Every year, it's not unusual for schools, canteens, after-school services and day-care centers to close for one or more days due to strikes. Often decided at the last minute or with little advance warning, the situation is not always easy to manage, especially for working parents, who have to take days off work or even agree not to go to work to keep their children out of school.
So, in Paris, what solutions are there for this kind of situation? From sports and creative workshops offered by family concepts and other family-friendly venues, to kid-friendly museums to discover for the exhibition, or outdoor outings and other good deals to take advantage of, here's a survival kit of unreserved outings to discover, even if you decide at the last minute.
1. Take a tour of one of the current educational museums or family exhibitions
Educational museums to do with children in Paris
There's no shortage of museums in Paris, and while all of them are accessible to children (even the very youngest), it's never quite certain that the little ones will find what they're looking for and enjoy the visit. So, here's our selection of educational museums in Paris, where you can learn a lot while having fun, even with children! [Read more]
Science Experiences, the concept between museum and theme park at Bercy Village
Science Expériences is a unique concept combining museum and amusement park to bring science to life for children. With scientific experiments, virtual reality and video mapping, it uses the latest technologies to bring science to life for children... [Read more]
Paradox Museum Paris, a crazy journey of optical illusions
Paradox Museum, 90 experiences of trompe l'oeil, optical illusions and sensory upheaval await you in Paris. You'll love being fooled and capturing surrealist images. Would you like to try it out? [Read more]
Happy days, the free exhibition to relive the Paris 2024 Games a little longer
"Paris 2024, les jours heureux" (Paris 2024, happy days) is the name of Hôtel de Ville's new exhibition paying tribute to the historic Olympic period in Paris. Discover it free of charge from December 21, 2024 to March 1, 2025! [Read more]
Magic! Our photos of the Musée de la Carte à Jouer's playful exhibition of magic tricks.
With a flick of the wand, the Musée de la Carte à Jouer plunges us into the world of 19th-century magic, with its "Magique!" exhibition, on view from December 18, 2024 to August 14, 2025. We dropped in for a tour... We tell you all about it! [Read more]
Christmas Holidays 2024: the family program at the Fondation Louis Vuitton
The Fondation Louis Vuitton, in the 16th arrondissement of Paris, invites you to join us for the Christmas vacations. From Saturday December 21, 2024 to Sunday January 5, 2025, come and discover the Pop Forever exhibition with your children, with a program specially designed for young visitors. [Read more]
Épiphanies: the free, spellbinding painting exhibition at the Collège des Bernardins
Painter Augustin Frison-Roche exhibits his colorful canvases, inspired by mystical epiphanies and visions, from January 9 to February 26, 2025, at the Collège des Bernardins. [Read more]
Silence: the immersive exhibition unveiled at the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie
In today's fast-paced world, silence is becoming increasingly rare... The Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie presents an unusual exhibition on the theme of silence, to be visited from December 10, 2024, to August 31, 2025. [Read more]
S'éclairer sans fin, Edi Dubien's poetic exhibition at the Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature
Humans and animals come together in the poetic works and drawings of Edi Dubien, on show at the Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature from December 10, 2024 to May 4, 2025. [Read more]
Léa's Ocean, the new immersive exhibition, at the Saint-Ouen skating rink (93)
From December 6, 2024, a new exhibition will be on show at the Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine skating rink: initiated by Junior artist Fritz Jacquet, it's an opportunity to plunge into the heart of our oceans while discovering this ecosystem from an artistic point of view. [Read more]
Asterix, the Immersive Journey exhibition unveiled at the Atelier des Lumières - Extensions
