Petropavlovsk is the northernmost city in Kazakhstan. It’s small, yet surprisingly cozy, with a rich and fascinating history. It was founded in 1752 as the fortress of St. Peter to guard the southern borders of the Russian Empire. Over time, this outpost has grown into a city where history and modern life intertwine. Its streets, parks, museums, and monuments are full of stories waiting to be discovered. It’s a great place to stroll around, admire historic architecture, explore cultural contrasts, and simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. In this article, we’ll guide you through the most interesting sights of Petropavlovsk from museums and parks to historical landmarks you simply can’t walk past without stopping.

Museums

The history of northern Kazakhstan is filled with dramatic chapters. From the 17th to the mid-18th century, Kazakh lands suffered from relentless Dzungar raids. During this period Khan Ablai united the fragmented Kazakh clans to resist the invaders. In 1740, he accepted the suzerainty of the Russian Empire, which helped strengthen the region's defenses.

According to legend, Khan Ablai's headquarters once stood in the area of modern-day Petropavlovsk. While there’s no concrete evidence to confirm this, the legend lives on. You can still feel its presence by visiting the Ablai Khan Residence Museum (1B Karim Sutyushev Street). Don’t be misled by the name: the khan himself never actually stayed here, as the building was constructed more than 40 years after his death. It originally served as a military hospital and was later restored.

Even so, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into that era. Here you’ll find 18th-century weaponry, traditional Kazakh decorative art, ceremonial robes, a scepter, and even a recreated throne. Dioramas depicting battles between the Kazakhs and the Dzungars bring history vividly to life. The interior has been designed to resemble a khan's headquarters. Right outside, you’ll also spot a monument to Ablai Khan himself.

By the way, take a moment to look at the building to the left of the museum. This was once a merchant assembly hall (28 Teatralnaya Street) and later became a Russian drama theater. Today, it's home to a furniture factory and a store but the spirit of the old city still lingers in its walls.

History buffs shouldn’t miss the North Kazakhstan History Museum (48 Constitution of Kazakhstan Street). The building itself is a 19th-century architectural monument, once owned by the local entrepreneur T.L. Arkel. Inside, you’ll find paleontological discoveries including mammoth tusks and prehistoric animal bones, archaeological artifacts from the ancient Botai settlement, traditional Kazakh costumes, jewelry, and exhibits from the Soviet era.

If art is more your thing, head to the North Kazakhstan Museum of Fine Arts (83 314th Rifle Division Street). It’s housed in one of the city’s most beautiful historical buildings – the former residence of merchant Yuzefovich, a true gem of 19th-century wooden architecture. The museum’s collection features works by Soviet, Russian, and Kazakh artists.

And if you happen to be in Petropavlovsk for just a couple of hours, waiting for a train connection, don’t waste your time! Right next to the station is the Locomotive Depot History Museum of Petropavlovsk Station (81 Akhremenko Passage). At the entrance, you’ll spot a classic E-series steam locomotive, produced between 1912 and 1957.

Parks and Outdoor Spots

If you’re looking to unwind in nature or simply take a stroll, Petropavlovsk offers plenty of pleasant spots. One of the most popular is Severnaya Zvezda Park (Northern Star Park), located on the shore of Lake Pestroye, just a few minutes' drive southwest of the city center. The park features a beach and an impressive stele, erected in honor of Kazakhstan’s 20th anniversary of independence.

By the way, the beach on Lake Pestroye is the only official beach in Petropavlovsk. But if you’re craving water fun regardless of the season or weather, the indoor Neptune Water Park (41 Medvedeva Street) is a great alternative. It’s conveniently located next to the Botanical Garden.

Near Severnaya Zvezda Park is the cozy Green Park Hotel, a family favorite with plenty of activities for all ages. Entry is 3,000 tenge (as of June 2025), but there’s more than enough to fill an entire day. On-site, you’ll find a mini-zoo, heated swimming pool, rope park, roller rink, and even ATV rides. You can also rent a house or gazebo, try your hand at archery, or simply enjoy some fresh-air adventures.

The oldest park in the city is the Park of Culture and Recreation, established in 1873 and now known as the First President's Park. It’s divided into two zones: a quiet green area with tree-lined alleys and sculptures, and a lively amusement area with carousels, a Ferris wheel, and thrill rides for adrenaline seekers. The main entrance is from Constitution of Kazakhstan Street, marked by an elegant colonnade that welcomes guests.

Let’s also take a moment to talk about Constitution of Kazakhstan Street. It’s the city’s only pedestrian street, but what a street it is! It’s the longest pedestrian street in the world. At 2 kilometers (1.24 miles) long, it even surpasses the famous Strøget in Denmark.

