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Paris Amusement Parks

It’s interesting to see the French take on what seems to be the classically American idea of amusement parks. While the Paris area does have its share of gargantuan theme parks, some of its most charming amusement spots are smaller and decidedly more Parisian in feel.

Cheap Amusements: If you’re lucky enough to be in Paris during the beautiful spring months between March and May, be sure to catch the Foire du Trône, one of the area’s largest fairs. Located in the Bois de Vincennes, or the Vincennes Woods, in Eastern Paris, the annual fair has gotten larger with time, with full-scale roller coasters in addition to classic fair attractions like a Ferris Wheel and carousel. The fair is gorgeous at night, when the rides are lit up against the black sky and exotic fire breathers wander the grounds.

Mid-Priced Fun: Part of the Disneyland Resort empire, Sea Life Paris val d’Europe is an aquatically-themed park for those who want to get up close and personal with colorful fish, sea turtles and other marine animals. Just five minutes from Disneyland Paris, Sea Life is much more affordable, at under 10 euros for adult admission. Once inside, you’ll have access to 50 tanks featuring over 300 different marine animals, and a 360 degree underwater tunnel featuring everyone’s favorite — sharks.

Another aquatic theme park is Cineaqua, located in Paris proper. An old underground aquarium near the Eiffel Tower has been converted into an unlikely combination aquarium and animation studio. Although the mix may seem strange to some adults, kids get a huge kick out of seeing the huge fish and shark tanks and watching continuous cartoons on 16 screens. Cineaqua also features educational workshops on everything from Bollywood cinema to face painting. The eclectic concept is complete with Ozu, a Japanese restaurant.

Big-Time Parks: Perhaps the most famous Parisian theme park is Disneyland Paris Disney’s European branch is actually not technically inside Paris, but in Marne-la-Valée, which is an eastern suburb of the city. Transportation to the park is easy, as there is a shuttle to the park that leaves from both Charles De Gaulle and Orly airports. While the park, originally named EuroDisney, got off to a slow start, some important changes were made (such as lifting the wine ban) and the name was changed to Disneyland Paris, and the park was suddenly one of the hottest attractions in France. The park will feel familiar to Americans used to the Disney way of doing things, but to the French it’s a great novelty, and it’s fun to notice the differences in culture in the details of the park. Like its American cousins, Disneyland Paris features different themed “lands,” familiar rides and classic Disney characters that roam the grounds. Disney recently also opened Walt Disney Studios, a second park, focusing on movie business themed activities and attractions.

Second in line for the award for largest theme park in the Paris area is Parc Asterix, a park about 20 miles away from Disneyland. Parc Asterix is based on the famous Asterix stories, a series of French comic strips. The amusement park features large-scale roller coasters, many with historical themes. If you’re planning on spending a couple of days near Disneyland Paris, Parc Asterix is definitely worth a visit as well.