Don’t be put off by the term chasse (meaning hunting), le musée de la Chasse et de la Nature is mainly focused on the relationship between animals and man throughout history. Located in the heart of the Marais district, in two majestic historical private homes, this museum is a hidden gem. Rather secretive, many Parisians have never even heard of it!
Brilliantly curated, each room is dedicated to a different species or theme. Combining genres, stuffed animals dialogue with contemporary art and intriguing curiosities : ceilings made with owl feathers, antlers, porcelain dogs, paintings, sculptures, tapestries, falcons, wolves, polar bears… You will even spot unicorns. Wandering around the museum will stimulate children’s imagination. The intriguing journey filled with a wide array of colors, textures, revealing oddities and surprises at every turn is both an invitation to dream and question our bond with animals.
An hour and half is sufficient to fully enjoy the museum. It’s a perfect family activity for a wet rainy day in Paris. An off-beaten track Parisian experience.
Some rooms may not be suited to very young children but you can easily skip those.
Address : 62 Rue des Archives, 75003 Paris
Opening hours : From Tuesday to Sunday from 11am to 6pm
Instagram : @museechassenature
After your visit to the museum, you may enjoy a little shopping.
Visit our childrenswear Parisian boutique L’Île aux Fées 66 rue Notre Dame des Champs 75006 or shop online at Charlotte sy Dimby.com to find the perfect outfit for your child. Authentic, one-of-a-kind handmade smocked and embroidered dresses to celebrate the magic of childhood!
What better way to explore Paris as a family than in a 2CV ? A classic minimalist car and a true icon! No longer produced but highly sought after by collectors, this mythical vintage car has become a symbol of freedom and effortless living. It perfectly embodies the French 'Art de Vivre' and Parisian romance.
Hop into La Petite Frenchie's beloved forty years old family 2CV and get ready for an unforgettable ride around Paris.
Lay back on the leather seats and admire the view as you drive by the most famous Parisian landmarks and into narrow hidden lanes holding the most incredible gems. Not only is Fred an excellent chauffeur but a highly knowledgeable guide too! Loving the city, he delights in nothing more than sharing his passion for Paris and revealing its secrets.
Children will delight in buzzing around the city in this one-of-a-kind car! Exploring the capital in this manner will give young ones a sense of adventure and nourish their thirst of curiosity. It is a great way to introduce little ones to the city of Lights and give them a first glimpse of Paris' magic.
To make the experience all the more thrilling, La Petite Frenchie also offers typical Parisian picnics. Enjoy a glass of champagne with a delicious macaron, let your children taste fresh crusty baguette with traditional French cheese and pâtisserie! So delicious and Insta friendly too...
1h, 2h, 3h, with a pick up and drop off at the place of your choice, La Petite Frenchie is easy as the word oui!
For those wanting to pursue the experience, La Petite Frenchie also offers tours in Versailles, Normandy as far as the South of France!
Talah and her daughters in one of Paris’ most romantic spot of the Left Bank : La place Fürstenberg
Thank you to Anastasia and her daughter Elle for the beautiful photos.
If you wish to get a glimpse of New England momma style, and adventures around Cape Cod and beyond, we highly recommend Anastasia's blog
Thank you very much to Talah and her daughters Charlotte and Addison for having introduced us to La Petite Frenchie. For sweet American made children’s clothes visit Talah’s brand Mint Magnolia.
To allow your little girl to look her very best during the tour, we recommend a timeless classic chic smocked dress.
Please come and visit our boutique L’Île aux Fées - 66 rue Notre Dame des Champs 75006. All our collections are also available online on our e-shop Charlotte sy Dimby. We ship worldwide.
Paris is the city of love, the city of light but also that of ballet!
A visit to the Opéra Garnier is a must-see for every aspiring ballerina. Treating your little dancer to a ballet at one of the most prestigious operas in the world will create lifetime memories. Yet a day time tour is also a wonderful experience to share with your child.
