Paris Weekend Activities & Things to Do

Dragon Playground Fun

Let the kids burn off some energy at the iconic Jardin du Dragon, a fantastic free playground located within Parc de la Villette.

Designed as a giant dragon, it features an 11-meter slide (the dragon's tongue), climbing nets, swings, and seesaws. It's an imaginative space for children to explore and play.

Suitable for children up to 13 years old. Benches are available for parents, and toilets are nearby. The park is generally open and free to access.

Underwater World Discovery

Dive into the fascinating world of marine life at the Aquarium de Paris, Europe's oldest aquarium.

Explore 50 tanks with 10,000 fish, including sharks, rays, and a hypnotic medusarium. The aquarium also offers a touch pool where children can pet carp and goldfish, and typically has educational activities and shows.

Recommended visit duration is 1 to 1.5 hours. Suitable for all ages, with specific appeal for 3-12 year olds. Children under 3 are free. The aquarium is open until 7 PM on Fridays.

Science Exploration

Embark on a scientific adventure at the Cité des sciences et de l'industrie, one of Europe's largest science museums.

While the Cité des Enfants (for 2-7 year olds) is closed for renovation, the museum still offers numerous interactive, educational exhibitions suitable for families, such as 'Dance' and 'Dogs and Cats' (until June 2026). Explore space, light, and energy through hands-on displays.

Best for children aged 5-12, but younger kids can enjoy some interactive elements. Allow 2-3 hours for a visit. Planetarium and Argonaute submarine visits require free time slot reservations on-site.

Parkside Lunch & Play

Enjoy a budget-friendly picnic lunch within the vast green spaces of Parc de la Villette, near the Cité des sciences.

Afterwards, let the children enjoy more playtime at one of the park's other themed gardens, such as the Jardin des Dunes et des Vents with its rolling landscape and air-cushioned areas.

Picnic areas with furniture and water fountains are available. The park has various play areas suitable for different ages.

Dinosaur Immersive Art

Experience art in a unique, immersive way at Atelier des Lumières.

During your visit, the 'Prehistoric Planet: Discovering Dinosaurs' exhibition will transport your family back in time with stunning digital projections. This experience combines classic art with immersive music, making it engaging for all ages.

The dinosaur exhibition is running from February 15 to March 8, 2026. Children under 3 are admitted free. Suitable for all ages, particularly captivating for children aged 3-12. Allow 1 to 1.5 hours for the visit. Strollers are not allowed inside; consider a baby carrier for very young children.

Library Story Time

Unwind with a trip to The American Library in Paris.

While specific Saturday events can vary, they often host 'Saturday Series' programs for children aged 6-12, such as '60 Minutes to Create Stories' or 'Fact or Fiction' sessions. Even if no specific event is scheduled, it's a calm environment for children to browse English books and enjoy quiet reading time.

Programs are free for library members; a day fee (around €10 per child) applies for non-members. Check their website for specific Saturday events for Feb 21, 2026.

Wildlife Adventure

Spend your morning at the Parc Zoologique de Paris (Vincennes Zoo), home to approximately 180 animal species across five 'biozones' representing different continents.

Witness majestic animals like giraffes, rhinos, lions, and lemurs in renovated habitats. The zoo also features a large tropical forest greenhouse.

Open 10 AM - 5 PM. Free for children under 3. All children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Allow at least 2 hours for the visit. Picnics are permitted in designated areas.

Carnivore Feeding Fun

Head to the Jardin des Plantes, located very close to the zoo, for a relaxing stroll through the botanical gardens (free admission).

On Sundays, you might catch the 'Le repas des carnivores' (carnivore feeding) animation at the Menagerie (zoo within the garden), which is an included activity with Menagerie entry. Observe fascinating animals during their mealtime.

The botanical gardens are free to enter. Access to the Menagerie requires a ticket. Children under 3 are free for Menagerie entry. The carnivore feeding is typically engaging for all ages.

Tech History Workshop

Discover the wonders of science and technology history at the Musée des Arts et Métiers.

The museum offers family workshops on weekends (for ages 4-6 and 7-12) where children can explore topics like printing, optical toys, or animated images through hands-on activities.

Workshops last about 1.5 hours. Reservation is mandatory for workshops. General admission to the museum is suitable for curious children.