Best things to do with kids in Paris

Paris isn’t just for couples and croissants—it's a city that kids can fall in love with too. Between puppet shows in the park, hands-on science museums, and boat rides on the Seine, there’s no shortage of family-friendly experiences to keep little ones happy (and adults stress-free). Whether you're traveling with toddlers or tweens, we've rounded up the best things to do with kids in Paris—so you can plan a trip that's as fun as it is unforgettable. 

Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie 

📍 Location: 30 Avenue Corentin Cariou, 19th arrondissement 

💸 Included with the Paris Pass 

Paris’s largest science museum is a paradise for curious kids. The Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie is hands-on, high-tech, and all about discovery. While adults might gravitate toward exhibitions on space, engineering, or the environment, kids get their own dedicated zones designed just for them. 

The Cité des Enfants is split into age groups (2–7 and 5–12), with timed entry slots to keep it uncrowded and fun. Little ones can build structures, experiment with water, try out sensory stations, and even “drive” a pretend construction truck. Older kids can explore physics, motion, light, and more—without it feeling like school. 

There’s also a planetarium, a 3D cinema, and rotating exhibitions with interactive features. It’s easy to spend hours here, especially since everything is indoors (hello, rainy-day lifesaver). Bring snacks or visit the on-site café—and be warned, the gift shop is full of irresistible science kits. 

Jardin d’Acclimatation 

📍 Location: Bois de Boulogne, 16th arrondissement 

💸 Admission from €7 (not on the Paris Pass) 

Think of it as Paris’s answer to an old-fashioned amusement park—with a very French twist. The Jardin d’Acclimatation combines playgrounds, gentle rides, farm animals, puppet shows, gardens, and even a small rollercoaster into one charming, family-focused park just outside the city center. 

There are over 40 attractions, most designed for younger children—like mini cars, trampolines, water games, and carnival-style swings. But the vibe is relaxed and nature-rich, with peacocks roaming freely and shady lawns perfect for picnic breaks. Add in a ropes course, a splash pad, and an enchanted riverboat ride, and it’s full-day fun without the chaos of a massive theme park. 

Parents will appreciate the vintage aesthetic and thoughtful layout—it’s stroller-friendly, easy to navigate, and filled with rest spots and snack stands. There’s even a mini farm for younger kids to pet goats, ponies, and sheep. For families who want a playful, outdoor escape with a dose of whimsy, this is a guaranteed win. 

Seine River Cruise with Bateaux Parisiens 

📍 Location: Port de la Bourdonnais, near the Eiffel Tower 

💸 Included with the Paris Pass 

Let’s be honest—kids aren’t always thrilled about sightseeing. But turn it into a boat ride, and suddenly, everyone’s onboard. A Seine River cruise is one of the easiest, most relaxing ways for families to see Paris’s major landmarks while keeping the kids entertained. 

Hop aboard near the Eiffel Tower and glide past Notre-Dame, the Louvre, Musée d'Orsay, and more. The commentary (available in multiple languages) is short and sweet, and there’s plenty of open-air seating so kids can spot bridges and towers from the top deck. It’s also just long enough—about an hour—to feel satisfying without becoming a fidget-fest. 

For tired legs, snack-hungry kids, or just a midday break, this is a low-effort, high-impact activity. Plus, watching boats, ducks, and the occasional barge keeps little eyes occupied while parents soak up the views. 

Parc Zoologique de Paris (Paris Zoo) 

📍 Location: Avenue Daumesnil, 12th arrondissement 

💸 Not included with the Paris Pass 

Tucked into the eastern edge of the city, the Parc Zoologique de Paris is a spacious, beautifully designed zoo that’s great for families needing fresh air, animal encounters, and some low-key walking time. The park is divided into five biozones—from the Amazon to Madagascar—and features over 180 species including lions, giraffes, lemurs, and wolves. 

What makes this zoo especially kid-friendly? It’s calm, thoughtfully laid out, and stroller-accessible, with plenty of shady rest areas and clear signage. There are observation decks to climb, viewing domes for a closer look at the animals, and interactive panels designed for curious kids. 

The glass-domed greenhouse recreates a humid rainforest ecosystem that feels like another world entirely, and younger visitors love the petting zoo and keeper talks. Parents will appreciate the sustainability focus and spacious grounds, which allow little ones to run free without the usual crowd stress. 

 

Musée en Herbe 

📍 Location: 23 Rue de l’Arbre Sec, 1st arrondissement 

💸 Entry ~€9, kids under 3 free (not on the Paris Pass) 

A museum made just for children? Yes, please. Musée en Herbe is one of Paris’s most playful and engaging cultural spaces—designed to introduce art and creativity to kids through interactive, themed exhibitions that feel more like adventures than lessons. 

