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
Back to school: educational museums to do with children in Paris
It's back to school for the kids. Would you like to accompany your little ones back to school in a fun way? If so, here's our selection of educational museums in Paris, where you can have fun learning lots of things, even with children! [Read more]
AURA INVALIDES, the must-see sound and light show in Paris
Looking for a unique nocturnal experience in Paris? Ready to be amazed and embark on a timeless journey to a legendary heritage site? Come and discover AURA INVALIDES, a sound and light show at the iconic Dôme des Invalides as night falls. A magical moment in the heart of the Dome, sure to delight young and old alike. [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]
We are (still) here : street art takes over the Petit Palais in a free exhibition this summer
After a first edition in 2024, the We are here exhibition is back at the Petit Palais: enjoy a rich urban-art journey right in the heart of the Fine Arts Museum. The exhibition is free to visit from June 20 to September 20, 2026. [Read more]
Genki-nobori fill the sky above the Hôtel de la Marine: a colorful installation open to the public for free
A colorful, poetic installation transforms the courtyard of the Hôtel de la Marine: come and admire for free the Genki-nobori by Japanese artist Susumu Shingu, from June 26 to August 24, 2026. [Read more]
Sax unveils La Caverne, a free street-art exhibition at La Madeleine
Street art invades the crypt of the Madeleine church as Sax opens there on June 18, 2026. La Caverne, a free, immersive exhibition of fifty works, runs in the 8th arrondissement until June 28. [Read more]
Noah's World: An immersive experience of the animal world
Sponsored - Experience an extraordinary adventure in the heart of Paris: an immersive journey into the animal kingdom! [Read more]
Critical thinking: an exhibition that sharpens our gaze at the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie
The Cité des Sciences invites children and adults to sharpen their critical thinking, with a brand-new exhibition to be unveiled starting July 7, 2026. [Read more]
Musée de l'Air et de l'Espace at Le Bourget, a unique place that puts stars in your eyes
The Musée de l'Air et de l'Espace at Le Bourget is a nugget for those who dream of traveling, while the world's eyes are riveted on Mars, the Moon and the ISS. Here, you can rediscover the planes of the conquest of air and space for free, and even climb aboard a number of mythical aircraft! [Read more]
The 2-to-6-year-old City of Children reopens its doors in Paris for a playful, immersive experience.
After a year of renovations, the Children's City for ages 2–6 reopens on June 9, 2026 at the City of Science and Industry, with a redesigned space to accompany the youngest visitors in their first discoveries. [Read more]
Simulacres: the free exhibition at Magasins Généraux (93) that blurs the lines between reality and illusion.
Reality takes on a slight blur in Pantin, at the Magasins Généraux, from June 25 to September 27, 2026. With the free exhibition “Simulacres,” certainties falter and images sometimes hold the upper hand. Here, seeing isn’t always enough to understand. [Read more]
The Little Prince, an immersive odyssey: a poetic family journey back to the Atelier des Lumières
During the peak summer holidays, from July 3 to September 13, 2026, dive back into Saint-Exupéry's iconic work and embark on a magical, immersive journey alongside the Little Prince at the Atelier des Lumières. [Read more]
Van Gogh, Starry Night: the immersive exhibition lands this summer at the Atelier des Lumières
First shown in 2019, the Atelier des Lumières invites us back into Van Gogh’s world for an immersive exhibition open three days a week from July 3 to September 13. Wander through Van Gogh’s finest paintings, rediscovering the genius that was misunderstood in his own time. [Read more]
2. Let off steam in the most beautiful parks, with play areas please Parks with outdoor play areas
Open-air playgrounds for children in Paris: great ideas for family fun
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. So, are you ready to make the most of the sunny days with your little ones? [Read more]
Stag and hen parties, paintball near Paris: Loisirs Prod’s outdoor activities with a promo code
Sponsored - Looking for a bachelor or bachelorette party idea near Paris? With paintball, outdoor escape games and adventure challenges, Loisirs Prod is betting on outdoor group activities to deliver adrenaline and fun. Bonus: enjoy 10% off activities with code LPSAP. [Read more]
Bubbles & Marbles in Paris: the place that thrills kids and parents in the heart of the 9th arrondissement!
Sponsored - Bubbles & Beads is a 400-square-meter play space designed for children aged 0 to 11 and their parents, featuring seven immersive play bubbles that meet every child's needs, a cafe offering locally sourced products, and evening aperitif events. [Read more]
Les Jardins d’Éole, a tree-lined square with a children's playground, in the 18th arrondissement.
