• Eagles Lyrics Case Dropped
  • Bon Scott Biopic Lands Its Star
  • David Gilmour's Best Solo Songs
  • Axl Rose on Sexual Assault Case
  • Little Feat Announces New Album
  • Wolfgang VH Responds to Roth

Ultimate Classic Rock

When Van Halen Mounted a Disastrous Reunion With Sammy Hagar

It should have worked. Van Halen , six years after an  ill-fated attempt to carry on without Sammy Hagar , reunited with the "Red Rocker" for a trio of new songs and a huge 80-date tour.

Rather than signal a triumphant second act for the most commercially successful Van Halen line up, however, this 2004 tour marked a ugly end – even as it pointed the way for what would come next, both for Van Halen and for Hagar.

"What happened on that reunion tour in ’04," Hagar told Sally Steele eight years later, "was some of the most miserable, back-stabbing dark crap I’ve ever been involved with my whole life."

What the public didn't see, Hagar says, was how badly things had turned for Eddie Van Halen behind the scenes in the interim. Hagar says that Van Halen, then in the throes of addiction, was in such a bedraggled state that it shocked him.

The legendary guitarist, Hagar wrote in his memoir Red: My Uncensored Life in Rock , was unkempt, hunched over, frighteningly skinny, drinking wine straight out of a bottle, missing part of his tongue (after a cancer scare) and several teeth. As his descent continued, Hagar says their relationship was irretrievably broken.

Watch Van Halen Perform 'It's About Time' in 2004

The initial – and quite unlikely – detente began with a phone call to Alex Van Halen , Eddie's sibling drummer. "I've been saying this for 100 years: 'I'm going to give Alex a call one of these days,'" Hagar told Fox in 2004, and finally – while vacationing at a Southern California beach resort with his family – he did. "It was like a complete love fest," Hagar said. "It was just, 'Wow, I really miss this friendship.'"

Emboldened, Hagar stopped by Eddie's 5150 studios next on a social call, simply to chat. Soon, despite Van Halen's condition, they were jamming together for the first time since an acrimonious '96 split that seemed to spell the end to a productive collaboration which once catapulted Van Halen to its first-ever chart topping album – and then three more in a row. Next came talk of recording again and Hagar did, in fact, help contribute a trio of new songs for their 2004 greatest-hits compilation The Best of Both Worlds  – a project that would debut at No. 3 on the Billboard charts.

Then came the announcement of a tour, which kicked off on June 11, 2004, at Greensboro, N.C. "Ed and Al started playing me some music they had been working on, and it was just extremely inspiring," Hagar told the Minneapolis-St. Paul Star Tribune that summer. "We said, 'Here's what we're gonna do: We're going to pretend like it never happened. We're gonna rise above it.'"

It didn't work out that way. In fact, an issue erupted even before that first show, with an argument over who would play bass. Eddie and Alex no longer wanted to work with fellow co-founder Michael Anthony . It seems the Van Halens hadn't taken kindly to the fact that Anthony stayed friends with, and even performed with, Hagar following his initial departure from the band.

Watch Van Halen Perform 'Panama' in 2004

Hagar, however, said there would be no reunion without Anthony. The logjam was broken when Anthony reportedly agreed to a brutal series of demands – including a pay cut, and signing away his portion of the rights to the Van Halen name and logo.

"When we did the 2004 reunion, Eddie didn't even want me to be a part of that because he was so torqued up that I was buddies with Sammy," Anthony recalled in 2009 . "Why can't I be buddies with Sammy and still play with Van Halen? With those guys, it was a cut-and-dried situation. You are in or you are out."

The resulting tour would, in fact, be a huge financial success, grossing $54.3 million according to Pollstar . Still, by the end of it, things had been torn forever between the two factions. "I don't get along with Eddie anymore," Hagar told Billboard afterward, "and that's all there is to it."

By all accounts, Anthony and Hagar barely spoke to Eddie Van Halen, on or off stage. Hagar, in his autobiography, says they had different jets, different hotels, different limos, different security details. Meanwhile, Hagar says Eddie's health was continuing to deteriorate. Even Van Halen's accounts of the concerts were odd. "I would just show up for sound check," he said in a  rambling 2004 interview , "and I go, 'Hmm, why do extra laundry? So, I would just wear whatever I'm wearing, then take my shirt off and play."

Hagar says the guitarist collapsed more than once backstage. Rumors of arguments that nearly led to blows proliferated. "There were nights where it was kind of like a rollercoaster, up or down," Anthony remembered a few years later, "and myself, I would have liked to have seen him totally clean up if we were gonna take this further."

Watch Eddie Van Halen Smash His Guitar

Forty shows in, Hagar says he tried to quit . Only the threat of a lawsuit changed his mind. With 17 shows left, Hagar admitted to listeners on KSHE in St. Louis that he preferred working with his solo group, even as the tour lurched toward a predictably disastrous conclusion at its final stop in Tucson on Nov. 19, 2004.

"It was," Hagar says in Red , "the worst show we’d ever done in our lives. Eddie played so bad." Everything ended as Van Halen smashed his guitar to bits in a fit of sudden rage, sending pieces of it into the crowd. "You don't understand," a crying reportedly Eddie said to the crowd.

Hagar says he's never spoken to either of the Van Halen brothers since that night. “I was just hoping it was going to be great and everybody was going to be happy and a big love fest and just go at it again," Hagar told NBC in 2011, "but it wasn’t that at all. It was the complete opposite."

From the ashes of this awful mishap, however, emerged both a reworked edition of Van Halen and a new band featuring Hagar and Anthony. Eddie's son Wolfgang had joined him onstage playing rhythm guitar during "316," an instrumental dedicated to the youngster from 1991's For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge . Wolfgang would eventually replace Anthony in Van Halen, beginning in 2006. Two years after that, Hagar and Anthony formed Chickenfoot with Joe Satriani and Chad Smith .

"Obviously Mike and I are dearest friends on the planet, but Ed and I ... he turned on me," Hagar said in 2012 . "It was a horrible, horrible ending to a beautiful, beautiful story, and I’m still disappointed that they have not reached out to be friends -- especially Alex, because Alex and I didn’t have a problem."

The Top 100 Rock Albums of the '80s

More from ultimate classic rock.

Wolfgang Van Halen Responds to David Lee Roth’s Recent Attacks

Summer Tour 2004

summer tour 2004

Summer Tour 2004 (Van Halen)

Michael Anthony, Sammy Hagar, and Eddie Van Halen performing during 2004. VanHalenwithHagar.jpg

The Van Halen Tour 2004 was a North American concert tour by hard rock band Van Halen . [1] It was the band's first tour since 1998 and saw the return of lead singer Sammy Hagar , who left the band in 1996 after tensions with lead guitarist Eddie Van Halen . [1] [2]

Controversies

External links.

Tensions between Hagar and Eddie Van Halen were rekindled during the rehearsals before the tour even started and continued until the last show. [3] The 2004 tour marked the last time that Hagar would ever perform with Van Halen. [3] Some points of contention between the two included Eddie's increased struggles with substance abuse and Sammy Hagar’s promotion of his personal Cabo Wabo tequila brand. [1] The tour also signaled the declining relationship of bassist Michael Anthony with Eddie and Alex Van Halen . [4] During the 2004 tour, Anthony was forced to lose his licensing rights to the band and to take a pay cut due to tensions with the Van Halen brothers. [4] [5]

While commercially successful attendance was an issue, the tour generally received poor reviews from critics, with some alleging that Eddie was sloppy, unfocused, and the band was past their prime. [6] [7] The tour’s legacy has been similarly poor as well, especially regarding the off-stage developments involving Sammy Hagar and Michael Anthony. [4] Nick Deriso of Ultimate Classic Rock called the tour “disastrous." [4]

The 2004 tour was the first time that Van Halen had played together since 1998, with then lead singer Gary Cherone . [1] In 2004, Van Halen reunited with Sammy Hagar , their second lead vocalist from 1985–1996, who had split with the band due to tensions with Eddie Van Halen. [2] [5] Hagar claimed that the 1996 split resulted from disagreements over recording new tracks for the movie Twister , after he was exhausted from touring in support of the band’s album Balance . [8] According to Hagar, he was then informed that the songs the band had recorded would be released without his vocals and were not going to be used for the Twister soundtrack, but for a greatest-hits album, which Hagar opposed. [8] However, Eddie Van Halen claimed that the tensions with Hagar stemmed from the singer’s decision to produce his own “solo best-of set,” which increased tensions when Hagar then refused to partake in the Van Halen greatest hits release. [2] Van Halen turned to David Lee Roth , the band’s first lead singer, to replace Hagar as the band's lead singer. [8]

