Tucked inside the Bois de Boulogne, the Jardin d'Acclimatation is one of the oldest amusement parks still operating anywhere, open since 1860. It was originally created to display animals and exotic plants being "acclimatized" to the Paris climate, which is how it got its name, before gradually turning into a children's amusement park while keeping a few traces of that original purpose. Today it makes for a relaxed family outing, quite different from the big thrill-ride parks around Paris.
La Rivière Enchantée
This slow boat ride through small staged scenes is one of the park's oldest and most iconic attractions. Its gentle pace makes it a must even for the youngest children.
Gentle rides for young children
The park's attractions are aimed mainly at young children rather than teenagers or adults chasing thrills. There are no roller coasters or vertigo-inducing rides, which makes it a reassuring first amusement park experience for little ones.
The small farm and petting-zoo area
A pocket of the park still keeps real animals, a direct nod to its original 1860s purpose of displaying animals and plants from far-flung places. Kids can get close to them in a calm, small-scale setting.
Shaded gardens and play areas
Between rides, several shaded corners and open play areas invite a break, or even a family picnic. It is a good spot to slow down before continuing the visit.
Fondation Louis Vuitton next door
This contemporary art museum, with its striking glass-sailed building designed by Frank Gehry and opened in 2014, sits just steps from the Jardin d'Acclimatation. Parents can easily combine a museum visit with time at the park for the kids.
Tips
Plan on roughly half a day if you want to try several attractions, and keep in mind the park is geared mostly toward toddlers and primary-school-age kids. Park admission is usually separate from the rides, which are typically paid for with tickets or a day pass. The easiest way in is via the Les Sablons metro station (line 1), just a short walk away, or the small tourist train that runs from Porte Maillot on some days. The paths are wide and generally stroller-friendly, which makes getting around easy with very young children.
