green day's bookmobile tour bus

Green Day’s Bookmobile finds new life

This guest feature was written by Kat  Hildebrand who purchased Green Day’s former Bookmobile from Wheels For Wishes   after it was restored by West Coast Customs and placed on display at the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.

Billie Joe Armstrong always asks his fans a question at their live shows: “How many old school Green Day fans are here tonight?” After the stadium erupts with enthusiasm, he leads into hits from their first two albums 39/Smooth or Kerplunk, but most commonly from Dookie, the band’s breakthrough album released in 1994 which has sold over 20 million copies worldwide. I am not able to claim to be an old-school Green Day fan, nor even a fan for most of the 2000s even though I grew up in the bay area at the time they started at 924 Gilman. It wasn’t until October 8, 2009, that I realized how much of Green Day’s material I actually KNEW.  I fell in love with their music that night after seeing American Idiot the musical at the Berkeley Repertory Theater.

I was instantly sucked into the story of Johnny, Will and Tunny whose friendships meshed and then divided, only to reunite at the end after different life-changing experiences. The plotline, characters, and actors all affected me so greatly that I had to have more and more of the music, and my Green Day appreciation was born.

My first awareness of Green Day and their charitable causes was via Emily’s Army (now called SWMRS), Billie Joe’s older son Joey’s band.  Named after fellow bandmates Cole and Max Becker’s cousin Emily who suffers from cystic fibrosis, their goal was to raise money and awareness for the disease.

I was impressed that these kids, whose average age was 14, were socially conscious and charitable which they must have learned from their parents. Admittingly I knew very little about cystic fibrosis so I made my first Emily’s Army purchase of a custom designed fabric guitar case signed by the band to support them and their cause and my curiosity grew to wonder what other charities Green Day had supported.

The list is long-spanning back to their earliest days when they reportedly donated $25,000 to Food Not Bombs. Their profits from Boulevard of Broken Dreams benefitted tsunami relief, a collaboration with U2 and a remake of the Skids’ song “The Saints are Coming” was recorded for Hurricane Katrina and most recently they donated $100,000 after an intimate gig on Facebook live for Hurricane Harvey.

It was no surprise when I learned Green Day had donated their first-ever tour bus, the Bookmobile, to Wheels-for-Wishes which supports the Make a Wish Foundation that helps grant “wishes” to children with life-threatening illnesses.

Related : Watch the West Coast Customs episode documenting the restoration of the Bookmobile

Last Fall I hit the stereotypical midlife crisis of “What the hell am I going to do with the rest of my life and what will my legacy be for my children?” Green Day’s latest album Revolution Radio has one song that sums up our current state of affairs in America: Troubled Times.  I found myself angry with society and our administration. I was not proud to be an American and spent too much time watching various news channels trying to grasp our situation.

With Hurricane Harvey and the devastating California fires, I felt helpless. Same with watching the news. Just despairingly helpless and hopeless as I watched all of this devastation unfold everywhere around me with nothing I could do except give a little money here and there.

I have always had a fascination with natural disasters and human kindness. Stories that illustrate people at their worst and at their best. I decided I wanted to help people and primarily be a support to first responders. Images of smoky or water laden, tired firefighters and police officers… They were busy taking care of others but who was there taking care of THEM?

The same with band members and fellow artists. Who takes care of these people who tirelessly give of themselves ALL the time? I enrolled in a program to become a Community Emergency Response Team member (CERT) so I could be deployed to any disaster if called upon, and in the future will take Emergency Medical Response training to better understand the needs of first responders and what they face.

I envisioned retrofitting an old RV with a couple of places to rest, a coffee maker, fresh foods, and a comfortable place for weary first responders to retreat to if needed, and label it as a Responder Relief Station. Then when I was looking online of photos of the Bookmobile on display outside of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame I saw the word “auction” next to “Bookmobile” and everything clicked.

What better way to build my own future than by combining my love of Green Day’s music and philanthropy, wanting to contribute to society instead of being a passive bystander, and showing my appreciation to my favorite band and their fans by putting the Bookmobile into service if I had the means to do so?

I contacted Wheels for Wishes and inquired about when the Bookmobile was set to go to auction. I read sometime in the fall but was looking for a more specific date so I could start pulling resources together to see if it was even something feasible and realistic. Two weeks after my initial email inquiry I received a phone call from Jamie Heiligman, Director of Operations.

