Planning a trip to the French capital with little ones? Paris isn’t just for art lovers and foodies—it’s also a fantastic city for young explorers! From lush parks and playful museums to charming puppet shows and boat rides, there are plenty of things to do in Paris with toddlers. This guide rounds up the best family-friendly spots to keep your little adventurers entertained.
If you’re also traveling with children, don’t miss our list of fun things to do in Paris with kids.
1. Have Fun at Luxembourg Garden
A toddler’s dream come true! Let your little ones dig in the sandboxes, swing to their heart’s content, or try their hand at bowls and skittles. The highlight? The charming sailboats they can navigate across the pond. Pony rides add an extra dose of fun, while the whimsical puppet shows are sure to spark giggles. If you visit the Luxembourg Garden at the right time, live concerts in the garden provide a lovely musical touch to your family outing.
2. Laugh at a Puppet Show
Puppet shows are a Parisian tradition, and toddlers will love the classic performances at Guignol theaters scattered across the city’s parks. The famous Théâtre du Luxembourg features lively, interactive shows that keep little ones entertained with silly antics, colorful characters, and timeless fairy tales.
Other notable Guignol theaters in Paris include those in Parc Monceau, Parc Montsouris, and the Jardin d’Acclimatation, all of which provide similarly enchanting experiences for young audiences.
3. Explore Statues and Sailboats at Jardin des Tuileries
Start your adventure at Place de la Concorde, where statues from the early 18th century welcome you. Toddlers will love guiding miniature sailboats across the grand Bassin Octogonal, framed by vibrant red sage and towering orange trees. The garden’s open spaces invite playful romps, while shaded paths lined with lime trees offer a cool retreat. Along the way, admire sculptures by Rodin and Giacometti, or stop by the Terrasse des Feuillants for contemporary art exhibitions. When hunger strikes, the garden’s quaint cafes serve up delicious treats.
4. Admire art in a palace at Petit Palais
The Petit Palais invites toddlers aged 12-24 months and their parents to a soothing “Baby Visite” through the museum’s permanent collections. This sensory journey allows families to follow a lively mascot while exploring soft mats filled with various textures, sounds, and scents. The experience is designed to foster discovery and bonding in a gentle, interactive environment. The visit is free for babies, with a €7 fee for parents.
5. Enjoy a Classic Carousel at Parc Monceau
A charming retreat in the heart of the city, Parc Monceau delights toddlers with its playgrounds, a cozy sandbox, and an old-fashioned carousel. Swings are available every afternoon, and pony rides make Wednesdays, weekends, and holidays extra special. The outdoor puppet theater, running from April to October, is a favorite for kids and parents alike.
6. Cruise the Seine on a Bateaux-Mouches
Hop aboard a Bateaux-Mouches for a relaxing, scenic tour of Paris. Toddlers will be mesmerized by the gentle motion of the boat and the breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre. Some cruises even propose child-friendly commentary to keep little minds engaged. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon ride or a twinkling evening voyage, this is a must-do experience for families.
7. Picnic and Play at Parc Montsouris
A sprawling 15-hectare green space in the 14th arrondissement, Parc Montsouris is perfect for picnics, play, and exploration. Kids can scamper across vast lawns, marvel at century-old trees, and spot ducks and gulls at the serene lake. Playgrounds, pony rides, and seasonal puppet shows keep the fun going year-round, while the park’s charming music kiosk hosts live performances in the warmer months.
8. Step Into Art at Atelier des Lumières
This digital art center turns masterpieces into immersive, larger-than-life projections that toddlers can explore with wide-eyed wonder. Moving images dance across walls and floors, creating a magical playground of light and color. The current exhibition at the Atelier des Lumieres features Picasso’s works, bringing his bold strokes and vivid hues to life in a way that captivates both young and old.
