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Dubovyy Hay (Дубовий Гай) Park — Zaporizhzhia
Zaporizhzhia · Ukraine
Explore Dubovyy Hay
Dubovyy Hay (Дубовий Гай) is located in Zaporizhzhia, Zaporizhzhia Oblast, Ukraine. It is a beautiful urban park that serves as an ideal place for locals and tourists to relax and unwind. With its rich greenery and pleasant environment, the park is one of the important green spaces in Zaporizhzhia, providing not only leisure space for citizens but also an excellent vantage point to experience the natural charm of Zaporizhzhia.
Dubovyy Hay, known officially as «Дубовий Гай», is Zaporizhzhia’s main city park (Zaporizhzhia Oblast, Ukraine). Tree-lined paths, lakes with bridges, concert areas and a small amusement park make it a favourite year-round spot for locals and visitors. This guide helps you plan your visit to Dubovyy Hay in Zaporizhzhia.
Visiting Tips
- Free and open all day, visit anytime for a walk or relaxation
- Spring or autumn is recommended for the most pleasant weather
- Multiple paths within the park, perfect for a slow stroll and exploration
- Cafes and small dining options nearby
Highlights
- Urban Oasis: Dubovyy Hay is an important park within Zaporizhzhia, providing precious green space for citizens and tourists.
- Recreation Destination: The park features walking paths and rest areas, making it an ideal place to relax and enjoy nature.
- Historical Ruins & Water Features: The park preserves grand abandoned buildings and tranquil ponds, adding a unique retro atmosphere to this urban oasis.
- Convenient Location: Located within Zaporizhzhia city, easily accessible by walking or public transportation.
About Dubovyy Hay
History & Local Legends
Behind every old oak lies a century of the city’s memory
Why is it called “Oak Grove”?
“Dubovyi Hai” literally means “oak grove” in Ukrainian. As early as the 18th century, the left bank of the Dnipro here was covered with vast oak woods stretching toward the wide floodplain known as the Velykyi Luh (Great Meadow) — lands closely tied to the history of the Zaporozhian Cossacks. In Ukrainian culture the oak stands for strength and watchfulness, so long before the park existed, this land was already part of Zaporizhzhia’s living memory.
Official name and local nicknames
Locals often simply call the park “Dubovka”. In Russian it is also known as «Дубовый Гай» or «Дубовая роща», while English guidebooks and maps mostly use Dubovyy Hay or Dubovka.
Timeline: from a riverside oak wood to the city’s green heart
Before the 19th century
Ancient oaks by the river
This area was once an old oak woodland on the floodplain of the Dnipro. In Cossack times the oaks supplied timber and fuel, and served as natural landmarks where people rested and gathered.
19th – early 20th century
A place for local festivities
From the 19th century, the grassy clearings under the oaks became a favourite spot for picnics and celebrations. May outings and family gatherings made the old trees silent witnesses of many generations.
1956
The beginnings of the green zone
In 1956 the area began to be maintained as an urban green space, preparing the ground for the park that would follow.
1 May 1959
The Central Park of Culture and Rest opens
The park officially opened on 1 May 1959 with a total area of more than 57 hectares — roughly the size of 80 football pitches. Over the following decades, tree-lined alleys, fountains and gazebos in the style of the era, an open-air cinema and a main stage were built, making the park a shared leisure memory of generations of Zaporizhzhia residents.
1950s
A star of the silver screen
In the 1950s, the classic Soviet film “Spring on Zarechnaya Street” (Vesna na Zarechnoy ulitse) was shot here. After the film was released, the name of this oak grove travelled across the whole country on the screen.
Today
A walkable green oasis
Today the park is managed as a pedestrian-friendly space: vehicle access is restricted, accessibility and children’s facilities keep improving, and festivals, sports events, exhibitions and family activities are held all year round. It is both the “green lungs” of Zaporizhzhia and a living room for its people in every season.
Legends passed from mouth to mouth
The stories below belong to Zaporizhzhia’s local folklore and oral tradition. Handed down over many years, they are not necessarily supported by formal historical records, so we suggest enjoying them as cultural background for your visit.
