Changed beyond recognition in recent years, Sokolniki park is criss-crossed by cycling paths, and blends into a proper forest bordering on Losiny Ostrov national park (Национальный парк Лосиный остров). The area by the entrance, centred around a fountain, is full of cool eateries and welcoming benches. Further away, to the left of the entrance, is a funfair with rides and carousels. Another attraction is the Rosarium (Розариум), a manicured rose garden.
At least three outlets in the central part of the park hire out bicycles and other sporting equipment. In summer, beach bums head to The Basseyn (Бассейн) open-air swimming pool, which turns into a party zone in the evening. Come winter, the park opens a skating rink and Moscow's longest (200m) sledding hill. All kinds of urban culture and sport festivals, including the popular Equestrian Fest (Конный Фестиваль; August 29 to September 1), take place year round, with the main events occurring during weekends.
