In Paris, the family activities are numerous. There are also free activities for children. Shows for young audiences, encounters with farm animals, merry-go-rounds, early-learning games, dance classes, museum visits, circus, introduction to gardening… In the capital, these addresses offer a wide range of educational activities for little ones, without costing you a penny. So what are these free, ultra-enriching activities for kids , and where can you find them? Follow the guide!
Free activities for children in Paris : Story time at the IMA
For a free activity for children, head for the enchanting Institut du Monde Arabe (IMA) in Paris. Here, young audiences are invited to “L’heure du Conte”, a FREE event (reservations required). During these workshops, Wonderful Tales take center stage, offering young and old alike a journey to meet the creatures of the Arab world, princes and princesses. A session that takes place on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and a great opportunity to learn a few words in Arabic.
The Chocolate Museum
In Paris, culture is also accessible free of charge, as shown by the following examples free museums. Children also have their own free museum, and what a museum it is: the Chocolate Museum, a paradise for the curious and gourmands of all ages. Children’s tickets (7-12 years) cost just 6 euros, but access is free of charge FREE for children under 6! Discover the history of chocolate, taste it, make it, have fun (and get it everywhere)… it’s all possible at Choco Story! “You’re pushing the envelope a little too far, Maurice!”
La Ferme de Paris in the Bois de Vincennes
A 5-hectare farm nestled in the heart of the Bois de Vincennes. You’ve probably heard of it, parents: La Ferme de Paris! The essence of this place? Raising visitors’ awareness of agroecology and sustainable food. Resolutely educational, the Ferme de Paris is ideal for introducing the very young to respect for the environment. Goats, sheep, pigs, chickens, geese… From an early age, children will be able to meet many farm animals here. The plant side is just as rich, with pastures, a nourishing forest, a pond or an orchard. The best part? A choice of self-guided tours and educational activities!
The “Pestacles” at the Parc Floral de Paris (free admission for children under 7)
The Parc Floral Pestacles have been running for over 20 years now! In the Park’s bucolic setting, families can enjoy concerts for young audiences, circus performances and encounters with artists. It’s a great way to awaken children’s curiosity in the great outdoors during the summer months. All “pestacles” are free of charge. Entrance to the Parc Floral is free for children under 7(€2.5 for adults, €1.5 for children aged 7 and over)
Free activities for children: family days at the Hippodrome
Did you know? Numerous free activities are offered at the 5 France Galop racecourses: Auteuil, Chantilly, Paris-Longchamp, Saint-Cloud and Deauville. An ideal family outing where kids can enjoy free, super fun activities. Pony rides, & carousel, kids’ race, mini-golf, treasure hunt… There’s something for all tastes and ages.
*And this year, experience even more fun at the Hippodrome d’Auteuil. On Saturdays June 1, 8 and 15, 2024, there will be plenty of activities to delight the little ones. Accrobranche, brass band, majorette and face painting are on the program!
Little Villette
La Villette is Europe’s largest urban park. And it’s not for nothing that its Program is so eclectic. At La Villette, children are not to be outdone and are the kings of Litlle Villette. A place accessible free of charge, where parents can take their children to play, read, garden, discover, socialize and so much more. At the heart of this 1,000 m2 space, a wide range of activities are on the Program. Our little ones can enjoy workshops such as hip-hop dance and baby-gym, to name but a few. In addition to themed weekends, Little Villette also organizes ” Little Ciné”, a children’s cinema that’s always FREE!
Free activities for children: La Maison des Petits du Centquatre
In Paris, art and culture enthusiasts love Le Centquatre Paris. Shows, exhibitions, concerts, artist residencies… the annual program could not be richer. And Centquatre Paris doesn’t forget the little ones. To introduce children to culture from an early age, we offer a wide range of free activities for children up to the age of 5. La Maison des Petits is a space with an original design invested with art. And ii, play, discovery and creativity are the watchwords.