He said if I wanted the Bookmobile, I could purchase it from them. I gave them an offer and they accepted it. Originally the Bookmobile was to be auctioned off at a Barrett Jackson event but after expressing my passion about it they decided I would be a good fit. After some bureaucratic red tape and change in price, I finally signed the papers and received the keys on April 4, 2018.

At first, I thought the Bookmobile would suit my needs as a disaster relief vehicle. Help those who help us the most. In keeping with the altruistic nature of the band, I thought this sort of charitable work would honor them. Thank THEM for their gift of music and what it meant to me.

But the more I learned about the history of the Bookmobile itself (it started service at the Chandler Arizona Library in 1983), the history of the band’s charitable giving to numerous organizations, and the significance of the punk genre in the East Bay, in particular, I realized the importance of keeping it intact as a museum on wheels.

I started my own charity called PUNK – People Uplifting Neighbors with Kindness – so I could better encompass a mission of helping people locally in my community as well as paying respect to what the Bookmobile represents.

On October 22, 2018, one year and 2 days after I received the phone call that the Bookmobile would be mine, I left Cleveland, Ohio for the 2,400-mile journey back to Los Angeles. It was an adventure I will never forget!!

Two friends and I split the drive and drove 8-10 hours a day. What a workout! My whole body hurt after a 4-hour shift because my legs were too short to reach the gas pedal, even with the seat all the way up, so I had to drive with my leg fully extended the whole time. Not to mention white-knuckle driving because that thing is a TANK! Every time another truck would pass by on the left, the Bookmobile would veer right so I had to hold on to not go off the side of the road. Every time a car came, it veered left. My hands had indentations from the steering wheel because I was gripping so hard!

Besides constant debris like dust, rust bits, occasional pine needles and leaves falling through every crack, the drive went without incident except near Albuquerque, New Mexico where the starter went out -thankfully at a gas station! After a hundred mile tow and 9 hours, it was fixed and we continued our journey to Los Angeles.

I have always enjoyed crime dramas and once upon a time ago wanted to become a private investigator. I love putting together puzzles and figuring out mysteries. With some sleuthing skills, I managed to locate Frank Wright II, aka “Papa Cool,” and contacted him introducing myself as the new Bookmobile owner. Much to my surprise, he offered to meet me at a gas station along the highway so he could see it. Papa Cool! The 2nd owner of the Bookmobile and tour driver.

He and his wife Linda greeted me with big hugs and he was thrilled to see the inside. “Yep! Just as I remember!” He mentioned how after building the 6 bunks in the back he had forgotten to build himself a place to sleep. He attached a board to the sidewall and lowered it across the table and benches to make a bed. I can’t imagine it would have been too comfortable but he reminisced over some good memories.

Papa Cool gave me some of Tre’s drumsticks, an original Dookie poster, and their travel book from the 3rd leg of the Dookie tour in 1994. What a thrill and honor to meet the one and only Papa Cool.

The following day we arrived safely in Los Angeles to drop it off at a shop for more upgrades and repairs. After 10 days of a runaround and absolutely no work was done to it, I ventured back to Los Angeles from my home in Northern California and picked it back up. On my way out of town, I stopped by West Coast Customs. I promised them and myself that I would not open the safe until I brought it back to their shop.

In the episode of Inside West Coast Customs, there is a segment that shows the safe and everyone wonders what is inside. Papa Cool did indeed still have the combination in his Rolodex but with its age and rust, the safe did not open. West Coast Customs used two crowbars to pry it open and I waited 7 months to find out that inside there was….. NOTHING! What a letdown after such suspense.

What is the future of the Bookmobile? After driving the Bookmobile across the country, and experiencing 3 days of good rain, the Bookmobile needs a lot more work done to it. I expected some minor repairs, and of course knew it would need upgrades like electricity and a generator to support audio, video and air conditioning, plus a new windshield, but the roof leaks. A LOT.

Much damage was done as water got into the particleboard walls, warped a wooden bunk, flooded the passenger side floor, soaked both futon cushions and one bench cushion, and caused some memorabilia damage. After installing a new engine, transmission, radiator, wiring, and basic innards, I have been quoted an additional $40,000 to get everything else done including better safety measures. $10,000 of that is just the roof to be re-sealed or $18,000+ for a new one.

West Coast Customs told me they only half-assed it since they never expected anyone to drive it and that work is apparent. A shame, really, but I will do what it takes to preserve it. On December 8, 2018, to commemorate the grand re-opening of the Chandler Museum, it will be on display for residents to enjoy and reminisce of the 7 years it was in service as their mobile library. I hope more people will come forward with stories and photos from 1983-1990 to add to my collection of Bookmobile memorabilia.

