Central Park sits on the right bank of the Ishim, a remnant of the Soviet-era city that pre-dates the post-1997 boom. It is a large, slightly faded park of pine trees, paved walking paths, a boating lake, and a low-rise amusement section with rides for children. The contrast with the polished left-bank monuments is significant — this is where actual residents bring their kids and where wedding parties pose for photographs.
The park has a small zoo (worth skipping — the conditions are dated), a few cafes around the central lake, and footpaths that connect to the river embankment. In winter the lake freezes and is used for skating; in summer pedalos can be hired. A good place to feel the texture of older Astana before the showpiece architecture.