The 2004 reunion tour resulted after Sammy Hagar decided to call drummer Alex Van Halen in 2003 and “hit it off like old times." [9] After Hagar then called lead guitarist Eddie Van Halen, the band was once again reunited. [9]

Originally, the band planned to release a full-length album, titled The Best of Both Worlds , which would have featured the instrumentals from the aborted second album with Gary Cherone, with Hagar on vocals. [5] This plan was abandoned because Eddie Van Halen was only able to complete three of the tracks. [5] They decided to release a new compilation double album featuring three new songs, which was to be followed by a reunion tour. [5] The new songs were "It's About Time", "Up for Breakfast" and "Learning to See". Initially, 28 dates were announced, but the tour was extended to 80 across five months. [5]

Michael Anthony originally thought that the tour would expand to Europe, Japan, and South America, but the idea was abandoned because of Hagar's feud with Eddie Van Halen. [1]

Hagar’s reunion with the band, and relationship with Eddie Van Halen, began well. [9] In August 2004, Hagar said that he and Eddie Van Halen were going to “Pretend like it [the feud] never happened. We’re going to rise above it.” [9] In an early review of the tour, Hagar was described as “undeniably delighted to be back together” with Van Halen. [9] However, Hagar and Van Halen’s feelings of good ended up being short-lived. [2]

Hagar accused Eddie of drinking too much, despite Eddie's denials: "It was horrible to know a person that was in that kind of shape." [5] In his memoir, Hagar wrote that during the tour Van Halen was “unkempt, hunched over, frighteningly skinny” and “drinking wine straight out of a bottle." [4] Van Halen was reported to have collapsed during the tour as well, in addition to playing poorly due to his struggles with substance abuse. [4] Eddie Van Halen said that he was “an alcoholic” and that in 2004 he became a “very angry drunk,” although he claimed that Hagar’s memoir was “definitely embellished." [10]

Another point of contention during the tour was Sammy Hagar’s promotion of his Cabo Wabo tequila brand, to the displeasure of Eddie Van Halen. [1] Bassist Michael Anthony said that “he [Eddie Van Halen] was never happy about that, the whole Cabo Wabo thing.” [1] Anthony claimed that Sammy independently contracted with arenas to sell the tequila, which “would create some tension onstage and offstage." [1] Hagar claims he was told by the Van Halen brothers, before the tour, that he would not be allowed to promote his Cabo Wabo tequila, so he purposefully “got a Cabo Wabo tattoo” on his arm and “wore short sleeves." [11]

The tour also caused controversy with Michael Anthony , the band's longtime bassist (performing with them until 2000 when they went on hiatus, but still officially a member in 2004). [5] Anthony was hired as a touring musician rather than a 'real' member of the band, resulting in being paid a reduced commission. [5] Initially, the Van Halen brothers did not want him on the tour at all, but Sammy Hagar refused to tour without him. [5]

The tour also resulted in a legal dispute between Van Halen and the Baltimore Orioles . [12] The Orioles had contracted Van Halen to perform a September 2 concert at Oriole Park at Camden Yards for $1.5 million, in addition to 80 percent of ticket and merchandise revenues. [12] However, the Orioles later canceled this deal, causing Van Halen to file a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court in Los Angeles, suing for at least $2 million. [13] Van Halen argued that they lost potential revenue in the Baltimore area from a non-compete clause and that they had to rearrange the 2004 tour for the show that the Orioles’ reneged on. [14]

According to Pollstar , the tour grossed $54.3 million, making it the sixth highest grossing tour of 2004. [15] Pollstar reports that the tour had an average ticket price of $99.12 and sold 1,054,238 tickets over 83 shows. [15] However, according to Billboard Boxscore, the tour grossed nearly $40 million. [16]

Critical reception for the tour was generally negative, with some reviews alleging that the tour was a watered-down version of the band’s past versions. [17] Jason Bracelin, of the Houston Press , wrote that “In their prime, the guys in Van Halen were as sticky, sweaty, and accident-prone as the best keggers. Now, they’re hard-rock parental units approaching their fifties, and so are many of their fans." [17] Kyle Munson, of The Des Moines Register , wrote that Van Halen sounded “sloppy” and alleged that Hagar seemed more focused with signing autographs than singing. [18] However, Doug Fox, after a performance in Salt Lake City , wrote that the future of Van Halen “seems to be on firmer ground as well with the return of Hagar." [19]

Overall, the tour’s long term reputation has been similarly poor, being described as both “Disastrous” by Nick Deriso of Ultimate Classic Rock and “Ill-Fated” by Andy Greene of Rolling Stone . [3] [4] The tour also is notable for its lasting damage on the relationship between lead singer Sammy Hagar and lead guitarist Eddie Van Halen. Sammy Hagar, in his memoir, wrote that after the 2004 tour, his relationship with Eddie Van Halen was “irretrievably broken." [4] By the end of the tour, Anthony and Hagar reportedly used “different jets, different hotels, different limos, different security details" from the Van Halen brothers. [4]

The tour also signaled the declining relationship between bassist Michael Anthony and the band. [4] Allegedly, Alex and Eddie Van Halen did not want to tour with Anthony, while Hagar insisted upon his presence in the band. [4] Anthony ended up being forced to relinquish his Van Halen licensing rights in addition to a pay cut. [4] Anthony claims he accepted the deal because he thought it may have been the last time the band would ever perform together. [3] In 2006, Eddie Van Halen fired Anthony from the band and replaced him with his son, Wolfgang Van Halen . [20]

Typical Setlist

  • " Runaround "
  • " Humans Being "
  • "Up for Breakfast"
  • "Somebody Get Me a Doctor"
  • " Poundcake "
  • "It's About Time"
  • " Top of the World "
  • " Unchained "
  • " Why Can't This Be Love "
  • " Eagles Fly "
  • "Deeper Kinda Love"
  • "Learning to See"
  • "Best of Both Worlds"
  • Guitar solo
  • " Ain't Talkin' 'bout Love "
  • " Right Now "
  • " You Really Got Me "
  • " When It's Love "
  • " Runnin' with the Devil " (occasionally with Michael Anthony on vocals)
  • "The Seventh Seal" (occasionally)
  • " Finish What Ya Started " (occasionally)
  • Sammy Hagar – lead vocals, guitar
  • Eddie Van Halen – lead guitar, keyboards, backing vocals
  • Michael Anthony – bass guitar, backing vocals
  • Alex Van Halen – drums, percussion

Additional musician

  • Wolfgang Van Halen – rhythm guitar (during "316")

Related Research Articles

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Van Halen</span> American rock band (1973–2020)

Van Halen was an American rock band formed in Pasadena, California, in 1973. Credited with restoring hard rock to the forefront of the music scene, Van Halen was known for their energetic live performances and for the virtuosity of its guitarist, Eddie Van Halen. The band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2007.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Michael Anthony (musician)</span> American bassist

Michael Anthony Sobolewski is an American musician who was the bassist and backing vocalist for the hard rock band Van Halen from 1974 to 2006. He performed on Van Halen's first 11 albums and was their longest-tenured bassist. Following his 2006 departure, Anthony has collaborated with fellow former Van Halen bandmate Sammy Hagar for the supergroups Chickenfoot and Sammy Hagar and the Circle. In addition to his music career, he markets a line of hot sauces named Mad Anthony and related products. Anthony was inducted to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Van Halen in 2007.

<i>5150</i> (album) 1986 studio album by Van Halen

5150 is the seventh studio album by American rock band Van Halen. It was released on March 24, 1986, by Warner Bros. Records and was the first of four albums to be recorded with lead singer Sammy Hagar, who replaced David Lee Roth. The album was named after Eddie Van Halen's home studio, 5150, in turn named after a California law enforcement term for a mentally disturbed person. The album hit number 1 on the Billboard 200 chart, surpassing the band's previous album, 1984 , which had peaked at number 2 behind Michael Jackson's Thriller album, on which Eddie made a guest appearance.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Sammy Hagar</span> American rock singer

Sam Roy Hagar , also known as the Red Rocker , is an American singer, songwriter, and guitarist. In the early 1970s he was a member of the hard rock band Montrose before launching a solo career, scoring a hit in 1984 with "I Can't Drive 55". He replaced David Lee Roth as the second lead vocalist of Van Halen in 1985, but left in 1996. He returned to the band from 2003 to 2005. In 2007, Hagar was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Van Halen. His musical style primarily consists of hard rock and heavy metal.