9. Ride, Play, and Explore at Jardin d’Acclimatation
Nestled in the Bois de Boulogne, this historic amusement park is packed with toddler-friendly attractions. Ride the Petit Train for a scenic park tour, take a spin on the merry-go-round, or enjoy the gentle Enchanted River boat ride. The Guignol Theater’s puppet shows are always a hit, while the Little Farm lets kids meet friendly animals. Expansive playgrounds, an aviary, and even beehives add to the park’s charm. With picnic areas and cozy cafes, it’s a full day of fun and discovery.
10. Meet Wild Animals at Parc Zoologique de Paris
The Parc Zoologique de Paris is home to over 3,000 animals from across five biozones. Giraffes, zebras, and rhinos roam the African Savannah, while the Biodiversity Trail provides hands-on learning experiences. The highlight? The Little Farm, where kids can get up close with gentle animals. With interactive exhibits and multiple playgrounds, the zoo is the perfect blend of adventure and education.
11. Ride Through History on Le Petit Train de Montmartre
All aboard! This charming little train takes families on a delightful 35-minute ride through the winding streets of Montmartre. Pass iconic sights like the Sacré-Cœur Basilica and Place du Tertre, while engaging commentary in French and English brings the neighborhood’s history to life. Departures are frequent, making it an easy and fun way to explore with toddlers.
12. Discover Marine Wonders at Aquarium de Paris
This underwater wonderland, home to over 10,000 sea creatures, is a must-visit for young explorers. The highlight? A massive shark tank holding 3 million liters of water. Toddlers will love the touch tank, where they can interact with koi fish, and the mesmerizing jellyfish displays. The Aquarium de Paris also features large-screen documentaries and enchanting mermaid shows, making it both educational and magical.
13. Explore the Animal Kingdom at Grande Galerie de l’Évolution
Step into a world of natural history at this spectacular museum in the Jardin des Plantes. With over 7,000 preserved animal specimens—including a stunning parade of African wildlife—toddlers will be wide-eyed with curiosity. The Children’s Gallery features interactive exhibits tailored for young visitors, turning learning into an exciting hands-on adventure. It’s a must-visit for families looking to mix education with wonder.
14. Visit exotic animals at Ménagerie Zoo
Located in the Jardin des Plantes, the Ménagerie Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the world. This charming, small-scale zoo is perfect for toddlers, offering an up-close look at red pandas, snow leopards, and adorable monkeys. Shady paths, interactive exhibits, and a variety of small animals make it an ideal destination for little ones who may find larger zoos overwhelming.
15. Discover magic tricks at Le Musée de la Magie
Step into a world of illusion at Le Musée de la Magie, where toddlers and parents alike will be enchanted by vintage magic props, hidden mirrors, and live demonstrations of classic tricks. The museum’s whimsical setting and hands-on elements make it a fun and mysterious adventure for young explorers.
16. Experiment and Play at Cité des Enfants (La Villette)
Designed specifically for young children, Cité des Enfants is a hands-on science museum inside La Villette. Toddlers can splash in the water play area, build structures, and explore tunnels in a safe, interactive environment. The exhibits are designed to spark curiosity and encourage learning through play, making it a fantastic indoor activity.
17. Marvel at Modern Art at Centre Pompidou (Temporarily Closed)
The Centre Pompidou is a vibrant hub for young art enthusiasts, offering a range of activities tailored for children from 6 months to 10 years old. The “Galerie des Enfants” (Kids Gallery) hosts two new interactive workshop-exhibitions each year, designed by contemporary artists. These exhibitions span various artistic disciplines, allowing children and their families to engage with art through observation and hands-on experimentation.
The “Atelier des Enfants” (Kids Studio) further nurtures young minds by introducing them to artistic techniques and materials, fostering a deep understanding of the creative process. These enriching activities often include time spent in front of actual artworks in major temporary exhibitions, making the Centre Pompidou a dynamic and educational destination for children.
18. Try Yoga at the Musée d’Art moderne
The Musée d’Art Moderne provides delightful activities for young children and families. The “Baby Visite/Le Sport dans l’Art” provides a gentle tour with yoga and Wutao exercises, ending with a creative session where parents and babies make a keepsake. For toddlers aged 1-3, the “Détails Magiques” workshop allows them to explore modern artworks and create their own fascinating pieces. Families with children aged 3 and up can join the “Humeur du Jour” workshop, where they create photomontages reflecting their moods, inspired by modern and contemporary art. The museum also provides a game booklet for a fun, family-friendly tour.
