GUM Moscow is the long department store on the east side of Red Square, with a neo-Russian facade and three glass-roofed arcades inside. GUM Moscow opening hours are daily from 10:00 to 22:00, and entry is free, so many visitors treat it as a sight in itself.
It is not a museum. It is a working store with more than 100 brands, cafes and a fountain at the center, built in 1890–93 and opened in 1893. This guide explains what to look for inside, where to eat and how to combine it with the rest of Red Square.
Quick Facts
| Russian name | ГУМ |
|---|---|
| Built / opened | 1893 |
| Architect(s) | Alexander Pomerantsev (architecture) and Vladimir Shukhov (engineering) |
| Address | Red Square 3, Moscow, Russia OpenStreetMap · Google Maps |
| District | Tverskoy |
| Metro | Ploshchad Revolyutsii (Line 3 (Arbatsko-Pokrovskaya, dark blue), about 6–8 min walk) Okhotny Ryad (Line 1 (Sokolnicheskaya, red), about 7 min walk) Teatralnaya (Line 2 (Zamoskvoretskaya, green), about 7 min walk) Kitay-Gorod (Lines 6 (orange) and 7 (purple), about 5–6 min walk) |
| Opening hours | Open daily from 10:00 to 22:00, with no closing day. Individual shops, cafes and the ice rink can keep different hours.
The winter ice rink on Red Square runs only in the cold season, usually from December to early March (as of October 2026 – check the official site, gumrussia.com). |
| Admission | Entry is free. You can walk through the arcades without buying anything. Cafes, shops and the winter ice rink charge their own prices. |
| Best time to visit | Weekday mornings are the calmest time, and the building is open every day from 10:00 to 22:00. The evening is good for the lit facade, though shops and cafes are busier.
It works in any season. In winter it is a warm place to rest between sights, and the ice rink adds atmosphere. In summer it is cool inside on hot days. |
| Recommended duration | 1–2 hours |
| Website | gumrussia.com |
| Last updated | October 6, 2026 |
What Is (and Isn't) Part of a Visit to GUM Moscow?
| Part | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| The three arcades and the glass roof | Included in the standard ticket | Free to walk through at any time the store is open. |
| The fountain | Included in the standard ticket | Free to see at the center of the main arcade. |
| Shops and boutiques | Separate ticket or institution | Commercial stores with their own prices; browsing is free. |
| Stolovaya No. 57 and other cafes | Separate ticket or institution | Paid food venues with their own hours and prices. |
| Winter ice rink | Separate ticket or institution | A seasonal rink on Red Square that needs a ticket. |
| TsUM | Outside / not part of it | A different department store in central Moscow, not part of GUM. |
| State Historical Museum | Outside / not part of it | A separate museum at the north end of Red Square with its own ticket. |
| Lenin’s Mausoleum Moscow | Outside / not part of it | A free site on Red Square with its own queue and hours. |
Why Visit GUM Moscow?
GUM is one of the few shopping places in the world where the building is the attraction. The arcades are covered by an iron and glass roof designed by the engineer Vladimir Shukhov, and the long galleries, bridges and fountain make it a pleasant walk even if you buy nothing.
It also tells part of Moscow’s story: it opened in 1893 as the largest arcade-style department store in Europe, was closed in 1928 and reopened in 1953 as a store known for its queues.
The cafes include a Soviet-style canteen, and the ice cream sold at the ground-floor stalls is a local tradition. It also gives a warm place to rest beside Red Square.
How GUM Moscow Is Laid Out
GUM is a long building that fills the east side of Red Square. Inside, three parallel arcades run along its length, connected by cross passages and galleries on the upper floors, all under glass roofs.
The main entrance is in the middle of the facade on Red Square, and the central arcade leads straight to the fountain on the ground floor. Other entrances open on the streets at the sides, such as Nikolskaya Street.
Shops occupy most of the three levels, and the cafes and food spots are spread between them. A sensible route is to enter from Red Square, walk to the fountain, follow the central arcade to one end and return along a parallel arcade, then go up to the galleries for the view down.
