pga tour schedule designated events

Signature Events

How It Works

• The three player-hosted Signature Events – The Genesis Invitational, Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard and the Memorial Tournament presented by Workday – will feature a 36-hole cut to the top 50 and ties plus any player within 10 shots of the lead. The player-hosted Signature Events will feature a redistribution of prize money that allocates 20 percent to the winner ($4 million), up from 18 percent.
• The remaining five Signature Events will have no cut and will continue to allocate 18 percent to the winner.
• The Sentry is the season’s first Signature Event and includes PGA TOUR winners from the previous calendar year as well as the top 50 players from the 2022-23 FedExCup Points List through the TOUR Championship (i.e., those who qualify for the BMW Championship, the second FedExCup Playoffs event).
• The 2024 schedule cadence connects events through several new eligibility paths, allowing trending players to earn Signature Event starts and providing all members the opportunity to qualify for the Signature Events and compete alongside the game’s best.
• Players are eligible for a Signature Event by means of their highest eligibility category. The eligibility criteria and priority ranking for each category can be found below.

Eligibility Criteria & Priority Ranking

1. Top 50 players in the prior season’s FedExCup points list

• The top 50 players from the previous season’s FedExCup points list through the TOUR Championship are eligible to participate in all Signature Events during the current season.
• The top 50 players from the previous season’s FedExCup points list through the TOUR Championship include the following:

2. Aon Next 10: Top 10 FedExCup point earners (not otherwise exempt)

• The Aon Next 10 includes the top 10 players on the current FedExCup point list, not otherwise exempt via a higher priority category, through the tournament leading up to the next Signature Event.
• For the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and The Genesis Invitational, the Aon Next 10 will refer to those players who finished Nos. 51-60 on the prior season’s final FedExCup Fall points list.

3. Aon Swing 5: Top five FedExCup point earners in-between Signature Events

• The Aon Swing 5 includes the top five FedExCup point earners who accumulate the most FedExCup Points during the swing of tournaments between Signature Events.
• The top five players that accrue the most points during the swing of events between Signature Events, and who are not otherwise exempt via a higher priority category, are eligible via this category.

4. Current-year tournament winners (Full FedExCup Points events)

• Players who win a PGA TOUR tournament during the current year (excluding Additional Events) are eligible to participate in the remaining Signature Events in that year, should they not otherwise be exempt via a higher priority category (i.e. Aon Next 10 or Aon Swing 5).

5. Top 30 players in OWGR (PGA TOUR Members)

• The top 30 players on the Official World Golf Rankings (OWGR) through the tournament preceding the Signature Event are eligible for the Signature Events should they not already be exempt in a higher category.
• Players must be a PGA TOUR member in order to qualify via this category.

6. Sponsor exemptions

• Each Signature Event will have a certain amount of sponsor exemptions that they can grant to players that are not otherwise eligible for the Signature Event.
• Sponsor exemptions are earmarked for PGA TOUR members.

Signature Event Schedule

What are designated events on the PGA Tour, and which tournaments are they?

The PGA Tour has a new classification system for their tournaments, and that means a new term for the biggest events on the schedule: "designated events."

What are PGA Tour designated events?

These events are special to the PGA Tour because its top players have all agreed in principle to compete in each and every one of these events (if they're eligible) to create 17 tournaments that will showcase at least the 20 or 25 best players on the Tour competing against each other.

The top players, in turn, get a chance to reap a huge reward in the form of increased prize money. In each of the PGA Tour-controlled designated events, the purse will be at least $20 million. For The Players Championship, the purse is $25 million. For the Tour Championship, which decides the fate of the FedEx Cup bonus pool, the purse is effectively $60 million.

The four men's major championships are also considered designated events by the PGA Tour, but they do not control the purse or qualifying criteria for those events.

Of the 17 tournaments that are designated events, 13 are fixed on the schedule and will happen every year. Four of the 17 tournaments, however, will rotate around the PGA Tour schedule, giving individual tournaments and their sponsors the opportunity to step up for a year at a time to guarantee themselves an elite field.

Which PGA Tour tournaments are designated events?

In the 2022-2023 PGA Tour schedule, the 17 designated events are:

Click header to sort

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Exclusive: first look at 2024 pga tour schedule; 4 designated events to keep 36-hole cut, share this article.

The PGA Tour’s season of change will see a lot of date shifts, some new sponsors, plenty of no-cut events but a lot of familiarity, based on a copy of the 2024 schedule obtained exclusively by Golfweek .

The Tour will return to a calendar-year season for the first time in a decade with 39 regular season events and a further eight in the post-playoffs fall series. Twelve non-major Tour events have designated status, meaning lucrative purses and limited fields. The AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am will become a designated event, as previously reported by Golfweek . The tournament director for the AT&T, Steve John, declined comment until the Tour makes a formal schedule announcement.

Multiple sources say only four of the dozen designated Tour events will feature a 36-hole cut – the Players Championship, the Genesis Invitational, the Memorial Tournament and the Arnold Palmer Invitational. Field sizes at the latter three invitationals will fluctuate with eligibility, but several sources say the maximum will be 80 players with a cut to 50 and ties. The Players remains a full-field event.

There are already no halfway cuts at the season-opening Sentry event – formerly known as the Tournament of Champions – or the three FedEx Cup Playoff stops. In ’24, no players will be leaving after 36 holes at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, the RBC Heritage, the Wells Fargo Championship and the Travelers Championship either. Designated events are mandatory for top stars this season, but under pressure from players the Tour has not made them must-shows for 2024.

The most noteworthy date shift will see the Memorial Tournament, hosted by Jack Nicklaus, held a week before the U.S. Open, having traditionally been staged two weeks ahead of the third major. The Tour is intent on establishing a schedule cadence that would see designated events held in consecutive weeks where possible. That will allow otherwise ineligible players to qualify for designated events via their performances in the preceding regular tournaments.

Dan Sullivan, the executive director of the Memorial Tournament, would not comment on any changes ahead of the official release of the schedule. That unveiling is planned for Aug. 8.

A PGA Tour spokesperson declined to comment on the schedule prior to it being announced.

Two designated events not held back-to-back are the AT&T Pebble Beach and the Genesis Invitational, which are separated by the WM Phoenix Open. The WMPO always finishes on Super Bowl Sunday and will do so again, on Feb. 11. The Memorial will open three-straight designated weeks, followed by the U.S. Open at Pinehurst and the Travelers.

The ’24 schedule shows some sponsor changes and two stops without confirmed support.

The Houston Open, previously a fall event sponsored by Cadence Bank, moves to March under the sponsorship of Texas Children’s, a hospital. The South Korean conglomerate CJ takes over as sponsor of the Byron Nelson stop after AT&T bowed out. Among the tournaments awaiting confirmed sponsors are the first leg of the Florida swing, the Palm Beach Classic, formerly the Honda Classic and a July event opposite the Genesis Scottish Open, sponsored this year by Barbasol.

The schedule does not reflect any changes that might emerge from the PGA Tour’s negotiations with the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund, which is not expected to impact the ’24 lineup. The Olympics will impact things though. Golf medals will be handed out on Aug. 4, which pushes the Wyndham Championship and the FedEx Cup Playoffs back one week. The season concludes at the Tour Championship on Sept. 1.