<i>OU812</i> 1988 studio album by Van Halen

OU812 is the eighth studio album by American rock band Van Halen. It was released in 1988 and is the band's second album to feature vocalist Sammy Hagar. Van Halen began work on the album in September 1987 and completed it in April 1988, one month before its release.

<i>Live: Right Here, Right Now</i> 1993 live album by Van Halen

Live: Right Here, Right Now. is the first live album by American rock band Van Halen, released in 1993. It is the band's only live album featuring Sammy Hagar and the only live album by Van Halen until the release of Tokyo Dome Live in Concert in 2015.

<i>The Best of Both Worlds</i> (Van Halen album) 2004 greatest hits album by Van Halen

The Best of Both Worlds is the second greatest hits album by American rock band Van Halen, released on July 20, 2004, on Warner Bros. The compilation features material recorded with lead vocalists David Lee Roth and Sammy Hagar, but omits Gary Cherone's three-year tenure with the band. Prior to The Best of Both Worlds' s release, Hagar reunited with Van Halen, and the band recorded three new tracks to include on the release.

<i>Best Of – Volume I</i> (Van Halen album) 1996 greatest hits album by Van Halen

Best Of – Volume I is the first greatest hits album by American hard rock band Van Halen, released on October 22, 1996.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Cabo Wabo</span> American nightclub and restaurant chain

Cabo Wabo is a nightclub, restaurant and bar company founded in 1990 by American rock musician Sammy Hagar. Located in Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur, Mexico franchises exist along the Las Vegas Strip and on Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood, California. It also has its own signature brand of tequila with the title of same name of the company.

<i>Live Without a Net</i> (Van Halen video) 1986 video by Van Halen

Live Without a Net is a live concert video of Van Halen recorded in New Haven, Connecticut, in 1986, and released later that year. It was of their performance on August 17, 1986 at New Haven's Veterans Memorial Coliseum. The 90-minute release removed a few songs from the full performance. While the band attempted to record the previous night, audio problems prevented it from being used, although some video footage from that night would later surface in music videos. The concerts were part of the 5150 Tour, supporting the album of the same name, Van Halen's first with lead singer Sammy Hagar.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">The Waboritas</span> American rock band

The Waboritas is the name of Sammy Hagar's backup band, though they are frequently and more recently referred to as "The Wabos". They were formed in 1997 and have been active ever since. Their only hiatus was during the Van Halen tour of 2004, during which Hagar kept them fully paid.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Why Can't This Be Love</span> 1986 single by Van Halen

" Why Can't This Be Love " is a song by the American rock band Van Halen for their seventh studio album, 5150 (1986). The song was released as the lead single from 5150 through Warner Bros. Records. It was the group's first single with lead vocalist Sammy Hagar, who replaced founding member David Lee Roth. It was released on both 7" and 12" single formats, the 12" single featuring an extended version of the song.

<i>Red Voodoo</i> 1999 studio album by Sammy Hagar and The Waboritas

Red Voodoo is the eleventh studio album by American rock musician Sammy Hagar, and his first album to feature his band the Waboritas. This album was released on March 23, 1999, by MCA Records. When Hagar finished touring in support of his Marching to Mars album, he recorded this album. Red Voodoo is an extension of the party atmosphere that permeated Hagar's concerts on that tour and the album contains a party-vibe. "Mas Tequila" was the lead single and alluded to Hagar's other career endeavor, as his Cabo Wabo tequila was being distributed throughout the United States.

Jesse Harms is an American musician and songwriter. He has worked with Sammy Hagar, David Lee Roth, Eddie Money, REO Speedwagon, Bad English, Guitar Shorty, Patty Smyth, and McAuley Schenker Group.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Van Halen discography</span>

Van Halen was an American hard rock band formed in Pasadena, California in 1972 by the Dutch-born American brothers Eddie Van Halen (guitar) and Alex Van Halen (drums), plus singer David Lee Roth and bassist Michael Anthony. The band's discography consists of 12 studio albums, two live albums, two compilation albums, and 56 singles.

The Van Halen 2007–2008 Tour was a North American concert tour occurring in the fall of 2007 and winter and spring of 2008 for hard rock band Van Halen. It was Van Halen's first tour since 2004, and the first one with original singer David Lee Roth since he left the band in 1985. Roth was with the band from 1974 to 1985, when the band rose to prominence.

The OU812 Tour was a concert tour by hard rock band Van Halen in support of their studio album OU812 .

The 5150 Tour was a concert tour by American hard rock band Van Halen in support of their seventh studio album, 5150 .

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Sammy Hagar discography</span> Cataloging of published recordings by Sammy Hagar

Sammy Hagar is an American rock singer with a career spanning over 40 years. He rose to prominence during the early 1970s as the lead vocalist for the hard rock band Montrose. He left the band in the mid-1970s and embraced a solo career, releasing his debut album Nine on a Ten Scale in 1976. He has since kept a successful solo career, smashing a hit in 1984 with "I Can't Drive 55" shortly before joining Van Halen as their lead singer. Hagar is also known for having associated and being a member of numerous other rock bands.

<i>A Different Kind of Truth</i> 2012 album by Van Halen

A Different Kind of Truth is the twelfth and final studio album by American rock band Van Halen. Released on February 7, 2012, by Interscope Records, this is Van Halen's only studio album on Interscope and its first full-length album of studio material with lead singer David Lee Roth since 1984 . Likewise, A Different Kind of Truth was Van Halen's first studio album since 1998's Van Halen III , as well as their only studio album recorded without bassist Michael Anthony, who had played bass on all of the band's previous albums; Eddie Van Halen's son Wolfgang replaced Anthony for the album, making this his only studio album with the band. It would also be Van Halen's final studio album before Eddie's death and the group's subsequent disbandment in 2020.