Oaks planted by the Cossacks
Tradition says the oaks were planted by the Zaporozhian Cossacks themselves, to remember the Zaporozhian Sich that was destroyed in the turmoil of war. People say the Cossacks planted the trees in tears, and that is why the oaks took root so deeply and never stopped growing — guarding the land’s memory of freedom.
The “Makhno Oak”
At the edge of the park there once stood a famous old oak with iron nails, bolts and spikes embedded in its trunk. Folklore links the tree to the military figure Nestor Makhno: his followers supposedly used the iron pieces to climb into the crown and set an ambush. The old tree died and was removed in the 1970s, yet the story still lives on locally.
The watch-post in the treetops
Another tale from before the revolution says that workers held their May outings (mayivka) here and posted lookouts in the oaks to raise the alarm if gendarmes or raids appeared. True or not, these stories add a touch of legend to the old oaks.
Weather & Trip Tips
Around Dubovyi Hai Park · current conditions and forecast
Partly cloudy · Feels like 28°
Humidity
36%
Wind
9 km/h
Precipitation
0.0 mm
Chance of rain
8%
Quite warm — remember sun protection and stay hydrated.
5-day forecast
Today
9/5
Rain
Sun
9/6
Rain
Mon
9/7
Overcast
Tue
9/8
Overcast
Wed
9/9
Partly cloudy
Forecast information on this website is refreshed regularly and is intended for general reference; for important plans please rely on the official forecast issued by the local meteorological service.
Basic Information
Official Name
Dubovyy Hay (Дубовий Гай)
Attraction Type
Park
Country
Ukraine
City
Zaporizhzhia
Plus Code
R56C+75 Zaporizhzhia, Zaporizhzhia Oblast, Ukraine
Phone
+380 6176 42297
Google Rating
4.2/5 (11,833)
Address
вулиця Глісерна, 1, Zaporizhzhia, Zaporizhia Oblast, Ukraine 69000
Opening Hours
Entire Park
Free and open all day, no admission fee
Best Time to Visit
Spring and Autumn
Summer
Hot weather, early morning or late afternoon recommended
Notes
Winter opening hours may be adjusted, please confirm in advance
Early mornings and late afternoons are the most peaceful times, perfect for walking and relaxation
Ticket Information
Dubovyy Hay
Free all day
Nearby Attractions
Travel Pass
Recommended to get a local transport card for convenient public transport
Transportation
From the Airport
Nearest airport: Zaporizhzhia International Airport (OZH) (Note: due to the current situation, please confirm transport and flight availability in advance). From the airport, you can take a taxi or public transport to the city center.
Driving
Zaporizhzhia has convenient transportation within the city. It is recommended to park in paid parking lots around the park.
Public Transport
You can take Zaporizhzhia's buses or trams to near the park. Please check local public transport apps for specific routes.
Short-Distance Travel
The park is located within Zaporizhzhia city, very convenient to access from the city center by walking, public transport, or taxi.
Cycling
Zaporizhzhia has a certain number of bicycle lanes, and cycling is also a good choice for exploring the city.
Travel Tips
Zaporizhzhia is a major city in southeastern Ukraine, featuring a deep Cossack historical heritage and beautiful Dnipro River landscapes.
Visiting Route
Zaporizhzhia City Walking Route
Arrive at Dubovyy Hay and enjoy the tranquility and nature of the park
Stroll along the tree-lined paths within the park and feel the freshness of the green oxygen bar
Head to Khortytsia Island to explore the history of Ukrainian Cossacks
Visit the local Cossack history museum to deeply understand the region's cultural heritage
Tour the Dnipro Hydroelectric Station (DniproHES) and admire this magnificent industrial architecture
Taste traditional Ukrainian cuisine at restaurants in the city center
Visiting Notes
- The park is a public space, free and open all day, no reservations needed
- Parking in Zaporizhzhia city is limited, it is recommended to park in designated public parking lots
- It is recommended to explore central Zaporizhzhia on foot or by public transport
Nature & Wildlife
A 57-hectare green classroom with the city’s most vivid seasons
The park covers more than 57 hectares, about 5 of which belong to the nature reserve fund. Its old oaks are said to reach about 300 years of age, making the park one of the most ecologically valuable green spaces in Zaporizhzhia and a natural classroom for urban nature.
