Paris, the city of light, has so much to offer all age groups. The city has something for everyone. Whether it be exploring the millions of parks, cafes, canals, museums, or just walking through the city itself, there are so many highlights. One of our writers, Lena Mobin, who currently lives in Paris has found some of the top family-friendly activities in the city.
1. Sailboats and French Puppets in Jardin du Luxembourg
Jardin de Luxembourg is Paris’ most well-known park. Commonly seen in travel books as one of the top attractions in Paris, this park is great no matter what age you are. Adults can grab a drink at a petit café of have a picnic by the Grand Bassin while the kids sail 1920s toy sailboats in the fountain, ride ponies or watch marionette puppets at Théâtre du Luxembourg. The park is filled with playgrounds and picnic spots. While the vintage toy boats aren’t available in winter, everything else is year-round with the exception of special holidays.
2. Tour Montparnasse Amusing Views
The Montparnasse Tower panoramic observation deck isn’t only one of the best places to get a 360° view of Paris, but it is also one of the most entertaining. The 689 ft office skyscraper has fun activities that range from week to week such as roller skating or trampolines events. More information can been seen on their website or Facebook.
3. Feline Paw-some at Le Café des Chats
A perfect place for cat and animal lovers. Le Café des Chats is a restaurant and tea room where cats roam around freely. Customers can interact with the cats as they sip on an organic tea or the amazing, thick hot chocolate. Everything is homemade and guaranteed to be delicious. Plus the company of a cat makes it all better. The best part is knowing some of profits of the cafe go to a feline protection program.
4. Balloon Ride at Parc André Citroën
Formerly housing a car manufacturing plant, Parc André Citroën was changed into an urban park in the 70s. Have a picnic with the family in this modern park or float up 150 meters into the sky with le Ballon Air de Paris. It’s another fun way to get a 360° view of Paris.
5. Bois de Vincennes Rowboats and Parc Zoologique de Paris
Escape from the city into the beautiful eastern woods of Bois de Vincennes. Filled with fun activities, some of the highlights are rowboating in the lake or visiting Paris’ largest zoo. There you’ll also find perfect picnic spots for your baguette, castles to escape to, and botanical gardens to fall in love with.
6. Parc de la Villette and Cité des Sciences
Parc de la Villette is a geometric park is filled with things to explore for the whole family. Check out one of the many theater or musical events being held at Le Zénith or join one of the many workshops for children. While you’re at the park, make your way over to the city’s best museum for kids, Cité des Sciences. There children aged two and up can enjoy three floors of interactive exhibits.
7. Galeries Lafayette Winter Wonderland
If you’re spending winter in Paris you must check out Galeries Lafayette. Not only does it hold one of the most colorful Christmas trees in the city, but the display windows become a street theater filled with animated puppets against creative backdrops. It’s a site that both adults and children can enjoy. For those who adore fashion there are also free fashion shows year-round on Fridays. Sign up online to attend a show.
This article was written by guest contributor Lena Mobin.
Related: Check our articles for exciting family around Europe in Vienna, Austria and Málaga, Spain