It makes for a perfect mum and daughter outing. Discover the inside of this dazzling monument, all the behind-the-scenes and learn about its fascinating history! Go up the marble staircase, twirl and dance under the dazzling chandeliers of the foyer and be sure to admire the spectacular ceiling of the show room : a 200m2 painting from Marc Chagall!
The Opéra is very kid friendly and has created a special multimedia guide for children. Coming with quizzes and games, the tour is an hour long. Audio guides for adults are available too.
To allow your little girl to look her very best during her visit, we recommend our timeless chic ballet inspired handmade smocked and embroidered dresses.
Please come and visit our boutique L’Île aux Fées - 66 rue Notre Dame des Champs 75006. All our collections are also available online on our e-shop Charlotte sy Dimby. We ship worldwide.
If your child is passionate about France and ballet, she may enjoy our doll and bear’s adventure at the Garnier. A sweet free downloadable story and audio in French and English.
If your child is fond of animals, if your little ones dream of a safari and speak of the jungle all day, the Grande Galerie de l’Évolution is a must see during your stay in Paris.
It is a fantastic family activity which both boys and girls, toddlers, teenagers and parents will enjoy.
Part of the National Museum of Natural History, the gallery is dedicated to the evolutions of species.
Under an enormous glass roof, the three floor historic building displays an outstanding collection of life like animals! Taking us back millions of years, the museum features the most intriguing creatures from all around the globe.
Very kid-friendly, the museum is well suited to family visits. Light and sound effects will make the discovery all the more enjoyable for children. Screens with games and activities will add fun to the visit.
If the animals cannot be touched, they can be admired from very close up! Kids can freely run along the alleys and floors!
If you wish to extend your visit and plan a whole day’s outing, you can then take a break in the Jardin des Plantes. The carrousel is always a big success. Let your little ones run between the flower beds before exploring the green houses and discovering the real life animals in the Grande Ménagerie.
For those passionate about dinosaurs, you may also want to visit the Galerie de Paléontologie et d'Anatomie Comparée.
To allow your little girl to look her very best during her visit, we recommend a timeless classic chic hand embroidered dress.
Please come and visit our boutique L’Île aux Fées - 66 rue Notre Dame des Champs 75006. All our collections are also available online on our e-shop Charlotte sy Dimby. We ship worldwide.
Step into a couture wonderland, immerse yourself in a world of colors and precious fabrics and travel through time with Dior’s latest gallery. Set right by the maison’s flagship 30 avenue Montaigne, this permanent exhibit is a must-see for all fashion lovers : a perfect mum and daughter Parisian outing.
Through a unique scenographic narrative appealing to all the senses, discover the true essence of French elegance and style. Learn about Christian Dior’s life, about his sources of inspirations and about the brand’s history from the childhood of its founder to today’s designers. Go up the rainbow spiral staircase, walk into the couturier’s office, take a stroll into an enchanted garden featuring sumptuous dresses, marvel at the most exquisite couture gowns presented in a spellbinding ball ambiance… Through light and sound effects, the tour will make you live a magical experience.
Divided into 13 themes, the museum offers both rich knowledge and insights on the world of Dior as well a dreamy spectacle. It is thereby suited to children.
If you are visiting with babies, remember to take a baby carrier. The stairs are not convenient with prams.
We recommend ending your tour with a gourmet pause in the Dior’s café. Enjoy a tasty patisserie while flicking through the brand’s selection of iconic books.
Official website : We highly recommend booking tickets in advance and planning at least one hour to visit.
To allow your little girl to look her very best during this fashion tour, we recommend a timeless classic chic smocked dress.
Please come and visit our boutique L’Île aux Fées - 66 rue Notre Dame des Champs 75006. All our collections are also available online on our e-shop Charlotte sy Dimby. We ship worldwide.
