website uses cookies so that I can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to my website and helping me to understand which sections of Mind The Travel you find most interesting and useful.

You can adjust all of your cookie settings by navigating the tabs on the left hand side.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that I can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, I will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit my website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.