Asterix and Obelix fans beware: an exceptional, immersive exhibition awaits you at the Atelier des Lumières from October 18, 2024 to January 22, 2025. What if you were to travel through the different worlds of René Goscinny and Albert Uderzo? [Read more]
Egypt of the Pharaohs: the Atelier des Lumières immersive exhibition is extended
A fabulous journey awaits us this year at the Atelier des Lumières: from February 9, 2024 to January 22, 2025, discover the Egypt of the Pharaohs, from Cheops to Ramses II. [Read more]
My teddy bear: the adorable family exhibition at the Musée des Arts décoratifs - our photos
Every child has had a teddy bear! This timeless toy is the subject of an exhibition at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, from December 4, 2024 to June 22, 2025, which is both family-friendly and nostalgic, for young and old alike! [Read more]
2. Let off steam in the most beautiful parks, with play areas please Parks with outdoor play areas
The most beautiful outdoor playgrounds for children in Paris
It's the easy way out, so practical and requiring no organization: a delight for children and parents alike, outdoor playgrounds are all the rage among little Parisians. Here are our favorites! [Read more]
A new playground designed by Speedy Graphito opens in Cour des Lavandières, Saint-Ouen (93)
In the new Docks district of Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine, several play areas for children are located in the heart of the Cour piétonne des Lavandières, including one designed by Speedy Graphito. [Read more]
Square Sainte-Odile, a small wooded park with a pirate playground in the 17th arrondissement
Adjacent to the church of Sainte-Odile, known for its neo-Byzantine architecture, the eponymous square offers a bucolic stroll with, as a bonus, a beautiful playground for children. [Read more]
Parc Caillebotte, the large free landscaped park that inspired Gustave Caillebotte in Yerres (91)
Just 30 minutes from the Gare de Lyon railway station, on the Yerres side of the Essonne département, Maison Caillebotte is home to one of the region's most beautiful green spaces: Parc Caillebotte, the garden that inspired the famous Impressionist painter Gustave Caillebotte. [Read more]
Parc Olympe de Gouges, a garden dedicated to relaxation and sports activities in Goussainville (95)
With over 15,000 m² of greenery, Parc Olympe de Gouges is the new green lung of Goussainville (95). Shall we take you for a walk? [Read more]
Carousel, trampoline, playground... 3 things to do with children in the Tuileries Gardens
Planning a trip to the Tuileries Gardens? With the whole family, even young children, it's the ideal place for a stroll or, better still, some really fun activities. [Read more]
Parc de la Légion d'Honneur, a green lung a stone's throw from the Stade de France, Saint-Denis (93)
Just a few minutes' walk from the famous Stade de France or the historic Basilica of Saint-Denis, the Parc de la Légion d'Honneur is a little-known green space, yet it offers a truly exotic stroll around Saint-Denis. [Read more]
The Villemin garden, a bucolic park on the banks of the Canal Saint-Martin
Right next to the Canal Saint-Martin, in the 10th arrondissement, is the Jardin Villemin, a pretty, tree-lined spot with sports fields and playground. [Read more]
Parc de Choisy: the green lung of Paris's 13th arrondissement and its assets
Located in the bustling 13th arrondissement of Paris, Parc de Choisy, also known as Square de Choisy, offers residents and visitors a haven of peace and greenery in the heart of Chinatown. Opened in 1937 on the site of a former gasworks, this classically inspired garden extends over 4.3 hectares and is a central feature of the neighborhood's community and cultural life. A lively sports spot, discover its assets. [Read more]
Parc Jean Moulin les Guilands, the large green space between Bagnolet and Montreuil
To the east of Paris, in the towns of Montreuil and Bagnolet, the Parc Jean Moulin les Guilands brings together two originally separate green spaces: the Parc Communal des Guilands in Montreuil and the Parc Départemental Jean Moulin in Bagnolet, for a lovely green stroll in this part of the region. [Read more]
Take a break at Square Marcel Sembat, where you can enjoy sports, relaxation and play areas in the 18th arrondissement.