Highlights of GUM Moscow
The glass roof
The arcades are covered by an arched roof of iron and glass designed by the engineer Vladimir Shukhov, who worked with the architect Alexander Pomerantsev. At the time it was cutting-edge technology, and it gives the building a look closer to a grand European station than a shop.
The roof lets daylight fall into the arcades and is best seen from the center or from the upper galleries.
Tip: Look up from the fountain and then from a gallery for two different views of the roof.
The fountain
In the middle of the main arcade on the ground floor stands the GUM fountain, restored and reopened in 2007. It is a traditional meeting point, and its circular basin is decorated with flowers and seasonal themes.
The setting is the classic image of GUM, with the glass roof above and shoppers walking around the water.
Tip: Use the fountain as a meeting point; it is the easiest place to find in the building.
The neo-Russian facade
The long facade on Red Square, designed by Alexander Pomerantsev, is in a neo-Russian style that was chosen to match the State Historical Museum and the Kremlin. It was built in 1890–93, and the building opened on 2 December 1893.
In the evening the facade is lit, and the lights outline it against the dark sky.
Tip: View the facade from the middle of the square at dusk, when it is lit.
Stolovaya No. 57
A Soviet-style self-service canteen, in the tradition of the Thaw era, where you take a tray and choose dishes from a counter. The official site describes it as a classic self-service line.
It is a way to try Soviet-style food and see the interior design of the period, with prices and menus that vary.
Tip: Check the opening hours of the canteen, as they can differ from the store's hours.
GUM ice cream
GUM's ice cream is sold from stalls on the ground floor near the fountain and is served in a waffle cone. It is part of the store's tradition and often the thing visitors remember.
It is a simple treat, and eating it by the fountain is a common way to end a visit.
Tip: Buy it from the ground-floor stalls and sit on the benches near the fountain.
Gastronom No. 1
A grocery store designed to look like a Soviet deli of the 1950s, with period interior design, staff uniforms and food products.
It is a place to look at Soviet-style packaging and to buy small food souvenirs, though prices are those of a central Moscow store.
Tip: Look at the interior design as much as the products; it is the main attraction.
The winter ice rink
GUM-Katok, a skating rink on Red Square, has been set up in the cold season since 2006. It uses the open space in front of the building, with the facade lit above it.
It needs a ticket and is open only in winter.
Tip: Check the dates and prices on the official site before planning a visit.
Atmosphere
Inside GUM the light is soft and even. It falls from the glass roof onto stone floors, iron railings and the shop windows, and the building feels more like a covered street than a store.
The sound is low and constant: footsteps, voices, water from the fountain. Shoppers, tourists and families move slowly along the arcades, and the cafes are busy around midday.
In the evening the building is lit, and the facade glows on Red Square. In winter the arcades are warm after the cold of the square, and the rink and the lights outside add a festive feel.
History of GUM Moscow
The site opposite the Kremlin has been a trading place for centuries. The present building was constructed in 1890–93 as the Upper Trading Rows, with architecture by Alexander Pomerantsev and an iron and glass roof by the engineer Vladimir Shukhov.
It opened on 2 December 1893 as the largest arcade-style department store in Europe. Its neo-Russian facade was chosen to match the State Historical Museum and the Kremlin on Red Square.
After the revolution of 1917, the building became the State Department Store, known by the abbreviation GUM. During the New Economic Policy of 1921–28 it operated as a model retail enterprise for consumers throughout the country.
In 1928 the store was closed and the building was used as offices for officials working on the first Five-Year Plan. In the 1930s there were plans to demolish it to make space for parades on Red Square.
GUM was renovated and reopened as a department store on 24 December 1953. It became one of the few stores in the Soviet Union that did not suffer from shortages, and the queues to enter were so long that police were sometimes needed to control the crowds.
Soviet-style spots such as Stolovaya No. 57 and Gastronom No. 1 preserve the memory of that period. In 2006 the GUM-Katok skating rink opened on Red Square, and in 2007 the fountain was restored.
Today GUM is a commercial center with more than 100 brands, cafes and a cinema, and it is one of the most visited places on Red Square.
