Happy Parisian Duck
Back in Paris! Cheese, pain a chocolat, wine, romantic movies AND parks!!!—there are some things the French do best. A leisurely day spent at a Paris park with Charles is always a good time. Since we spend roughly three months out of the year here, we have found some of the best the city has to offer:
Jardin du Luxemburg
1.) Jardin du Luxemburg- From sailing boats in the pond to riding the old-fashioned merry-go-round, from riding real ponies to watching marionette theatre, this park has it all. Visit the southwest corner of the park where there is a fenced-in kid’s playground that is well worth the 2-euro entrance fee. Arrive early, as this area gets crowded in the late afternoon. For lunch, head to Bread and Roses at 7, rue de Fleurus, merely a street away. A must stopover as its sinfully tasty breads, savory tarts and mouth-watering treats are coupled by the staff’s smiles and friendly greetings. Charles gobbles up San Danielle proscuitto, toast, a muffin and a strawberry-banana smoothie.
Statue in Park
2.) Bois de Bologne- Home of joggers, bicyclists, picnickers, and lovers. Rent wooden-row boats and paddleboats at the Lac Inferieur or rent bikes to explore this 2200-acre park. Charles and I visit the Bois de Bologne often and still discover new playgrounds to explore and grassy areas to kick a ball around. One of our favorite places is the gorgeous Parc de Bagatelle, which has fabulous flowers, open lawns, and Charles’ favorite, peacocks. Tip: Pack a picnic or catch the ferry to dine at the restaurant on the island of Lac Inferieur.
3.) Jardin d’Acclimatation- When the sun is shining or simply the rain isn’t falling, you will often find Charles and I here. This place is absolutely great! From rollercoasters to a petting zoo, a narrow-gauge railway to a children’s theatre, a miniature golf course to innovative playgrounds, it is easy to spend an entire day here with your family. The park has various snack bars and 3 restaurants to keep you and your little ones fueled up for exploring this 9-acre amusement park.
Jardin des Tuileries
4.) Jardin des Tuileries- Location, location, location! When we’re in the center of town, shopping, eating or museum hopping, this is a great park to hit up and burn off some energy. The carrousel and in-ground trampolines are Charles’ favorites. Fortunately for us, we are staying on the fifth floor of the Hotel Le Meurice that faces the park and beckons us daily.
5.) Parc Floral de Paris- This beautifully landscaped park brings you far away from the clamor of the city and envelops you in a flowered botanical haven. There is miniature golf, go-carts, ping-pong, Bateaux Mouche boats, a climbing wall, and most notably, the phenomenal playgrounds for the kids. This park contains the largest and one of its best-kept play areas in the city. Tip: Don’t miss lunch or teatime at the park’s charming restaurants, cafes or tearooms.
Pony Ride in Jardin du Luxemburg