Between Porte de Montmartre and Porte de Saint-Ouen, Square Marcel Sembat offers sports facilities, a small tree-lined square and play areas for a break or an afternoon in the sun. [Read more]
3. Opt for indoor playgrounds, the outing that's sure to please!
Indoor playgrounds for children in Paris and the Ile-de-France region
Are you looking for an indoor playground for your children aged 0 to 12 in the Paris region? There are many different types: inflatable structures for safe play, giant playgrounds for older children and even Montessori areas with motor skills courses for babies. Discover the list of playgrounds in the Paris region to keep your children entertained whatever the weather, whether cool in summer or warm in winter. [Read more]
Petit Nuage, the kid-friendly concept and playground for children aged 0 to 10, in Saint-Ouen, France
In Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine, Petit Nuage welcomes young and old alike, aged 0 to 10 (accompanied by an adult), to have fun, wake up and play in the indoor play area. [Read more]
Crazy Park, the indoor playground near Créteil (94)
Just outside Créteil, in Bonneuil-sur-Marne, Crazy Park welcomes you for several hours of fun - well, the kids - in its indoor playground. Trampolines, ball pools and slides: let's go! [Read more]
Chouettes Mômes, the indoor playground in Meaux (77)
Near Meaux, in the Seine-et-Marne département, discover Chouette Mômes, the indoor playground for children. [Read more]
Wonderful-land, the family leisure village with indoor play area in Claye-Souilly (77)
With no fewer than five different worlds to explore, Wonderful-land is the indoor leisure spot for families of all ages, from tots to teens, in the Shopping Promenade shopping center in Claye-Souilly (77). [Read more]
Cap Pirate, the indoor playground for budding pirates in Aubergenville (78)
In the Family Village shopping center in Aubergenville, Yvelines, Cap Pirate welcomes families and children aged 0 to 12 to slip into the shoes of a sea bandit for a few hours. [Read more]
Ludimax, the indoor playground for children aged 0 to 12, in Villepreux (78)
Ludimax is an indoor adventure park for children aged 0 to 12, open all year round. Located in Villepreux in the Yvelines department, this fun adventure park features slides, mazes, ball pools... to the delight of young and old alike, who enter this children's playground free of charge! [Read more]
Tortuga Island, Boom Boom Villette's indoor adventure playground
At the heart of Boom Boom Villette, Ile de la Tortuga is the 19th arrondissement's new playground for children aged 0 to 12. [Read more]
Skywalls, the indoor climbing and tree-climbing park in Saint-Mard (77)
The Saint-Mard shopping center in Seine-et-Marne features a large indoor sports hall, with 500 m² dedicated to accrobranche and bouldering! [Read more]
Royal Kids, indoor playground for children, Montreuil (93)
If you're looking for a place to jump, run, climb, slide... with the family for an afternoon, you've probably already heard of indoor playgrounds. In Montreuil, the city's Royal Kids is the place to be for an hour of fun in a truly playful space. [Read more]
Children's outings : LevPark, the indoor playground in Boissy-Saint-Léger (94)
Near Boissy-Saint-Léger, in the Val-de-Marne département, LevPark welcomes young and old alike for an indoor gaming session, or a game of arcade and table soccer for adults. [Read more]
4. Do a workshop or simply discover the best family concept
Third places for families in Paris: must-see places to take the kids
It's become the place to be for family time, whatever the age of the children, parents and sometimes even grandparents. Family third places and family concepts are all the rage, and it has to be said that between the super-affordable programming, catering services and sports classes on offer, there's something for everyone. [Read more]
La Famila, kid-friendly café with play area and workshops, near Marne-la-Vallée (77)
In Montévrain, not far from Vallée Village, Famila Café welcomes families and children all week long to its attractive café area. [Read more]
Petite Forêt, the children's café with workshops and play area, in the 8th arrondissement
It's a café that every mom in Paris should know the address of. Petite Forêt opened in July 2021 in the Beaujon district of the 8th arrondissement, offering a family-friendly space with café, workshops and a small play area. [Read more]
La picorette, a toy store and intergenerational café with play area, in Raincy (93)
It's one of the HQs (headquarters, editor's note) for families, children, neighbors and even passers-by in Raincy: la picorette is a hybrid concept, designed for young and old alike, like a living space for all. [Read more]
Ernestine Café, the cosy family coffee shop with children's play area, in the 18th arrondissement
Rue Joseph de Maistre, at the foot of the Butte Montmartre in the 18th arrondissement, welcomes you with a pastel-green façade, stamped "Ernestine Café": it's here that you'll discover a welcoming, family-run neighborhood café and canteen, offering a home-made menu at very affordable prices. [Read more]
Michpocha, the new family concept and children's playground in the 17th arrondissement