Second, and which I am most excited about, to celebrate Dookie’s 25th anniversary next year I will take the Bookmobile on the first segment of its original tour route stopping in 38 cities in late spring for fans to see. The Bookmobile is not only iconic as a unique tour bus but is beloved in the Green Day fan community as well.

The feeling of what it was like to step inside for the first time and just marvel at what “was” is indescribable, and I want to give others the chance to experience that. I have met some of the most amazing fans from different parts of the world and I want their stories of how the band shaped them to be heard as well. Letting fans experience, touch and see the Bookmobile will inspire narratives which I hope to document.

Third, the Bookmobile will be available for loan upon request to other charitable organizations such as if Wheels-for-Wishes would like it back for a future auction to hopefully drum up more proceeds from sales of other vehicles, or if Project Chimps would like to create more exposure for their organization since Billie Joe and his wife Adrienne are founders.

Lastly and in the future, I will use it as transportation to disaster sites to help bring temporary relief to first responders (fueled by Oakland Coffee!) and other donations to victims as needed.

My goal is to preserve and inspire. Preserve this piece of unique history. Support the band’s altruism. Keep it bio and environmentally friendly which is also in line with their core values. I do not want the Bookmobile to sit in some garage (or backfield!) to rot away. It needs to be seen and appreciated. I have started compiling a history and timeline of both the Bookmobile and Green Day’s various charitable contributions so its history can be published in a couple of years.

Green Day has taught me many valuable lessons through their music, comradery, and dedication to charities: Never forget where you came from. Always lend a helping hand. Remember the underdog. Explode with creativity and vibrancy. Voice your opinions and be heard. Embrace the earth and each other because it’s all about love and compassion.

Because of them I have met people from all over the world and been given travel opportunities I never would have had otherwise. Most importantly, they “taught me how to live.” I hope now that the Bookmobile has been partially restored and able to travel again that more people will volunteer their memories and photos to add to its legacy, and I can contribute to Green Day’s. ~Kat Hildebrand

You can follow the progress of the Bookmobile on Kat’s Instagram account and if you would like to help support her upcoming Dookie tour, donations are being accepted at PUNKrelief.org .

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• Cast & crew

Green Day's Bookmobile Tour Bus

• Episode aired Jan 23, 2018

Green Day was coming up, they toured the nation in an old bookmobile customized by Tre Cool's dad. Now it's rusting away. Now, they are partnering up with Wheels for Wishes to bring the book... Read all Green Day was coming up, they toured the nation in an old bookmobile customized by Tre Cool's dad. Now it's rusting away. Now, they are partnering up with Wheels for Wishes to bring the bookmobile back to it's former touring glory. Green Day was coming up, they toured the nation in an old bookmobile customized by Tre Cool's dad. Now it's rusting away. Now, they are partnering up with Wheels for Wishes to bring the bookmobile back to it's former touring glory.

• Kara Stephens
• Andrea Stockert
• Billie Joe Armstrong

• Self - Singer …

• (as Tre Cool)

• Self - Bassist, Greenday
• Self - Executive Director, Wheels For Wishes
• Self - Ryan's Wife

• Self - CEO, West Coast Customs
• Self - President & CEO, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
• Self - National Fundraising Manager
• Self - Machinist, WCC
• Self - Graphics, WCC
• Self - Custom Painter, WCC
• (as Ryan 'Ryno' Templeton)
• Self - Shop Manager, WCC
• Self - Project Manager, WCC

• (archive footage)
• (uncredited)

• All cast & crew
• Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

User reviews

• January 23, 2018 (United States)
• See more company credits at IMDbPro

Technical specs

• Runtime 43 minutes

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Inside West Coast Customs

Green Day's Bookmobile Tour Bus

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Ep 1. Green Day's Bookmobile Tour Bus

• January 23, 2018

Inside West Coast Customs season 7 kicks off with an exciting episode centered around Green Day's Bookmobile Tour Bus. The lead singer of the band, Billie Joe Armstrong, tasks Ryan and the team with creating a one of a kind tour bus that captures the essence of their band's iconic style.

As the team gears up for the project, they face the challenge of bringing Green Day's vision to life. The bus is made of an old library bookmobile and requires a complete overhaul to be transformed into a touring masterpiece. The exterior is a sleek matte black, emblazoned with the signature Green Day skull and crossed bones logo.

