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]
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]
Open-air exhibition of Theodoulos Gregoriou's sculptures in the Faubourg Saint-Honoré district
Faubourg Saint-Honoré is rewritten as an open-air gallery with a free, outdoor exhibition in Paris, where time is carved in layered strata. From April 28 to July 27, 2026, the sculptures by Cypriot artist Theodoulos Gregoriou for "Cyprus on Faubourg Saint-Honoré" invite memory and contemporary creation to converse in the heart of the 1st arrondissement, between reinvented ruins and today’s sculptural language. [Read more]
A free biodiversity museum featuring large aquariums in Puteaux (92)
On Île de Puteaux in the Hauts-de-Seine, inside Lebaudy Park, you’ll find the Naturoscope — a venue devoted to the environment that aims to raise awareness for both children and adults through exhibitions and educational activities. [Read more]
Flops?! Dare to fail, dare to innovate: explore the after-hours exhibition before it ends at the Musée des Arts et Métiers.
The Museum of Arts and Crafts is exploring failure and its essential role in invention, through the quirky exhibition "Flops. Dare, Fail, Innovate," running from October 14, 2025, to May 17, 2026. Evening openings are planned from May 5 to May 16, 2026. [Read more]
Renoir and Love: A Landmark Retrospective at the Musée d'Orsay in Paris – Reviews and Photos
When love becomes light, Renoir turns it into art. With the exhibition "Renoir et l'amour" (March 17 - July 19, 2026), the Musée d'Orsay brings together his major masterpieces for a retrospective as modern as it is tender, in collaboration with the National Gallery in London and the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. [Read more]
Admire them all: Pokémon take center stage in a playful and nostalgic exhibition at the Musée en Herbe
The Musée en Herbe marks Pokémon’s 30th anniversary with an exhibition that is as artistic as it is playful, on view from April 16 to September 6, 2026. [Read more]
Frontier Exhibition at the Cité des sciences: Understanding borders around the world — our photos
The Frontière exhibition opens at the Cité des sciences et de l’industrie in Paris, offering an immersive journey about borders around the world, from April 14, 2026, to January 2, 2028. Designed for visitors aged 12 and up, it draws on ten concrete scenarios to explore the geographical, political, social, and artistic dimensions of lines that divide, of spaces people traverse, and of the tensions of our times. [Read more]
Colors Festival returns to Paris with the street-art exhibition Colors Ligth, spanning 700 m², featuring the photos
The Colors Festival returns to Paris after a three-year hiatus and sets up in the 15th arrondissement with Colors Light, a new immersive exhibition exploring blacklight and urban art, opening from April 16 to July 26, 2026. [Read more]
Cling! The comic book gets real about money: an educational and playful exhibition at the Monnaie de Paris
La Monnaie de Paris speaks to us about money through comics and their heroes, with an exclusive exhibition titled Cling! Comics talk money. On view from April 10 to September 6, 2026. [Read more]
From every angle: the Postal Museum delves into workwear in a stunning exhibition
The Postal Museum (formerly the Post Museum) delves into the world of workwear in the postal service... But that’s not all. Discover the exhibition Sous toutes les coutures, on show from April 8 to September 22, 2026. [Read more]
Eggxtraordinaire: a free, offbeat and foodie exhibition you won’t want to miss in the Marais
An exhibition unlike any other to discover during Easter time. From April 3 to May 3, 2026, at Galerie Joseph, pastry chefs, chocolatiers, and artists explore the egg and its symbols with the free exhibition Eggxtraordinaire. An offbeat event you simply have to see! [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]
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]
At Kids' Paradise on the Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines leisure island: the €1 carousel!
Sponsored - In Île-de-France, at the Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines Leisure Island, there is a magical place where children can laugh, play, and enjoy rides suited to their ages: Au Paradis des Enfants.
It’s the cheapest park in Île-de-France, with an exceptional rate of €1 per ride. [Read more]
FunBox: the world's largest inflatable park arrives in France, offering 4,000 m2 of fun
Sponsored - Fun awaits in Paris. From March 12 to May 31, Westfield Rosny 2 shopping center is hosting the world’s largest inflatable park. After making a splash in the United States and Spain, Funbox is making its debut in France, brought over by Productores de Sonrisas, Spain’s leading family entertainment producer. And until March 23, it’s Happiness Week — all tickets are just €11. [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]
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]
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]
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]
4. Do a workshop or simply discover the best family concept
Family concepts and family HQs in Paris: must-see places to bring 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]
Jardin21, season 2026: a week of celebration, nature and cultural discoveries at the heart of Parc de la Villette
Sponsored - In April, Jardin21, the lively, greenery-filled community hub perched along the Canal de l’Ourcq in the 19th arrondissement, reopens its doors with a rich and varied lineup. Take the opportunity to kick off spring: community-led initiatives, gardening workshops, youth activities, festive evenings, a yoga session… Everything you need to escape without leaving Paris! Free admission. [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]
An immersive pastry shop based on the Hansel&Gretel fairy tale opens at the Paradox Museum
The Paradox Museum offers new rooms and experiences for your visit in early 2025: get ready to enter the heart of the Hansel&Gretel fairy tale by discovering the museum's new patisserie. And good news: following its huge success since opening, this pop-up is now permanent! [Read more]
Bambin, the kid-friendly coffeeshop with children's play area, in the 20th arrondissement
In the 20th arrondissement, in the heart of the Belleville district, Bambin is the new place to be: a real cocoon, this pretty café is first and foremost a place to live. [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]
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]
BattleKart Paris Nord: immersive Mario Kart-style go-karting at the gates of Paris
Sponsored - In Villepinte, BattleKart Paris Nord blends electric go-karting, immersive video gaming and indoor entertainment near Paris for a family outing, a friends’ day out, or a colleagues’ event. Come test classic go-karting as well as the more unusual options during mini-games! And enjoy a weekend offer. [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]
Jules Verne, The Extraordinary Voyage: the show to catch during the holidays!