Quartier Marx Dormoy, the Jardins d’Éole is a pretty tree-lined square with a children's playground, where you can take a break in the heart of Paris. [Read more]
Did you know? This over 3-hectare hanging garden is hidden at the top of a Parisian train station.
And what if, atop Montparnasse Station, Paris concealed a lush green oasis suspended above the hustle and bustle of trains and traffic? A tranquil spot where the noise stays below and nature reclaims its space, providing city dwellers with an unexpected refuge. Welcome to the hidden green haven of the 15th arrondissement: the Jardin Atlantique. [Read more]
The Parc du Chemin de l'Île: a lush 18-hectare green oasis with playgrounds in the 92 area
Craving a breath of fresh air in the heart of Nanterre (92)? With strolls along the Seine, sprawling playgrounds, and endless green spaces, everyone—from kids to adults—enjoys a day at Parc du Chemin de l’Île. This urban oasis, proudly awarded the Eve® label, is the perfect blend of relaxation, sport, and nature. [Read more]
You Kids, discover the new indoor amusement park in Yvelines
You Kids arrives at the SQY Ouest shopping center in Montigny-le-Bretonneux, Yvelines. This indoor play center welcomes children from 6 months to 12 years old, offering trampolines, adventure courses, ball pits, and a mini driving school — the perfect family outing in a safe environment. Here’s a peek at what’s inside. [Read more]
La Tribu de bébé, a play area with children's workshops and family café, in Méré (78)
Since the end of 2024, Tribu de Bébé has opened its doors to families, with a space entirely designed by and for children and their parents, including covered play areas and a children's café. [Read more]
The Eugénie Djendi garden, an unusual labyrinth garden in the 15th arrondissement
Adjacent to the Parc André Citroën, the Eugénie Djendi garden boasts architecture that's unique in Paris: it's a great place to get stuck into, to discover this beautiful green space that's almost reminiscent of a labyrinth! [Read more]
Promenade Jane et Paulette Nardal: a tree-lined walk with beautiful playgrounds in the 14th arrondissement
Encroaching on Rue Didot and Rue Raymond Losserand, the Promenade Nardal is a lovely escape in the heart of Paris. [Read more]
The Île-Saint-Denis departmental park, for a green walk along the Seine River
With its 25 hectares of lush greenery, the Parc de l'Île-Saint-Denis offers a place to unwind, just a few kilometers from the capital. Immerse yourself in this little-known park, which has all the makings of a green interlude in the Paris region. [Read more]
Mission Forêt: the nature playground at Espace Rambouillet - our photos
In addition to its giant trampoline course in the trees, Espace Rambouillet has opened a new play area for youngsters, Mission Forêt, for fun in the great outdoors! [Read more]
3. Opt for indoor playgrounds, the outing that's sure to please!
Indoor playgrounds and children's playgrounds 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]
Le Centre Kapla: a playful, collaborative outing for kids in Paris’s 11th arrondissement
In the 11th arrondissement, the Kapla Centre welcomes both kids and grown-ups around the famous wooden planks. On the menu? A session to have a blast building on a XXL scale — and, above all, all with Kapla! [Read more]
SpeedPark: the large indoor leisure complex with go-karting, laser tag, bowling and VR at Val d'Europe
Near Val d'Europe, Imagi Park and its huge SpeedPark indoor leisure area promise hours of fun to share with friends and family, from go-karting to laser gaming, karaoke to virtual reality. Accessible in less than an hour from Paris, this spot has everything you need to have a great time without changing location! [Read more]
Planet Park, the indoor leisure park for family fun in space, in Emerainville (77)
From February 12, 2025, Planet Park opens its doors to families, with a space-themed indoor leisure area. [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]
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]
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]
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]
4. Do a workshop or simply discover the best family concept
The family-friendly concepts and kid-friendly spots in Paris: must-visit places to bring the little ones.
Concepts designed by and for families: an indoor play space, a cozy coffee corner, activities for parents as well as children... Here you can drop in any time, whether for a workshop or a hot cup of coffee, always with a warm welcome in spaces created for all the little ones and their caregivers. [Read more]
Jardin21, season 2026: a week of celebration, nature and cultural discoveries at the heart of Parc de la Villette
Sponsored - In June, Jardin21—the festive, plant-filled community hub tucked along the Canal de l’Ourcq in the 19th arrondissement—keeps the season going with a rich, varied lineup. Make the most of these sunny days: meaningful initiatives, gardening workshops, youth activities, lively evenings, a yoga session… It’s all there to escape without leaving Paris! Free entry. [Read more]
Entre 2 Siestes, a kid-friendly cafe and restaurant with a play area for kids, in the 15th arrondissement.
