Weekend in Paris
This weekend itinerary for Parisian families with children (ages 3-12) focuses on a smart mix of free and exciting ticketed activities. Highlights include themed park fun, interactive museum experiences, and quintessential Parisian outdoor charm, all designed to be budget-conscious and create lasting family memories.
Friday Evening - Parisian Puppet Fun
Friday, October 3Puppet Show Magic
Kick off the weekend with a traditional Guignol puppet show at one of Paris's beloved park theatres.
These classic shows are always a hit with young children, offering laughter and simple, engaging storytelling in a charming setting.
Perfect for children aged 3-8 years old. The Jardin du Luxembourg hosts France's largest puppet theatre with covered seating, making it comfortable regardless of weather. Restrooms are available within the gardens. Shows typically last around 45 minutes to an hour. Arrive 15-30 minutes early to secure good seats.
Easily accessible by Métro (Odeon, Notre-Dame des Champs, Mabillon) or RER B (Luxembourg). The gardens are stroller-friendly, but expect a short walk from public transport stops. No dedicated parking for the theater, but public parking garages are in the vicinity.
Eiffel Tower Sunset & Dinner
Enjoy a relaxed early dinner followed by a stroll to witness the dazzling Eiffel Tower at sunset and its sparkling light show.
It’s a truly magical Parisian experience for all ages.
Kids will love the open space to run around on the Champ de Mars. Grab a quick, budget-friendly meal from a nearby crêpe stand, boulangerie, or a casual family-friendly bistro in the 7th arrondissement. The Eiffel Tower lights sparkle for 5 minutes every hour on the hour after sunset. Public restrooms are available in the area. Stroller access is excellent around Champ de Mars.
Accessible via Métro (Bir-Hakeim, Trocadéro, Ecole Militaire) or RER C (Champ de Mars - Tour Eiffel). Limited street parking is available, but public transport is highly recommended due to traffic and crowds.
Saturday - Halloween Festival Fun
Saturday, October 4Dia de los Muertos Festival
Immerse yourselves in the vibrant and family-friendly Dia de los Muertos festival at Jardin d'Acclimatation, which begins today! Expect colorful parades, live dancers, themed attractions, and a festive atmosphere.
It's a wonderful way to experience Halloween with a unique cultural twist.
This festival is perfect for kids aged 3-12, offering entertainment, shows like a magic show (ages 4+) and a puppet show (ages 3+), and the park's many rides and animal attractions. Restrooms and stroller access are excellent. Plan for at least 3-4 hours to enjoy the festival activities and some rides. A makeup stand is available (additional cost of approx. €8 per child). The Dia de los Muertos Festival runs from October 4 to November 2, 2025.
Take Métro Line 1 to Les Sablons station, then it’s a short walk (or take the park's Petit Train). Paid parking is available at Porte Dauphine or Porte des Sablons.
Picnic in the Park
Enjoy a leisurely picnic lunch within the beautiful Jardin d'Acclimatation or a nearby park.
This allows for a budget-friendly meal and a chance for kids to relax or continue playing amidst nature.
The Jardin d'Acclimatation has numerous green spaces perfect for a picnic. You can pack your own sandwiches and snacks or purchase affordable options from the park's kiosks and restaurants. This helps manage the budget after the morning's activities. Plenty of restrooms and open space for kids to run.
Within the Jardin d'Acclimatation, easy to walk to a picnic spot. If venturing outside, the Bois de Boulogne is adjacent and easily accessible.
Evolution Gallery Adventure
Discover the wonders of the natural world at the Grande Galerie de l'Évolution.
Its impressive display of animal specimens from across the globe, including a dramatic 'animal procession', captivates children of all ages. For younger kids (3-5), consider the 'Saturdays for the Little Ones' workshop at 2:30 PM.
This museum is highly interactive and engaging, perfect for curious minds aged 5-12. The 'Saturdays for the Little Ones' workshop (for ages 3-5, at 10:30 AM on Oct 4th) offers a participatory tale to solve an enigma, adding extra fun for younger siblings (requires an extra €5 fee and museum entry). The museum is stroller-friendly with elevators and ramps, and restrooms are available.
Accessible via Métro (Censier Daubenton - Line 7, Jussieu - Line 7 & 10, Gare d'Austerlitz - Line 5 & 10) or RER C (Gare d'Austerlitz). Several bus lines also stop nearby. Public parking garages are available in the Latin Quarter.
Leisurely Seine Stroll
Wind down your exciting day with a relaxed stroll along the banks of the Seine River.
Kids can enjoy the bustling atmosphere, watch the Bateaux-Mouches go by, and maybe even spot a street performer.
This is a free and enjoyable activity for all ages. There's plenty of space for kids to move around. Consider grabbing an ice cream or a warm drink from a riverside kiosk as a treat. Public restrooms can be found in strategic locations along the quais, though they might require a small fee or be less frequent.
Easily accessible from the Grande Galerie de l'Évolution by a short walk or Métro. Numerous Métro and RER stations serve the area (e.g., Pont Neuf, Cité, Saint-Michel).
Sunday - Free Museum & Park Day
Sunday, October 5Free Museum Visit
Take advantage of the first Sunday of the month, when many Parisian museums offer free entry!
Explore a family-friendly museum like the Musée Carnavalet (History of Paris) or the Musée d'Art Moderne, both of which often have exhibitions or collections appealing to different age groups.
Many Parisian museums are free on the first Sunday of the month, October 5, 2025. It's an excellent opportunity for cultural enrichment at no cost. Check the specific museum's website for any family trails or activities. Stroller access varies by museum but most major ones are accessible. Restrooms are available inside the museums.
Musée Carnavalet: Métro Saint-Paul (Line 1) or Chemin Vert (Line 8). Musée d'Art Moderne: Métro Iéna (Line 9) or Alma-Marceau (Line 9). Public transport is generally the best option.
Luxembourg Gardens Play
Return to the enchanting Luxembourg Gardens for a relaxed afternoon.
Kids can burn off energy at the fantastic fenced playground, enjoy pony rides, or sail miniature boats on the Grand Basin, creating cherished childhood memories.
This iconic park is a firm family favorite. The large, fenced playground has varied equipment for different age groups (small entry fee may apply for some areas). On weekends, pony rides and small boat rentals are available (additional cost). There are ample restrooms and plenty of space for strollers. Enjoy the beautiful fall foliage.
Accessible by Métro (Odeon, Notre-Dame des Champs, Mabillon) or RER B (Luxembourg). The gardens are well-maintained and easy to navigate with children and strollers.
Family Treat & Relax
Conclude your weekend with a delightful family treat – perhaps hot chocolate or pastries from a charming Parisian café – and a relaxed final stroll before heading home, allowing the kids to wind down before the school week.
Choose a cozy café with comfortable seating or grab treats to enjoy on a park bench. This provides a sweet ending to a fun-filled weekend and a chance to reflect on your family adventures. Look for places offering kid-friendly pastries or hot chocolate. Restrooms available in most cafes.
Easily accessible by foot from Luxembourg Gardens, or via local public transport depending on your chosen cafe and home location.
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