Tickets and Booking for GUM Moscow
No ticket or booking is needed. Entry to GUM is free, and you walk in through any of the entrances during opening hours. The main entrance is in the middle of the facade on Red Square, and other entrances open on the surrounding streets.
- Cafes and the canteen: you pay on the spot; check the hours of individual venues.
- Ice rink: the winter rink on Red Square sells its own tickets; check the official site for dates and prices.
- Tours: guided tours of the building are offered; check the official site for current options.
Payment options were not verified for foreign cards, so carry some cash. Rates for Russian citizens and concessions differ where tickets apply. The official site is gumrussia.com.
Plan and Book
Suggested itineraries GUM Moscow
1 hour
Enter from Red Square, walk to the fountain and look up at the glass roof. Follow the main arcade to the far end, take the upper galleries back and finish with ice cream by the fountain.
2 hours
Walk the three arcades, then have lunch at Stolovaya No. 57 or one of the cafes. Visit Gastronom No. 1 and leave by a side entrance toward Nikolskaya Street.
Half day
Start on Red Square at St. Basil's Cathedral, walk to GUM for a break and lunch, then continue to the State Historical Museum. Finish with an evening look at the lit facade.
How to Get to GUM Moscow
GUM stands on the east side of Red Square, about 5 to 8 minutes on foot from four metro stations.
- Ploshchad Revolyutsii (Line 3, Arbatsko-Pokrovskaya, dark blue): about 6–8 minutes, via Nikolskaya Street or Red Square.
- Okhotny Ryad (Line 1, Sokolnicheskaya, red): about 7 minutes through the Resurrection Gate.
- Teatralnaya (Line 2, Zamoskvoretskaya, green): about 7 minutes.
- Kitay-Gorod (Line 6, orange, and Line 7, purple): about 5–6 minutes.
Streets around Red Square are often closed to traffic, so a taxi may drop you a few blocks away.
Accessibility
Accessibility details were not confirmed. The arcades are on several levels with galleries, so contact the information service at +7 (495) 788-4343 or info@gum.ru if you need step-free access or assistance.
Food Nearby
GUM has many food options inside, including Stolovaya No. 57, the Festivalnoye cafe, Bosco Cafe, AVA Cafe, Cafe Pushkin, the Abrau Durso Champagne Bar, Cafe Prostokvashino and Rubel, according to the official site. Ice cream is sold from stalls on the ground floor. Nikolskaya Street, off the north end of the square, has many more cafes. Check opening hours.
What to Bring
Bring comfortable shoes for long arcades and a layer for the cold when you step out onto Red Square. Large bags may be checked at the entrance.
Best Views and Photo Spots of GUM Moscow
Beside the fountain
The central arcade under the glass roof, with the fountain in the foreground and the iron arches stretching into the distance.
Best time: Morning, when the light comes through the roof and crowds are thin
Upper galleries
A high view down the arcade with the roof's iron arches and the shoppers below.
Best time: Midday on a clear day
Facade from Red Square
The long neo-Russian facade, with the Kremlin wall and the Mausoleum on the other side of the square.
Best time: Dusk, when the facade is lit
Cafe windows over Red Square
A view of the square from inside through a cafe window, with St. Basil's in the distance.
Best time: Winter afternoon, with lights outside
Photography Rules
Photography rules were not confirmed. Taking photographs of the arcades, the roof and the fountain is common, but some shops may not allow it. Avoid blocking the arcades, and follow staff instructions. The facade can be photographed from Red Square.
Family Suitability
GUM suits families. The fountain, the ice cream and the ice rink in winter are easy for children to enjoy, and the arcades are wide. Many shops are expensive, and crowds can be heavy at weekends. Stroller access was not confirmed, so ask the information service. A visit of about an hour fits well with a day on Red Square.
Moscow Vibes Tips
- Look at the upper galleries as well as the ground floor; the views down the arcade are the best way to see the roof.
- Walk through GUM after the morning at Lenin's Mausoleum, which is usually open only until early afternoon.