A place that doubles as a stroller-friendly cafe, a family-friendly restaurant, and a photo studio? Entre 2 Siestes offers a hybrid venue—a concept designed for the needs of young families, even those with toddlers—while staying accessible to everyone. [Read more]
Mombini, a toy shop, stroller-friendly cafe, and parent-child workshops, in the 15th arrondissement.
In search of a place to lunch with kids, enjoy a snack or a warm drink, or take part in a developmental workshop for the little ones... And what about a toy shop where you can hunt down plenty of gifts? We’re heading to the Vaugirard neighborhood in the 15th arrondissement of Paris, to Mombini. [Read more]
Bulles & Billes, the indoor playground for children in the 9th arrondissement
Designed as a fusion of playful, immersive, and educational worlds, Bulles & Billes opened its doors in late May 2026. Based in the 9th arrondissement, the venue has become a favorite with families, and even more so with children aged 0 to 12. [Read more]
Ayden's World, the inclusive indoor playground for all children in Asnières-sur-Seine
Le Monde d'Ayden opens its very first indoor playground in France, in Asnières-sur-Seine. A space designed for all children, including those with special needs. In short, a playground for all families, and above all, accessible to every child. [Read more]
Houses of the First 1,000 Days: Two Free Destinations in Paris for Young Parents and Families
To support new parents during their child's first days, Paris has opened its first 'Houses of the 1000 Days,' offering free welcome spaces in the 18th and 20th districts. [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]
Ô Gourmandises d'Ange, the tea room for brunches, lunches and snacks in Puteaux (92)
Over eight years ago, Elodie and Olivier opened Ô Gourmandises d'Ange in Puteaux, in the Hauts-de-Seine department of Paris, a place as gourmet as it is regressive, where everything is homemade. [Read more]
Pépites de familles, a children's playground and coffeeshop in Colombes (92)
In the inner suburbs of Paris, near Colombes, Pépites de familles aims to be a place where families with children of all ages can live together and enjoy each other's company. [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]
Aventure Floreval: treetop adventure, paintball and multi-activities 30 minutes from Paris
Only 30 km south of Paris, in Essonne (91), Aventure Floreval opens its doors for a new season dedicated to adventure and the great outdoors. Nestled in the heart of the forest, this expansive leisure park has become a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts, whether with family or friends. On the agenda for your day: treetop adventure courses, zip lines, Jurassic Mini-Golf, paintball, outdoor Escape Game, an animal farm… enough to keep you entertained from morning to night. [Read more]
The Edge: a one-of-a-kind virtual reality experience in Paris!
Sponsored - The Edge takes you on a breathtaking virtual reality journey. Hop over to Ganymede, the galaxy’s most mysterious planet! Play as a robot-avatar, assemble your team, and set out to explore an abandoned space station in search of a mysterious alien monolith. Whether with friends or family, get ready to dive into this ultra-immersive futuristic adventure like never before! Fans of fun, sci-fi, and adrenaline-fueled experiences — are you ready to open the doors to another world and push the boundaries of reality? [Read more]
La Fiesta de l'Été 2026: Latin America comes to Levallois for a day of celebration
This Saturday, June 20, and Sunday, June 21, 2026, the gathering takes place at Planchette Park for Fiesta de l'Été 2026: this year, we’re heading to Latin America, with activities open to everyone. [Read more]
Saint-Ouen’s Summer 2026: free activities, open-air cinema and a Brazilian guinguette in Saint-Ouen
From Saturday, July 4 to Sunday, August 23, 2026, the city of Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine is staging Été Audonien, a major summer festival featuring free activities and special evenings, designed to make you feel like you’re on vacation without leaving the city. [Read more]
Palaiseau Beach 2026: carnival, outdoor cinema and free activities for the holidays
From June 27 to July 13, 2026, head to Palaiseau for the opening of its pop-up seaside resort. On the menu: swimming, a carnival, and free activities! [Read more]
Saint-Jean Day 2026: fireworks and a torchlit procession in Marnes-la-Coquette (92)
On Saturday, June 27, 2026, Marnes-la-Coquette will celebrate its traditional Saint John’s Day festival at Square Pasteur, featuring a torchlit procession, a brass band, a toast to friendship, and a fireworks display to cap off the evening. [Read more]
Noisy Plage 2026: Free activities and summer swimming in Noisy-le-Grand (93)
Bringing the beach to Île-de-France? The bets are on! This summer, the action centers on Noisy-le-Grand for Noisy Plage, a summer venue offering free activities to enjoy throughout the long holidays. [Read more]
FIFA World Cup: giant screen and free activities at La Villette, the family-friendly fan zone
From June 13 to July 19, 2026, Parc de la Villette comes alive to the rhythm of the World Cup as it hosts a vast, free fan zone at the foot of the Géode. Screenings on giant displays, a five-a-side football pitch, and colorful brick-building workshops invite the whole family to ride the energy of the tournament. [Read more]
Thiais celebrates summer 2026 with free summer activities at Parc de l'Europe.
