First time at the National Centre RUSSIA: how the venue showcasing the future of the country is designed

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The National Centre RUSSIA is a place where the past, present and future of the country come together. Here, the achievements of the nation and its people are presented in an engaging and accessible way — through interactive zones, children’s and youth media spaces, the Department Store with products from the regions, and the Gastronomic Rows. This is why visitors come not only for major expositions and events, but also simply to spend time pleasantly and experience what modern Russia is living by.

A journey into a fairy tale

The pride of the National Centre RUSSIA lies in two large-scale expositions that many people plan their trip to the capital around. "Journey Across Russia" takes guests from Vladivostok to Kaliningrad. The space is divided into eight federal districts, each showcasing its achievements, natural landscapes, cities of the future and technologies. Thanks to multimedia solutions and VR, visitors feel as though they are literally moving from one region to another.

"Book of Fairy Tales" offers an immersive journey into the world of Russian folk culture. Guests follow the path of a fairy-tale hero — from the first trials to the final celebratory feast. The exposition’s key feature is its multimedia and interactive format. Animated characters, projections, installations and playful tasks keep both children and adults fully engaged.

Space of Opportunities

One of the most dynamic areas of the National Centre RUSSIA is the educational venue "Space of Opportunities". It is aimed primarily at children and young people, but adults find it just as fascinating. At the heart of the venue is the "Cool Radio" studio, where any visitor can try themselves as a host — recording a podcast, a music show or presenting their own programme.

The "New Media" zone features a multimedia screen, the television and radio complex of the Movement of the First, where visitors can see how broadcasting works from the inside, and AR-powered photo zones that allow guests to become a fairy-tale character or travel into space. It is an ideal place to help children and teenagers feel confident with microphones and cameras.

Language as a game

The National Centre RUSSIA also hosts expositions dedicated to the Russian language — the interactive zone "The Great and Mighty Russian Language" and "Living Alphabet". Through interactive cubes, visitors explore archaisms, slang, stress patterns, the letter "Yo" ("Ё"), idioms and linguistic quirks that are often difficult to explain to foreigners. "Living Alphabet", created in collaboration with the Sovremennik Theatre, turns letters into miniature performances: actors read poetry while illustrations come to life.

Department Store and the Gastronomic Rows: a place you want to stay

The Department Store of the National Centre RUSSIA is more than just a shop — it is a showcase of Russian brands and crafts. One space brings together groceries, accessories, cosmetics, home goods and traditional handicrafts. The interior is curated like an exposition, with seasonal collections, thoughtful lighting, colour accents and regional motifs in the design. It is not only about shopping, but also about seeing how contemporary products reflect the culture and traditions of different regions.

A perfect way to conclude a first visit is the Gastronomic Rows. Here, the journey across the country continues through taste, with traditional dishes from different regions. The gastronomic space is divided into East, North, West and South, each offering distinctive specialities prepared using local ingredients. Guests can pause for tea or coffee, enjoy a light snack or have a hearty family lunch — everyone will find something to their liking.

How to get there and where to start

The address of the National Centre RUSSIA is 14 Krasnopresnenskaya Embankment, Moscow. The building is located next to Moscow City, with the skyscrapers visible just across the road, making it easy to find. Information desks are situated right at the entrance. Visitors can say how much time they have and whether they have come with children, friends or alone, and staff will suggest the most interesting routes.

The National Centre RUSSIA is not only about major expositions and large-scale events. Above all, it is an open and welcoming space for everyone. You can come spontaneously, without any special occasion — and still spend your time in a way that will make you want to return.