On the inside, the bus is fit for a rockstar, featuring a luxurious lounge area complete with plush leather seating and a custom-built bar. The team expertly installs state-of-the-art audio and lighting systems to create the ultimate concert experience on wheels.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to a behind-the-scenes look at the design process, including Ryan and the team's collaboration with Green Day to ensure that every detail is perfect. The band members make several appearances, offering input and suggestions, all while maintaining the mystery of the final reveal.

The episode also highlights the sheer amount of work that goes into creating a project of this scale. From welding and fabricating to cutting and installing, the team is constantly pushing themselves to complete the bus on time and to the highest standards.

As the project nears completion, tensions run high as the team faces setbacks and last-minute challenges. But in the end, it's clear that their hard work pays off. The bus is an undeniable masterpiece, a one-of-a-kind creation that perfectly captures Green Day's style and energy.

Overall, the season 7 premiere of Inside West Coast Customs does not disappoint. Green Day's Bookmobile Tour Bus is a thrilling project, showcasing the creativity and technical expertise of the team. With its beautiful design, state-of-the-art features, and perfect attention to detail, this bus is sure to be the envy of every rockstar on the road.

• Genres Drama Kids & Family
• Cast Billie Joe Armstrong Tré Cool Mike Dirnt
• Channel Discovery Velocity
• First Aired January 23, 2018
• Content Rating TV-PG
• Runtime 43 min
• Language English

City Sightseeing Moscow Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Optional Cruise

• Hop-on or hop-off at any of Moscow’s main highlights
• Views of Moscow from an open-top, double-decker bus
• Learn about the city with recorded commentary
• Visit Red Square, Alexander Gardens, and more
• Bus pass inclusions: 48 or 72 hour bus pass + walking tour
• Boat pass inclusions: 60 minute boat trip + walking tour
• Bus & Boat pass inclusions: 48 hour bus pass + 60 minute boat trip + walking tour
• Vouchers valid for 12 months
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Food and drinks, unless specified
• Location Name: The route begins at Red Square but you can board at any stop
• Wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Red Route runs from 10:00am - 6:00pm, every 25 minutes. Duration - 60 minutes. First stop - Bolotnaya Square.
• Most travelers can participate
• Green Route runs from 10:00am - 6:00pm, every 60 minutes. Duration - 120 minutes. First stop - Bolotnaya Square.
• Orange Route (currently suspended) runs from 10:30am - 6:30pm, every 30 minutes. Duration - 140 minutes. First stop - Museum of Cosmonautics
• Walking tour runs daily at 10:45am. Duration - 2 hours 30 minutes. Meeting point - Next to monument of Saints Cyril and Methodius.
• Boat tour operates 5th May - 20th October, from 11:30am - 6:30pm. Duration - 60 minutes. Meeting point - Zaryadye Park Pier.
• Mobile and paper vouchers are accepted for this tour.
• Vouchers can be redeemed at any of the stops along the routes.
• Vouchers are valid for 12 months
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