The fall events, in which players who don’t qualify for the playoffs will jockey for priority in the ’25 season, begin with the Fortinet Championship on Sept. 9.

2024 PGA Tour schedule

Tournaments in bold are the designated events.

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PGA Tour elevated events 2023: What are they? When are they? Who is playing?

The PGA Tour announced elevated events in 2023. What are they? When are they? Who is playing? What are the prize purses? This is all you need to know.

The term "elevated event" will be mentioned on the PGA Tour quite a lot in 2023. 

If you're unsure what this means, then you have come to the right place. GolfMagic is here to walk you through all you need to know with this handy guide. 

The PGA Tour has made some huge changes over the past 12 months. It's not unreasonable to suggest they've come entirely as a result of the LIV Golf League . 

PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan has faced a battle to keep the North American circuits star players. 

How does he do that?

And a kick up the backside from Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods . 

If you haven't heard, PGA Tour elevated events are all about the money. And lots of it. 

What are PGA Tour elevated events? 

They have come to be known as "designated" as well as elevated events. 

But essentially, the PGA Tour announced that for the 2023 schedule, 17 tournaments throughout the year will have bumper prize purses. 

These tournaments include the major championships. The purses for each tournament have increased dramatically . 

LIV Golf League tournaments carry $25m prize purses. The 17 elevated PGA Tour events have average purses of $20m. 

The Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass in March 2023 will be the richest in history, with a $25m purse. 

Can all PGA Tour players participate in elevated events? 

Players who finished inside the top 20 of the Player Impact Program [PIP] are required to play in the elevated events they are eligible in. 

This is part of an attempt by the PGA Tour to try and get their star players in the same fields more regularly. 

The PGA Tour will soon move to a calendar-based schedule, meaning that more meaningful golf will be played over eight  straight  months instead of players working their schedules around the majors. 

Players are allowed to skip one elevated event if they wish. 

Rory McIlroy decided to skip the first elevated event in January at the  Sentry Tournament of Champions in Hawaii, which was won by Jon Rahm .

What about Tiger Woods? 

Tiger Woods has won the Player Impact Program two years in a row. 

Despite not being able to fulfil a full playing schedule owing to his physical limitations following his car crash, the PGA Tour commissioner said Woods would not be docked money from the 2023 PIP despite not being able to participate in every elevated event. 

So it's just the top 20 players competing in the elevated events? 

Nope. Elevated events will have their standard fields but the top-20 PIP finishers are required to play. 

PGA Tour Designated Events 2023

Anything else? 

There are some tournaments that are not guaranteed to be designated in 2024. 

There has been speculation the WM Phoenix Open, RBC Heritage, Wells Fargo Championship and Travelers Championship are designated for 2023 only. 

It's also important to note that the WGC Match Play has reportedly been scrapped due to sponsorship reasons. 

What other changes have been made? 

Qualifying for the FedEx Cup will now be even more difficult

As many as 55 fewer players will qualify for the 2023 Playoffs, with only the top 70 players advancing to the FedEx St. Jude Championship. 

Those 70 players will be fully exempt for the following season. 

From there, 20 players will be cut for the BMW Championship, with the final 30 players competing at East Lake in the Tour Championship. 

The end of the wraparound season

The wraparound season began in 2013-2014 but is coming to an end after 10 years. 

The PGA Tour will revert to a calendar-year schedule from 2024

The players who don't qualify for the smaller FedEx Cup Playoffs field or are not previously exempt for 2024 will compete for their Tour cards in a new fall series, with details set to be announced this year. 

Guaranteed money

For the 2022-23 season, all fully exempt tour players who compete in 15 tournaments will be guaranteed to earn $500,000 through the creation of the Earnings Assurance Program.

This money will be paid up front, with the players drawing against it during the season from their earnings. 

Players who come up short of earning $500,000 will be paid the difference by the Tour at the end of the season. 

Next page: PGA Tour schedule 2023

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PGA Tour officially announces 2024 schedule, and there are some interesting twists

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While some details about the PGA Tour’s 2024 schedule were leaked last week , there remained plenty of juicy tidbits to chew on when the tour made its official announcement Monday about next season. Among them:

• Of the 36 events in the FedEx Cup regular season, there will be eight designated tournaments—now called “signature” events—with limited fields and $20 million purses in addition to the four majors and Players Championship, along with 18 full-field tournaments and five “additional” events.

• Three player-hosted tournaments—the Genesis Invitational (Tiger Woods), Arnold Palmer Invitational and Memorial (Jack Nicklaus) will have 36-hole cuts, with the top 50 players and those within 10 shots reaching the weekend. Those events will also pay $4 million to the winner (a 20 percent share of the overall purse), while the remaining signature tournaments will have no cut and pay the standard 18 percent to the winner.

• The FedEx Cup Playoffs champion will receive $25 million, up from $18 million for this year .

• In a dramatic change for the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, the tournament is a signature tournament for ’24, with a field of only 80 players, and will be contested only at Pebble Beach and Spyglass Hill. Additionally, the celebrities and amateurs will compete only on Thursday and Friday.

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The tour also addressed one of the biggest concerns expressed by those among its rank-and-file members: How would they be able to get into the most lucrative tournaments? In the new system, beyond the players from the top 50 of the previous year's FedEx Cup standings and top 30 in the OWGR, there are categories called the Next 10 and the Swing 5. The Next 10 is composed of the top 10 members, not otherwise exempt, from the current FedEx Cup standings. The Swing 5 are the top five FedEx Cup points earners, not otherwise exempt, from the swing of five full-field and additional events that precede each signature event.

Translation: For players who get hot at just the right time, they get into the bigger tournaments.

“While winning on the PGA Tour continues to be the ultimate—and most difficult—challenge, we have further connected every tournament, with more at stake each week,” PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan said in the press release. “From The Sentry through the FedEx Cup Playoffs and into the soon-to-be-announced FedEx Cup Fall, this new cadence will create consistent excitement for our fans and reward players like never before. We are grateful to the membership—especially the Player Directors and Player Advisory Council—as well as our tournaments and partners for the collaboration that has set us up for an exciting 2024.”

In addition to the aforementioned signature events, the others are the season-opening The Sentry (which dropped “Tournament of Champions” from its name), RBC Heritage, Wells Fargo Championship and Travelers Championship.

The playoff events are the FedEx St. Jude in Memphis, BMW Championship (to be played for the first time at Colorado's Castle Pines) and the Tour Championship at East Lake in Atlanta, which concludes on Sept. 1.

The top 50 players in the points standings after the St. Jude advance to the BMW and earn fully exempt status for 2025, and everyone else must battle for their cards during the FedEx Fall series. That portion of the schedule has not yet been announced.

Among the other interesting notes provided by the tour in its release:

• Due to continuing conflicts with the NFL playoffs, the Farmers Insurance Open (Jan. 24-27) at Torrey Pines will conclude on Saturday for a third consecutive year.

• The Mexico Open at Vidanta (Feb. 22-25), moves to February after being contested in April 2023.

• After losing Honda as a sponsor, the tour has scheduled The Classic in The Palm Beaches (February 26-March 3) at PGA National Resort. The tour said it expects to announce a new title sponsor in the near future.

• With a new five-year title sponsor, the Texas Children’s Houston Open (March 25-31) moves from the fall portion of the schedule.