Sponsored - The Grand Hôtel des Rêves invites you to discover Jules Verne, Le Voyage Extraordinaire: a family immersive show. Jules Verne, Le Voyage Extraordinaire is a show designed to discover or rediscover the author of adventure novels, with 360° sets and a brand-new theatrical adventure. [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]
A budget-friendly animal park, featuring donkeys, ducks, goats and pigs... in Roissy-en-Brie (77)
Near Roissy-en-Brie, in Seine-et-Marne, a small animal park welcomes you and your children from Tuesday to Sunday, 2pm to 6pm, for an afternoon of immersion on the farm. [Read more]
Vacation tip: a pop-up museum and free workshops at Bercy Village
From April 18 to 22, 2026, the Musée en Herbe is bringing its exhibit to Bercy Village for the Easter holidays, offering a charming program for kids, entirely free. [Read more]
Wheelz & Feet, the free roller-skating party at Point Fort in Aubervilliers (93): upcoming dates
Craving a mix of roller skating and pure fun? Dive into a roller party—these open-to-all dance floors where you groove to a lively playlist while skating on wheels. Le Point Fort d'Aubervilliers hosts its own sessions, and here are the upcoming dates to mark on your calendar. [Read more]
The 2026 Grand Spring Festival at Galerie du 19M: free workshops, Japanese market, and an exhibition
Chanel’s fashion workshop marks spring with a lineup of free workshops and events at Galerie du 19M and Parcelle, on Saturday, April 25, 2026. Expect embroidery, engraving, a Japanese market and bentos. [Read more]
Rambouillet Lily-of-the-Valley Festival 2026: games, parade and fireworks on the agenda
The Rambouillet Lily Festival will take place on May 9 and 10, 2026 in the Yvelines, centered around board games and video games: a floral procession, the crowning of the queen, a pyrosymphonic show, and a lineup of activities. [Read more]
The funfair in Asnières-sur-Seine (92): rides and attractions for all the family
From April 17 to May 3, 2026, the town of Asnières-sur-Seine (92) reopens its fair, to the delight of children and grown-ups alike. It’s time for a spin on the carousel over the Easter holidays! [Read more]
Easter Holidays 2026: the kids’ program at the Plans-Reliefs Museum
From April 18 to May 3, 2026, Easter holidays are here! For the occasion, the Plans-Reliefs Museum is offering a wide range of activities to explore with children. [Read more]
Winnie the Pooh turns 100: free activities for children at a shopping mall
Winnie the Pooh lands at a Paris shopping mall from May 7 to 9, 2026. What’s on the agenda? Free activities around the famous yellow bear. [Read more]
Les Voiliers du Luxembourg, the Jardin du Luxembourg's historic boats for children
Every summer, the Jardin du Luxembourg basin is decked out in its finest miniature sailboats. A historic amusement that has delighted youngsters for generations, miniature sailboats are one of the must-do family activities in this magnificent Parisian park. [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]
The Sainte Hilaire educational farm, to discover the world of farms at the Jardin d'Acclimatation
Did you know? At the heart of the Jardin d'Acclimatation is an educational farm: Ferme Sainte-Hilaire, a must-see for the whole family! [Read more]
The Ecancourt educational farm in Jouy-le-Moutier, for a walk to discover the animals.
Near Jouy-le-Moutier, the Ecancourt farm welcomes families all week long to discover its residents and the world of farming at the same time. [Read more]
Cocorico, the free educational farm in Herblay-sur-Seine (95)
In Herblay-sur-Seine, don't miss Cocorico, the town's educational farm: free and open to all, it's a great opportunity for a family outing to the farm. [Read more]
The Grange aux Moines educational farm, for a rural outing in La Ferté-Alais (91)
Fancy a day out in the great outdoors? In La Ferté-Alais, the Grange aux Moines educational farm is the place to be for the whole family! [Read more]
The Viltain Farm, where you can discover the breeding of dairy cows with your family, in Jouy-en-Josas
The Viltain Farm, with its market of local products, its dairy cows and its fields where you can pick your own food, is the ideal place to spend a day in the fresh air and discover the breeding of cows or to make your market of dairy products from the farm. [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]
