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]
Cliorama exhibition: an immersive experience at the Renault® parade on the Champs-Elysées
Sponsored - From November 8, 2025, to April 5, 2026, the Renault® Parade will be transformed into an immersive and emotional experience centered around the legendary Renault Clio. With an exhibition of iconic models, artistic programming, and fun activities, CLIORAMA promises to be a vibrant ode to love, culture, and design. A unique event for enthusiasts of cars, photography, and culture. [Read more]
Digital Abysses, the immersive exhibition on the seabed, extended at the Musée en Herbe
From March 20, 2025, to March 29, 2026, the Musée en Herbe invites us to discover the seabed as seen by artist Miguel Chevalier, with Digital Abysses, an immersive exhibition of virtual and digital art designed for children. [Read more]
Mazarin and the Guardians of the Secret: our review of the immersive puzzle game at the BnF Richelieu
From November 15, 2025, the BnF Richelieu will be hosting an immersive experience where you'll have to unravel Cardinal Mazarin's greatest secret, through puzzles in the heart of the Bibliothèque nationale de France site. [Read more]
Dinosaurs: the immersive experience that takes us back in time at the Atelier des Lumières, photos
A new documentary exhibition transports us to the Atelier des Lumières: this winter, starting December 10, 2025, discover the age of dinosaurs in an unusual and family-friendly immersive experience. [Read more]
An immersive exhibition of giant LEGO dinosaurs in Paris Montreuil Expo
Watch out for the dinosaurs, they're invading Paris Montreuil Expo from December 20, 2025, to May 3, 2026, during a LEGO Jurassic World exhibition by "The Brickman." Nearly fifteen brick dinosaurs, immersive sets, and family activities await you there. [Read more]
Zeus, a masterpiece of craftsmanship: an exhibition on the Olympic horse at the Musée des Arts et Métiers
Zeus, the metal horse that crossed the Seine during the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, is the focus of a unique exhibition at the Musée des Arts et Métiers from December 17, 2025, to March 29, 2026. [Read more]
ZEUS, the metal horse from the Olympic Games opening ceremony, on display at the Musée des Arts et Métiers
Zeus, the mechanical horse from the Olympic Games that captured hearts, is about to set hoof on the forecourt of the Musée des Arts et Métiers in Paris. The steel colossus will be accessible to the public free of charge from December 17, 2025, to January 10, 2026. [Read more]
Machine arrière #2, the typewriter: the retro exhibition at the Cité des Sciences - our photos
From November 25, 2025, the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie will be showcasing the typewriter in its "Machine arrière" series. A historical and audio immersion between technical innovations and social struggles. [Read more]
Noah's World: An immersive experience of the animal world
Sponsored - Experience an extraordinary adventure in the heart of Paris: an immersive experience in the animal world! [Read more]
L'Univers des Figurines: the pop culture exhibition at the Ancienne Poste in Versailles
The Ancienne Poste de Versailles is hosting L’Univers des Figurines, an immersion in more than 17,000 pieces combining history, pop culture, and imaginary worlds, from December 17, 2025, to March 15, 2026. An exhibition designed for all curious minds, featuring spectacular reconstructions, interactive workshops, and the discovery of unique expertise. [Read more]
The exceptional Manga Exhibition at the Guimet Museum is unveiled: take a journey through Japanese art.
The exhibition Manga: An Art Form! at the Guimet Museum on Place d'Iéna awaits you to reveal the fascinating world of Japanese comics from November 19, 2025, to March 9, 2026. A unique cultural immersion in three parts. [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]
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]
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]
Le square de la Jungle: a playground that makes you feel like you're in the heart of the savannah, in Puteaux (92).
Enter the heart of the jungle, without even leaving the outskirts of Paris: head for the magnificent Square de la Jungle and its children's playground in Puteaux, for a family break all year round! [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]
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]
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]
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]
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]
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 winter season at the Hippodrome Paris-Vincennes: Sundays when Paris trots with pleasure
Sponsored - When the cold weather sets in over Paris, Sundays come alive again at the Paris-Vincennes Racetrack. From November 16 to February 22, the winter season returns with a simple promise: to enjoy unique moments to the rhythm of the world's most spectacular trotting races, in a festive, gourmet and warm atmosphere. Download your free tickets! [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]
This Christmas market in Seine-Saint-Denis will delight you with its ice rink and rides. The program
The Saint-Denis Christmas Market returns in 2025 with Bel Hiver, on the Basilica square, from December 12 to 21, 2025. Around a hundred artisans and designers take over the heart of the city in Seine-Saint-Denis. [Read more]
La Fabrique à Doudous: free stuffed animals for children at the Brétigny shopping center
From December 15 to 23, 2025, the Aushopping shopping center in Brétigny is offering children the chance to make their own stuffed animal for free before taking it home as an unforgettable souvenir! [Read more]
Christmas 2025: a free Santa Claus mini-horse village at the Paris-Vincennes racecourse
The Paris-Vincennes racecourse is transformed into a Christmas Village every Sunday in December 2025 for exceptional family days out with the horses, with lots of free entertainment for children! [Read more]
Christmas 2025 in Palaiseau: miniature train, ice rink, and Christmas carols—discover the program
In Palaiseau, Christmas is celebrated with joy, thanks to the many events organized throughout the town in the 91 department. Discover the program of festivities for all ages. [Read more]
Christmas has come to the Paris-Vincennes Racetrack... and it's magical!
Sponsored - This winter, experience an unexpected and magical Christmas at the Paris-Vincennes Racetrack: thrilling races, magical entertainment, and the holiday spirit like you've never experienced before in Paris! [Read more]
Harry Potter lights up Val d'Europe for Christmas!
Sponsored - From November 22 to December 24, Val d'Europe is transformed into a setting inspired by Hogwarts! Magical scenery, unique entertainment, festive contests, and creative workshops immerse visitors in an enchanting Christmas dedicated to Harry Potter. A month to experience the magic with your family and rediscover the center in a new light. [Read more]
Christmas 2025: ice rink, carousel, Santa's chalet, and holiday lights at One Nation (78)
The One Nation Outlet shopping center in Yvelines unveils its magical Christmas activities, including an ice rink, giant lights, and a visit from Santa Claus! [Read more]
Christmas tip: a free carousel for children in Courbevoie
And round and round it goes in the heart of Courbevoie. A free carousel is available for the town's children from November 29, 2025, to January 4, 2026. [Read more]
Paint Invaders: our review of the unique immersive and fluorescent art experience in Paris
Immerse yourself in Paint Invaders, Paris's new immersive and fluorescent art center. This 800 m² artistic experience invites you to explore a futuristic universe and create your own work using the Action Painting technique. Located opposite the Grand Rex, this creative and fun activity opens its doors on October 24, 2025, for a total immersion in fluorescent painting. [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]
2025 Christmas Market at the Bergerie Nationale de Rambouillet (78)
The Bergerie Nationale de Rambouillet is organizing its artisan Christmas market on Sunday, December 14, 2025. Every year, it's a great opportunity to meet the artisans and producers who come, laden with their arty and tempting products, to suggest some great gift ideas! [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]
Dates and Opening Time
From October 30, 2024 to December 31, 2028