• The new Myrtle Beach Classic (May 9-12), a 300-FedEx Cup point event played in the same week as the Wells Fargo, debuts at Dunes Golf & Beach Club. Other "additional” events are the Puerto Rico Open (March 4-10), Corales Puntacana Championship (April 18-21), Barracuda Championship (July 18-21) and another tournament the tour expects to announce for July 11-14.

• For the third consecutive season, three tournaments will be part of both the FedEx Cup and the DP World Tour’s Race to Dubai: Genesis Scottish Open (July 8-14); the yet-to-be-announced event (formerly the Barbasol Championship) scheduled for July 8-14; and the Barracuda Championship (July 15-21).

• The tour will not hold an event the week of July 29-Aug. 4, when the Men’s Olympic Golf Competition will be contested at Le Golf National in Paris. The 2024 FedEx Cup Regular Season concludes the following week at the Wyndham Championship (Aug. 5-11).

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Why has the PGA Tour changed their schedule and what could it mean for non-designated events?

The PGA Tour will have eight designated 'no-cut' events in their 2024 schedule, all with reduced 70-78 player fields and offering elevated purses and FedExCup points; other events on the calendar will still have full fields and cuts next season

Golf Expert & Columnist

Tuesday 7 March 2023 14:33, UK

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Andrew Coltart thinks the changes on the PGA Tour for this year have so far been excellent, but questions whether the proposed ‘no cut,’ limited fields may be an unnecessary step too far.

I believe in a system of meritocracy, so I think people who win their PGA Tour card should get to play the tour and not just part of it. You've earned your right to play in the 'Premier League' of golf, haven't you?

In the face of stiff competition, the PGA Tour has nailed these elevated events so far this year, with the WM Phoenix Open, Genesis Invitational and now Arnold Palmer Invitational providing some of the best and most enthralling finishes with the strongest fields we've seen outside the majors.

• PGA Tour announce more no-cut designated events
• The Players is here! When and how to watch on Sky

The best are playing together and it's happening more often. Interest is at a peak. Job done! Now, new proposals have been brought forward: reduced fields and No Cut. They are interesting to say the least, but are they really necessary?

There's going to be lots of things to consider when making these changes for 2024, with one in particular being that there are too many exempt and eligible players. There are in excess of more than 200 eligible players for fields of around 144, so it's surely time to whittle down that number. Otherwise, players just simply aren't going to get the chance to play.

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Morning thoughts on the new structure of the PGA Tour. pic.twitter.com/T7nS4VsKEo — James Hahn (@JamesHahnPGA) March 5, 2023

I worry that promoters of non-designated tournaments, where the strength of field and world ranking points on offer drops off a cliff, may choose to invest elsewhere. If you can't get big names into your event, would you end up getting the bang for your buck you expect?

There is a big market out there and of course big players don't play small events by choice. Of course, if that happens, then the playing opportunities for what some might perceive as 'the also rans' becomes massively affected as it is probably restricting their climb to these upper echelons. I realise the business isn't built on these individuals, but the top players have always climbed that ladder.

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The no-cut system proposal is also interesting. We had these with the World Golf Championships, which have all but gone now. Cuts, whether making or missing, play a huge part in our game, as they add jeopardy and bring the game closer to real life.

Cuts mimic struggles of holding down a job and that's where the real pressure lies. Missing cuts are simply horrible, but they make you play more and play harder. You have to enter another event because a cut missed loses you points and financial ground. The only way to recoup that is to play extra events, so surely that's a good thing?

Also getting paid for doing a job poorly doesn't, in my mind at least, promote growth or improvement. There are clear examples out there today and you don't have to look too hard. It doesn't happen at the lower end arguably, where it's needed, so why should it happen to the boys at the top where they wouldn't miss a few thousand here or there?

They've earned that right to be there and I agree to a certain extent, but by giving them points and pounds while underperforming you are slowing down the natural evolution within the game, potentially inhibiting the progress of those coming behind.

We had it during the WGC's and it appeared to give some players who were struggling with their game at that moment a year's grace to sort their form out. A luxury ill-afforded to those who cannot take part in the ' no cut 'events.

Having cuts and near full field events helps bring new names into the game. It helps the game stay vibrant and fits the growth narrative well. Should they implement these new changes? I'm not sure we can beat what we've recently witnessed.

How does it compare with the DP World Tour?

I look at the DP World Tour, where we have had events that were elevated status to attempt to try and attract more players to come and play. The idea was that it would financially lift all the other events around it, but of course that only happens in a perfect world.

It arguably meant that a majority of our players played for less money and world ranking points. The smaller events went unsupported by our stars and those events dwindled, with the only way to get stars to play was often by getting one to be a host of an event. It gives them a lot of publicity and provides a public platform that they are giving back to the game.

I *think* the PGAT had the momentum and the opportunity to leave LIV for dead next year by simply doing what it’s doing this year; offering up tons of money to all the guys on the PGAT. But by attempting to enrich the top guys even more, I think they’ve opened themselves up.. — Eddie Pepperell (@PepperellEddie) March 4, 2023

The DP World Tour was potentially under threat before the strategic alliance with the PGA Tour and they had to get a lot of heads together to try and figure things out, although you're obviously never going to please everybody.

There's a lot of people out there who thought they knew a lot of things, players and caddies alike, who knew absolutely nothing at all. It was a very, very uncertain time for the game in general and the DP World Tour did not have the luxury the PGA Tour did, so they did what they had to do to survive.

Both tours have had a relationship going on for 40 plus years at least, and it was a good opportunity to work even closer and give access to more DP World Tour members to unlock the rewards available to top class touring professionals.

There has been the suggestion that Europeans are too comfortable back home, where they tried America but didn't work hard enough to stay, but I don't buy that. European players have taken a while to acclimatise to all the changes when they go over there, as it's a totally different lifestyle and doesn't have the familial feel of the DP World Tour.

There's so much more camaraderie in Europe, which is something that they have benefitted greatly from in recent Ryder Cups. Traversing the pond can be an even more lonely existence, with the time away from friends and family often taking its toll. That's why some players have struggled to find their feet on US soil.

There are now some very good opportunities for the DP World Tour players to play a more global schedule through this strategic alliance and that route to the PGA Tour should be something they look to target.

Watch The Players throughout the week live on Sky Sports. Live coverage begins on Tuesday with the 'Live from The Players' show at 2pm, while the opening round is live on Thursday from 11.30am on Sky Sports Golf!

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PGA Tour moves toward elite field with no cuts for 2024

Tiger Woods, left, talks to PGA Commissioner Jay Monahan on the 15th hole during the pro-am of the Genesis Invitational golf tournament at Riviera Country Club, Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2023, in the Pacific Palisades area of Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Ryan Kang)

Golfer Rory McIlroy speaks as he and Tiger Woods discuss the future home of their tech-infused golf league that will begin play next year, Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2023, on the campus of Palm Beach State College in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee)

Max Homa hits from the ninth tee during the final round of the Genesis Invitational golf tournament at Riviera Country Club, Sunday, Feb. 19, 2023, in the Pacific Palisades area of Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Ryan Kang)

Patrick Cantlay, left, gestures to the gallery after making birdie on the 17th hole during the third round of the Genesis Invitational golf tournament at Riviera Country Club, Saturday, Feb. 18, 2023, in the Pacific Palisades area of Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Ryan Kang)

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ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — The PGA Tour is moving toward an elite schedule in 2024 with 16 designated events — half of them with no more than 80-man fields and no cuts — along with a chance for players on the outside to play their way in.