Exhibits are bright, touchable, and rooted in storytelling, often featuring cartoon characters or pop-culture hooks to make the subject matter relatable. Kids get an activity booklet to guide them through the exhibit, solving puzzles or answering questions as they go. It’s educational, but fun-first—and the staff are warm, welcoming, and always up for answering questions. 

Parents can enjoy the surprisingly sophisticated art references and rotating exhibits, many of which are tied to big names in design or street art. For rainy days or quieter moments on your trip, Musée en Herbe is a cozy, creative stop that keeps kids curious and engaged. 

Musée Grévin (Wax Museum) 

📍 Location: 10 Boulevard Montmartre, 9th arrondissement 

💸 Included with the Paris Pass 

If your kids love pop culture, silly selfies, or spotting famous faces, Musée Grévin is a guaranteed hit. Paris’s answer to Madame Tussauds, this wax museum is packed with lifelike figures—from French historical icons to superheroes, movie stars, athletes, and musicians. 

It’s fun, fast-paced, and wildly photogenic. Kids can “meet” Spider-Man, walk the red carpet with Kylian Mbappé, or high-five Mozart. There are interactive zones, sound effects, themed sets, and even a magical Hall of Mirrors that’s equal parts funhouse and art installation. 

The museum works especially well for families with mixed-age groups. Younger kids will love the lifelike characters and colorful rooms, while tweens and teens can lean into the pop culture fun (and rack up social media snaps). It’s all indoors, centrally located, and easy to explore in about 90 minutes—making it ideal for a rainy day or afternoon break. 

Jardin des Plantes & Ménagerie (Botanical Gardens and Zoo) 

📍 Location: 57 Rue Cuvier, 5th arrondissement 

💸 Gardens free; Ménagerie entry ~€13 (not on Paris Pass) 

The Jardin des Plantes is one of the most delightful green spaces in Paris, and its compact on-site zoo—La Ménagerie—makes it an excellent all-in-one stop for families. The gardens themselves are wide, walkable, and stroller-friendly, filled with colorful flowers, shaded benches, and plenty of space for kids to roam. 

Tucked into the northwest corner is the Ménagerie, a small zoo that’s home to red pandas, reptiles, monkeys, and rare birds. It’s one of the oldest zoos in the world, but it’s beautifully maintained and small enough for even toddlers to enjoy without getting overtired. 

There’s also a natural history museum, a dedicated children’s gallery, and the Grande Galerie de l’Évolution nearby—so you can easily stretch this visit into a half-day adventure. It’s a calm, nature-rich spot that lets kids connect with animals and plants without the scale of a full theme park. 

Paris Aquarium (Aquarium de Paris – Cinéaqua) 

📍 Location: 5 Avenue Albert de Mun, 16th arrondissement (Trocadéro) 

💸 Included with the Paris Pass 

Located just across the river from the Eiffel Tower, Aquarium de Paris is a top pick for families looking to blend education with fun in a beautiful, air-conditioned setting. Inside, you’ll find 13,000+ sea creatures, from sharks and clownfish to jellyfish and sea urchins—all swimming through glowing tanks set against moody lighting and cinematic backdrops. 

There’s a dedicated kids' area with touch pools, interactive screens, and small shows—including pirate-themed storytelling and even live mermaid appearances. It’s immersive without being overwhelming, and the flow of the exhibits keeps kids naturally engaged. 

Parents love how close it is to major landmarks, making it an ideal pre- or post-Eiffel Tower stop. And because it’s all indoors, it’s a lifesaver on rainy or hot days. Whether your kids are into marine life or just need a visual break from walking tours, this spot hits the mark. 

Palais de la Découverte (Palace of Discovery – Reopening in 2025, but listing here for future-proofing or swap if needed) 

📍 Location: Avenue Franklin Delano Roosevelt, 8th arrondissement 

💸 Temporarily closed; entry included with Paris Museum Pass (when open) 

Note: As of now, Palais de la Découverte is undergoing renovation, but it’s expected to reopen soon. If planning for the future or if reopening before your article publishes, it’s a stellar family pick. 

This grand science museum offers live chemistry shows, physics experiments, astronomy exhibits, and a planetarium—all delivered in a hands-on, “see it to believe it” style that keeps kids fully engaged. Best suited for older children and tweens, it makes science accessible, messy, and exciting. 

Interactive demos and real-time experiments set it apart from more static museums. Staff scientists lead the charge in getting kids involved, answering questions, and making sparks—literally. Once it reopens, it’ll be a must-do for families looking to mix culture and curiosity. 

(If closed, consider swapping in Parc André Citroën—a fun urban park with fountains and open lawns.) 

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont 

📍 Location: 1 Rue Botzaris, 19th arrondissement 

💸 Free 

Looking for somewhere to let kids roam, climb, and burn off steam? Head to Parc des Buttes-Chaumont. This sprawling, hillside park feels like a secret garden with caves, waterfalls, suspension bridges, and even a temple perched on a cliff. 

