My little treasures
So you’ve taken them to the most culturally rich city in the world, among old world masters, Rodin sculptures and history rich from the Napoleonic era but do they care? When kids just want to be kids make a selection of our attractions below.
Most museums are free for the under 18s and remember all museums are free 1st Sunday of each month! Most close Mondays and some on Tuesdays, check their website to verify opening times.
Getting around: The Metro will get you anywhere in Paris efficiently; you can buy a 1-3 Day Paris Pass or a 10-pack of metro tickets. To get orientated on the first day, take one of those Tourist buses, to come and go at your leisure. Paris buses are also great although their routes take a little longer to comprehend. You can also Batobus (water taxi on the Seine), which stops at popular attractions and is also reasonably priced:
Tip: You can buy a 10-pack of metro tickets at most tabacs (newsagency) instead of queuing with other tourists
WITH KIDS
Babydisco Palais de Tokyo
— If you are in Paris over Autumn/Winter here's something to keep the kids warm, a disco for over five years.
Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday starting September 26 until January 4.
Metro: Iena Entry: 10 euros. Book online via link below
www.palaisdetokyo.com
3, ave du President Wilson, 16th
Franklin and Friends - A musical
— For the first time, the popular Franklin characters and his friends take to the stage.
From 8 October until 2 November 2008. Various ticket prices 23 to €31.70. If you're in Paris, book at FNAC if you require tickets we can organise for you or try this link below to a French Ticket office but I'm not sure they'll post outside of France
www.ticketnet.fr
Theatre Grand Rex, 1 bd Poissonniere, 75002 Paris
Museum of Natural History
— This is a great museum for all ages. The permanent collection is not unlike the National History Museum in London, perhaps a little smaller but just as enjoyable. Some of the permanent displays include Minerals, Anatomy and Evolution displays. Numerous temporary exhibitions include: 'Aux Sources de la Terre' until 30 Nov, 2008 at 57 rue Cuvier
'Tresor de la biodiversite' until 9 Nov, 2008
Closed Tuesday. Métro: Jussieu
www.mnhn.fr
The Grand Galerie de L’Evolution
Do try:
— The Jardin Tuileries, in summer & spring its wonderful; rent a toy sailboat, ride the historic carousel or find a pony ride for the little ones.
A visit the Louvre - Go directly pass the queues with your personal Family Pass. Tour parts of the museum normally reserved and conduct a treasure hunt with your guide. Best for ages above 6 (295€ for a family up to 5).
Notre Dame Cathedral – visit the South Tower for a close-up view of the gargoyles – you’ll need to ascend 422 steps! Climb even higher for a magnificent view of Paris.
Climb the Arc de Triomphe for an equally great view of Paris - be careful, do not attempt to cross the several lanes of traffic, take the underground walkway along the Champs Elysees. Be prepared to climb over 100 steps a panoramic 'Paris'. If you’re with a stroller there is a lift but also several steps you will need to manage to get to the top.
Below is an easy to print list from the American Embassy of parks for kids.
www.france.usembassy.gov
Winter - Ice Skating Hotel de Ville
— There are two major skating rinks one at the Hotel de Ville and one at Montparnasse. Skates are reasonable around 5 euros. Free entry if you have your own skates. Join in the Winter fun if you can't skate its a great place to learn.
Hours of operation:
Mon-Thu 12pm-10pm; Fri 12pm-12am; Sat 9am-12am; Sun 9am-10pm
Chinese New Year
— February 10th. Head to the 13 arrondissement for authentic Chinese and Vietnamese restaurants and Celebrations. Each year there is a big street carnival commencing at 1.30m via the Rue du Disque and continuing via Ave d'Ivry, Ave de Choisy and the Place d'Italie.
But this area is worth exploring anytime of year and particularly its Paris' little Chinatown.
Metro: Mason Blanche
Cite de la Musique
— There are numerous concerts and workshop for the under 12s. Most are in French however some offer audio-guides in English for exhibitions.
www.cite-musique.fr
Parc de la Villette
Les Marionnettes
— Where would Paris by without a Puppet show, these shows are held regularly in Parks across Paris, Normally every weekend and Wednesday when children all over France, do not go to school or go half day. The site below provides details and times of each show being held in Paris.
www.parisparis.com