Still to be finalized are which events get the $20 million prize funds and details for how players can earn a spot in the field.

Players were apprised of the changes in a memo Wednesday from PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan in which he wrote, “There is no doubt in my mind that we made decisions that will transform and set the future.”

The Associated Press obtained a copy of the memo, which also indicated the Player Impact Program bonus pool will be cut in half to $50 million to 10 players (instead of 20 players), with the other $50 million going to bonus pools for the FedEx Cup and the Comcast Business Tour Top 10 for leading players in the regular season.

The part likely to cause the most divide among players is the no-cut policy for the designated events (except for the four majors and The Players Championship). One criticism of Saudi-funded LIV Golf has been its 54-hole events do not have a cut.

Eight of the 16 designated events — the exceptions are the majors, The Players and three FedEx Cup playoff events — are guaranteed to have the best players for the entire week.

Monahan had said at the start of the year at Kapalua that he thought a cut “is an important element to this tour” and he felt it was “absolutely an important consideration.”

Rory McIlroy, the primary voice in player meetings geared toward reshaping the PGA Tour’s future, said precedent has been set for no-cut events such as the former World Golf Championships and events like the CJ Cup and Zozo Championship.

“The only reason no-cut events are a big deal is because LIV has come along,” McIlroy said. “So there is precedent for no-cut events. Is there maybe going to be a few more of them? Maybe. ... You ask Mastercard or whoever it is to pay $20 million for a golf event, they want to see the stars at the weekend. They want a guarantee that the stars are there.

“So if that’s what needs to happen, then that’s what happens.”

Ian Poulter immediately took to Twitter with a George Bernard Shaw quote: “Imitation is not just the sincerest form of flattery — it’s the sincerest form of learning.”

“I think in general if a company or a product doesn’t have competition the incentive to innovate is low,” said Patrick Cantlay, who serves on the PGA Tour board. “So now with competition it makes everyone want to look inside to see how they could make their product better, how they could do things better. I think the tour has done that.”

The elite events would comprise the top 50 from the FedEx Cup the previous year, 10 players who performed the best in the fall for the early part of 2024, five leading players in points from standard tournaments, players who win PGA Tour events that year and four sponsor exemptions. They also will take anyone from the top 30 in the world if they are not already eligible.

Monahan also said the elevated events would be spread out to avoid situations like the Honda Classic, which had two elevated events both before and after its tournament. The Honda had only three players from the top 25 in the world.

The tour is promoting the idea that by having smaller fields for elite events — no more than 80, compared with 120 players at Bay Hill and two weeks ago at Riviera — it would strengthen the tournaments that don’t have $20 million purses because those players would need somewhere to compete.

“If we made these fields very large in these designated events it would ruin nondesignated events that have been staples of the PGA Tour,” said Max Homa, who is part of the Player Advisory Council that advised on changes. “No one would play in half of them because it would no longer fit your schedule by any means.”

One aspect the tour is promoting is that by not having $20 million events toward the end of the season, more players will be playing tournaments to make sure they get into the top 70 to qualify for the postseason, and then the top 50 to assure being in all the big events the following year.

Monahan has scheduled a players meeting next Tuesday at The Players Championship to discuss any changes. For now, it has the look of a tour divided between the top players and everyone else.

At The Players Championship last year, Monahan boldly said the PGA Tour had momentum and wasn’t about to be distracted by rumors of a rival league.

LIV Golf began three months later with players like Dustin Johnson and Phil Mickelson, and other major champions from the last five years soon followed.

“It does seem like the emergence of LIV forced us as players and the executives of the PGA Tour to just look at their product,” Homa said. “They (LIV) got to make something from scratch, which is a lot easier than us building something that has been around for so long that’s been on the shoulders of someone like Arnold Palmer, who has built a lot of what we do today.”

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Last call for the ultimate Pinehurst trip

PGA Tour makes big changes to 2024 designated events, including smaller fields and no cuts

The Genesis Invitational was the third designated event of 2023.

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For the second year in a row, the PGA Tour is making major changes to its schedule and structure.

After creating big-money designated events for 2023 that guaranteed the top players would compete together more often, the PGA Tour policy board approved more changes to those tournaments for the 2024 season. In a memo to Tour players sent on Wednesday, which was obtained by GOLF.com, PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan said the Tour is moving forward with what it’s calling the “Designated Event Model.”

Golfweek first reported the changes on Wednesday morning.

The changes will not affect the majors, Players Championship or the three FedEx Cup Playoff events.

According to the memo, eight select designated events in 2024 will consist of 70 to 80 players and won’t have a cut. This year, except for the Sentry Tournament of Champion and playoff events, all non-major designated events are full-field tournaments.

With the new change, fields will be comprised of the top 50 players from the previous year’s FedEx Cup Points List and the top 10, not otherwise eligible, from the current year’s list.

There will also be opportunities for golfers not already eligible to play their way into these designated events. For example, the Tour will space out its designated events and full-field events, and the top-five players who earn the most FedEx Cup points in the tournaments between the designated events will earn spots in the next designated event. A win during the 2024 season is also an automatic promotion to the designated events. The final spots in those fields will be made up of PGA Tour members in the top 30 of the Official World Golf Ranking, plus four sponsor exemptions for Tour members.

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Additionally, players have been required to play in 16 of this season’s 17 designated events, plus three more non-designated events, to receive their full Player Impact Program payouts. Next season, that requirement will be lifted, but the new structure is designed to “incentivize top performers to participate in the designated events.”

Monahan said the eight designated events for 2024, some of which might be different than this year’s designated events, will be selected at a later date.

The PGA Tour’s designated events were in part created due to the threat of its competitor, LIV Golf, launching last June with $25 million purses. The rush led to a somewhat random placement of events, such as the schedule’s current stretch, which is four designated events in five weeks. Monahan said the new schedule’s cadence will be beneficial for both players and fans.

Wednesday’s no-cut, smaller-field news for select events brought plenty of reaction from players and fans. It also, not surprisingly, caught the attention of former PGA Tour players who have since left for LIV Golf.

Ian Poulter and Lee Westwood — and even the official LIV Golf Twitter account — pointed out perceived similarities to LIV’s 54-hole, 48-man-field, no-cut formats.

Imitation is the greatest form of flattery. Congratulations PGA Tour. Welcome to the future. #LIVGolf — LIV Golf (@livgolf_league) March 1, 2023

The irony, its ncredible…. 👀 https://t.co/Ldwd8E1EQt — Ian Poulter (@IanJamesPoulter) March 1, 2023

Some PGA Tour players addressed the changes in press conferences at this week’s Arnold Palmer Invitational.

“We’ve always had no-cut events on this Tour,” said Rory McIlroy. “If you think of like the four WGCs, you’ve got the three playoffs events, you’ve got the CJ Cup, the Zozo. So there’s precedent there for no-cut events. The only reason no-cut events are a big deal is because LIV has come along. So there is precedent for no-cut events. There’s been no-cut events since I’ve been a member of the Tour and way beyond that as well.

