Think Paris is just for grown-ups? Think again! The city is a playground of discovery for young minds, home to more than 150 museums that turn learning into an adventure.
But where to start? We’ve done the work for you, curating the most exciting, hands-on, and imagination-fueling museums for kids in Paris.
From unraveling the mysteries of science to stepping into the shoes of a magician, musician, or even an astronaut, these museums ignite curiosity and creativity at every turn.
Whether your child dreams of cracking a detective case, exploring ancient history, or conducting wild experiments, Paris has the perfect museum to bring their passions to life.
Get ready for an unforgettable journey through the city’s top kid-friendly museums!
1. Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie
Calling all little Einsteins! The Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, this colossal science museum is a paradise for curious minds. The star attraction? La Cité des Enfants, a vibrant, interactive space divided for different age groups (2-7 and 5-12 years old). Imagine your kids exploring space, playing with robots, and learning about water—all through hands-on exhibits!
The planetarium shows are a must-see, offering a cosmic journey that will leave your kids starry-eyed. And don’t forget to explore the submarine Argonaute, where children can experience life as a submariner. With so much to see and do, a day here is packed with scientific wonders and endless excitement.
2. Science Expériences
Ready for a futuristic adventure? Science Expériences is where high-tech meets fun! Virtual reality and interactive displays make learning about physics, space, and the human body an exhilarating journey. Imagine your kiddos embarking on a virtual tour of the cosmos or exploring the inner workings of the human body.
The interactive exhibits are designed to engage all the senses, making science both thrilling and accessible. It’s a place where technology and imagination collide, creating an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
3. Air and Space Museum
Future pilots, this one’s for you! Located near Le Bourget Airport, the Air and Space Museum lets kids climb into real aircraft, explore space exhibits, and even step inside a legendary Concorde. The dedicated children’s area offers interactive aviation-themed activities, ensuring your little aviators are both entertained and educated.
The museum’s extensive collection of aircraft, from vintage planes to modern jets, provides a fascinating look at the history of aviation. And yes, there are flight simulators—get ready for takeoff! It’s an adventure that will inspire dreams of soaring through the skies.
4. Musée des Arts et Métiers
Step into a world of human ingenuity! The Musée des Arts et Métiers is a treasure trove of fascinating inventions like early airplanes, vintage cars, and monumental clocks. Kids will be mesmerized by life-sized models of Leonardo da Vinci’s machines and the iconic Foucault’s Pendulum.
The museum’s interactive exhibits allow children to see and touch the inventions that have shaped our world. It’s a journey through the history of technology that will ignite their imagination and curiosity. Whether they’re budding engineers or simply curious about how things work, this museum offers endless inspiration.
5. Paris Natural History Museum
A wonderland for young explorers! This Paris Natural History Museum offers a collection of awe-inspiring galleries:
- Grande Galerie de l’Évolution: Marvel at life-sized animal models in stunning displays. The dynamic dioramas bring the animal kingdom to life, showcasing the diversity of species in their natural habitats.
- Gallery of Paleontology and Comparative Anatomy: Discover a world of dinosaur skeletons and ancient creatures. The towering fossils and skeletal displays are sure to captivate dinosaur enthusiasts of all ages.
- Gallery of Mineralogy and Geology: Be dazzled by sparkling crystals and meteorites. The glittering gems and rare minerals offer a glimpse into the wonders of the Earth.
- Ménagerie, Zoo of the Jardin des Plantes: Visit a charming zoo with rare and exotic animals. The historic menagerie is home to a variety of species, providing an intimate and educational animal experience.
Each gallery offers a unique adventure, making it a perfect spot for a family day out. From the marvels of evolution to the mysteries of the cosmos, this museum invites children to explore the natural world in all its splendor.
6. The Army Museum
Ready to march through history? The Army Museum is packed with knights’ armor, Napoleon’s tomb, and interactive military exhibits. The museum also hosts engaging workshops for families, making history come alive through hands-on activities and storytelling. Kids can try on armor, participate in reenactments, and explore the lives of soldiers throughout history.
The grand displays of weaponry and uniforms provide a fascinating look at military history, while the interactive exhibits ensure that learning is both fun and memorable.
7. Museum of Police
A quirky, lesser-known gem, the Police Museum delves into the history of law enforcement in Paris. Older kids will find the crime stories and detective exhibits particularly intriguing, offering a unique perspective on the city’s past.
The museum’s collection includes historical uniforms, forensic tools, and artifacts from famous cases, providing a fascinating look at the evolution of policing. It’s a captivating journey into the world of crime and justice, perfect for budding detectives and history buffs.