• DebbJ 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Great way to get oriented to Moscow We started our Moscow experience with the hop on hop off. It was a great way to get orientated to the city. The additional optional tours were also good, we did the Metro tour which I highly recommend, we also paid for the Kremlin tour. The hop on hop off has three different lines all included. Only fault was the bus was sometimes full and you had to wait for the next one which was about 15 minutes (in the cold). Read more Written January 6, 2020
• UmaDelhi 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles 2 days are required Very very good audio guides- the voice quality was also good and also the anecdotes of history were brilliant. Russia is truly beautiful Read more Written September 1, 2019
• BeverleyT 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Boat trip - TERRIBLE We got on the bus, but couldn’t buy a 1 day ticket. They suggested we do the 1 hour boat trip and said they would drop us to the dock. 1) they dropped us in the wrong place 2) they were lost because of the marathon Then the boat, after we finally found it: 1) stinking fumes, actually gagging 2) no commentary, in fact, no interaction unless you begged 3) offered us 2 for 1 icecreams as they had melted and refrozen as the fridge gets turned off at night Honestly, we enjoyed the afternoon in the boat but spent all of it laughing at just how awful it was!!! The worst thing in Moscow! Read more Written August 18, 2019
• niruDurbs 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Not the best value for the price The ticket is quite expensive and covers three different routes in a 24 hour period. The red route is quite exciting and takes about an hour. The bus comes every 10 to 15 minutes. However the other two routes take about two hours each and buses come every 30 to 40 minute period. If the bus is full then you have to wait at the stop for the next bus. So personally I feel that not much can be seen this way. I definitely was not impressed. However it must be noted that one can learn a lot about the history of Moscow Read more Written July 3, 2019
• IrishCueTravel 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles SLO Motion Not all their fault , but if you plan on trying this Attraction be patient! Traffic is a big problem first and foremost. But to add additional unnecessary delays; the bus stops at each site for 15 minutes at a time or More ! I gave up half way through ( 45 minutes) ; and walked back to the starting point in 10 minutes! Read more Written June 4, 2019
• michael g 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Worst hop on/hop off EVER Waited for 40 minutes in the cold rain for a bus that never came... unacceptable. Traffic is so bad that when on a bus the previos day it was barely moving. My advice-get a subway pass and a good travel guide book and do sightseeing on your own! Read more Written October 24, 2018
• Rebecca J 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Boat element was excellent We purchased a ticket online for the boat and bus for 2 days. The boat element was wonderful, we saw some amazing parts of Moscow along the river side. The bus element was very disappointing as it only started at 10am and was finished by 6:30pm. It was extremely warm when we were there and it would have been great to do the tour in the cool of the day. There was also no air conditioning in the down stairs part of the bus. They also turned away passengers at one of the stops as the bus was full and there was not another bus for 40 minutes. Read more Written September 26, 2018
• Monismith2014 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles it was very enjoyable it was very interesting seeing things we saw walking around from the bus. so much more to see. we had a lot better view of the attractions from the height of the bus.also the bus was reasonable slow which gave us time enough for photos. it stopped at sparrow hill for 10 minutes for picture taking Read more Written September 20, 2018
• fati666222 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles The best way to see Moscow We did both routes but if you have little time then only do the red route.Its very informative and it takes you to the important sights.The staff on the bus are very friendly and helpful. Read more Written August 20, 2018
• adolfo17 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles The worst hope-on hope-off service I've ever seen Diffiult to understand the route maps and stops. Staff wouldn't help either. Lengthy stops. No air conditioning. Read more Written August 4, 2018
• Peter F 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Two Routes There is a short red route which depending on the traffic takes about an hour. The route is generally around the Red Square area. The ear phones were small and sometimes the commentary did not link up with the sites you were seeing. The green bus takes you on a longer route and ours took two and a half hours due to the heavy traffic. I would not recommend this trip unless it is raining or you want to fill in time. The sights we saw were nothing outstanding with plenty of time at certain stops for photos. Also the driver stop for a bite to eat at one stop. Read more Written July 30, 2018
• Bernardo P 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Boat Trips Moscow, Russia Yesterday, I booked a boat trip with the GetYourGuide.com web page and was totally horrible, didn’t have audio guide as it shows on the picture-Nobody Talk-. The girl on the picture-light blue bag-ask for 100 Rubles for show her the QR Code while I had the Booking and PIN number cause she must see the vessel name-Didn’t say nothing and after she said board any vessel. I suggest take the trip and pay on site, avoid fake internet pages, there are many other services with a lot of entertainment, don’t take this ones. Read more Written July 14, 2018
• Kathrynowl91 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Good way to see some sites We usually do these tours when we travel. They get you round and you see the sight . The traffic is quite heavy so it is a bit slow but there is not a lot they can do about it. We only did the red route. Just a note people don’t queue here when the bus comes it’s a bit of a free for all. Read more Written July 13, 2018
• Daniyal91 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Was Ok.! Started our tour of moscow from here, We had got the 2 Day Pass with the boat ride. The route and the map was good but not well managed. The bus didn't stop at many points. Were were unaware a couple of times at what point we were and missed them. Headphones and maps were provided. Would recommend one should check out the route map before going and decide which places to stop in advance, this way one can manage and enjoy the tour more and us it more effectively.! The boat ride was Ok, a little crowded. No guide provided, just a boat ride with restaurant service Read more Written July 12, 2018
• WilliamDyer 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Poor service on boat and too many waiting times on buses For the price, you should expect at minimum English speaking tour guides with decent experience, but at least in my case that did not happen both in buses and boats. And in the boat even tough we were 90% English speaking tourist at least, the tour guide spoke 95% of the time in Russia, and only 3 sentences in English, I really counted how many times she spoke in English. And at the end she asks us if we have any questions? Of course I told her I couldn’t ask her anything since I didn’t understand 95% of what she was saying. The boat tour is not worth it, just take the bus that would be my advice. Second minus is the waiting times, in the boat they made us wait an hour before it departed, and in many stops with the buses waiting times of 20-30 minutes. I actually think I lost that day around 2 hours doing nothing. Be careful. Read more Written July 10, 2018