“It keeps the stars there for four days. You ask Mastercard or whoever it is to pay $20 million for a golf event, they want to see the stars at the weekend. They want a guarantee that the stars are there. So if that’s what needs to happen, then that’s what happens.”

PGA Tour schedule secrets, unlikely winners, one brutal lip-out | Monday Finish

World No. 2 Scottie Scheffler also defended the idea of limited fields, adding that it will protect some of the non-designated events, such as last week’s Honda Classic , which had its weakest field since 2007.

“If you imagine you have 120 guys in the fields this year, those 50 additional guys that are not going to be in the fields next year are all playing the events this year and you’re seeing a lot of other tournaments on our schedule suffer because of that,” Scheffler said. “Let’s say if you’re the 100th guy in the world or over or whatever, you’re going to try and play in those $20 million purses and if you’re in the event, how can you skip it? It’s double the money and all that stuff. But now all of a sudden you have those 50 guys that aren’t going to be playing in the next event and that event is going to suffer and there’s a chance we’d lose events because of that.”

He added good play will still be rewarded with the chance to play for the biggest prizes.

“You got to earn your way still out here on Tour,” he said. “There’s plenty of avenues for guys to earn their way into those tournaments, whether it’s this year or next year, with the eligibility for tournaments being top 10 from current FedExCup and there’s other ways to get in the events.”

Monahan also announced other changes, such as the adjustment of the FedEx Cup points model with the allocation of additional points to the Players, majors and designated events. The PIP will also be reduced from $100 million and 20 players to $50 million and 10 players. The additional $50 million will be reallocated to the FedEx Cup Comcast Business Tour Top 10 bonus pools.

Monahan will address the changes in person with players during a Tuesday meeting at next week’s Players Championship, the PGA Tour’s flagship event.

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Jack Hirsh is an assistant editor at GOLF. A Pennsylvania native, Jack is a 2020 graduate of Penn State University, earning degrees in broadcast journalism and political science. He was captain of his high school golf team and recently returned to the program to serve as head coach. Jack also still *tries* to remain competitive in local amateurs. Before joining GOLF, Jack spent two years working at a TV station in Bend, Oregon, primarily as a Multimedia Journalist/reporter, but also producing, anchoring and even presenting the weather. He can be reached at [email protected] .

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PGA Tour revamps format for designated events, with no cuts

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In what commissioner Jay Monahan described as decisions that will "transform and set the future direction" of the PGA Tour, the tour's policy board voted Tuesday night to dramatically change the format for future designated events, which will have smaller fields and no cuts.

In a memo to PGA Tour members Wednesday, a copy of which was obtained by ESPN, Monahan announced that eight designated events in 2024 and beyond will have fields between 70 to 80 players and no cuts. It's another wave of dramatic changes as the PGA Tour continues to try to fend off a threat from the Saudi-financed LIV Golf League.

"Over the last year, we have spent a massive amount of time exploring how to better position the PGA Tour for continued growth," Monahan wrote. "How to innovate and deliver a better product. How to further showcase our top performers, while staying true to the meritocracy and legacy that define the Tour. How to create a season of consequence that deepens and expands fan interest. How to make every tournament better and deliver more value to sponsors, media partners and host organizations -- to the benefit of the entire membership."

Starting in 2024, the PGA Tour will no longer require top players to participate in certain events: the Players, the four major championships (if players are eligible), the three FedEx Cup playoffs tournaments and an additional eight designated events, which haven't yet been announced. Instead, according to Monahan's memo, the tour will "focus on ensuring purse size, elimination of a cut and FedEx Cup points distribution to sufficiently incentivize top performers to participate in the Designated events."

Monahan told members that field sizes for the Players and the three FedEx Cup playoffs events would remain unchanged. Fields for the eight other designated events will include: the top 50 players from the prior year's FedEx Cup points list through the playoffs; the top 10 players from the current year's points list who aren't otherwise eligible; the top five players who aren't otherwise eligible who earn the most points in tournaments between designated events; winners of current-year, full-point events; PGA Tour members in the top 30 of the Official World Golf Ranking; and four sponsor exemptions, which will be restricted to PGA Tour members.

Monahan said the changes "will reward top performers, provide ample opportunity for play-in from season long performance and different intervals throughout the season, retain an emphasis on winning and be simple for the fan to understand."

Monahan acknowledged that smaller fields in the designated events had become a "hot topic" among members. While many top players approved of the changes, members outside the top 75 in the world worried that they were being left out of the designated events, which had $20 million purses this season.

"These smaller, Designated event fields will not only deliver substantial, can't-miss tournaments to our fans at important intervals throughout the season, but they will also enhance the quality of Full-Field events," Monahan wrote. "Together, this approach provides a schedule that is cohesive, compelling, consequential and with clarity for fans, players and sponsors alike."

Rory McIlroy , a player director on the tour policy board, said every player has a chance to get into the designated events, even if the fields are smaller.

"I want to give everyone a fair shake at this, which I think this structure has done," McIlroy said. "There's ways to play into it. It's trying to get the top guys versus the hot guys, right? I think that creates a really compelling product. But in a way that you don't have to wait an entire year for your good play to then get the opportunity. That opportunity presents itself straight away. You play well for two or three weeks, you're in a designated event. You know then if you keep playing well, you stay in them. So, for example, someone like a Chris Kirk last week that wins Honda, he's set."

While some PGA Tour players have heavily criticized LIV Golf's 54-hole, no-cut format, McIlroy said those types of events have existed on the tour for a long time.

"Well, we've always had no-cut events on this tour," McIlroy said. "If you think of the four [World Golf Championships], you've got the three playoffs events, you've got the CJ Cup, the Zozo. So there's precedent there for no-cut events. The only reason no-cut events are a big deal is because LIV has come along."

The LIV Golf League wasted little time in responding to the PGA Tour's changes , posting to social media that "imitation is the greatest form of flattery."

Imitation is the greatest form of flattery. Congratulations PGA Tour. Welcome to the future. #LIVGolf — LIV Golf (@livgolf_league) March 1, 2023

Max Homa , the No. 8 player in the world, said he liked the changes by the PGA Tour.

"The product is important," Homa told reporters at a news conference at the Arnold Palmer Invitational on Wednesday. "I think it's easy to frame these changes as a way to put more money in the top players' pockets. But it has been made to make it easier and more fun for the fans. I know it's low-hanging fruit to jump on, 'Oh, this is just a money grab.'

"It is a guarantee on who will be at events, more or less, and leaning more on the 'more' there. It is more opportunity for the top players to battle it out late on Sundays. Which, you look back at times of Phil [Mickelson] and Tiger [Woods] , the two best players growing up for me watching, and they had, like, maybe two real battles. So we're going to have more of that. We just had Scottie [Scheffler] and Jon [Rahm] battle it out in Phoenix, and that was awesome. Two of the three best players in the world going at it, so I think that's great."

Homa said he understood some players' frustration with the smaller fields in designated events.

"The tour had, in my opinion, a problem in the sense that 30% of the top 50 players on this tour were playing against each other week in and week out," Homa said. "So they looked at something that was a negative, a deficiency, and said, 'OK, we want more of the top guys playing against each other.' Again, for the fans, for entertainment. That's not a good look that the only time you'll see the best players in the world teeing it up against each other is the Players and the majors."