  • 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 MICHAEL ANTHONY Speaks Candidly About VAN HALEN's Past And Future Archived 2008-06-24 at the Wayback Machine ; Blabbermouth , March 17, 2006
  • 1 2 3 4 Giles, Jeff. "The Day Sammy Hagar Split from Van Halen." Ultimate Classic Rock, 16 June 2016, https://ultimateclassicrock.com/sammy-hagar-splits-van-halen/ .
  • 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Deriso, Nick. “When Van Halen Mounted a Disastrous Reunion with Sammy Hagar.” Ultimate Classic Rock. 11 June 2015. https://ultimateclassicrock.com/sammy-hagar-van-halen-reunion-2004/
  • 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Elliott, Paul (October 2013). "What do you do with $80 million? Anything you want!". Classic Rock #189 . p.   48.
  • ↑ Bracelin, Jason. "Feels Like Old Times; with Sammy Hagar Back on Stage, Van Halen Trudges on." Houston Press, Sep 23 2004, ProQuest. Web. 18 Nov. 2020.
  • ↑ Munson, Kyle. "Headline: Van Halen Squeezes Out More Notes." Des Moines Register, Nov 06 2004, ProQuest. Web. 15 Nov. 2020 .
  • 1 2 3 Hochman, Steve. "Stunned Hagar Says Growing Tension Led to His Firing." Los Angeles Times, 28 June 1996, www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1996-06-28-ca-19283-story.html.
  • 1 2 3 4 5 GEORGE Varga SPECIAL TO, RAVE!. "Sammy Hagar's Return to Van Halen has Turned into a Mutual Admiration Summer Tour." Daily Breeze, Aug 20 2004, p. K19. ProQuest. Web. 15 Nov. 2020.
  • ↑ Klosterman, Chuck. "Billboard Cover: Eddie Van Halen on Surviving Addiction, Why He's Still Making Music and What He Really Thinks of David Lee Roth (and Other Past Van Halen Bandmates)." Billboard, MRC Media, 19 June 2015, www.billboard.com/articles/columns/rock/6605231/eddie-van-halen-addiction-david-lee-roth-touring.
  • ↑ “How I Did It: Sammy Hagar.” Inc. Editorial. Inc, November Issue. https://www.inc.com/magazine/201311/liz-welch/sammy-hagar.html
  • 1 2 Wydeven, Reg. "Orioles, Van Halen Bicker about Broken Contract Agreement." The Post - Crescent, Sep 04 2004, ProQuest. Web. 15 Nov. 2020 .
  • ↑ "Van Halen Sues Orioles Over Stadium Concert: Salt Lake Telegram." Deseret News, Aug 21 2004, p. A02. ProQuest. Web. 15 Nov. 2020 .
  • ↑ Harris, Chris. "Van Halen Get To Play Ball Against The Orioles ... In Court." MTV News, 12 Aug. 2005, www.mtv.com/news/1507482/van-halen-get-to-play-ball-against-the-orioles-in-court/.
  • 1 2 "2004 Top 100 Tours." Pollstar, 2017, www.Pollstar.com/Chart/2017/03/2004YearendTop100Tours_485.pdf.
  • ↑ Waddell, Ray. "Exclusive: Van Halen Reuniting With Roth For Tour." Billboard, MRC Media, 24 Jan. 2007, www.billboard.com/articles/business/1055749/exclusive-van-halen-reuniting-with-roth-for-tour.
  • 1 2 Bracelin, Jason. "Feels Like Old Times; with Sammy Hagar Back on Stage, Van Halen Trudges on." Houston Press, Sep 23 2004, ProQuest. Web. 18 Nov. 2020.
  • ↑ Fox, Doug. “‘Hear About it Later:’ Van Halen rocks Delta Center.” Daily Herald. 6 Aug. 2004, https://www.heraldextra.com/lifestyles/hear-about-it-later-van-halen-rocks-delta-center/article_eca555a3-394b-59fe-9ad4-0359b3981773.html
  • ↑ Kielty, Martin. "Wolfgang Van Halen Was Ready for Michael Anthony's Return." Ultimate Classic Rock, 17 Nov. 2020, https://ultimateclassicrock.com/wolfgang-van-halen-michael-anthony-return/
  • ↑ "Van Halen Tour Dates 2004" . 2007-02-18. Archived from the original on 2007-02-18 . Retrieved 2020-12-12 .
  • ↑ "Van Halen Tour: 2004" . www.vharchives.com . Retrieved 2021-01-03 .
  • Van-Halen.com – The official Van Halen website
  • Van Halen NewsDesk
  • You are here
  • Everything Explained.Today
  • A-Z Contents
  • Summer Tour 2004 (Van Halen)

Summer Tour 2004 (Van Halen) Explained

The Van Halen Tour 2004 was a North American concert tour by hard rock band Van Halen . [1] It was the band's first tour since 1998 and saw the return of lead singer Sammy Hagar , who left the band in 1996 after tensions with lead guitarist Eddie Van Halen. [2]

Tensions between Hagar and Eddie Van Halen were rekindled during the rehearsals before the tour even started and continued until the last show. [3] The 2004 tour marked the last time that Hagar would ever perform with Van Halen. Some points of contention between the two included Eddie's increased struggles with substance abuse and Sammy Hagar’s promotion of his personal Cabo Wabo tequila brand. The tour also signaled the declining relationship of bassist Michael Anthony with Eddie and Alex Van Halen . [4] During the 2004 tour, Anthony was forced to lose his licensing rights to the band and to take a pay cut due to tensions with the Van Halen brothers. [5]

While commercially successful attendance was an issue, the tour generally received poor reviews from critics, with some alleging that Eddie was sloppy, unfocused, and the band was past their prime. [6] [7] The tour’s legacy has been similarly poor as well, especially regarding the off-stage developments involving Sammy Hagar and Michael Anthony. Nick Deriso of Ultimate Classic Rock called the tour “disastrous."

The 2004 tour was the first time that Van Halen had played together since 1998, with then lead singer Gary Cherone . In 2004, Van Halen reunited with Sammy Hagar , their second lead vocalist from 1985–1996, who had split with the band due to tensions with Eddie Van Halen. Hagar claimed that the 1996 split resulted from disagreements over recording new tracks for the movie Twister , after he was exhausted from touring in support of the band’s album Balance . [8] According to Hagar, he was then informed that the songs the band had recorded would be released without his vocals and were not going to be used for the Twister soundtrack, but for a greatest-hits album, which Hagar opposed. However, Eddie Van Halen claimed that the tensions with Hagar stemmed from the singer’s decision to produce his own “solo best-of set,” which increased tensions when Hagar then refused to partake in the Van Halen greatest hits release. Van Halen turned to David Lee Roth, the band’s first lead singer, to replace Hagar as the band's lead singer.

The 2004 reunion tour resulted after Sammy Hagar decided to call drummer Alex Van Halen in 2003 and “hit it off like old times." [9] After Hagar then called lead guitarist Eddie Van Halen, the band was once again reunited.

Originally, the band planned to release a full-length album, titled The Best of Both Worlds , which would have featured the instrumentals from the aborted second album with Gary Cherone, with Hagar on vocals. This plan was abandoned because Eddie Van Halen was only able to complete three of the tracks. They decided to release a new compilation double album featuring three new songs, which was to be followed by a reunion tour. The new songs were "It's About Time", "Up for Breakfast" and "Learning to See". Initially, 28 dates were announced, but the tour was extended to 80 across five months.

Michael Anthony originally thought that the tour would expand to Europe, Japan, and South America, but the idea was abandoned because of Hagar's feud with Eddie Van Halen.

Controversies

Hagar’s reunion with the band, and relationship with Eddie Van Halen, began well. In August 2004, Hagar said that he and Eddie Van Halen were going to “Pretend like it [the feud] never happened. We’re going to rise above it.” In an early review of the tour, Hagar was described as “undeniably delighted to be back together” with Van Halen. However, Hagar and Van Halen’s feelings of good ended up being short-lived.

Hagar accused Eddie of drinking too much, despite Eddie's denials: "It was horrible to know a person that was in that kind of shape." In his memoir, Hagar wrote that during the tour Van Halen was “unkempt, hunched over, frighteningly skinny” and “drinking wine straight out of a bottle." Van Halen was reported to have collapsed during the tour as well, in addition to playing poorly due to his struggles with substance abuse. Eddie Van Halen said that he was “an alcoholic” and that in 2004 he became a “very angry drunk,” although he claimed that Hagar’s memoir was “definitely embellished." [10]

Another point of contention during the tour was Sammy Hagar’s promotion of his Cabo Wabo tequila brand, to the displeasure of Eddie Van Halen. Bassist Michael Anthony said that “he [Eddie Van Halen] was never happy about that, the whole Cabo Wabo thing.” Anthony claimed that Sammy independently contracted with arenas to sell the tequila, which “would create some tension onstage and offstage." Hagar claims he was told by the Van Halen brothers, before the tour, that he would not be allowed to promote his Cabo Wabo tequila, so he purposefully “got a Cabo Wabo tattoo” on his arm and “wore short sleeves." [11]

The tour also caused controversy with Michael Anthony , the band's longtime bassist (performing with them until 2000 when they went on hiatus, but still officially a member in 2004). Anthony was hired as a touring musician rather than a 'real' member of the band, resulting in being paid a reduced commission. Initially, the Van Halen brothers did not want him on the tour at all, but Sammy Hagar refused to tour without him.

The tour also resulted in a legal dispute between Van Halen and the Baltimore Orioles . [12] The Orioles had contracted Van Halen to perform a September 2 concert at Oriole Park at Camden Yards for $1.5 million, in addition to 80 percent of ticket and merchandise revenues. However, the Orioles later canceled this deal, causing Van Halen to file a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court in Los Angeles, suing for at least $2 million. [13] Van Halen argued that they lost potential revenue in the Baltimore area from a non-compete clause and that they had to rearrange the 2004 tour for the show that the Orioles’ reneged on. [14]

According to Pollstar , the tour grossed $54.3 million, making it the sixth highest grossing tour of 2004. [15] Pollstar reports that the tour had an average ticket price of $99.12 and sold 1,054,238 tickets over 83 shows. However, according to Billboard Boxscore, the tour grossed nearly $40 million. [16]

Critical reception for the tour was generally negative, with some reviews alleging that the tour was a watered-down version of the band’s past versions. [17] Jason Bracelin, of the Houston Press , wrote that “In their prime, the guys in Van Halen were as sticky, sweaty, and accident-prone as the best keggers. Now, they’re hard-rock parental units approaching their fifties, and so are many of their fans." Kyle Munson, of The Des Moines Register , wrote that Van Halen sounded “sloppy” and alleged that Hagar seemed more focused with signing autographs than singing. [18] However, Doug Fox, after a performance in Salt Lake City , wrote that the future of Van Halen “seems to be on firmer ground as well with the return of Hagar." [19]

Overall, the tour’s long term reputation has been similarly poor, being described as both “Disastrous” by Nick Deriso of Ultimate Classic Rock and “Ill-Fated” by Andy Greene of Rolling Stone . The tour also is notable for its lasting damage on the relationship between lead singer Sammy Hagar and lead guitarist Eddie Van Halen. Sammy Hagar, in his memoir, wrote that after the 2004 tour, his relationship with Eddie Van Halen was “irretrievably broken." By the end of the tour, Anthony and Hagar reportedly used “different jets, different hotels, different limos, different security details" from the Van Halen brothers.

