3. Champ de Mars
Champ de Mars is a large public park between the Eiffel Tower and the École Militare. This is an ideal central location for a picnic or run around. Unlike other manicured parks, this not a “keep off the grass” type venue. There are several small play grounds scattered about, plus a carousel (of course), a old fashioned hand-cranked merry-go-round, pony rides and a classic marionette puppet theater. Kids of all ages and languages seem to love that Guignol character’s brand of physical comedy. You can rent bikes and go for a spin or you might even catch a concert at the gazebo on a Sunday afternoon. You can’t beat that tower view as you relax or play with your children.
4. Jardin d’Acclimitation
Set in the sprawling Bois du Bologne, the 40 acre Jardin d’Acclimatation was the world’s first amusement park opened by Napolean III in 1860. It may seem a little dated and relatively lame to today’s Disney-fueled generation, but it is chock full of old fashioned child-friendly attractions they’re bound to have a blast despite themselves. And, bonus, no line-ups! You’ll find train rides, boat rides, a dragon roller coaster, vintage games of chance, trampolines, yet another marionette puppet theater (the French love their Guignol), a children’s museum, a small farm and many other diversions. End your day at the mega-playground and water park where kids can continue to exert themselves while parents kick back.