Scheffler agreed that the PGA Tour had to find a way to get its best players competing against each other as much as possible -- and on the weekend.

"I think it's exciting because you're going to have the top guys in the world playing against each other more often," Scheffler said. "You're going to be able to guarantee the sponsors that those guys are going to be there four days. If you're coming out to an event to watch on Saturday and Sunday and, you know, if I'm imagining myself as a kid, I would like to get out there early.

"Let's say I'm having a bad week. Some kid can come out and watch me play early in the day and you can guarantee that Rory McIlroy 's going to be there on Sunday, Jon Rahm's going to be there on Sunday. I think that's a lot of value added to TV and for sponsors."

The FedEx Cup points model will be adjusted, according to the memo, with increased points for the Players, the four major championships and the eight designated events. The Player Impact Program will be reduced to $50 million to the top 10 players; the bonus program will play $100 million to the top 20 this year. Monahan wrote that the $50 million will be reallocated to the FedEx Cup bonus program and the Comcast Business Tour Top 10.

The memo said the tour intends to create a schedule of designated events and full-field events so "there are no isolated weeks, creating a strong cadence for players and fans alike."

"This schedule is designed to allow top performers the flexibility to participate in both Designated and Full-Field events," Monahan wrote. "Full-Field events will become more consequential as they allow new and upcoming stars to rise to the top and give the membership an ability to play their way into the Designated events."

In another change approved by the board, the Sentry Tournament of Champions in Hawaii will include the top 50 players from the previous year's FedEx Cup points list through the playoffs, plus tournament winners from the previous year, including fall events.

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What Are PGA Tour Signature Events in 2024 and Which Tournaments Are They?

• PGA Tour signature events were established in 2024.
• There are a total of eight, not including the majors, playoff events and Players Championship.
• There will be smaller fields and increased purse sizes.

The PGA Tour has made some significant changes over the past few years, with one of the most significant being increasing the PGA Tour prize money payouts for tournaments .

In the process, the PGA Tour has a new classification system for their tournaments, and with that comes a new term, “signature events.”

What Are PGA Tour Signature Events?

PGA Tour signature events — eight for the 2024 season — are limited-field tournaments with increased prize money and FedExCup points (700 points to the winner).

In 2023, they were referred to as designated events.

The Sentry was the season’s first signature event and included PGA Tour winners from the previous calendar year, as well as the top 50 members from the 2022-23 FedExCup standings. Chris Kirk was the eventual champion.

PGA Tour Signature Events Qualifiers

Eligibility for the remaining seven signature events includes the top 50 members from the 2022-23 FedExCup standings, current year tournament winners, top 30 players in Official World Golf Rankings, 15 members who can play their way in through The Next 10 and The Swing 5 and four sponsors exemptions.

The Next 10 is players inside the top 10 of the FedEx Cup standings a week prior to a signature event. The Swing 5 is players who accumulate the most FedEx Cup points in the few weeks before a signature event.

PGA Tour Signature Events 2024

The three player-hosted invitationals (The Genesis Invitational, Arnold Palmer Invitational and the Memorial Tournament presented by Workday) will feature a 36-hole cut to the top 50 and ties and any player within 10 shots of the lead, and a redistribution of prize money that allocates 20 percent to the winner ($4 million), up from 18 percent.

The remaining five signature events will not have a cut and will continue to allocate 18 percent to the winner.

2023 PGA Tour Designated Events

Related articles.

• PGA Tour: Biggest Purses, Prize Money 2024 Season
• PGA Tour: Tournament Prize Money Payout List For 2024
• PGA Tour Winners 2024: Most Wins on the PGA Tour

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Ryan Hannable is a Content Managing Editor on the Web Content Team for BetMGM. Previously, he was a New England Patriots beat writer for WEEI in Boston. He also has published a golf book, “The Ultimate Book of Golf Trivia: 600 Questions and Answers.”

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Health & Beauty in Moscow

Moscow health & beauty guide, fitness centers.

There are literally hundreds of gyms and fitness centers available to take care of health & beauty of expats in Moscow. The majority are extremely well-equipped, most including a swimming pool, extensive class schedule, open courts for many sports, and also saunas, beauty salons, and tanning facilities. Expect to pay about 28,000 – 62,000 RUR for an annual subscription (in cash, upfront).

These Moscow fitness centers provide information in English and may have some English-speaking staff:

• Gold’s Gym http://www.goldsgym.ru http://www.goldsgym.com/ The international chain – if you have a membership from your home country, you may have guest privileges here. There are two locations:Dinamo (a favorite with expatriates) Offers a fully equipped gym and cardio area, extensive schedule of aerobics classes, designated courts for football, basketball, volleyball, tennis and squash area, swimming pool, beauty salon, massage, and tanning services. Body revolution programs twice annually. Leningradsky Prosp. 31/30 Closest metro: Dinamo +7 (495) 931 96 16 Opening hours: Mon-Fri 7:00 – 23:00; Sat-Sun 9:00 – 22:00Lefort Has all imaginable cardio equipment, free weights, more than 25 regularly scheduled group classes (including yoga and pilates), spinning equipment, designated courts for football, basketball, volleyball, tennis, a table tennis area, sauna, and massage room. Elektrozavodskaya Ul. 27/3 Closest metro: Eletrozavodskaya or Preobrazhenskaya Ploshad +7 (495) 662-46 53 Opening hours: Mon-Fri 7:00 – 23:00; Sat-Sun 9:00 – 22:00
• Planet Fitness http://www.fitness.ru/ A more affordable option among Moscow’s fitness centers. Annual memberships start at 29,000 RUR. There are 15 locations in Moscow, most of which offer free weights, cardio equipment, a swimming pool, aerobics and dance classes, and boxing. Many also have massage and tanning. Typical opening hours: Mon-Fri 7:00 – 24:00; Sat-Sun 9:00 – 22:00 (may vary by location)
• World Class http://www.worldclass.ru/ With 16 locations in Moscow, you’re sure to find one nearby. The biggest and best offer a full range of fitness and cardiovascular equipment, group classes in everything from aerobics to martial arts, personal training, swimming pool, kid zones, and spa and solarium. Typical opening hours: Mon-Fri 7:00 – 24:00; Sat-Sun 9:00 – 24:00 (may vary by location)

Golf Courses

There are three golf course in Moscow and the Moscow area:

• Moscow City Golf Club http://www.mcgc.ru/home_en/ This 9-hole course is conveniently located in the city. Also offers a practice area, pro shop, tennis courts, spa and restaurant Ulitsa Dovzhenko 1 Closest metro: Kievskaya (then by bus) +7 (499) 147-8330
• Le Meridien Moscow Country Club This 18-hole golf course is home to the Russian Open (PGA European Tour) every summer. It is part of an exclusive private membership resort in the Moscow suburb of Nakhabino, about 40 minutes out of the city. Also has a comprehensive sports complex and excellent restaurant. +7 (495) 626-5910 e-mail:  [email protected]
• Moscow Golf Club http://www.moscowgolf.ru/eng/main/ Moscow’s newest 18-hole course opened in May 2009. Also offers tennis and a fitness center. Ostrovnaya ul., 2 Closest metro: Krilatskoe +7 (495) 234-7451

Tennis Courts

Many fitness centers in Moscow offer facilities for playing tennis, as do the golf courses. But you can also try a specialized tennis club, or the facilities are the stadiums:

• Zhukovka Tennis Centre Located 10 km beyond the MKAD in the village Zhukova, this center offers 10 indoor tennis courts; tennis school, massage room and bicycle rental. 1 Illinskoye Shosse, Zhukovo + 7 (495) 418-3701 Opening hours: Mon-Sun 8:00 – 22:00
• Luzhniki Sports Complex This popular stadium has two full-size tennis courts in addition to a great range of other facilities. Luzhnetskaya Nab. 24 Closest metro: Sportivnaya +7 (495) 637-0262 Opening hours: Mon-Sun 7:00 – 22:00

Swimming Pools

The great majority of fitness centers in Moscow also have swimming pools. But you can also easily find great pools and even waterparks without a gym membership.