What to look for
Old oaks with stories
The oaks gave the grove its name. Alongside ancient trees of 100–200 years or more, the park mixes many species of trees, shrubs and wildflowers, so every season — from fresh spring green to golden autumn leaves — brings its own scenery.
Artificial lakes and two bridges
The park has an artificial lake crossed by two footbridges. In the warm months you can hire a pedal boat and glide slowly across the water, with weeping willows and mirror reflections making a classic photo scene.
A small river along the edge
The Mokra Moskovka river winds along one side of the park. Its wetland banks create a unique riverside habitat and keep a wild touch in the very heart of the city.
A “birdwatching point” in the city
Tall crowns and calm water attract many birds. Ducks and geese paddle by the ponds, and the treetops ring with birdsong — a lovely place to meet urban wildlife up close.
Please enjoy nature responsibly: do not disturb the waterbirds or throw litter into the lake; if you feed the birds, choose suitable food or follow the park’s guidance so this urban oasis stays safe for everyone.
Practical Facilities
Restrooms, parking, dining, stays, shops, fuel & charging — check before you go
Dubovyi Hai is an open, free-to-enter park centred on walking trails and greenery. Below we summarise, by category, the facilities you may need during your visit to help you plan with ease.
Public Restrooms
Public restrooms are available near the main entrances, the amusement area and the event zones. They can get busy on holidays and weekends, so the facilities by the entrances are a good first choice — please also mind their opening hours.
Parking
Limited public parking is available on the streets near the park and along the riverside; some spaces are paid. Spaces fill up quickly on weekends and holidays, so arrive early or consider public transport or a taxi.
Dining
Inside the park you will find cafés and food kiosks offering snacks, hot and cold drinks and light meals. The city centre around the park has restaurants serving traditional Ukrainian cuisine, plus various other cuisines and street food. Always check the current opening status on site.
Accommodation
As an open public space, the park itself offers no overnight stays. For an overnight trip, choose among hotels, guesthouses and short-term apartments in Zaporizhzhia city centre and nearby areas; reaching the park from there by taxi or public transport is easy.
Supermarkets & Convenience Stores
Supermarkets, convenience stores and pharmacies can be found near the park and along the city’s main streets, so you can easily buy drinking water, snacks or essentials. Banks and ATMs are available in the city centre if you need cash or currency exchange.
Fuel & EV Charging
Self-drive visitors can find petrol stations along the city’s main roads, and public charging points for electric cars are gradually increasing. Before you leave, plan a route with a convenient station using a map app and confirm it is currently open.
A note on neutrality: this website is a non-profit science and travel information project. It only gives directional tips by facility type and does not recommend or endorse any particular business, brand or service. Availability, prices and opening hours may change at any time, so please rely on the actual on-site information.
Photo Spots
Park Entrance
Capture the iconic entrance of the park and surrounding greenery
Tree-Lined Path
Capture the shaded paths in the park, full of natural atmosphere
Rest Area
Capture the benches and rest areas in the park, suitable for portrait photography
Green Landscape
Capture the rich greenery and flowers in the park, showcasing natural beauty
Lake Views & Amusement Rides
Capture the lake views within the park and the iconic Ferris wheel/amusement rides
Photography Tips
Spring and autumn are the most beautiful seasons for Dubovyy Hay, with lush greenery, making them the best timing for photography.