On Sundays July 12 and 26, then August 9 and 23, 2026, Thiais offers free summer activities at Parc de l’Europe. A public-friendly gathering to enjoy summer in the city, from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. [Read more]
Summer 2026 at the Jardin des Plantes: nature encounters to marvel at as a family
In July and August 2026, the Jardin des Plantes in Paris hosts its Nature Rendezvous, a summer program of activities centered on biodiversity, gardens, and the museum’s crafts. In the heart of the 5th arrondissement, this event lets you enjoy the Paris summer holidays while discovering urban nature through tours, workshops, storytelling, and encounters with the site’s teams. [Read more]
Champigny Beach 2026: free swimming in the Marne and its activities
Swimming in the Marne makes its grand return to Champigny-sur-Marne with Champigny Plage 2026, from July 4 to 19, 2026. On the agenda for this 21st free edition: a beach, an designated swimming zone, concerts, games, and a guinguette vibe by the water. [Read more]
6. Bonus outing: a day on the farm!
Where to see farm animals? Educational farms and livestock farms in and around Paris.
A day at the farm is the sure-fire outing everyone agrees on: so this weekend, this Wednesday, or during the holidays, it's the perfect chance to (re)discover the area’s farms and educational farms. [Read more]
La Ferme des Possibles, the urban, community-run organic farm in Stains (93)
In Stains, in Seine-Saint-Denis (93), La Ferme des Possibles runs an organic, community-supported urban farm. Year-round, visitors can explore tours, agroecology workshops, market gardening, herbalism, cooking and wellbeing there. [Read more]
Compans' free Medieval Festival 2026, featuring a market, performances and a fireworks display on the program.
The Compans Medieval Festival is back on July 11–12, 2026, in the Biberonne valley in Seine-et-Marne (77), for a free, immersive weekend at the heart of the Middle Ages, featuring performances, a market and activities for all. [Read more]
La Ferme du Bonheur, a bohemian and festive farm at the foot of La Défense.
At once an urban farm, an alternative arts venue and an ecological oasis at the foot of La Défense’s towers, La Ferme du Bonheur in Nanterre is a living laboratory where nature, performances, farming and collective experiments mingle. A timeless place where people come as much to attend a concert as to garden, meet animals or participate in the famous agro-poetry workshops. [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, the Bel Air farm invites you to meet its furry and feathered residents for a family outing in the fresh air. [Read more]
Discover Les Bergeries d'Issy, the educational farm in Issy-les-Moulineaux (92)
Just south-west of Paris, in the inner suburbs, the town of Issy-les-Moulineaux boasts a lovely educational farm where the whole family can come and discover the animals, take part in a parent-child workshop or celebrate a birthday... It's a great way to take the kids out to the countryside! [Read more]
La ferme pédagogique de Maisons-Alfort (94), a family-friendly farm where you can see animals
In Maisons-Alfort, in the Val-de-Marne département of France, some amusing boarders welcome you and your family all year round, on Wednesdays and weekends: so head to the town's educational farm for a little country escapade to discover its animals! [Read more]
La Ferme de Gally de Saint-Cyr l'Ecole (78), for a family outing in the countryside
The Ferme pédagogique de Gally is one of the most beautiful educational farms in the Yvelines: with its 4 hectares, it offers children and their parents a privileged encounter with sheep, dwarf goats, rabbits, donkeys, horses... [Read more]
The educational farm at Mantes-la-Jolie (78), a free, rural outing in the Yvelines region
In Mantes-la-Jolie, in the Yvelines département, there's an educational farm hidden away on Ile l'Aumône. Free and open to all, it's a great opportunity to take a stroll and discover the animals! [Read more]
La Ferme Caillard: festive venue, vegetable garden and educational farm in Bondy (93)
In Bondy, in Seine-Saint-Denis, Caillard Farm welcomes you year-round to its semi-urban setting, between the city and nature. [Read more]
La Ferme de Grignon (78), a free cow and sheep farm visit
In the heart of the Versailles plain, the town of Grignon boasts a huge farm with over 200 dairy cows, 600 ewes, 400 hectares of crops and a dairy. The good news is that the site is open to the public: put on your good shoes and let's go and discover this farm in the Yvelines! [Read more]