8. Carnavalet Museum
Step back in time at the beautifully renovated Carnavalet Museum. Interactive exhibits and storytelling workshops make history engaging and fun for kids, allowing them to connect with the city’s rich heritage in an immersive way. The museum’s displays cover everything from the French Revolution to the Belle Époque, offering a comprehensive look at Parisian history.
Children can participate in hands-on activities, explore reconstructed historical scenes, and even attend themed workshops. It’s a vibrant and dynamic way to learn about the past.
9. Cluny Museum
Travel back to medieval times at the Cluny Museum, where children can see authentic knight armor, enchanting unicorn tapestries, and ancient artifacts. The museum’s stunning collection includes medieval art, manuscripts, and everyday objects, providing a window into life in the Middle Ages.
It’s a fantastic destination for young fans of castles and fantasy tales. The atmospheric setting and captivating displays make history come alive, transporting visitors to a world of chivalry and legend.
10. Musée du Quai Branly – Jacques Chirac
Embark on a cultural odyssey at the Musée du Quai Branly – Jacques Chirac, showcasing art and artifacts from around the globe. Kids will be fascinated by colorful tribal masks, towering totem poles, and the lush garden that surrounds the museum, offering a tranquil escape in the heart of the city.
The museum’s diverse collection celebrates the richness of human creativity and cultural expression, providing a global perspective that is both educational and inspiring. Interactive exhibits and family-friendly activities ensure that children are engaged and entertained throughout their visit.
11. Musée de la Marine
Set sail on a maritime adventure at the Musée de la Marine, filled with intricately detailed model ships, navigational tools, and thrilling seafaring stories.
It’s an ideal spot for kids who dream of pirate escapades and ocean voyages. The museum’s collection includes everything from ancient galleons to modern submarines, offering a comprehensive look at naval history.
Interactive exhibits allow children to steer a ship, navigate by the stars, and explore life at sea. It’s a journey into the world of maritime exploration that will inspire dreams of adventure.
12. Musée du Cinéma
Lights, camera, action! The Musée du Cinéma is a paradise for movie enthusiasts, exploring the evolution of film from silent movies to modern special effects. Kids will love the interactive displays and screenings of classic films, providing a deeper appreciation for the magic of cinema.
The museum’s exhibits include iconic props, costumes, and behind-the-scenes footage, offering a fascinating look at the art of filmmaking. Workshops and hands-on activities allow children to try their hand at directing, acting, and special effects, making it a truly immersive experience.
13. Pompidou Centre
Modern art meets kid-friendly fun at the Pompidou Centre. The Galerie des Enfants offers exhibitions tailored for young visitors, and the Atelier des Enfants hosts hands-on workshops where kids can unleash their creativity and craft their own masterpieces.
The museum’s vibrant and dynamic displays of contemporary art provide endless inspiration, while interactive installations invite children to engage with art in new and exciting ways. It’s a place where creativity knows no bounds, and imagination takes center stage.
14. Louvre Museum
Beyond the iconic Mona Lisa, the Louvre offers a plethora of activities for kids, including treasure hunts, family-friendly guided tours, and creative workshops throughout the year. It’s a splendid way to introduce children to the world of art and history in an engaging and interactive manner.
The museum’s vast collection spans thousands of years and cultures, providing endless opportunities for discovery and learning. Special family tours and themed activities ensure that even the youngest visitors are captivated by the wonders of the Louvre.
15. L’Atelier des Lumières
Step into a mesmerizing digital art experience at the Atelier des Lumières, where famous paintings are projected onto walls, floors, and ceilings. Kids will be enchanted by the immersive environment, making art appreciation a delightful adventure.
The ever-changing displays of light and color create a magical atmosphere that transports visitors into the world of the artists. Interactive elements and themed workshops add to the fun, making it a truly unforgettable experience for the whole family.
16. Fluctuart
This floating museum dedicated to street art is a vibrant and unique destination. Children can admire colorful graffiti-style works and participate in urban art workshops, fostering their artistic talents in a dynamic setting.
Fluctuart‘s ever-changing exhibits celebrate the creativity and energy of street art, providing a fresh and exciting perspective on contemporary culture.
Workshops and interactive activities allow children to express themselves and explore their artistic potential in a fun and supportive environment.
17. Museum of Music
A symphony of sights and sounds awaits at the Museum of Music, where kids can explore musical instruments from around the world. Interactive stations allow them to play virtual instruments, adding a playful and educational dimension to their visit.
The museum’s extensive collection includes everything from ancient flutes to modern electric guitars, offering a comprehensive look at the history of music. Hands-on exhibits and family-friendly activities make it a place where music comes to life, inspiring a love of rhythm and melody.