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City Sightseeing Moscow Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Optional Cruise provided by City Sightseeing Moscow

• Guided tour

Moscow: City Sightseeing by Car/Bus

• Description
• Choose date

Visiting a new city is akin to going on a first date, it is something you will never forget. Many people imagine Moscow as just a bunch of sporadic landmarks: Red Square, the Kremlin, Lenin’s Mausoleum and GUM. There is so much more to this wonderful city than that and even though we only have a few hours, we will do all we can to show you everything we know and love about our capital in one fell swoop. We will take you on a journey through the ages, from centuries ago, right up to the modern day, soaking in the sights of this vast and bustling metropolis. Bright, luxurious and both ancient and modern at the same time, Moscow invites you on a date you’ll never forget!

On our sightseeing bus tour of the city, you will see:

• The wonderfully historic city centre and its unique museums, magnificent cathedrals, the exquisite Chambers of the Romanov Boyars and of course, the famous towering red brick walls of the Kremlin, The charming beauty of the Alexander Garden awaits the capital's guests - a lush green oasis in the midst of the glass and concrete clad metropolis, basking in the etherial aura emanating from the whitewashed stone walls of the restored Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the world- renowned fairytale onion domes of St. Basil's Cathedral and other impressive monumental buildings such as the library built in Lenin's honour - the Russian State Library - and the State Duma.
• The Lubyanka KGB headquarters is notorious to members of older generations and although nowadays, the face of the secret police has changed dramatically, the looming enigmatic building on the waterfront maintains its aura of mystery, shrouded in a variety of murky rumours and dark myths. Then, there’s another of Moscow's main attractions - the marvellous Bolshoi Theatre, yew simply cant leave Moscow without taking in its breathtaking architecture. Engrained in the fabric of Russia's cultural heritage, virtuoso performers such as prima ballerina Galina Ulanova, opera singer Feodor Chaliapin and pianist, composer and conductor Sergei Rachmaninoff once stood centre stage of this vaunted institution.
• The memorial complex on Poklonnaya Hill was constructed in the glory and honour of our heroes who defended our nation in the many crucial battles of the Great Patriotic War (WWII). This is a place that embodies a particularly acute and inextricable link between older ancf younger generations. Moving on to the Moscow International Business Centre, not dubbed ‘Moscow City' for nothing, a true glimpse of the future in the present. This incredible, rather jaw-dropping project in the capital has shown that Moscow has come to accept the age of the skyscraper. Finally, the stunning views from the observation deck at Sparrow Hills will leave professional and amateur photographers alike itching to capture them. How could one resist?

The most beautiful of all the world's cities - lady Moscow invites you out on a date!

The cost of an excursion with a personal guide for 1 person

Meeting point We'll pick you up at your hotel

St. Basil's Cathedral

House on the Embankment

Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

Vorobyovy Hills

Poklonnaya Hill Poklonnaya Gora

Moscow-City

Alexander garden

Russian State Library

Bolshoi Theatre

End of the tour

Choose your dates

Select time, who's going.

• Excursion Moscow: City Sightseeing by Car/Bus
• Date and time:
• Who's going:

Moscow’s best free city tour

I love Moscow – this charming metropolis, its people, its history and its unique cityscape. I would like to share my passion for this city with you. It is my job to show you the most exciting corners of this fascinating metropolis. That’s why, as a travel specialist and your private tour guide Moscow in Russia, I organize a guided free city tour Moscow – so that everyone, regardless of their budget, would be able to enjoy the insider’s view of Moscow.

You get to see what only Moscow residents know and what other tourist guides keep from you. I am a licensed travel specialist in Russia and would like you to enjoy all facets of the capital of the largest country in the world, without demanding any money from you. I’ll show you the city on my free Moscow walking tour for 1.5-hours on foot.

Everything you need to know:

• My tours take place daily by arrangement, I am the only English-speaking licensed tourist guide Moscow, who offers a free city tour.
• My 1.5-hour free tours Moscow do not cost you a cent, I also offer other great paid tours as well.
• I am an experienced local, I make the tours informative, but at the same time relaxed and not off the plane.

Free Tours Moscow – Daily

My free tours Moscow city starts on Slavonic Square (Kitay-Gorod Metro Station), passes the world-famous St. Basil’s Cathedral, which was built by Ivan the Terrible on the south side of Red Square in the 16th century and where the tsars were once crowned. Then it goes across the Red Square at the Lenin Mausoleum, the luxury department store GUM and with a view of the Kremlin towards the historical museum. Of course, you will also learn more about the stories that once happened behind the thick walls of the Kremlin – from the Tsars and Napoleon to Stalin. Then we continue through the idyllic Alexander Garden.

