As always, ideas for family outings are certainly not in short supply in Paris, even this early in the year. In fact, the winter period in the capital offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy activities suitable for all ages. Parents and children love to share adventures in science, art and nature, and with the abundance of scientific and educational institutions, museums and gardens in Paris, you will surely be spoiled for choice. So to help you decide, here are a few recommendations for wonderful outings that the entire family will enjoy.
Science and playful discovery
Paris offers attractions with a science theme that are intended specifically for young people. An essential destination for budding scientists, the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie welcomes young and old in a magical place where irresistible exhibitions and experiments enable your kids to make discoveries and learn in a fun and interactive way. Between the Children's City, the Geode, the Planetarium and the Argonaut (a real submarine to explore), there is plenty of choice for a fantastic day. Another fascinating place, the Palais de la Découverte, focuses on basic science and offers various themed rooms and exhibitions. Here, children and their parents can discover the magic of astronomy, physics, biology, and genetics, among other exciting disciplines.
Culture and entertainment
After all that scientific research, it’s time to enjoy some works of art. An absolute must for family fun when you’re in Paris is a visit to the Musée Grévin. Whatever your age, you will surely be fascinated by the amazing replicas of celebrities and historical figures to be found in this, one of the oldest wax museums in Europe. Located on the Grands Boulevards, the building is hugely impressive, its opulent baroque architecture enchants visitors and draws them on a journey into a unique and magical world. Pose for souvenir photos with the biggest celebrities from around the world! For an even more unusual experience, the Musée en Herbe is excellent. An art museum designed with children in mind, it offers exhibitions, guided tours, workshops and interactive events intended to stimulate young minds to discover the wonderful world of visual creativity.
Nature and relaxation
The parks and gardens of Paris are a delight, each more welcoming than the last, but the Jardin d'Acclimatation is one of the most completely family friendly. It invites families to enjoy a day of relaxation and discovery at the heart of the Bois de Boulogne. Children can participate in a range of activities and workshops, as well as amusements including a miniature railway, pony rides, and puppet shows. A special family moment can be savoured with a boat ride on the Enchanted River. Then there’s the amazing opportunities presented by the Natural History Museum for learning more about the fauna and flora of our beautiful planet. There, in the Jardin des Plantes, the children will love roaming the gardens, exploring the greenhouses and discovering the charming little zoo.
******
More information :
• Science and Industry museum
30 Corentin Cariou-avenue, Paris 19th
• The Palace of Discovery
Avenue Franklin Roosevelt, Paris 8th
• Grevin museum
10, boulevard Montmartre, Paris 9th
• Museum in Grass
23, rue de L'Arbre Sec, Paris 1
• Ornamental garden
Bois de Boulogne, Les Sablons, rue d'Orleans, Paris Hauts de Seine
• Bois de Boulogne
Porte Dauphine Porte de La Muette, Porte de Passy or Porte d'Auteuil, Paris 16th
• Natural History Museum
36, rue Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire, Paris 5th
• Botanical Garden (Garden of plants)
57, rue Cuvier, Paris 5th
Hotel Paris France, a charming 2-star hotel near the Louvre