Along the Boulevard Raspail, not very far from the famous Parisian Lutetia hotel and Bon Marché department store, lies a confidential luxury day spa : Free Persephone.
A rocking chair standing before the door and fresh bouquets visible from the bright white glass windows attract the eye! Step into a cosy and whimsical world of beauty! Escape from the fast paced city life and take a mommy and me Parisian moment with your princess!
Designed like a romantic Spring cottage with plush floral print armchairs, plants (there is even a tree inside!) enjoy a nail pose, face treatments and massages with your little one in a relaxed ambiance.
Loyal to its five values “smile, respect, linger, enjoy and connect”, Free Persephone offers a wide range of service to make each one feel welcomed and at home.
Of course our favorite is the Mum & Princess with an Essential Spa manicure classic polish for adults, a little Miss one for your child and a tea time!
Indeed there is even a gourmet tea room in which to indulge in a home baked cake and cup of warm tea. It’s possible to stop by without reservation if you which to soak in the ambiance before booking a full spa care.
Ultimate sanctuary of well-being, Free Persephone is true to its motto “Spring every day!”. Kind and caring, the staff who speaks English will pamper you and your princess.
Ps : The spa can even host baby showers and birthday spa tea parties. Perfect to celebrate big occasions in a chic and girly manner.
For gift shopping to bring back to friends or as a souvenir from your experience at the spa, shop Free Persephone’s carefully curated product selection : high quality nail polish, face cream, delicate fragrances and candles.
Dress tip :
What better than an elegant floral print smocked dress for a day out with Mommy at the spa?
Visit our Parisian boutique L’Île aux Fées 66 rue Notre Dame des Champs 75006 ( open from Tuesday to Saturday from 2pm to 7pm) or shop online at Charlotte sy Dimby.com
Did you know that Paris has 7 replicas of the famous Statue of Liberty? Follow us on a tour around the capital to know more about each one. A fun way of discovering Paris with children, a great family outing requiring no booking or schedule! Will you be able to spot the miniature hidden one?
A TINY BIT OF HISTORY :
The Statue of Liberty whose full name is Liberty Enlightening the World was designed by the French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and constructed in France by Gustave Eiffel, the very man who built the Eiffel Tower. It was gifted by the French to America to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the country’s independence. It was dedicated on October 28, 1886.
WHERE TO SEE THE PARISIAN STATUES OF LIBERTY?
IN THE LUXEMBOURG GARDEN : Maybe not the most famous but definitely our favorite, the Luxembourg garden known for its numerous sculptures of the Queens of France also features a 2,85m high (over 112 inches) statue of Liberty.
It is nestled among the trees in the western edge of the park, its back faces the rue de Guynemer. It was presented during the Universal exhibit of 1900 and then gifted by Auguste Bartholdi to the museum of the Luxembourg. In 2012, someone played a nasty joke and stole her torch! The statue had to be dismantled and repaired. It was then placed in the Musée d’Orsay and a new copy was put back in the gardens.
AT THE MUSÉE D’ORSAY :
A second one is therefore still visible today in the Musée d’Orsay, former train station transformed into an art museum. If you are curious to know more about the full story of the Statue of Liberty, head over to the Lady Liberty of Orsay page.
Address : Rue de la Légion d'Honneur, 75007 Paris, France
Opening hours : 9.30am to 6pm - closed on Mondays
Musée d’Orsay website
Picture credit : https://flickr.com/photos/79586279@N00/14685276302
ON L’ÎLE DES CYGNES :
Probably the most famous one and certainly the biggest (measuring over 37 feet), a replica gifted to Paris by America can be admired on the man made island L’Île aux Cygnes at the Pont de Grenelle level. It was initially turned towards the Palais de l’Elysées but since 1937 it faces the one in New York. You can see it beautifully from the top of the Eiffel Tower.
