Kherson is famous as a big industrial center and a river port. For many travelers, the city is a starting point to explore the outstanding attractions of Central Ukraine. Kherson is interesting as a separate tourist center too. In the territory of the city, there are many important historical objects. Pleasant recreation in Kherson is guaranteed not only to those who prefer walking along historical places, but also to those who can’t imagine their vacation without visiting gastronomic places. Tourists are attracted by many restaurants. There are modest budget places, as well as prestigious venues for wealthy visitors.
One of the main distinctive features of modern Kherson is an opportunity to organize a vacation of any level. It will delight those travelers who have got used to luxury and high-level service, as well as those who don’t spend too much money during their vacation. The entertainment industry in Kherson deserves the highest praise. The city is famous for its upscale sports centers, colorful disco and nightclubs, family entertainment centers and cinemas. You can travel to Kherson in any season. Due to its close proximity to the Black Sea Coast, more tourists visit it in summer. In the warm season, the main travelers’ entertainment is beach recreation and walking along picturesque places. Those who don’t like beaches prefer visiting Kherson in the off-season or in winter. It should be noted that the prices for hotel accommodation are very attractive at this time. So, even a big company can vacation here for a reasonable price.
In the surroundings of Kherson, there are a lot of nature attractions. One of them is the unique biosphere nature park Askania Nova. It was founded by one of the local dukes at the beginning of the 19th century. Originally, rich natural grounds were used to herd ships. Today, you can see here rare plants and admire birds and rare insects. The nature park is very big. There are a lot of different hiking routes. In 1973, the nature park gained a status of the attraction of state significance. It is interesting to admire its wonderful landscapes at any time of the year.
The important historic attraction is Kherson Church. It started to be built in the second half of the 18th century. The defensive construction had been used as intended until 1866. When the fortress lost its strategic status, it came to the city government. In the second half of the 19th century, many constructions in the territory of the fortress were destroyed. New houses were built of stone in the city center. Today, the visitors of the fortress can see the preserved arsenal, several old wells, bastions, and tinderboxes.
The interesting religious monument is the Cathedral of St. Katherine. It became the first stone cathedral built in the city territory. It was being built at the same time as the Kherson Fortress. Now, the cathedral is a vivid example of Russian classicism. After the Revolution, the cathedral was closed and all the values were transferred. Originally, it served as an anti-religious museum and then as a warehouse. The cathedral was reopened in 1991. Despite its complicated history, it has preserved many original interior elements.
One of the most luxurious buildings of Kherson is occupied by the art museum called after A. Shovkunenko. The luxurious building with its fascinating facade was built in 1906 and belonged to the City Duma from the beginning. The museum collection started to be formed in 1890. Initially, its collection was quite modest. Nowadays, the museum houses over 7 000 exhibits, including unique paintings of the 17th century. The historic building is distinguished by a luxurious design and has a great architectural value.