Carousels are as much a part of the Parisian landscape as Wallace fountains and newsstands. Since the 1980s, they’ve been made in France, despite the fact that they’ve fallen into disuse in favor of merry-go-rounds and thrill rides. Traditionally, the carousel is made up of wooden horses of varying heights that revolve around a central island. These delightful machines instantly warm our childhood hearts, and it has to be said that Paris still boasts some very fine examples. Among the most remarkable is the Dodo Manège in the Jardin des Plantes. This highly atypical carousel lets you ride on species that are… extinct. A mammoth, a dodo, a saber-toothed tiger… What a ride!
Le Dodo Manège: the most unusual carousel in Paris
Located in the Jardin des Plantes, a stone’s throw from the Museum of Natural History, the Dodo Manège leaves no one indifferent. And with good reason! Its creatures set it apart from the rest. A saber-toothed tiger, a horned tortoise, a mammoth… all these species have simply disappeared from our planet! Some, like the panda or the gorilla,are species threatened by human activities, and have been protected for several years to combat their extinction.
So why create such a carrousel in Paris? Quite simply, to raise awareness among young people. That’s right! After a visit to the museum’s sublime evolution gallery, children will be able to play and have fun on an educational carousel.
A guide has been set up near the carrousel to talk about these endangered or extinct animals, sometimes even forgotten by the general public. It’s a great way to learn a little more about them, and to teach youngsters about ecology,respect and protection of the animal world.
Open since 1992, the carousel always attracts as many curious visitors as children happy to have a good time. A curiosity not to be missed on your next outing!
📍 Location: 57 rue Cuvier 75005 Paris
💶 Price: two euros