It’s a great place for families to slow down between museums or just take a snack-fueled timeout. The natural terrain encourages exploration, and there are a couple of playgrounds, pony rides, and puppet shows on weekends. It’s less manicured than other parks—more adventurous—and a bit of a local favorite for that reason. 

There are also kiosks and a casual café if you want to grab crêpes or ice cream while the kids run free. Bonus: fewer tourists means more space to spread out and enjoy. 

Atelier des Lumières 

📍 Location: 38 Rue Saint-Maur, 11th arrondissement 

💸 Not included with Paris Pass; advance tickets recommended 

An immersive digital art experience? Yes, and kids love it. Atelier des Lumières transforms massive warehouse walls into living paintings using projection, music, and motion. Past exhibitions have included Van Gogh, Klimt, and Dalí—but this isn’t a traditional museum. The art moves, pulses, and completely surrounds you. 

There are no audio guides, plaques, or quiet rules here. Kids can twirl, sit on the floor, and interact with the space however they like. The ever-shifting light keeps them mesmerized, and the soundtrack adds emotion and drama without being overwhelming. 

It’s stroller-friendly and sensory-friendly, with a chill vibe that welcomes families. For creative kids or anyone with a short attention span, this is one of Paris’s coolest culture experiences—without feeling like a "museum day." 

Château de Vincennes 

📍 Location: Avenue de Paris, 94300 Vincennes 

💸 Included with Paris Pass 

Paris’s most underrated castle is a hit with kids who love stories of knights, towers, and royal intrigue. Château de Vincennes is just a quick Métro ride from the center, and unlike Versailles, it’s manageable in size—making it ideal for families. 

You can climb the keep (with amazing views), explore medieval rooms, and walk along stone ramparts. It’s atmospheric without being crowded, and there’s space to roam without worrying about breaking anything priceless. Kids love the “real castle” vibe—especially if you bring along a DIY scavenger hunt or knight costume to spark their imagination. 

There’s also a quiet moat park nearby for post-tour picnicking or playtime. It’s educational, hands-on, and just the right amount of grand. 

Paris Montparnasse Observation Deck 

📍 Location: 33 Avenue du Maine, 15th arrondissement 

💸 Not included with Paris Pass 

Sometimes, the simplest activities leave the biggest impression—and a trip to the Montparnasse Observation Deck delivers jaw-dropping views of the city (without the Eiffel Tower crowds). Take the high-speed lift to the 56th floor and watch your kids' jaws drop. 

From the top, they can spot landmarks like the Louvre, Notre-Dame, and—of course—the Eiffel Tower itself. Kids love the telescopes, wide-open rooftop space, and thrill of being “up high.” It’s also a great teaching moment for geography or photography-loving kids. 

There’s a small café and seating, so you can linger for sunset or just take a breather from walking. It’s calm, safe, and seriously scenic. 

Paris Plages (Summer Only) 

📍 Location: Along the Seine & Bassin de la Villette 

💸 Free 

If you're visiting in July or August, Paris Plages is a must. The city transforms parts of the Seine and Bassin de la Villette into pop-up urban beaches—complete with sand, palm trees, misting zones, kayaks, beach games, and deck chairs. 

It’s a hit with local families, and tourists quickly catch on. Kids can build sandcastles, ride paddle boats, try mini zip lines, or join free workshops and storytelling sessions. Parents can sip coffee while reclining riverside and enjoy the rare moment where Paris feels like a seaside resort. 

It’s casual, fun, and absolutely free—making it one of the easiest wins for warm-weather family travel. 

Puppet Shows at Parc Montsouris or Champ de Mars 

📍 Location: Multiple venues (Parc Montsouris, Champ de Mars, and more) 

💸 Small fee (~€6–8 per ticket, not on Paris Pass) 

Paris’s traditional guignol puppet shows are pure old-school charm—and a hit with younger kids. You’ll find these open-air theatres in parks across the city, where hand-crafted puppets act out funny, slapstick stories with big gestures and cartoonish voices. 

The shows are in French, but honestly, the humor, action, and visual drama translate just fine for kids. Laughter is universal. It’s usually under an hour, with a low-key, picnic-y atmosphere that invites families to sit, snack, and enjoy. 

Pair it with a carousel ride and a playground visit, and you’ve got an easy, joyful afternoon—no itinerary needed. 

Traveling to Paris with kids? Totally doable—and more fun than you might think. With puppet shows, digital art, castles, carousels, and enough gardens and snacks to keep everyone smiling, this city has plenty to offer young adventurers. Whether your family is into science, sea creatures, stories, or just running wild in a park, Paris is packed with magical, memory-making moments. Let the kids lead the way—this time, it’s their Paris. 

 

Need some more inspiration? Check out the best things to do in Marais or stay local and see what's around the Louvre. 

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