• Olympic Sports Complex This stadium has the best swimming pool in all of Moscow. Note that you must bring a medical certificate showing you are free of skin, and other, conditions that can be transmitted through the water (can be issued at any public clinic). Olympisky Prospekt 16/18 Closest metro: Prospekt Mira +7 (495) 288-5453
• Chaika Another nice pool, located on the circle metro line. You will also need to present a medical certificate, but you can get one on the spot (valid for a month) from the swimming pool medical department (open 8:30 – 22:00) Turchaninov Per. 1/3 Closest metro: Park Kultury +7 (499) 246-1344
• Kimberlyland http://www.kimberlyland.ru/ A great waterpark with 5 pools, slides, water games, and a special kids club. Also has a large gym, mini-golf course, beauty salon, and restaurant on site. Azovskaya Ul. 24 Closest metro: Sevastopolskaya +7 (495) 310-0401

Yoga Centers

There are numerous yoga centers in Moscow, and of course many fitness centers also offer yoga classes. The following yoga center has English-speaking instructors available:

• Ashtanga Yoga Center http://www.yoga108.com/en/about/ Hatha Yoga at various levels. Instructors speak both Russian and English. One class costs 350 -500 RUR; a monthly membership is 2200 – 2700 RUR. They have four locations in Moscow:Stary Tolmachevsky Per 7 (inside “Orbita” center) Closest metro: Novokuznetskaya +7 (495) 953-6957Zoologicheskaya Ul 30 Closest metro: Mayakovskaya, Barrikadnaya +7 (495) 550-9646Ostozhenka Ul 8 (inside “Sambo” club) Closest metro: Kropotkinskaya +7 (495) 201-7209Bolshoy Vlasyevsky Per 10 Closest metro: Arbatskaya or Kropotkinskaya +7 (495) 300-4587

Football (Soccer) Fields

Many fitness centers provide facilities for football, as do most stadiums (see Entertainment > Sports Events). You may also enjoy getting involved with the following expatriate football groups:

• Expat Over 30s Football League A league of 8 teams that plays weekly at Dynamo Stadium. Games are 11-a-side with professional referees. New players age 28 and over with playing experience are recruited at the beginning of the season. http://www.moscowfootball.com/
• Women’s Football Club Open to all, and emphasizes fun over professional play. Meets Sundays from 17:00 to 19:00 near metro Aeroport. Contact: Natalie [email protected]

Ice Skating Rinks

Ice skating is very popular in Moscow. In the winter, there are open-air rinks all around the city and at Gorky Park. There are also numerous indoor rinks:

• Umka Levoberezhnaya Ul 12/1 Closest metro: Rechnoy Vokzal +7 (495) 458-1084 Opening hours: Mon-Fri 8:00 – 21:00; Sat 19:45 – 20:45; Sun 18:30 – 19:30
• Raduzhny Chobotovskaya Ul 6 Closest metro: Prospekt Vernadskogo +7 (495) 733-0369 Opening hours: Mon-Fri 8:00 – 21:00; Sat 17:00 – 20:00; Sun 17:00 – 18:00
• Ice Palace Yuzhny Bulatnikovskaya 2 Closest metro: Prazhskaya +7 (495) 383-8738 Opening hours: Mon-Fri 7:00 – 22:00; Sat-Sun 21:00 – 22:00
• Ice Palace Rus Voronezhskaya Ul 13/3 Closest metro: Domodedovskaya +7 (495) 399-1327 Opening hours: Mon-Sun 7:00 – 24:00
• Ledovy Dvorets (Offers skating classes) Volgogradsky Prospect 46/15 Closest metro: Tekstilshchiki +7 (495) 179-3964 Opening hours: Mon-Sun 7:00 – 24:00

Each MEGA Mall (see Shopping) also has an ice skating rink.

Skiing and Snowboarding Slopes

• Krylatskoe Downhill skiing and snowboarding on a 400-meter slope. Krylastskaya Ul 2 Closest metro: Krylastskoye or Molodezhnaya (then take bus number 229 or 829)
• Volen Ski Park http://www.volen.ru A ski resort with hotel, restaurants, and an excellent ski school and ski rentals. North of the city. To get there, head out on Dimitrovskoe Schosse; turn left 46 km beyond the MKAD, and follow the signs. +7 (495) 993-95-40; 993-95-02 [email protected] Moscow office: Olimpiyskiy prospect, 7 ste 411/ + 7 (495) 961 00 50

Besides these two slopes, Moscow offers a wealth of possibilities for cross-country skiing, especially in parks in the outskirts of the city including Sokolniki, Bitsevskiy Park, Kuzminki, Vorobievy Gory, and Yakhroma.

Horse Riding Facilities

There are many locations for horse riding in and around Moscow. The following two have English-speaking instructors available:

• Pradar Individual horse-riding lessons with qualified English-speaking instructors. Single admission to the Club is 1750 RUR, or purchase a monthly horse-riding card for 18,000-24,000. Begovaya Ul 17 Closest metro: Begovaya +7 (495) 945 05 87 E-mail:  [email protected]
• Hippodrome Complex Individual horse-riding lessons with qualified English- and German-speaking instructors available. Begovaya Ul 22/1 Closest metro: Begovaya +7 (495) 945 50 59

Rock Climbing

The following rock climbing school offers English-language instruction:

• AlexClimb Indoor Rockclimbing http://www.alexclimb.com/en_rockschol_01.php Operates from September to May and organizes training across indoor and outdoor locations in Moscow; also organizes tours around Russia and internationally. You can purchase 8 two-hour sessions with an English-speaking instructor in a group of 4-8 people for 5,400 RUR (plus entrance to the rock climbing gym). Individual trainings also available.

The following expat club is a fun way to meet people and play rugby at the same time:

• Moscow Dragons Rugby Club http://moscowdragonsrfc.com Play rugby and get involved in many social and charitable events.

Paintball Fields

Paintball is increasingly popular with teenagers even in Moscow. The following two locations are available:

• Action Paintball Games Panfilova Ul 20-2 Closest metro: Sokol +7 (499) 796 46 46
• Paintball Sports Club A large outdoor complex,10 kilometers outside the MKAD. Horse riding is also available. +7 (495) 772 88 80, 918 45 80

Field Hockey

The following expat club is a fun way to meet people and play hockey at the same time:

• Expat Field Hockey Club A club that welcomes beginners, and both men and women. Meets Saturday from 15:00 to 16:30 at Sokolniki Football Training Center (closest metro: Sokolniki) Equipment is provided, and the sessions cost 250 RUR per person each. Contact: Vineet Arora [email protected]

Useful links

• http://www.101.ru A popular online Russian radio station.
• http://www.masterRussian.com Site where you can master Russian grammar, learn new vocabulary and practice speaking and reading Russian.
• http://www.translit.ru A transliteration site – type in Roman letters and they are automatically converted to Cyrillic.