Rue Ampère, not far from Parc Monceau in the 17th arrondissement, visit number 37 to discover michpocha, a family concept where children and families are welcome to share activities, a play area or even mini summer camps. [Read more]
TRIBU, the recreational café for families in the 9th arrondissement
Located on rue du Faubourg Poissonnière, TRIBU is a kid-friendly venue in the 9th arrondissement, with a great program of activities for young and old all week long! [Read more]
ÔTIPI Saint-Placide, the family-friendly toy store in the 6th arrondissement of Paris
ÔTIPI, the must-visit neighborhood toy store in the 15th arrondissement, is expanding and will open a new address in September 2023, in the Saint-Placide district (6th). [Read more]
La Maison des Histoires, an immersive museum for children aged 0 to 7, hidden in a bookshop
Behind the Chantelivre bookshop lies a fun-filled children's museum for the very young! La Maison des Histoires immerses the whole family in the literary worlds of l'École des Loisirs, between Cornebidouille and the Maximonstres! [Read more]
Le Bon Moment: lively coffeeshop and friendly coworking space in the Latin Quarter
Rue des Bernardins, a stone's throw from the Pont de l'Archevêché (linking the Latin Quarter to the Île de la Cité), nestles a coffeeshop where you can come all day long. Simple, friendly or family-friendly (if you prefer), it's a little bubble of tranquillity where you can enjoy lunch, a snack or one of the excellent specialty coffees served hot or fresh. [Read more]
5. Take advantage of free outings and other special offers.
What to do with children: free family outings in Paris
Looking for free family outings in Paris? We'll show you the spots, events and activities to discover in the capital, so you can enjoy Paris without spending a fortune! [Read more]
The Edge: the highest-rated 4D virtual reality experience in Paris!
Sponsored - The Edge offers ultra-immersive virtual reality experiences for friends, colleagues and family. The "Ganymede" experience plunges us into a science-fiction adventure combined with highly realistic physical sensations. A complete change of scenery guaranteed! [Read more]
Pleasure Sundays at the Hippodrome Paris-Vincennes this winter! Free invitations
They're back at last! Those trotting Sundays at Paris-Vincennes, full of flavor, color and warmth. Those famous autumn and winter Sundays when everything is grey and gloomy... everywhere except in the heart of the Paris-Vincennes racecourse. The racecourse that comes alive when it hosts the Grand Prix winter meeting, on Sundays from November 17 to February 23. Download your free tickets now! [Read more]
Christmas Plan 2024: free activities for children on December 25 at Boom Boom Villette
This Wednesday, December 25, it's Christmas for everyone, including Boom Boom Villette, where a special program awaits children. [Read more]
Christmas 2024: Christmas village, free rides and Santa's house in Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine (93)
From December 17 to 24, 2024, the town of Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine (93) is turning on the Christmas mode with magical events for young and old alike. Rides, enchanted parades and illuminations: don't miss it! [Read more]
The funfair in Asnières-sur-Seine (92): rides and attractions for all the family
From December 28, 2024 to January 12, 2025, the town of Asnières-sur-Seine (92) is reopening its funfair, to the delight of young and old alike. Let's go for a ride! [Read more]
Good plan: Asnières ice rink at €1 during the 2024 Christmas vacations
During the 2024 Christmas vacations, the Courtilles skating rink in Asnières-sur-Seine is offering a special discounted rate for all budding skaters (young and old)! [Read more]
Rides, skating rink, Christmas market and illuminations for Bel Hiver 2024 in Saint-Denis
The end-of-year festivities are back in Saint-Denis (93), from mid-December to early January. On the program: great entertainment for young and old alike: ice rink, illuminations, Christmas market... [Read more]
Christmas Holidays 2024: the LEGO City moves to the Cité des Sciences
From December 21, 2024 to January 5, 2025, the Cité des Sciences is hosting a new experience for families and children: discover the LEGO City! [Read more]
Christmas 2024: entertainment, parades and acrobats at Val d'Europe shopping center
In December and during the 2024 Christmas vacations, Val d'Europe shopping center invites you to spend a magical holiday season at the mall. Are you ready? [Read more]
Christmas vacations 2024: workshops, fun activities and family visits at the Musée d'Orsay
During the 2024 Christmas vacations, from December 21, 2024 to January 5, 2025, the Musée d'Orsay is once again organizing its flagship event for each school vacation period: vacations at the museum, with a great program for children. [Read more]
Creative Christmas 2024 at So Ouest: Christmas market and DIY workshops
The So Ouest shopping center invites you to celebrate Christmas 2024 in the heart of a Scandinavian decor, with a lovely program of free events for the whole family. On the program? Meet Santa Claus, creative workshops and a gourmet Christmas market! [Read more]