The tour also signaled the declining relationship between bassist Michael Anthony and the band. Allegedly, Alex and Eddie Van Halen did not want to tour with Anthony, while Hagar insisted upon his presence in the band. Anthony ended up being forced to relinquish his Van Halen licensing rights in addition to a pay cut. Anthony claims he accepted the deal because he thought it may have been the last time the band would ever perform together. In 2006, Eddie Van Halen fired Anthony from the band and replaced him with his son, Wolfgang Van Halen . [20]

Typical Setlist

  • " Runaround "
  • " Humans Being "
  • "Up for Breakfast"
  • "Somebody Get Me a Doctor"
  • " Poundcake "
  • "It's About Time"
  • " Top of the World "
  • " Unchained "
  • " Why Can't This Be Love "
  • " Eagles Fly "
  • "Deeper Kinda Love"
  • "Learning to See"
  • "Best of Both Worlds"
  • Guitar solo
  • " Ain't Talkin' 'bout Love "
  • " Right Now "
  • " You Really Got Me "
  • " When It's Love "
  • " Runnin' with the Devil " (occasionally with Michael Anthony on vocals)
  • "The Seventh Seal" (occasionally)
  • " Finish What Ya Started " (occasionally)
  • Sammy Hagar – lead vocals, guitar
  • Eddie Van Halen – lead guitar, keyboards, backing vocals
  • Michael Anthony – bass guitar, backing vocals
  • Alex Van Halen – drums, percussion

Additional musician

  • Wolfgang Van Halen – rhythm guitar (during "316")

External links

  • Van-Halen.com – The official Van Halen website
  • Van Halen NewsDesk

Notes and References

  • http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=49721 MICHAEL ANTHONY Speaks Candidly About VAN HALEN's Past And Future
  • Giles, Jeff. "The Day Sammy Hagar Split from Van Halen." Ultimate Classic Rock, 16 June 2016, https://ultimateclassicrock.com/sammy-hagar-splits-van-halen/.
  • Greene . Andy . Van Halen Reunite With Sammy Hagar in 2004 . Rolling Stone . 18 December 2020 . 8 August 2013.
  • Deriso, Nick. “When Van Halen Mounted a Disastrous Reunion with Sammy Hagar.” Ultimate Classic Rock. 11 June 2015. https://ultimateclassicrock.com/sammy-hagar-van-halen-reunion-2004/
  • Elliott. Paul. October 2013. What do you do with $80 million? Anything you want!. Classic Rock #189. 48.
  • Bracelin, Jason. "Feels Like Old Times; with Sammy Hagar Back on Stage, Van Halen Trudges on." Houston Press, Sep 23 2004, ProQuest. Web. 18 Nov. 2020.
  • Munson, Kyle. "Headline: Van Halen Squeezes Out More Notes." Des Moines Register, Nov 06 2004, ProQuest. Web. 15 Nov. 2020 .
  • Hochman, Steve. "Stunned Hagar Says Growing Tension Led to His Firing." Los Angeles Times, 28 June 1996, www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1996-06-28-ca-19283-story.html.
  • GEORGE Varga SPECIAL TO, RAVE!. "Sammy Hagar's Return to Van Halen has Turned into a Mutual Admiration Summer Tour." Daily Breeze, Aug 20 2004, p. K19. ProQuest. Web. 15 Nov. 2020.
  • Klosterman, Chuck. "Billboard Cover: Eddie Van Halen on Surviving Addiction, Why He's Still Making Music and What He Really Thinks of David Lee Roth (and Other Past Van Halen Bandmates)." Billboard, MRC Media, 19 June 2015, www.billboard.com/articles/columns/rock/6605231/eddie-van-halen-addiction-david-lee-roth-touring.
  • “How I Did It: Sammy Hagar.” Inc. Editorial. Inc, November Issue. https://www.inc.com/magazine/201311/liz-welch/sammy-hagar.html
  • Wydeven, Reg. "Orioles, Van Halen Bicker about Broken Contract Agreement." The Post - Crescent, Sep 04 2004, ProQuest. Web. 15 Nov. 2020 .
  • "Van Halen Sues Orioles Over Stadium Concert: Salt Lake Telegram." Deseret News, Aug 21 2004, p. A02. ProQuest. Web. 15 Nov. 2020 .

www.mtv.com/news/1507482/van-halen-get-to-play-ball-against-the-orioles-in-court/.

www.Pollstar.com/Chart/2017/03/2004YearendTop100Tours_485.pdf.

  • Waddell, Ray. "Exclusive: Van Halen Reuniting With Roth For Tour." Billboard, MRC Media, 24 Jan. 2007, www.billboard.com/articles/business/1055749/exclusive-van-halen-reuniting-with-roth-for-tour.
  • Fox, Doug. “‘Hear About it Later:’ Van Halen rocks Delta Center.” Daily Herald. 6 Aug. 2004, https://www.heraldextra.com/lifestyles/hear-about-it-later-van-halen-rocks-delta-center/article_eca555a3-394b-59fe-9ad4-0359b3981773.html
  • Kielty, Martin. "Wolfgang Van Halen Was Ready for Michael Anthony's Return." Ultimate Classic Rock, 17 Nov. 2020, https://ultimateclassicrock.com/wolfgang-van-halen-michael-anthony-return/
  • Web site: 2007-02-18. Van Halen Tour Dates 2004 . https://web.archive.org/web/20070218122629/http://www.redrocker.com/old_site/vhtour2004.html. dead. 2007-02-18. 2020-12-12.
  • Web site: Van Halen Tour: 2004 . 2021-01-03. www.vharchives.com.

This article is licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License . It uses material from the Wikipedia article " Summer Tour 2004 (Van Halen) ".

Except where otherwise indicated, Everything.Explained.Today is © Copyright 2009-2024, A B Cryer, All Rights Reserved. Cookie policy .

Van Halen Summer Tour 2004

Photo.

19 Aug 2004 - Van Halen at Staples Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA

Main Jump , Runaround , Humans Being , Up for Breakfast , Bass Solo , Somebody Get Me a Doctor , Poundcake , It's About Time , Drum Solo , Top of the World , Unchained , Why Can't This Be Love , Rainy Day Women #12 & 35 by Bob Dylan , Eagles Fly by Sammy Hagar , Hallelujah by Sammy Hagar And The Wabos , The Seventh Seal , Best of Both Worlds , Guitar Solo , Dreams , Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love , Right Now

Encore 1 You Really Got Me , Panama

Encore 2 When It's Love

summer tour 2004

19 Nov 2004 - Van Halen at AVA Amphitheater, Tuscon, AZ, USA

Main Jump , Runaround , Humans Being , Up for Breakfast , Bass Solo , Somebody Get Me a Doctor , Poundcake , It's About Time , Drum Solo , Top of the World , Unchained , Why Can't This Be Love , Tropic of Capricorn by Sammy Hagar , I Can't Drive 55 by Sammy Hagar , The Seventh Seal , Best of Both Worlds , Guitar Solo , Dreams , Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love , Right Now , You Really Got Me by The Kinks , Panama , When It's Love

6 Aug 2004 - Van Halen at Mandalay Bay Events Center, Las Vegas, NV, USA

Main Jump , Runaround , Humans Being , Up for Breakfast , Bass Solo , Somebody Get Me a Doctor , Poundcake , It's About Time , Drum Solo , Top of the World , Unchained , Why Can't This Be Love , Eagles Fly by Sammy Hagar , Hallelujah by Sammy Hagar And The Wabos , The Seventh Seal , Best of Both Worlds , Guitar Solo , Dreams , Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love , Right Now

Encore 1 You Really Got Me by The Kinks , Panama

5 Aug 2004 - Van Halen at America West Arena, Phoenix, AZ, USA

11 jun 2004 - van halen at greensboro coliseum, greensboro, nc, usa.

