The Tashkent Polytechnical Museum spans across two floors, offering a captivating display of automobiles from the 20th and 21st centuries, as well as housing a physics-based interactive section catered to children.
Established in 2015, it stands as one of the more contemporary museums in Tashkent, making it a worthwhile destination for automobile and science enthusiasts, as well as families with young children.
Conveniently situated just a few minutes’ stroll from Amir Timur Square in the heart of Tashkent, accessibility to this attraction is effortless.
First Floor – International and Uzbek Automobile Industry
The first floor is divided into two sections, showcasing the history of international automobiles and the automotive industry in Uzbekistan.
History of International Automobiles
This section of the museum features an array of retro Soviet and international cars, including vintage USSR Chaika, the German Volkswagen Beetle, and the French Bugatti Type 35.
With over two dozen cars on display from the early 20th Century to modern times, this part of the museum caters to true motor enthusiasts.
Even visitors without a particular auto affinity (like myself) can enjoy a fun photo session with these antique vehicles. Unlike many museums in Tashkent that charge extra for photography, this section allows photographers to snap away without any additional fee.
Furthermore, this part of the museum houses a small collection of historical agricultural and military vehicles. It also offers information about renowned scientists and engineers from the 20th century who contributed to the advancement of automotive technology.
History of the Automotive Industry in Uzbekistan
The second part of the first floor focuses on the modern history of the automotive industry in Uzbekistan, particularly highlighting the prominence of Chevrolet cars in the country.
In fact, Uzbekistan’s import taxes on foreign cars (excluding electric vehicles) are exceptionally high, resulting in a near monopoly of Chevrolet cars on the streets. This section of the museum could almost be named “A History of Chevrolet in Uzbekistan.”
The exhibition showcases various modern cars, predominantly Chevrolets, featuring significant vehicles from recent history.
Among these are the first Spark and Matiz cars and the first Uzbek manufactured bus, UzOyotol, produced in 1994, all signed by former president Islam Karimov. Additionally, the museum proudly houses the millionth locally manufactured car, a Lacetti.
Interestingly, the first foreign car manufacturer in Uzbekistan was the Korean company Daewoo, with the Daewoo Tico being the first family car, and the Daewoo Damas being the first commercial car.
Second Floor – Interactive Science Floor
The second floor is home to a variety of science-based exhibitions and children’s entertainment. Although some exhibits appeared broken or outdated during our visit, the enthusiastic staff made up for it by demonstrating many of the displays despite the language barrier.
Noteworthy exhibits include Tesla-style plasma globes, a mirror labyrinth, and several optical illusions. Surprisingly, the most popular exhibit was a curtained Xbox area where small children danced to Just Dance!
One amusing highlight was the ‘Tesla show,’ featuring a staff member dramatically demonstrating the use of a large plasma globe with accompanying music. You can inquire at the reception for a list of show times. Additionally, there’s a small indoor play area for children.
Read our guide here for more things to do with kids in Tashkent.
In conclusion, while a trip to the Polytechnical Museum may not completely blow your mind, it’s undeniably a must-visit for car connoisseurs in Tashkent. Moreover, if you have young children, it offers an enjoyable place to entertain them for an hour.
If you’re looking for similar places to take children in Tashkent try the railway museum.
| Location | 13 Amir Temur street, Mirabad district |
| Opening Times | 10am – 6pm Tuesday to Sunday, closed Mondays |
| Entry Fee | 20,000 Som |
| Official Website | https://politomuseum.uz/en.html |
The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday 10am until 6pm. Entry is 20,000 Som for adults.
Looking for more fun things to do in Tashkent?
For up to date information read our guide to tourism in Uzbekistan.