An advance booking is required!

Practical information:

Time: by arrangement, daily Duration: 1.5 hours Price: Free Language: English

«First acquaintance with Moscow» – a 2.5-hour city tour in the center of Moscow

This Moscow city tour starts on the Theater Square, past Lubyanka Square and the KGB-building, then through Kitay Gorod district and Varvarka Street, past the world-famous St. Basil’s Cathedral. Then it goes across Zarjadje Park, over Red Square at the Lenin Mausoleum, the GUM-department store and towards the Historical Museum. We walk through the Alexander Garden.

Time: by arrangement, daily Duration: 2.5 hours Price: 17 $ Students and children: 6 $ Language: English

A 3.5-hour car/bus tour of Moscow.

This is the best tour of Moscow city as all the important sights are visited. I am your Moscow city guide who will walk you through the city explaining the charming history of the city. This tour begins with picking you up from the hotel. 3 breaks are offered for photographing.

First, we will visit the most famous riverside streets and bridges in the center of the city with the most beautiful views of the Kremlin and the Moskva River (e.g. the Kremlin embankment and the Great Stone Bridge).

The first photo break is made at the Cathedral of Christ the Savior. We then pass by the district with numerous museums, Prechistinka Street and the district with numerous medical areas.

We again stop at the Novodevichy Convent, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the other bank of the Moskva River to click pictures.

Then we visit “Sparrow Hills” where you can enjoy a bird’s eye view of the city of Moscow from the observation deck. Then there are the skyscrapers of Moscow-City, the Kutuzov avenue, the New Arbat, Tverskaya Street, the world-famous Bolshoi Theater, the KGB building and Varvarka Street. Here there are ample spots to click pictures.

We then drive past the Kremlin again and finally reach Red Square. We take a short tour of Red Square and say goodbye in the Alexander Garden.

Time: by arrangement, daily Duration: 3.5 hours Price for a group: 170-200 $ (depending on the number of travelers) Language: English

Metro tour – daily

Palaces for ordinary people – that was what Stalin promised to the people when the construction of the Moscow Metro began between the World Wars. The communist dictator hadn’t promised too much. No other underground system in the world can boast such spectacular architecture – chandeliers, decorations, stucco, paintings on the walls – each station is individually designed. No wonder that Moscow residents love their metro. I will guide you through the bustle of one of the busiest subways in the world and show you the most beautiful stations Moscow city has.

Time: by arrangement, daily Duration: 2 hours Price: 21 $ Students and children: 17 $ Language: English Included in the price: Metro tickets / the guided tour

Tour of Communist Moscow – every day

After the Communist October Revolution in 1918, Moscow became the capital of the Soviet Empire and was the center of socialist orbit for more than 70 years. This left its mark on Moscow, even if the USSR disintegrated more than a quarter of a century ago. The city streets are full of remnants of the communist regime and the Cold War. This is a walking tour where I will show you the most exciting places in Soviet Moscow: from the notorious KGB headquarters, also known as Lubyanka to the Karl Marx Monument to small hidden remains from the time of hammer and sickle. You will also learn about Stalin’s Great Terror political campaign and the system of the GULAG and how the USSR, the communist Russian republic, became modern Russia.

Time: by arrangement, daily Duration: 2 hours Price: 21 $ Students and children: 17 $ Language: English Included in the price: the guided tour

Alternative Moscow Tour – daily

Explore the unseen Moscow with your Moscow private guide and discover a range of sights during this alternative walking tour.  Away from the main tourist spots (in the central district of Kitay-Gorod), just a short walk from Red Square and St. Basil’s Cathedral, you suddenly find yourself in one of the trendiest districts of Moscow. This place not only has trendy cafes and green squares, but here you can see the most beautiful spray works (according to Albrecht Dürer), hangout-places of the youth and hipsters, as well as learn what Moscow looked like in the 19th century. Here you will also learn exciting and even bloody stories about famous gangsters, eccentric business people and legends like the wandering preacher Rasputin, who is known in Russia either as the “holy devil” or the mad monk. To learn a little more about Moscow’s culture, this is the tour for you. On my alternative tour, you will get to know Moscow away from the tourist hotspots. This tour is of 2 hours duration and you will experience the following on the tour:

