Fomin Botanical Gardens was founded in 1939 by Kyiv University, and is located behind the university’s “Red Building”. Though not quite as impressive as its name, the garden does display many types of unique local and exotic flowers, plants and trees. It is best visited in mid to late summer when all of the plants have had a chance to completely recover from the torturous winter. Although forbidden, shish-kebab parties and picnics take place just about every day of the week (rain or shine), so you may find yourself wading through discarded plastic kitchenware on your way to the next exhibit. If you’re lucky/unlucky enough to receive a random invite to one of these little galas, just go with the flow. The main entrance to the park is located on Shevchenko bul’v. next to Universytet metro. Admission is free.