In northeast Paris, the Parc de la Villette surrounds the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie, Europe's largest science museum, opened in 1986 on the site of the capital's former abattoirs and cattle market. For families, it is far more than a museum: a vast park to explore, an enormous playground and enough activities for a half day, or even a full day, aimed at kids of every age, from toddlers to preteens.
The museum's entrance hall
This large entrance hall, easy to navigate with a stroller, is the natural starting point for planning a family day: this is where you'll find the ticket counters, the booking desk for the Cité des Enfants and lockers for bulky bags and coats.
La Cité des Enfants
This dedicated children's section is split into two age-appropriate zones, one for ages 2 to 7 and one for ages 5 to 12, each packed with hands-on exhibits kids can touch, build and test. Entry runs on timed sessions, so it is worth booking a slot online in advance, especially on Wednesdays, weekends and during school holidays.
The Argonaute
Docked just outside the museum, this real French Navy attack submarine, decommissioned in the 1980s, can be explored from end to end. Squeezing through the narrow corridors, the control room and the crew quarters is often the highlight of the visit for kids.
La Géode
This mirrored, dome-shaped cinema in front of the museum screens films on a giant hemispherical screen that fills almost the entire field of view. The effect is spectacular for children, though the youngest or more sensitive ones may need a moment to adjust to such an immersive screen.
Parc de la Villette
The museum sits inside one of the largest parks in Paris, with wide lawns for picnicking, themed gardens and long paths that are easy to cover with a stroller or a bike. It is a good place to let kids burn off energy before or after the museum.
The dragon slide
Tucked into one of the park's themed gardens, this large dragon-shaped slide is one of the most popular free attractions for younger children. Kids climb up through a staircase hidden inside the dragon's head before sliding back down, which only adds to the fun.
The Folies
These small red pavilions scattered across the park, designed by architect Bernard Tschumi, work well as landmarks for meeting up or finding your way around. Some house an information point, a café or activities, handy for a break with children.
Tips
Book the Cité des Enfants time slot as soon as you arrive, or better yet online before your visit, since sessions fill up fast on Wednesdays and weekends. Plan on at least half a day for the museum and leave extra time for the park and the dragon slide, especially if the kids still have energy to spend after the visit.