• St. John’s Hill, a quiet oasis right in the center, where time has stopped as it did in pre-Communist times
• Khokhlovka Art Center, where Russian hipsters and street artists hang out
• Samoskvorechye District where you can see beautiful streets and hear stories from old Moscow

Time: by arrangement, daily Duration: 2 hours Price: 21 $ Students and children: 17 $ Language: English Included in the price: the guided tour / tram ticket

Kremlin tour – daily (closed on Thursday)

With its 20 towers and high walls, the Kremlin rises imposingly over Red Square. This world-famous fortress with its area of ​​28 hectares is home to over 800 years of Russian history. Described as the eighth wonder of the world, this historic fortress complex is the principal symbol of Russia that sits on the banks of the Moscow River. Today the Kremlin still harbors numerous secrets and has palaces and cathedrals, surrounded by Kremlin Wall. The current wall was constructed between the 15 th  and 16 th  centuries, but the original wall was made of wood around the year 1147. The Kremlin Wall became an important symbol of Moscow’s importance in the Russian Empire. This top tourist destination attracts millions of people every year and there are various sights to see. With my Kremlin tour, you will see the oldest square in the city in the heart of the Kremlin, the once largest cannon in the world and the scene of numerous dramas – from Ivan the Terrible and Napoleon to Stalin. You cannot miss this unique experience.

An advance booking and prepayment for tickets are required.

Time: by arrangement, daily (closed on Thursday) Duration: 2 hours Price on request Students and children: on request Language: English Included in the price: Kremlin tickets / the guided tour

Moscow pub crawl – Friday / Saturday

Experience the real nightlife of Moscow with my Moscow Pub Crawl and enjoy 4 pubs/bars plus 4 welcome shot drinks. Move from one bar to another and get to know travelers from around the world as well as the locals. Play fun adventure games and contests in addition to getting perks in the bars. Between the bars, move from one place to another on foot. The routes are organized as such that you will walk no more than 10 minutes between the bars. Visit the most exciting events, parties, concerts, and dance in the bars. Moscow Pub Crawl is a tour that you will never forget.

This tour runs every Friday and Saturday evening at 8 PM and you need to bring along your passport or an ID card, comfortable shoes, and wear smart casual clothes.

An advance booking and a small prepayment are required!

Time: by arrangement, daily Duration: 4 hours Price on request Language: English Included in the price: the guided tour, 4 shot drinks

1.5-hour boat trip on the Moskva River.

Taking a boat tour in Moscow on the Moskva River is a very pleasant experience. It allows you to know the city from a totally different perspective and admire the beautiful bridges. In this 1.5-hour river trip, you will sail past many beautiful sites in Moscow, so you can take the best photos to commemorate this day. The ship makes several stops on the way. The trip starts from the Ustinskiy Bridge near Sarjadje Park and ends at the Kiev train station.

On this Boat Trip, you can see sights such as: the former Imperial Education House, Sarjadje Park, the “flowing”, “floating” bridge, the most beautiful view of the Kremlin, the Great Stone Bridge, the legendary House on the Quay, the Christ the Savior Cathedral , the monument to Peter the Great on the ship, the central sports arena Luzhniki, the Sparrow Hills, 240 meters high Lomonosov University, the numerous architecturally spectacular skyscrapers of Moscow-City, the Novodevichy Convent, the building of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs etc.

Time: by arrangement, daily Duration: 1.5 hours Price on request Language: English

A military tour – riding on tanks in Stupino (Moscow region)

Russian Military is one of the largest military forces in the world formed in 1992. With my Military Tour experience what it likes to be in the Russian military, shooting guns, ride the Tank T-34 and various models of German tanks from the Second World War, as well as armored personnel carriers and vehicles. You will also shoot from the AK-47 and another combat weapon.

The tour will begin with your private tour guide Moscow in a Soviet army van accompanied with some tasty snacks and tea for a tasty start. Upon arriving, you will have to put on the army safety clothing and climb the Russian armored vehicles. The tour will take you on the noisy, smoky tank, driving through mud roads. All participants will get the chance to drive the tank which is coordinated by the Russian military.

Time: by arrangement, daily Price on request Language: English

Alexander Popov

Welcome to Russia! My name is Alexander, I was born in Moscow and I'm a passionate tour guide. I want to share my passion for Russia and my hometown with you. On my website you will find useful information to make your individual trip to Russia as interesting as possible.

Gorky Park and Sparrow Hills: Green Lungs, place to relax and meet

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