- Check the evening light: the facade on Red Square is lit after dark, and the glow is worth a short stop.
- Use GUM as a warm break in winter, then step out to the ice rink or the square.
- Look at Gastronom No. 1 for the interior design; it is styled like a 1950s Soviet deli.
- Do not confuse GUM with TsUM, another department store a short walk away near the Bolshoi Theatre.
Explore Nearby GUM Moscow
Sights near GUM Moscow
Red Square Moscow – about 100 m away (~2 min walk) · typical visit: 1–2 hours for the square, 3–5 hours with St Basil's and one museumMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
St. Basil’s Cathedral Moscowabout 250 m away (~4 min walk) · typical visit: 45–90 minutes insideMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Lenin’s Mausoleum Moscow – about 150 m away (~3 min walk) · typical visit: 30–60 minutes including the queue; a few minutes insideMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
State Historical Museum Moscowabout 250 m away (~4 min walk) · typical visit: 2.5–4 hoursMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Bolshoi Theatre Moscow – about 650 m away (~11 min walk) · typical visit: 3–4 hours for a performance; about 1 hour for a guided tourMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Moscow Kremlin – about 400 m away (~6 min walk) · typical visit: 3–5 hours for Cathedral Square plus the Armoury ChamberMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Metro stations near GUM Moscow
Ploshchad Revolyutsii Metro Stationabout 200 m away (~3 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Okhotny Ryad Metro Stationabout 450 m away (~7 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Teatralnaya Metro Stationabout 500 m away (~8 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Restaurants and cafes near GUM Moscow
Stolovaya 57about 50 m away (~1 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Varenichnaya No. 1about 200 m away (~3 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Kappo Hiroki Arakawaabout 400 m away (~6 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
SAVVAabout 400 m away (~7 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Nightlife near GUM Moscow
Papa's Barabout 400 m away (~7 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Kadril Karaoke Clubabout 700 m away (~11 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Hotels near GUM Moscow
Four Seasons Hotel Moscowabout 400 m away (~6 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Hotel Metropol Moscowabout 400 m away (~7 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Hotel National Moscowabout 500 m away (~8 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Events and traditions near GUM Moscow
Spasskaya Tower Military Music Festivalabout 100 m away (~2 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
National Unity Day in Moscowabout 100 m away (~2 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Russia Day in Moscowabout 100 m away (~2 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Related guides
Metropol Restaurant: Breakfast Under the Stained-Glass DomeMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
How to order food in a Russian canteen (stolovaya): Steps and DishesMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
How to go ice skating in Moscow in winter: Rinks, Prices and SeasonMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
How to visit Zaryadye Park: Free Entry, the Bridge and PavilionsMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
How to visit Red Square: Access, Entrances and What’s NearbyMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Browse more: More in Tverskoy · All Markets & Shopping · All Sightseeing
FAQ: GUM Moscow
Is GUM a museum?
No. It is a working department store with more than 100 brands, cafes and a cinema. The building is historic, but entry is free and there is no ticket.
Is GUM the same as TsUM?
No. TsUM is a different department store in central Moscow, near the Bolshoi Theatre. GUM is the one on the east side of Red Square.
Where can I eat Soviet-style food?
Stolovaya No. 57 is a self-service canteen in Soviet style. The Festivalnoye cafe is also styled after the period. See the food section for other options.
When is the ice rink open?
The GUM-Katok rink is set up on Red Square every winter, usually from December to early March. Check the official site for the current dates and prices.
What is the Soviet-era Section 100?
In Soviet times, a secret clothing store on the top floor, open only to senior party figures, was known as Section 100. It no longer operates as such.
Is GUM expensive?
Many shops are luxury brands, so prices are high. Walking, looking and having ice cream or a canteen meal cost little.
Is GUM part of Red Square?
Yes. It forms the entire east side of the square, opposite the Kremlin wall, though it is a store with its own hours rather than a historic site with tickets.
Can I see Red Square from inside?
Yes, some cafes and windows on the facade side give a view of the square. Check where the venue faces before you sit down.
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Last updated: October 6, 2026.
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