Built upon a 12th century fortress and later palace of Francois I and Louis XIV, the Louvre museum has been home to national and world-wide treasures since 1793. Although families flock to the Louvre to take in classic works of art such as "The Mona Lisa" and "Venus de Milo," there are plenty of special things for kids to do that may inspire a lifelong passion for history or art. Workshops are available for kids aged 4-13 and run for about two hours on topics such as art and ancient civilizations.
The Louvre
99, rue de Rivoli
Paris Cedex 01 (France)
011 (+33) 1 40 20 53 17
louvre.fr
Kids and animals naturally go together, and your children will love to view and learn about the more than 1,400 animals that reside in this scenic park. All the favorites are here, plus a white rhinoceros, pandas, a nocturnal exhibit featuring lemurs and a Center of the Sea and Water exhibit sure to excite kids of all ages.
Zoo de Paris
Bois de Vincennes
53, avenue de Saint-Maurice
75012 PARIS
011 33 1 44 75 2010
Boys and girls will find something to enjoy at the Doll Museum in Paris. Dolls dating from 1850 to present day can delight children with their unusual costumes and construction, and specially designed workshops and classes can teach kids about toy design and doll-making. Birthday parties featuring doll-related crafts are available, and storytelling hours are a great way to unwind and spend some quality time with your child.
Musée de la Poupée (Doll Museum)
Impasse Berthaud 75003 Paris
011 33 1 42 72 73 11
011 33 1 44 54 04 48
museedelapoupeeparis.com
A great place to spend the day, this popular amusement park features train rides, carousels, a zoo and aviary, mini golf and pony rides to name just a few of its charms. On Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday, kids will enjoy special programs and activities such as cooking classes or perfume making. Restaurants are also on the grounds, so you can plan to spend an entire day.
Jardin d'Acclimatation
Bois de Boulogne
75116 Paris
011 (+33)1 40 67 90 82
jardindacclimatation.fr