19. Introduce kids to art at Le Musée en Herbe
Open daily from 10 AM to 7 PM, you will enjoy interactive exhibitions and workshops that engage young minds through art and creativity. Kids can explore vibrant displays, participate in hands-on activities, and enjoy guided tours tailored to their age group. The museum’s playful atmosphere makes learning about art fun and accessible, providing a perfect family outing where children can develop their curiosity and imagination. From puppet shows to interactive games, Le Musée en Herbe is a delightful destination for young art enthusiasts.
21. Play and create at Little Villette
Little Villette, located opposite the Grande Halle, is a whimsical space with triangular windows and round doors, offering a variety of activities for children. Every weekend, enjoy free activities like My Little Villette with a game bar, reading lounge, toddler rotonde, LEGO® table and wall, Little Expo, and Little Ciné showcasing various films. Special readings, “Au Creux de l’Oreille,” enchant the youngest visitors.
Join workshops at Little Villette, La Ferme de la Villette, or Jardins Passagers, covering topics like circus, storytelling, hip-hop dance, arts, nature, and animals. Seasonal workshops for adults are also available. Enjoy kid-friendly shows featuring circus, theater, dance, puppetry, and more, with related activities at Little Villette.
22. Walk among sculptures at Musée Bourdelle
The Bourdelle Museum offers a “Baby-Visite,” a sensory and interactive tour designed for infants and their parents. This engaging experience allows babies to explore the sculptures of Antoine Bourdelle through touch and sight, creating a memorable and emotional connection. The visit includes a relaxation session, culminating in the creation of a mini sculpture as a keepsake. This activity is perfect for non-walking infants, with parents encouraged to use baby carriers and wear comfortable clothing.
23. Climb, Roll, and Ride at Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
A paradise of rolling hills and hidden nooks, this park is an adventure waiting to happen. Let your toddler climb quirky trees, roll down grassy slopes, and splash by gentle streams. Pony rides with Animaponey are a must, and playgrounds here cater to all ages. Seasonal puppet shows at the Guignol theater keep little ones entertained, while near the lake, a carousel, duck fishing, and swings promise even more fun. Wrap up the visit with a sweet treat from a nearby café.
24. Experience Music at La Philharmonie
La Philharmonie‘s “Éveil Musical” sessions offer a magical introduction to music for children aged 3 months to 3 years. These 45-minute workshops, guided by a skilled pedagogical musician, include musical games and intimate concert experiences. Toddlers can explore various instruments, from gentle percussion to simple strings, engaging their senses and creativity. Parents and children share this interactive journey, enjoying live performances up close and personal interactions with musicians. These sessions provide a joyful and immersive musical experience, fostering a love for music in the youngest listeners.
25. Relax at the Musée de l’Orangerie
The Orangerie Museum‘s “Baby Visit” for children aged 0-2 years offers a delightful, sensory exploration of Claude Monet’s garden at Giverny. Families are invited to crawl and discover the wonders of the garden through sight, sound, touch, and smell, making it a truly immersive experience.
Starting at 9:15 AM from the Espace Familles, this visit allows up to two adults per child, ensuring a cozy and engaging environment. It’s a perfect way for the littlest art enthusiasts to experience their first museum visit, sparking curiosity and wonder in a magical setting.
26. Meet farm animals at La Ferme de Paris
Located in the Bois de Vincennes, La Ferme de Paris is a working educational farm where toddlers can meet cows, pigs, chickens, and more. The hands-on experience lets little ones learn about sustainable farming, animal care, and nature in an interactive and engaging way. Best of all, entry is free, making it a perfect budget-friendly outing for families.
We’ve reached the end of our list, but the fun is just beginning! From carousels to crepes, Paris is a toddler’s playground—so get ready for giggles, snacks, and a whole lot of ‘one more time!