Interesting fact

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

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Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

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Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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Easter Gift Festival

Easter festival is one of the most striking and major events of the city in April. Guests and residents of the city will be able to learn about the traditions of Easter, taste various options for Easter cakes, try other holiday treats. And also take part in charity events.

Christmas Festival

This is the most favourite festival of Muscovites and guests of the city. Interesting events take place at 80 venues throughout the city. Numerous ice rinks, food zones, hockey courts, slides, a children’s snowboard park are open. Every day, in special chalets around the city, puppet shows and fairy tales are read. Concerts and master classes await visitors, where you can try yourself in Gzhel painting, clay modelling, decoupage. You can make jewellery, toys and gifts to loved ones, as well as send a letter to Santa Claus. On Red Square, everyone is interested in not only skating on the rink themselves, but also enjoying the colourful ice show from the famous Russian skaters.

Festival “Moscow Maslenitsa”

One of the brightest, longest events in Russia, dedicated to the seeing off of winter and the meeting of spring. Everyone will be able to learn how to cook pancakes, attend a lot of creative and craft workshops. Take part in traditional Shrovetide fun. Build a huge stuffed animal from straw and burn it, ride on crusts, take part in a masquerade parade. At numerous venues it will be possible to see street performances and performances by the best vocal ensembles and folk artists.

New Year on Red Square

The festive concert begins at 20.00. Then everyone lights the New Year tree together. At midnight, guests will be surprised by festive fireworks. Tickets are on sale in advance at the expected symbolic price of 2,025 rubles.

International exhibition NEFTEGAZ-2022

Neftegaz (Oil and gas exhibition) is the largest exhibition in Russia, which is one of the ten most significant in the industry. Lots of business meetings. Sighning of contracts. Experience exchange. The exhibition is attended by over 500 companies from around the world.

Moscow International Film Festival

The film festival has been held since 1935. Second oldest after the Venice Film Festival. Moscow International Film Festival is one of the most important events in the film industry. This is not only an influential professional venue, but also an interesting event for muscovites and guest of the city.

The solemn ceremony of the changing of the guard at the walls of the Moscow Kremlin

The ceremony is held every on the Cathedral Square of the Kremlin. This is a colourful sight introducing Russian military traditions. Every year, the organizers introduce new elements into the program, preserving the classic part. To enter the territory of the Kremlin, an entrance ticket is required.

Russia Victory Day in the Great Patriotic War 1941-1945

In May 9th Russia celebrate the day of victory of Soviet troops over Nazi Germany. On this day, parades, commemorative events, and festive fireworks are held solemnly throughout the country. The main military parade of the country takes place in Moscow on Red Square. Throughout the city, at special concert venues, art groups perform, songs of the war years are heard everywhere. People dance, relax. Many older people cry, remembering the horror of years gone by.

Night of museums

Museum Night is an annual project that will take place in Moscow 15 times. Most of the city’s cultural institutions traditionally take part in it. Most of the city’s museums and exhibitions are free to visit. In parks, country estates, thematic performances and entertainment cultural events are held. About 200 museums, exhibition halls and art spaces take part in the festival. Many sites prepare special projects on the topic for visitors.

Fish Week festival

This year the festival will be held in Moscow for the sixth time. Everyone can taste a variety of seafood dishes, as well as purchase fish, shrimp, caviar «take away”. Every day, gastronomic shows and various master classes for both adults and children will be held at the festival venues.

A cappella Moscow Spring international festival

Bright and talented performers and bands from different countries come to Moscow to demonstrate all their singing a cappella skills. The show takes place at different open-air scenes in the center of Moscow. Everyone can visit any city concerts, creative workshops, music, theatre performances.

Horse racing events

In Moscow, the racing season lasts from May to September. Purebred racehorse competitions are held at the Central Moscow Hippodrome. Throughout the entire period, horses demonstrate all their power, beauty and strength. By tradition, in the spring a big holiday is held, dedicated to the opening of the race.

Day of Russia

On this day, all cities of the country host ceremonies, entertainment programs, holiday concerts with the participation of popular performers. Everyone can participate in sports and youth flash mobs, visit museums and improvised fairs. And the culmination of the holiday will be a big fireworks.

Flower Jam Festival

Within the framework of the festival, the international competition of urban landscape design of the same name takes place. The task of the contestants is to come up with gardens, compositions that will beneficially affect the emotional and physical condition of the city residents. Across the city will appear compositions of fresh flowers. The city is blooming.

International Festival "Russian Cuisine"

This year the festival of Russian cuisine will be held for the forth time. Guests will be able to taste a wide palette of dishes from multinational Russia. Appreciate the skills of the best chefs in Russia. Taste ready-made dishes according to old Russian recipes. The largest outdoor food court in Moscow will open. Performances of famous pop singers and folk artists will complement the holiday atmosphere.

International Fireworks Festival Rostec

The largest festival of pyrotechnic art in Russia. The strongest pyrotechnics from different countries gather to show the audience all their highest skills and compete for the title of best. A diverse program is provided for guests and residents of the city: creative and sporting events, thematic spaces, quests and games, performances by musical groups and much more.

International Military Music Festival Spasskaya Tower

This holiday festival takes place on Red Square. This is one of the most ambitious and vibrant events of the year. Spectators are waiting for the parade of military bands, musical groups from around the world. Music from classical to pop sounds in the city center. Military bands from many countries demonstrate entire dance performances, performances with weapons. Colorful laser and pyrotechnic shows decorate this event. The grand fireworks on the closing day are unforgettable.

Moscow City day

Bright, large-scale and spectacular holiday. In 2022, Muscovites will celebrate the 875th anniversary of their city. Moscow greets this day on a grand scale. The whole city is seething. At various venues there are concerts and live music. Sports competitions for families, fairs for all are held. Everywhere – an atmosphere of joy and emancipation.

Moscow Balloon Festival

The festival will be held at the Expocentre on Krasnaya Presnya. This is the largest festival in Europe in terms of the number of participants, guests and sponsors. The best professional graphic designers from all over the world compete here. The program includes: an air show, master classes, an exhibition of sculptures from balloons, as well as exciting seminars from professional aero designers.

XI Moscow International Festival Circle of Light

One of the largest light festivals in the world. Grand multimedia shows await guests and residents: 3D mapping, pyrotechnic effects using high-altitude fountains, fire flames, laser projections. Many light installations of fireworks with musical accompaniment.

XVIII Moscow Gastronomic Festival

Hundreds of restaurants in Moscow present a signature tasting menu. It offers new tastes, unusual food combinations, bold culinary experiments. Special brunches take place all month. The city has a lot of thematic entertainment, promotions from the partners of the festival. At the end of the festival, a magnificent ball is held at which members of the international jury will choose the winner.

National Unity Day of Russia

In Moscow, the program of this general public holiday is especially solemn and vibrant. A variety of patriotic events, rallies, parades are held. In the evening, festive concerts of pop stars and musical groups will take place.

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