6. Bonus outing: a day on the farm!
The most beautiful animal farms in Paris and the Île-de-France region
Looking for a green getaway in the countryside without leaving the region? Head for the farms, sheepfolds and open spaces of our capital and region for a day in the fresh air! [Read more]
The Château de Rambouillet and its Bergerie nationale, an exceptional estate in the Paris region (78)
A princely, royal, imperial and then presidential residence, the Château de Rambouillet and its grounds are steeped in history and boast some remarkable nooks and crannies, including the Queen's Dairy, the Chaumière aux coquillages and the Bergerie nationale, not to be missed. [Read more]
La ferme de la Mercy: camping, animal discovery and local produce in Chenoise (77)
Near Chenoise, in the Seine-et-Marne département, Ferme de la Mercy is a small family business run by Jean-Claude and Sylvie Cackaert. [Read more]
La Ménagerie Saint-Baudile, a bucolic educational farm in Neuilly-sur-Marne (93)
Near Neuilly-sur-Marne, in the Seine-Saint-Denis département, the Saint-Baudile menagerie invites you to take a stroll in the countryside and discover its residents. [Read more]
Edentera, the exotic educational farm at Isles-les-Meldeuses (77)
Walking around Paris and the Île-de-France region with children, the educational farms so [Read more]
Château Soubiran's free educational farm, a bucolic interlude near Melun (77)
Just a few kilometers from Melun, in the Seine-et-Marne town of Dammarie-les-Lys, you'll find Château Soubiran and its large park, home to a small educational farm. [Read more]
The Saint-Hilliers educational farm, for a family outing near Provins
Less than ten kilometers from the medieval town of Provins, in the Seine-et-Marne region, in the hamlet of Savigny, in Saint-Hilliers, there's an educational farm where many furry and feathered residents live. It's the perfect opportunity to discover them on a day out with the kids! [Read more]
Discover the Ferme de Clamart and its animals with your family, Wednesdays and weekends
In Clamart, in the Hauts-de-Seine department, the city farm welcomes young and old to the Maison Blanche park on Saturdays and Wednesdays for family workshops and to discover its animals! [Read more]
The incredible free educational farm at Parc des Chanterraines, Gennevilliers (92)
The Parc des Chanteraines needs no introduction, as it's a must-see address in the Hauts-de-Seine towns of Gennevilliers and Villeneuve-la-Garenne. As well as being a beautifully landscaped green space, the site includes a beautiful educational farm, entirely free of charge! [Read more]
The open farm in Sartrouville (78), ideal for a family outing with the animals
Sartrouville, in the Yvelines department, is home to the third Gally farm in the Paris region. After the huge farm in Saint-Cyr l'Ecole and the more urban one in Saint-Denis, discover the open farm in Sartrouville! [Read more]
La ferme du Bel Air, for a family outing in the countryside near Villiers-le-Bacle (91)
At Villiers-le-Bâcle, in the Essonne département, Ferme du Bel Air invites you to meet its little furry and feathered residents for a family outing in the fresh air. [Read more]
Dates and Opening Time
From October 30, 2024 to December 31, 2027