Main Jump , Runaround , Humans Being , Up for Breakfast , Bass Solo , Somebody Get Me a Doctor , Poundcake , It's About Time , Drum Solo , Top of the World , Unchained , Why Can't This Be Love , Eagles Fly by Sammy Hagar , Deeper Kinda Love by Sammy Hagar , Learning to See , Best of Both Worlds , Guitar Solo , Dreams , Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love , Right Now

summer tour 2004

1 Oct 2004 - Van Halen at The Orleans Arena, Las Vegas, NV, USA

Main Jump , Runaround , Humans Being , Up for Breakfast , Bass Solo , Somebody Get Me a Doctor , Poundcake , It's About Time , Drum Solo , Top of the World , Unchained , Why Can't This Be Love , Eagles Fly by Sammy Hagar , Tropic of Capricorn by Sammy Hagar , The Seventh Seal , Best of Both Worlds , Guitar Solo , Dreams , Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love , Right Now

2 Oct 2004 - Van Halen at ABQ Journal Pavilion, Albuquerque, NM, USA

13 jun 2004 - van halen at hershey park stadium, hershey, pa, usa, 14 jun 2004 - van halen at hsbc arena, buffalo, ny, usa, 16 jun 2004 - van halen at wachovia center, philadelphia, pa, usa, 17 jun 2004 - van halen at wachovia spectrum, philadelphia, pa, usa.

Main Jump , Runaround , Humans Being , Up for Breakfast , Bass Solo , Runnin' With the Devil , Poundcake , It's About Time , Drum Solo , Dreams , Unchained , Why Can't This Be Love , Eagles Fly by Sammy Hagar , The Seventh Seal , Best of Both Worlds , Guitar Solo , Top of the World , Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love , Right Now

18 Nov 2004 - Van Halen at AVA Amphitheater, Tuscon, AZ, USA

Main Jump , Runaround , Humans Being , Up for Breakfast , Bass Solo , Somebody Get Me a Doctor , Poundcake , It's About Time , Drum Solo , Top of the World , Unchained , Why Can't This Be Love , Tropic of Capricorn by Sammy Hagar , I Can't Drive 55 by Sammy Hagar , The Seventh Seal , Best of Both Worlds , Guitar Solo , Dreams , Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love , Right Now

13 Nov 2004 - Van Halen at Rushmore Plaza Civic Center, Rapid City, SD, USA

Main Jump , Runaround , Humans Being , Up for Breakfast , Bass Solo , Somebody Get Me a Doctor , Poundcake , It's About Time , Drum Solo , Top of the World , Unchained , Why Can't This Be Love , Eagles Fly by Sammy Hagar , I Can't Drive 55 by Sammy Hagar , The Seventh Seal , Best of Both Worlds , Guitar Solo , Dreams , Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love , Right Now

7 Aug 2004 - Van Halen at Mandalay Bay Events Center, Las Vegas, NV, USA

Main You Really Got Me by The Kinks , Runaround , Humans Being , Up for Breakfast , Bass Solo , Somebody Get Me a Doctor , Poundcake , It's About Time , Drum Solo , Dreams , Unchained , Why Can't This Be Love , Eagles Fly by Sammy Hagar , Hallelujah by Sammy Hagar And The Wabos , The Seventh Seal , Best of Both Worlds , Guitar Solo , Top of the World , Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love , Right Now

Encore 1 Jump , Panama

1 Aug 2004 - Van Halen at Pepsi Center, Denver, CO, USA

19 jun 2004 - van halen at worcester's centrum centre, worcester, ma, usa.

Main Jump , Runaround , Humans Being , Up for Breakfast , Bass Solo , Somebody Get Me a Doctor , Poundcake , It's About Time , Drum Solo , Top of the World , Unchained , Why Can't This Be Love , Eagles Fly by Sammy Hagar , Deeper Kinda Love by Sammy Hagar , The Seventh Seal , Best of Both Worlds , Guitar Solo , Dreams , Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love , Right Now

20 Jun 2004 - Van Halen at Worcester's Centrum Centre, Worcester, MA, USA

Main Jump , Runaround , Humans Being , Up for Breakfast , Bass Solo , Somebody Get Me a Doctor , Poundcake , It's About Time , Drum Solo , Top of the World , Unchained , Why Can't This Be Love , Eagles Fly by Sammy Hagar , Deeper Kinda Love by Sammy Hagar , Learning to See , Best of Both Worlds , Guitar Solo , Dreams , Right Now

Encore 1 Finish What Ya Started , Panama

22 Jun 2004 - Van Halen at Continental Airlines Arena, East Rutherford, NJ, USA

25 jun 2004 - van halen at mci center, washington, dc, usa.

Main Jump , Runaround + My Generation by The Who , Humans Being , Up for Breakfast , Bass Solo , Somebody Get Me a Doctor , Poundcake , It's About Time , Drum Solo , Top of the World , Unchained , Why Can't This Be Love , Eagles Fly by Sammy Hagar , Deeper Kinda Love by Sammy Hagar , Learning to See , Best of Both Worlds , Guitar Solo , Dreams , Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Love , Right Now

26 Jun 2004 - Van Halen at Pepsi Arena, Albany, NY, USA

Summer Tour

Summer Tour

25 May 2004

Estadio El Molinon, Av. del Molinón, s/n,33203 Gijón, Asturias, Spain

28 May 2004

Parque Bela Vista, Parque da Belavista – Marvila, 1950-000 Lisboa, Portugal

30 May 2004

Estadio la Pienta, Plaza de Grecia, s/n, 28022 Madrid, Spain

2 June 2004

Letzigrund Stadium, Badenerstrasse 500, 8048 Zürich, Switzerland

4 June 2004

Zentralstadion, Am Sportforum 2, 04105 Leipzig, Germany

6 June 2004

T-Mobile Park, Prague, Hlavní Mesto Praha, Czech Republic

8 June 2004

Forum Stadium, Langmarksvej 53, 8700 Horsens, Denmark

9 June 2004

12 June 2004

Ullevi Stadium, Ullevigatan, 411 39 Göteborg, Sweden

14 June 2004

Valle Hovin Stadion, Innspurten 1, 0663 Oslo, Norway

17 June 2004

Olympiastadion, Paavo Nurmen tie 1, 00250 Helsinki, Finland

St. Petersburg

20 June 2004

Palace Square, St Petersburg, Russia

24 June 2004

Stade de France, 93216 Saint-Denis, France

Glastonbury

26 June 2004

Worthy Farm, Worthy Ln, Pilton, Shepton Mallet BA4 4BY United Kingdom

Tour Information

In May 2004, Paul embarked on this 14-date European stadium tour which saw him play shows in places he had never been before, including Portugal and the Czech Republic. The tour culminated with Paul's now historic headline performance at Glastonbury Festival, with 120,000 festival-goers gathered to watch what has now become one of the festival’s most legendary moments. British music paper _NME_ declared, “Spare a thought for Michael Eavis. He could live to host 100 more Glastos and he’ll never top this,” while _The Observer_ reported, “His appeal continues to bridge generations.” Later that year Paul was honoured at the _NME_ Awards when they presented the award for Best Event for his performance on the famous Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury.

Related Articles

Black and white photograph of Paul McCartney raising his hand in the air while on stage in front of a sold-out crowd at Mané Garrincha Stadium in Brasília.