Address : Pont de Grenelle – Paris 15
Métro : Javel (ligne 10) ou Bir Hakeim (ligne 6)
Picture credit : https://www.flickr.com/photos/dugspr/
TWO AT THE MUSÉE DES ARTS ET MÉTIERS :
Founded as a “store of new and useful inventions”, the Musée des Arts et Métiers dedicated to scientific and technological progress (great for curious little explorers) holds two statues.
One stands outside the building and is made of bronze. The second is in the main hall. It is the original plaster used during the design process.
Address : 60 Rue Réaumur, 75003 Paris, France
Opening hours : Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm. Late night opening until 9pm on Fridays.
Musée des Arts et Métiers website
Picture credit : https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Musée_des_Arts_et_Métiers_-_Montage_de_la_tête_en_cuivre_martele_du_Statue_de_la_Liberté._vers_1880.jpg
THE FLAME OF LIBERTY :
A huge 1:1 golden scale replica of the Flame of the original statue’s torch offered by the Americans to the French stands proudly above the entrance to the Pont de l’Alma on the Right Bank of the River Seine.
Following the death of Lady Diana in a car crash in the tunnel below, it has become an unofficial memorial to the princess.
Address : 7 Place de l'Alma, 75008 Paris, France
Picture credit https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:P1030749_Paris_XV_Avenue_de_New-York_et_Flamme_de_la_Liberté_rwk.JPG
A STATUE IN A STATUE :
Well hidden, a tiny reproduction of the Statue of Liberty lies within the beard of the artist César’s bronze Centaur.
Located in the 6th arrondissement place Michel Debré not far from the famous Bon Marché department, will you be able to spot it?
Address : Place Michel Debré 75006
DRESS TIP :
To explore Paris, what better than a timeless classic French smocked dress?
Visit our baby and children’s Parisian clothing boutique L’Île aux Fées 66 rue Notre Dame des Champs 75006 ( open from Tuesday to Saturday from 2pm to 7pm) or shop online at Charlotte sy Dimby.com
Hidden gem of the French capital, la Coulée Verte (literally the Green Flow) also known as La Promenade Plantée is a 4,5km trail elevated 10m above the 12th arrondissement. A bucolic walk away from the fast paced city life right in the middle of Paris. How is this possible may you wonder?
Opened in 1993, it is the world’s first elevated park walkway which then inspired the New York Highline. In 1969, the trains on the avenue Daumesnil’s viaduct whistled for the very last time before the rail tracks closed forever. Saved from demolition by the residents and city of Paris, a garden and walking path were built upon the obsolete railway infrastructure of eastern Paris. Under the Viaduc, arches were built glass fronted workshops for local artisans. It is now known as the Viaduc des Arts.
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Start at Bastille, climb up stairs and enjoy the journey which will lead you all the way to the Porte de Vincennes!
Its lush greenery with climbing plants, roses and all sorts of bushes, gives an almost countryside feel while offering a beautiful view over Paris’ boulevards. Children will love the impressive 1930’s muses ornating the Police station and will have fun taking a sneak peak into people’s homes through the window! Crossing tunnels and trenches will also give a feeling of adventure to your young explorers.
Right in the middle of the journey, the trail meets the Jardin de Reuilly. A lovely garden with a vast lawn in which to enjoy a picnic and play ball games.
A perfect way to experience nature, art, and design all in one! Take your bike, rollerblade and skateboard to make the day even more fun!
USEFUL INFORMATION
Address : From De la rue Édouard-Lartet à la Bastille 75012 Paris
Map & Opening hours : https://www.paris.fr/equipements/coulee-verte-rene-dumont-ex-promenade-plantee-1772
*All pictures are from L’Île aux Fées except from the one of the Viaduc des Arts which comes from Wikipédia
Dress tip :
To be in line with the surrounding nature and remain chic, what better than an elegant French style smocked dress?
Visit our Parisian boutique L’Île aux Fées 66 rue Notre Dame des Champs 75006 ( open from Tuesday to Saturday from 2pm to 7pm) or shop online at Charlotte sy Dimby.com
Two feet away from the Luxembourg garden, right in the heart of the 6th arrondissement, Marin Montagut is the new favorite Left Bank address. Named after its founder, the iconic illustrator, artist and dandy, the boutique is imbued with his incomparable French aesthetic and unique style.
Designed as an extension of his Parisian apartment, the shop is an invitation to “travel in another Paris, in yesterday’s Paris” to quote Marin’s own words. Coming from a family with a passion for antiques and flea markets, we can feel the love behind each object and importance given to each detail.
Offering a carefully-curated selection of the most intriguing and enchanting objects, Marin Montagut is the Parisian rendez-vous to look for inspiration, day dream and find one of a kind gifts. Children will delight in the whimsical decor and colorful ambiance while parents will swoon over Marin’s latest treasures!
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Among our “coup de coeur” (love at first sight) are the fabulous “Vitrines à merveilles” , (literally wonder showcases), hand made in Marin’s atelier in Montmartre, the silk scarves made in Lyon, the iconic hand painted decorative cutlery and cushions, the paper designs and the secret book boxes…
All possess a strong character and story. The Parisian theme illustrations, be it the iconic Luxembourg garden green chairs, the Marais, or he names of famous streets are a constant throughout the collections. Playing cards and astrological signs are another signature of the brand giving a slightly mysterious feel to the precious trinkets!
Last but not least we simply love the orange blossom scent, the subtle fragrance of fresh flowers, so soothing and relaxing which immediately takes us to another world!
To bring back authentic souvenirs and unique gifts from Paris, it’s hands down at Marin Montagut.
USEFUL INFORMATION
Address : 48 Rue Madame, 75006 Paris
Opening hours :
Monday & Saturday : 1 pm to 7 pm
Tuesday - Wednesday - Thursday - Friday : 11 am to 1 pm - 2 pm to 7pm
Website : https://www.marinmontagut.com
Instagram : @marinmontagut
Phone : 09 81 22 53 44
Dress tip :
To feel like a true Parisian during your stay in France, what better than an elegant French style smocked dress?
Visit our Parisian boutique L’Île aux Fées 66 rue Notre Dame des Champs 75006 ( open from Tuesday to Saturday from 2pm to 7pm) or shop online at Charlotte sy Dimby.com
Bonton, literally meaning “in the right tone/spirit” was launched by a member of the Bonpoint founder’s family in 2001. Entirely dedicated to babies and children, the boutique is styled like a department store for minis. A treasure trove to buy sweet baby shower gifts and souvenirs for your little ones!
Carefully curated and constantly renewed Bonton’s collections offer both childhood basics and very trendy pieces. The latest fashionable kiddie trinkets mingle with timeless classic accessories in a joyful ambiance. Filled with colorful furniture, home decor, linens, books, fun toys, clothes, shoes and what not, the boutique feels like a playground or huge nursery room!
Every detail is carefully planned making the boutique welcoming for both children and parents.
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Our favorites may well be the adorable printed cups and napkins which are perfect for birthdays parties!
We also have a soft soft for the bedroom decorations and home furniture! Be it for newborn, toddlers or even young teenagers, we love the playful mood of Bonton’s home decor!
USEFUL INFORMATION
Address : 82 rue de Grenelle 75007 Paris
Opening hours : Open from 11am to 6pm from Monday to Saturday
Website : https://www.bonton.fr/fr/
Instagram : @bonton
Phone : +33 1 44 39 09 20
Also available at the Galeries Lafayette and 48 rue de Passy 75116 Paris
Dress tip :
To feel like a true Parisian during your stay in France, what better than an elegant French style smocked dress?
Visit our Parisian boutique L’Île aux Fées 66 rue Notre Dame des Champs 75006 ( open from Tuesday to Saturday from 2pm to 7pm) or shop online at Charlotte sy Dimby.com