A walk along this street is like stepping through different eras. Along the way, you’ll pass the Dostyq Mall, TsUM shopping center, the Local History Museum, monuments to Abay Kunanbayev and Alexander Pushkin, the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the entrance to First President’s Park, the Independence Stele, and an impressive collection of historical buildings. Keep an eye out for:

• The Water Tower, built in 1902
• Shamsutdinov's Trading House
• The Bazhenov Merchant House (at the intersection with Parkovaya Street)
• The Shafeyev House and Shop (opposite TsUM)
• The Chukanov Merchant House
• The Cheremisinov Merchant House
• The Kazantsev Merchant House

Here, the spirit of old merchant-era Petropavlovsk blends with modern life, creating a unique atmosphere that gives the city its special charm.

The Petropavlovsk Botanical Garden (41 Medvedeva Street) didn’t always serve as a green oasis for leisurely walks. Its history began in 1912, on the grounds of a canning factory. Laurel, onions, and other herbs were grown here for preserving food. Over time, the farm transformed into a real little paradise for nature lovers, boasting hundreds of plant species from all over the world.

One of its most fascinating exhibits is a date palm grown from a seed brought all the way from Mecca in 1795 by the imam of Petropavlovsk’s first mosque. The garden also features fan palms, araucaria, bamboo, agave, Cuban lemons, banana grass, monstera deliciosa, figs, murraya, orchids, magnolias, jasmine, and many other exotic species. The grounds include a greenhouse, a winter garden, a mini-arboretum, a pond for waterfowl, aviaries with birds, and aquariums.

But if you’re drawn to raw, untamed nature, head to the northern outskirts of the city, where you’ll find Meshansky Forest. ]This is true wilderness – dense, unpredictable, and easy to get lost in, so caution is advised. Officially, there are plans to develop the area, giving the forest the status of a protected park. But whether those plans come to life before logging takes its toll remains uncertain. At the current rate of deforestation, that’s a concern not to be taken lightly.

Theaters

Are you a theatre enthusiast? Then Petropavlovsk won’t disappoint. The city has it all — from classic plays to performances for the youngest audiences.

Start with the Regional Russian Drama Theatre (1 Constitution of Kazakhstan Street). The building was constructed in 1973 but the city's theatrical tradition runs much deeper. The first performances in Petropavlovsk took place way back in the winter of 1886-1887. Today, the theatre offers around 25 productions in Russian, ranging from timeless classics to contemporary plays.

By the way, if you're in the mood for a stroll after the performance, Victory Square is right next door. Here you’ll find the Eternal Flame and memorials dedicated to the heroes of World War II.

Another must-visit is the Kazakh Music and Drama Theatre (88 Jambyl Jabayev Street). Founded relatively recently, in 2000, it has already won the hearts of local audiences. The theatre stages productions in Kazakh.

For a family-friendly outing, head to the Regional Puppet Theatre (69 Pavel Vasilyev Street). Shows here are performed in both Russian and Kazakh, with over 50 productions in the repertoire.

And if you want to immerse yourself in the world of Kazakh national music, visit the North Kazakhstan Regional Philharmonic (22 Kattaya Kenshinbayev Street). Here, the sounds of the dombra, kuy melodies, traditional Kazakh songs, and instrumental performances bring the country’s rich musical heritage to life.

Mosques and churches

In Petropavlovsk, cultures and religions are woven together in unexpected and fascinating ways.

Start your journey with the Din-Muhammad Mosque (22 Sovetskaya Street). It’s the oldest surviving mosque in the city, built back in 1854. It has witnessed more than one historical era and remains an active place of worship to this day.

Another important historical landmark is the Nur Mosque (160 Zhambyl Zhabayev Street), founded in 1882. Its construction was made possible by merchant Yangurazov, whose house still stands nearby at 68 Ulyanov Street. Just 400 meters from the Yangurazov House, you’ll find the Museum of Islamic Culture (48 V Partizanskaya Street), offering deeper insight into the spiritual traditions of the region.

The largest and most modern mosque in Petropavlovsk is the Kyzyl Zhar Mosque (40 Karim Sutyushev Street). Its name translates as Red Ravine, which was the historical name for the area where the city now stands.

For architecture enthusiasts, the Cathedral of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul (97 Komintern Street) is a must-see. Completed in 1813, it is a fine example of 19th-century church architecture and one of the oldest buildings in the city. The cathedral stands in the historic Podgora district – once a quiet neighborhood with old houses and narrow streets. Sadly, the devastating flood of 2024 severely damaged this area. What was once a promising zone for tourism and restoration now bears traces of destruction.

As you stroll along Constitution of Kazakhstan Street, the city’s main pedestrian promenade, make sure to stop by building number 43 – the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Built in 1911-1912 by descendants of exiled Poles and Germans, this is the oldest Catholic church in Kazakhstan. Even after more than a century, the church remains a symbol of faith, resilience, and the cultural diversity that defines Petropavlovsk.

Petropavlovsk is a city where stories are hidden behind the facades of old merchant houses, where you can stroll along the world’s longest pedestrian street, and relax in green parks or by the water. Every building, every square, every legend contributes to the city’s character. If you love places where the past and present coexist, be sure to add Petropavlovsk to your travel list. It won’t leave you indifferent.