One of my sons favourite places in Paris is the ever so popular “Jardin des Tuileries” (Tuileries Gardens).
A huge 25 hectare park situated between the Carrousel du Louvre and the Place de la Concorde on the banks of the Seine. Full of greenery, interspersed with a wonderful collection of sculptures, it is one the most popular kids recreation areas in Paris.
Within the garden are Donkey and Pony rides, beautiful ponds with ducks to feed and miniature sailboats to rent, a traditional carousel, in-ground trampoline, and just as importantly a place for mum and dad to grab a coffee to drink whilst watching their little ones run around.
One of the best features though is an adventure playground where you will find a wicked rope-and wood climbing frame that starts with an almost vertical ladder. It’s scary for the kids but in a good way, and whilst mum & dad may have their hearts in their mouths watching the kids climb the ladder the children love the challenge. From there the children make their way through a rope tunnel to a huge slide. The whole thing is definitely a real challenge for the children but don’t be surprised to see them drop down the slide and run straight back to the beginning again.
The age on this particular frame is restricted it to 6-year olds and up but you’ll see children as young as three being helped up and walked through by their parents.
There’s more to the playground than the climbing structure, though. There are lily-pad like jumping platforms that are great for kids of all ages….
The rope hammocks are a hit for children and parents alike,
And there are other less scary yet interesting and fun things for your little ones to enjoy.
We hired a little sailboat for the first time a couple of weeks ago and it rocks! I think we all really enjoyed it. Hiring one of the miniature sailboats costs € 2 per 30 min. Not expensive at all compared to some of the prices in Paris!
In the summer, there is a funfair with rides, stalls and a huge ferries wheel where you have a wonderful view of Paris.
Have you been to the Tuileries playground? What do you think?