For Whom The Bell Tells: 'GOT BACK' Mexico and Brazil Tour 2023

Black and white photo of Paul singing into a microphone on stage

Paul Plays Club Show in Brasília

Photo of Paul used on the 'Got Back' tour poster

NEW SHOW ADDED: Paul announces Mexico dates for the 'Got Back' tour

Phish.net

  •   Twitter
  •   Facebook
  •   Instagram
  • Phish Setlists
  • Guest Appearances
  • Upcoming Shows
  • Largest Gaps
  • Song Histories
  • Discography
  • The Man Who Stepped Into Yesterday
  • Dinner and a Movie Episodes
  • A Cappella Chart
  • Bustout Chart
  • Debut Chart
  • Guest Chart
  • LivePhish Tracks Chart
  • Makisupa Keyword Chart
  • Narration Chart
  • Secret Language Language Chart
  • Song Totals Chart
  • Tease Chart
  • Tease Timings
  • Tour/Show Openers Chart
  • 20+ Minute Jam Chart
  • Longest Versions Chart
  • Acoustic Trey Chart
  • Side Project 20+ Min Jam Chart
  • Side Project Debuts
  • Fan Reviews
  • Archived Reviews
  • Phish.net Timeline
  • Phish.net History in Screenshots
  • Confirming Your Account
  • Phish.net Technologies
  • Random Setlist
  • Trey's Notebook

2004 Late Summer Tour (2004 Summer)

August, 2004.

Phish.net is a non-commercial project run by Phish fans and for Phish fans under the auspices of the all-volunteer, non-profit Mockingbird Foundation.

This project serves to compile, preserve, and protect encyclopedic information about Phish and their music.

Credits | Terms Of Use | Legal | DMCA

Donate to Mockingbird

Click here to contact us

The Mockingbird Foundation

The Mockingbird Foundation is a non-profit organization founded by Phish fans in 1996 to generate charitable proceeds from the Phish community.

And since we're entirely volunteer – with no office, salaries, or paid staff – administrative costs are less than 2% of revenues! So far, we've distributed over $2 million to support music education for children – hundreds of grants in all 50 states, with more on the way.

  • Meet the Team
  • Work with Us
  • Czech Republic
  • Netherlands
  • Switzerland
  • Scandinavia
  • Philippines
  • South Korea
  • New Zealand
  • South Africa
  • Budget Travel
  • Work & Travel
  • The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
  • Travel Resources
  • How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

summer tour 2004

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

Best Time To Visit Moscow

Where to stay in moscow, moscow itinerary, day 1 itinerary in moscow, day 2 itinerary in moscow, day 3 and beyond, staying safe in moscow, day trips from moscow, faq on moscow itinerary.

Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

when to visit moscow

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

summer tour 2004

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

where to stay in moscow

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

moscow itinerary

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

moscow itinerary

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

moscow itinerary

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

moscow itinerary

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

  • Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
  • Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
  • Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The Red Square

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

  • Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
  • Cost: USD $15.00
  • Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The Moscow Kremlin

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

  • Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
  • Cost: Free!
  • Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Lenins Mausoleum

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

  • Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
  • Cost: USD $8.00
  • Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

St. Basils Cathedral

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

  • Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
  • Cost: Free to enter
  • Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

GUM Department Store

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

summer tour 2004

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

  • Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
  • Cost: USD $5.00
  • Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Novodevichy Convent

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

  • Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
  • Cost: Free! 
  • Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

  • Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
  • Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The State Tretyakov Gallery

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

  • Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
  • Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

All Russian Exhibition Center

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

  • Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
  • Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
  • Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Bolshoi Theater

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

moscow itinerary

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

  • Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

  • Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
  • This museum is fun for both adults and children!
  • Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

  • A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
  • Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
  • The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

The Alexander Garden

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

  • Television and radio tower in Moscow
  • Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
  • Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

Ostankino Television Tower

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

  • The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
  • Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
  • Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Izmaylovo District

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

  • Closed on Mondays
  • Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
  • The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

summer tour 2004

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

Sergiev Posad Golden Ring

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage and Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

Trip to Kolomna - Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Active Roots Security Belt

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

summer tour 2004

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

Alya and Campbell

Moscow Itinerary Pinterest Image

Share or save this post

promotional sidebar image for booking.com

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

setlist.fm logo

  • Statistics Stats
  • You are here:
  • Tour Statistics
  • Song Statistics Stats
  • Tour Statistics Stats
  • Other Statistics

All Setlists

  • All setlist songs  ( 2152 )

Years on tour

  • 2024  ( 15 )
  • 2023  ( 37 )
  • 2022  ( 67 )
  • 2021  ( 43 )
  • 2020  ( 14 )
  • 2019  ( 54 )
  • 2018  ( 50 )
  • 2017  ( 74 )
  • 2016  ( 42 )
  • 2015  ( 43 )
  • 2014  ( 52 )
  • 2013  ( 31 )
  • 2012  ( 56 )
  • 2011  ( 61 )
  • 2010  ( 60 )
  • 2009  ( 76 )
  • 2008  ( 61 )
  • 2007  ( 51 )
  • 2006  ( 54 )
  • 2005  ( 88 )
  • 2004  ( 48 )
  • 2003  ( 87 )
  • 2002  ( 87 )
  • 2001  ( 109 )
  • 2000  ( 119 )
  • 1999  ( 68 )
  • 1998  ( 16 )
  • 1997  ( 94 )
  • 1996  ( 125 )
  • 1995  ( 128 )
  • 1994  ( 131 )
  • 1993  ( 105 )
  • 1992  ( 3 )
  • 1991  ( 2 )
  • 1990  ( 1 )

Show all tours

  • 311 Caribbean Cruise  ( 7 )
  • Fall 1994  ( 46 )
  • Fall Tour 1999  ( 58 )
  • Fall Tour 2000  ( 20 )
  • Fall Tour 2001  ( 43 )
  • Fall Tour 2003  ( 44 )
  • Fall Tour 2005  ( 45 )
  • Fall Tour 2009  ( 23 )
  • Fall Tour 2010  ( 13 )
  • Fall Tour 2011  ( 9 )
  • Fall Tour 2017  ( 19 )
  • Fall Tour 2022  ( 29 )
  • Fall Tour 2023  ( 15 )
  • From Chaos  ( 29 )
  • H.O.R.D.E Festival 1996  ( 5 )
  • Live From the Ride 2021  ( 38 )
  • Soundsystem  ( 1 )
  • Spring Tour 2000  ( 1 )
  • Spring Tour 2006  ( 17 )
  • Spring Tour 2008  ( 26 )
  • Spring Tour 2009  ( 23 )
  • Spring Tour 2010  ( 20 )
  • Spring Tour 2011  ( 14 )
  • Spring Tour 2012  ( 8 )
  • Spring Tour 2014  ( 14 )
  • Spring Tour 2015  ( 12 )
  • Spring Tour 2017  ( 9 )
  • Spring Tour 2018  ( 11 )
  • Spring Tour 2019  ( 11 )
  • Spring Tour 2020  ( 9 )
  • Spring Tour 2022  ( 38 )
  • Sprite Liquid Mix Tour 2002  ( 15 )
  • Summer Tour 2000  ( 31 )
  • Summer Tour 2002  ( 8 )
  • Summer Tour 2019  ( 35 )
  • Tour 1990  ( 1 )
  • Tour 1991  ( 2 )
  • Tour 1992  ( 3 )
  • Tour 1993  ( 102 )
  • Tour 1994  ( 16 )
  • Tour 1995  ( 67 )
  • Tour 1996  ( 82 )
  • Transistor  ( 72 )
  • Unity Tour Summer 2003  ( 41 )
  • Unity Tour Summer 2004  ( 31 )
  • Unity Tour Summer 2005  ( 39 )
  • Unity Tour Summer 2006  ( 37 )
  • Unity Tour Summer 2007  ( 51 )
  • Unity Tour Summer 2008  ( 34 )
  • Unity Tour Summer 2009  ( 29 )
  • Unity Tour Summer 2010  ( 27 )
  • Unity Tour Summer 2011  ( 34 )
  • Unity Tour Summer 2012  ( 42 )
  • Unity Tour Summer 2013  ( 26 )
  • Unity Tour Summer 2014  ( 37 )
  • Unity Tour Summer 2015  ( 26 )
  • Unity Tour Summer 2016  ( 34 )
  • Unity Tour Summer 2017  ( 42 )
  • Unity Tour Summer 2018  ( 35 )
  • Vans Warped Tour 1996  ( 5 )
  • Vans Warped Tour 2001  ( 33 )
  • Winter Tour 2000  ( 31 )
  • Winter Tour 2002  ( 37 )
  • Winter Tour 2004  ( 12 )
  • Winter Tour 2019  ( 5 )
  • Avg Setlist
  • Concert Map

Average setlist for tour: Summer Tour 2004

No suitable data to calculate an average setlist. Most likely all setlists for this selection are still empty.