18. Musée de l’Illusion
Prepare to have your mind blown at the Musée de l’Illusion, filled with optical illusions, 3D images, and interactive exhibits. It’s a place where reality bends and kids can marvel at the wonders of perception. The museum’s mind-bending displays challenge the senses and invite visitors to explore the mysteries of visual perception.
Interactive exhibits and photo opportunities ensure that the fun never stops, making it a perfect destination for curious minds and playful spirits.
19. Paradox Museum
Similar as the Musée de l’Illusion, you will enjoy a world of mind-tricking exhibits at the Paradox Museum. Children can explore interactive installations that challenge their perception and reality, making it a fantastic spot for quirky family photos and unforgettable experiences.
The museum’s playful and thought-provoking displays invite visitors to question what they see and experience the world in new and unexpected ways. It’s a place where imagination and reality collide, creating a truly unique and engaging adventure.
20. Museum of Magic
Enter a realm of enchantment at the Museum of Magic, featuring antique illusions, magic tricks, and live performances. Kids can even try their hand at simple magic tricks, making it a magical adventure for the whole family. The museum’s collection includes everything from classic stage props to modern illusions, offering a fascinating look at the art of magic.
Live performances and interactive exhibits ensure that the magic is both seen and experienced, creating a truly enchanting visit.
21. Le Musée en Herbe
Designed specifically for children, Le Musée en Herbe offers interactive art exhibitions, storytelling sessions, and workshops that make learning about art fun and engaging. It’s a space where creativity and education go hand in hand. The museum’s playful and colorful displays invite children to explore the world of art in a hands-on and accessible way.
Themed exhibitions and creative workshops ensure that there’s always something new and exciting to discover, making it a favorite destination for young artists and curious minds.
22. Choco-Story – The Chocolate Museum
Indulge in a deliciously fun experience at the Chocolate Museum (Le Musée du Chocolat), where kids can learn about the history of chocolate and participate in chocolate-making workshops. It’s a sweet treat for the senses and an educational journey through the world of cocoa.
The museum’s exhibits trace the history of chocolate from ancient civilizations to modern-day confections, offering a fascinating look at this beloved treat. Hands-on workshops and tastings ensure that the learning is both fun and delicious, making it a must-visit for chocolate lovers of all ages.
23. Musée des Arts Forains
Step into a whimsical world at Fairground Arts Museum, filled with vintage carnival rides, old-fashioned games, and funfair artifacts. It’s like walking into a storybook circus, offering a magical experience for children and adults alike.
The museum’s enchanting displays and interactive exhibits invite visitors to relive the magic of the fairground, from carousel rides to carnival games. Guided tours and special events add to the fun, making it a truly unforgettable adventure.
24. Rex Studios
Get a behind-the-scenes look at France’s biggest cinema at Rex Studios. Kids will love exploring film sets, dubbing their own movie scenes, and discovering the secrets of filmmaking. It’s an exciting adventure into the world of cinema. The museum’s interactive exhibits and guided tours provide a fascinating look at the art and technology of filmmaking, from script to screen.
Hands-on activities and themed workshops ensure that the magic of the movies is both seen and experienced, making it a perfect destination for aspiring filmmakers and movie lovers.
25. Musée Grévin (Wax Museum)
Meet life-sized wax figures of your favorite celebrities, historical figures, and even cartoon characters at Musée Grévin. It’s a fun and interactive experience where children can pose with their idols and learn about the art of wax sculpting.
The museum’s lifelike figures and detailed displays provide a fascinating look at the world of fame and celebrity, from historical icons to modern-day stars. Interactive exhibits and photo opportunities ensure that the fun never stops, making it a must-visit for fans of all ages.
26 – The French Playing Card Museum
Step into a magical world of aces, kings, and queens at The French Playing Card Museum, located just southwest of Paris in Issy-les-Moulineaux! Perfect for kids, this museum is like a treasure chest with over 11,000 cards from around the globe.
Travel back in time with France’s royal cards, and see how they changed during the French Revolution. Marvel at colorful decks from Germany, Italy, and Spain, and discover exotic cards from India, China, and Japan.
Kids will be enchanted by whimsical fancy cards, interactive exhibits, and fun art pieces showing card games. It’s a playful and educational adventure into the fascinating world of playing cards, just a short trip from Paris!
And, that’s a wrap, folks! Paris is a playground of museums where kids can embark on epic adventures! From time-traveling through history to hands-on science fun, there’s no end to the excitement.
And here’s the cherry on top: grab a Paris Museum Pass to zoom past lines and save some euros for extra croissants.
Ready, set, explore!
