The main building of this institution was constructed in the late 18th century. In the 19th century, a red brick annex was added to it. In the last century, this annex housed a museum, which is open for visits today. It is the only museum of its kind in Russia.

The museum carefully recreates the atmosphere of 19th-century gymnasiums, including the setting of classrooms and other rooms. The classrooms feature maps, diagrams, globes, photographs of the city, and antique educational instruments. Visitors can sit at desks that are over 100 years old and see textbooks from that time. Among the most interesting exhibits is Franklin's kettle, which activates with a touch, and the only surviving sundial from the Borgard trading house, made in the mid-19th century.

The tour will tell about the teaching and upbringing methods of students in the 19th century, the history of the gymnasium, its famous alumni and teachers. The renowned revolutionary V. I. Lenin also studied here.