Stunning Photos
Charming Scenery of Dubovyy Hay
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Dubovyy Hay (Dubovka) Park in Zaporizhzhia — Park Panorama
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Dubovyy Hay (Dubovka) Park in Zaporizhzhia — Tree-Lined Path
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Dubovyy Hay (Dubovka) Park in Zaporizhzhia — Green Landscape
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Dubovyy Hay (Dubovka) Park in Zaporizhzhia — Rest Area Bench
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Dubovyy Hay (Dubovka) Park in Zaporizhzhia — Park Entrance
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Dubovyy Hay (Dubovka) Park in Zaporizhzhia — Flower Close-up
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Dubovyy Hay (Dubovka) Park in Zaporizhzhia — Path Panorama
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Dubovyy Hay (Dubovka) Park in Zaporizhzhia — Shaded Trees
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Dubovyy Hay (Dubovka) Park in Zaporizhzhia — Park Corner
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Dubovyy Hay (Dubovka) Park in Zaporizhzhia — Natural Scenery
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Dubovyy Hay (Dubovka) Park in Zaporizhzhia — Green Details
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Dubovyy Hay (Dubovka) Park in Zaporizhzhia — Park Trail
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Dubovyy Hay (Dubovka) Park in Zaporizhzhia — Leisure Area
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Dubovyy Hay (Dubovka) Park in Zaporizhzhia — Park Landscape
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Dubovyy Hay (Dubovka) Park in Zaporizhzhia — Greenery and Sky
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Dubovyy Hay (Dubovka) Park in Zaporizhzhia — Park Beauty
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Dubovyy Hay (Dubovka) Park in Zaporizhzhia — Peaceful Corner
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Dubovyy Hay (Dubovka) Park in Zaporizhzhia — Park Scenery
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Dubovyy Hay (Dubovka) Park in Zaporizhzhia — Natural Beauty
Visitor Reviews
Review information can be viewed via Google Maps (external link).
A nice park, suitable for walking and relaxation. Rich greenery and fresh air. However, some facilities are outdated, hoping for improvements.
I really like this park! Lush greenery and beautiful environment. A great place to take family for a walk on weekends. Highly recommended for nature lovers.
The park is quite large with multiple walking paths. However, maintenance in some areas is not good enough, hoping for better management.
A wonderful park! Very close to my home, I often come here for walks. Spring flowers are very beautiful, perfect for photography.
The park environment is nice, with many benches for resting. However, there are few trash bins, hoping for more to be added.
A very beautiful and peaceful park. We walked here and enjoyed the beauty of nature. Children also love it here, with plenty of space to run and play.
Good location, convenient transportation. However, it gets crowded on weekends, recommended to visit on weekdays for more tranquility.
A hidden gem park in Zaporizhzhia! Although not as famous as the large parks in the city center, it's more peaceful and natural. Very suitable for those wanting to escape the city noise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions visitors most often ask about Dubovyy Hay.
Do I need a ticket to enter Dubovyy Hay park?
No. Dubovyy Hay is an open city park: entry is free and the park is open 24 hours. Only rides and on-site services (e.g. paid parking) are charged separately.
What rides and facilities are in the park?
The park has an amusement area with a well-known Ferris wheel, as well as lakes with bridges, children’s and sports playgrounds. Always check the current list and opening hours of the rides before your visit.
How do I get to Dubovyy Hay park?
The park lies on the Dnipro riverfront at Hliserna Street, 1 (Plus Code: R56C+75 Zaporizhzhia). Detailed options — by public transport, car or on foot — are gathered in the Transport section of this page.
Is there parking near the park?
On-street parking in Zaporizhzhia is generally limited. There are public spots, partly paid, near the park and along the embankment; they fill up on weekends and holidays, so public transport or a taxi is often easier.
Is the park suitable for children?
Yes, it is a popular family destination with playgrounds, rides, open lawns and cafés. Check current pet rules and facility opening hours on site.
When is the best time to visit Dubovyy Hay?
The park is lovely year-round: green and lively by the lakes in spring and summer, open for relaxed walks in winter. Expect crowds during holiday events.
Transportation Guide
вулиця Глісерна, 1, Zaporizhzhia, Zaporizhia Oblast, Ukraine 69000
Nearby landmarks
When visiting Dubovyy Hay, it is easy to combine your trip with other well-known sights of Zaporizhzhia: