The VDNH Museum. Main Entrance (right wing). Building 228
The VDNH museum opened in the left wing of the Main Entrance arch on the 80th anniversary of the opening of the exhibition. Visitors to the exposition can learn about the creation of VDNH, how it has evolved over the years and how its features and contents have changed over time.
One of the museum's key exhibits is its media library – a constantly updated collection of materials about the history of the exhibition, its architecture and modern developments. The archive features drawings of the first pavilions dating back to the 1930s, rare photographs of expositions in the 1950–60s, a history of the 1990s, modern photographs of the Exhibition's restored pavilions and many other unique artefacts from various periods.
The exposition utilises an extensive database of digitalised archive photos, blueprints, documents and newsreels. Restored artefacts from the VDNH museum collection are housed in special exposition modules.
The museum space has a twelve-section display, a media screen and interactive panels and is divided into five themed areas:
- The Friendship of Peoples section examines the contributions of various Soviet republics towards the creation and development of VDNH, as well as famous international guests who have visited it.
- Visitors to the Parade of Victories section can learn more about Russian life after World War II and the exhibits and pavilions dedicated to national achievements in agriculture, heavy industry and other fields.
- The People's University section is devoted to scientific breakthroughs, which have always had a prominent role in the preparation of expositions and temporary exhibitions.
- The City of Wonders section is a fascinating journey through time showcasing how VDNH's architectural gems looked decades ago.
- Visitors to the Day at the Exhibition section will see what brought visitors to VDNH in different periods. Interestingly, the main walking route hasn't changed much over the years — it has always passed through such iconic places as the Central Alley, the "Cosmos" Pavilion and the Green Theatre.