7. Paris Plages
While not a park per se, summertime on the Seine transforms into a temporary make-shift beach complete with sun (if you’re lucky), trucked in sand, deckchairs and cabanas. Beach volleyball, boules, spash pools, concerts and refreshment vendors round out the lively urban beach scene. These man-made beaches are set up in three locations around the city for about 4 weeks each summer, making a fun spots to hang out and beat the heat. Kids of all ages will enjoy watching the river boats sail on by.
8. Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
A favorite among locals but little known to tourists is this charming park in the 19th arrondissement. It’s worth trekking to as the elevated hilltop setting presents awesome panoramic views of Paris. Dramatic rocky outcrops, waterfalls, grottos, suspension bridges and a sizeable man-made lake give this park a magical fairytale quality. There is a small playground, a puppet theater and a little amusement center with duck fishing and sharp shooting games. Let the kids run around and play while you soak in the vistas of the belle ville.