  • Mar 8, 2024
  • Mar 7, 2024
  • Mar 6, 2024
  • Mar 5, 2024
  • Mar 4, 2024
  • Mar 3, 2024
  • FAQ | Help | About
  • Terms of Service
  • Ad Choices | Privacy Policy
  • Feature requests
  • Songtexte.com

summer tour 2004

IMAGES

  1. Summer Tour 2004 (Van Halen)

    summer tour 2004

  2. Peter Frampton

    summer tour 2004

  3. @linkinpark summer tour 2004. Pretty atmospheric picture. Best times. #

    summer tour 2004

  4. Summer Tour 2004 (Blink-182 and No Doubt)

    summer tour 2004

  5. Eddie Van Halen Summer Tour 2004 music star pop music Silk

    summer tour 2004

  6. Paul McCartney 2004 Summer Tour

    summer tour 2004

COMMENTS

  1. Summer Tour 2004 (Van Halen)

    Summer Tour 2004 (Van Halen) Michael Anthony, Sammy Hagar, and Eddie Van Halen performing during 2004. The Van Halen Tour 2004 was a North American concert tour by hard rock band Van Halen. [1] It was the band's first tour since 1998 and saw the return of lead singer Sammy Hagar, who left the band in 1996 after tensions with lead guitarist ...

  2. Summer Tour 2004 (Blink-182 and No Doubt)

    Blink-182 / No Doubt Summer Tour 2004 was a concert tour co-headlined by American rock bands Blink-182 and No Doubt. Launched in support of Blink-182's eponymous fifth studio album and No Doubt's The Singles 1992-2003, the tour took place in the summer of 2004 and saw the two Southern California groups travel to US amphitheatres .

  3. When Van Halen Mounted a Disastrous Reunion With Sammy Hagar

    Then came the announcement of a tour, which kicked off on June 11, 2004, at Greensboro, N.C. "Ed and Al started playing me some music they had been working on, and it was just extremely inspiring ...

  4. Summer Tour 2004

    Phish will embark on a 26-date Summer Tour (including their 4-day Mondegreen Festival) this July, August, and September. ... Summer Tour 2004. Jun 17. 2004 KeySpan Park. Brooklyn, NY, United States map. details. Jun 18. 2004 KeySpan Park. Brooklyn, NY, United States map. details. Jun 19. 2004 Saratoga Performing Arts Center. Saratoga Springs ...

  5. Summer Tour 2004 (Van Halen)

    Michael Anthony, Sammy Hagar, and Eddie Van Halen performing during 2004. The Van Halen Tour 2004 was a North American concert tour by hard rock band Van Halen. [1] It was the band's first tour since 1998 and saw the return of lead singer Sammy Hagar, who left the band in 1996 after tensions with lead guitarist Eddie Van Halen. [1] [2] Contents

  6. Summer Tour 2004 (Van Halen) Explained

    Nick Deriso of Ultimate Classic Rock called the tour "disastrous." Background. The 2004 tour was the first time that Van Halen had played together since 1998, with then lead singer Gary Cherone. In 2004, Van Halen reunited with Sammy Hagar, their second lead vocalist from 1985-1996, who had split with the band due to tensions with Eddie Van ...

  7. Blink-182 in Concert

    Blink-182 in Concert (also known as The Summer Tour and the Greatest Hits Tour) was the tenth concert tour by American rock band Blink-182 and was the band's first tour since 2004. Bassist/singer Mark Hoppus jokingly referred to the tour as One Way Ticket to Boneville, a name they got from a fan on a KROQ interview. In 2009, it ranked 32nd on Pollstar's "Top 50 Tours in North America", earning ...

  8. Summer Tour 2004, 2004

    Summer Tour 2004, 2004

  9. Van Halen's 2004 Concert & Tour History

    85 Concerts. Van Halen was an American rock band formed in Pasadena, California, in 1972. Credited with "restoring hard rock to the forefront of the music scene", Van Halen was known for its energetic live shows and for the virtuosity of its lead guitarist, Eddie Van Halen. The band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2007.

  10. Phish Concert Setlist at KeySpan Park, Brooklyn on June 18, 2004

    Colorado '88 1. Farmhouse 1. Hoist 1. Lawn Boy 1. Live Phish, Volume 03: 2000‐09‐14: Darien Lake Performing Arts Center, Darien Center, NY, USA 1. Phish (The White Tape) 1. Undermind 1. Tour stats. Complete Album stats.

  11. Phish Setlist at Coventry 2004

    The Story of the Ghost 2. 1998‐11‐27: The Centrum, Worcester, MA, USA 1. 2004‐08‐15: Newport State Airport, Coventry, VT, USA 1. Billy Breathes 1. Farmhouse 1. Hampton Comes Alive 1. Live Bait, Vol. 16 1. Live Phish, Volume 03: 2000‐09‐14: Darien Lake Performing Arts Center, Darien Center, NY, USA 1. Phish (The White Tape) 1.

  12. blink‐182 Concert Setlist at Tweeter Center, Camden on June 6, 2004

    Get the blink‐182 Setlist of the concert at Tweeter Center, Camden, NJ, USA on June 6, 2004 from the Blink-182/No Doubt Summer Tour 2004 Tour and other blink‐182 Setlists for free on setlist.fm!

  13. Paul McCartney

    In May 2004, Paul embarked on this 14-date European stadium tour which saw him play shows in places he had never been before, including Portugal and the Czech Republic. The tour culminated with Paul's now historic headline performance at Glastonbury Festival, with 120,000 festival-goers gathered to watch what has now become one of the festival's most legendary moments.

  14. Paul McCartney "04 Summer Tour" Page 1

    PAUL McCARTNEY - '04 SUMMER TOUR. ITINERARY - Page 1. CLICK LINKS TO GO TO REPORTS. May 25 - Gijon, Spain - Estadio El Molinon. May 28 - Lisbon, Portugal - Parque Bela Vista, "Rock In Rio Festival". May 30 - Madrid, Spain - Estadio De Madrid La Peineta. June 2 - Zurich, Switzerland - Letzigrund Stadium.

  15. Tours

    2004 Late Summer Tour (2004 Summer) August, 2004 2004-08-09 Hampton Coliseum Hampton, VA 2004-08-10 Tweeter Center Mansfield, MA 2004-08-11 Tweeter Center Mansfield, MA 2004-08-12 Tweeter Center at the Waterfront Camden, NJ 2004-08-13 Newport State Airport Coventry, VT ...

  16. Phish Concert Setlist at Hampton Coliseum, Hampton on August 9, 2004

    Get the Phish Setlist of the concert at Hampton Coliseum, Hampton, VA, USA on August 9, 2004 from the Summer Tour 2004 Tour and other Phish Setlists for free on setlist.fm!

  17. [4K] Walking Streets Moscow. Moscow-City

    Walking tour around Moscow-City.Thanks for watching!MY GEAR THAT I USEMinimalist Handheld SetupiPhone 11 128GB https://amzn.to/3zfqbboMic for Street https://...

  18. Summer Tour 2004 (Van Halen)

    The Van Halen Tour 2004 was a North American concert tour by hard rock band Van Halen. It was the band's first tour since 1998 and saw the return of lead singer Sammy Hagar, who left the band in 1996 after tensions with lead guitarist Eddie Van Halen.. Tensions between Hagar and Eddie Van Halen were rekindled during the rehearsals before the tour even started and continued until the last show.

  19. EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024 Guide)

    The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. ... In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! ... On this 10-hour tour, you'll escape the city and ...

  20. Summer Evening Walk in Moscow

    THE VIDEO WAS FILMED BEFORE THE WAR IN UKRAINE!Welcome to our 4K urban walking tour in Moscow! Join us for a relaxing summer evening stroll through the bustl...

  21. Phish Tour Statistics: Summer Tour 2004

    View the statistics of songs played live by Phish. Have a look which song was played how often on the tour Summer Tour 2004!

  22. [4K] Walking Tour

    #russiatoday #moscowcity #moscowwalks Use Russia best Online Shopping here (Yandex Market)My Microphone : https://ya.cc/m/Tcw4ZYpMy Television : https://ya...

  23. 311 Average Setlists of tour: Summer Tour 2004

    Average setlist for tour: Summer Tour 2004. No suitable data do calculate an average setlist. Most likely all setlists for this selection are still empty. View average setlists, openers, closers and encores of 311 for the tour Summer Tour 2004!