Back to category Published: 12 march 2026 Author: Joanna Mukhatzhanova

Park of the First President

Central Park is one of the most popular urban spaces in Petropavlovsk. Founded in 1860, it is also one of the oldest parks in Kazakhstan. Several years ago it was officially renamed the Park of the First President, although many residents still refer to it by its old name.

What Makes the Park Special?

A walk through the park usually begins at its main entrance, where visitors are welcomed by an elegant colonnade and the Dolphins Fountain. Close to the colonnade is another memorial commemorating the 30th anniversary of Victory in the Second World War.

Nearby stands a monument to two great poets – Abai Kunanbayev and Alexander Pushkin. It symbolizes the cultural connection between Kazakh and Russian literature.

In the western part of the park you will find an alley with sculptures of prominent people connected with the North Kazakhstan Region. Among them are monuments to the ethnographer Shoqan Walikhanov, the poet Magjan Jumabayev, the writer Ivan Shukhov, and the academician Evney Buketov.

Interestingly, the area where the park now stands was once a Muslim cemetery. The burials were later relocated, but one grave remained – that of Beken Jumabayev, the father of the poet Magjan Jumabayev.

Amusement Park and Events

Next to the Park of the First President is an amusement park with more than 50 rides for visitors of all ages.

The park also hosts community events. Every Friday, dance evenings are organized for seniors. Each year the colorful Holi festival takes place here, along with concerts and holiday programs.

How to Get There?

The main entrance is on Constitution of Kazakhstan Street, the city’s main pedestrian street, which makes it easy to reach the park while seeing other attractions along the way. The nearest stop is “Narodniy Bank.” Buses No. 5M and No. 23M stop there.

Other tourist attractions near the park: