Exploring the Ménagerie du Jardin des Plantes: A Family Day in Paris
A Short Outing with the Kids
If you are looking for a charming family outing in the heart of Paris, the Ménagerie du Jardin des Plantes is a historical gem. During Mehran’s business trip to the city in 2024, I took the kids to explore this iconic zoo and the surrounding botanical gardens.
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Arriving in Paris
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Getting Around and Staying in Paris
- Going Around:
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- Stay Connected: To navigate the city like a local and share your photos in real time, we recommend getting an eSIM. Pick the option that suits your needs:
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- Where to Stay: To make the most of your trip, I recommend booking one of these hotels.
Ménagerie du Jardin des Plantes
As our children are both animal and nature admirers, Ménagerie du Jardin des Plantes was a natural choice for our itinerary. We spent nearly two hours wandering through the grounds, enjoying a perfect post-lunch activity that combined history, nature, and prehistoric wonders.
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The Enchanting Jardin des Plantes and Jurassic Exhibition
As we entered the Jardin des Plantes, we were immediately greeted by a spectacular exhibition celebrating the Jurassic Era. This botanical garden is much more than just a park; it is a living classroom. The path toward the zoo was lined with impressive, life-sized models of prehistoric marine animals, early birds, and dinosaurs.
The exhibition was incredibly immersive and high quality. We spent a significant amount of time exploring the different displays and marvelling at the detail of the models before we even reached the zoo gates. It was a pleasant surprise that added a layer of adventure to our walk, and honestly, we were more impressed by this Jurassic display than the actual zoo. It served as a beautiful, educational backdrop for our afternoon.
Exploring the Ménagerie: The Historic Paris Zoo
Once we reached the Ménagerie, the zoo itself offered a cozy and historical atmosphere. For a 10 Euro entry fee, it provides an accessible way to see wildlife in the city center. Inside the zoo, we encountered a diverse range of species that kept the kids engaged. We saw everything from Alpacas and the elusive Arctic Fox to various species of snakes.
The bird collection was particularly vibrant, featuring flamingos, ducks, and many other exotic feathered species. The kids were also thrilled to observe the different species of Apes. While the zoo is smaller and more traditional than some modern safari parks, its location and history make it unique. It was the perfect size for a two-hour visit, ensuring the children stayed entertained without getting over-tired.
Final Thoughts
The children had a wonderful time at the Ménagerie du Jardin des Plantes. The dinosaur exhibition was a highlight, and the gardens are expansive enough to be the perfect spot for kids to burn off energy. We highly recommend a visit if you are traveling with little ones.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the entrance fee for the Ménagerie du Jardin des Plantes?
The entrance ticket is approximately 10 Euros, making it an affordable activity for families in central Paris.
How long does it take to visit the zoo and gardens?
Most visitors spend about two hours exploring both the zoo and the botanical garden exhibits together.
Is the Jardin des Plantes suitable for children?
Yes, it is excellent for kids, offering wide open spaces, animal exhibits, and seasonal educational displays like the Jurassic exhibition.
