Les Pavillons de Bercy – Musée des Arts Forains

Description

Imagine stepping into a world where the whimsical charm of vintage fairgrounds meets the elegance of Parisian art. That’s exactly what you’ll experience at Les Pavillons de Bercy – Musée des Arts Forains. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill museum, folks. It’s a magical journey through time that’ll make you feel like a kid again, no matter your age.

Tucked away in the 12th arrondissement of Paris, this hidden gem is housed in former wine cellars. But don’t let that fool you – these aren’t just any old cellars. They’ve been transformed into a fantastical wonderland that’ll make your jaw drop. As you wander through the (https://arts-forains.com/en), you’ll be surrounded by an eclectic collection of objects from fairgrounds, theaters, and music halls of yesteryear.

Now, I gotta tell ya, this place is pretty darn special. It’s not just about looking at stuff behind glass cases. Oh no, this museum is all about immersion and interaction. You’ll find yourself hopping on century-old carousels, trying your luck at vintage fairground games, and marveling at mechanized performances that’ll transport you straight back to the Belle Époque.

One thing that really sets this place apart is the guided tours. Trust me, you don’t wanna miss out on these. The guides here are passionate storytellers who bring the exhibits to life with tales of the objects’ histories and the bygone era they represent. It’s like having a personal time machine operator!

And let’s not forget about the atmosphere. The lighting, the music, the intricate details – everything works together to create an enchanting ambiance that’s hard to describe. It’s like stepping into a dream, or maybe a Wes Anderson film. Either way, it’s pretty darn magical.

But here’s the thing – this ain’t just a place for history buffs or art lovers. Whether you’re a wide-eyed kid or a jaded adult, the Musée des Arts Forains has something to tickle your fancy. It’s a place where you can let your imagination run wild and rediscover the joy of simple pleasures.

Now, I’ll be honest with ya, it’s not always easy to get in. The museum isn’t open to the general public all year round, which can be a bummer. But hey, that just makes it all the more special when you do get to visit. Plus, it’s [a popular venue for private events](https://arts-forains.com/en/venue-hire/musee-des-arts-forains), so you might just find yourself attending a swanky soirée here someday!

All in all, Les Pavillons de Bercy – Musée des Arts Forains is one of those places that’ll stick with you long after you’ve left. It’s quirky, it’s beautiful, and it’s quintessentially Parisian in the most unexpected way. So if you’re looking for something off the beaten path that’ll make your Paris trip truly unforgettable, this is it, folks. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

Key Features

• Four themed rooms showcasing a vast collection of fairground art and objects
• Interactive exhibits including vintage carousels and fairground games
• Guided tours led by passionate storytellers
• Mechanized performances bringing the exhibits to life
• Unique venue for private events and corporate functions
• Housed in beautifully restored former wine cellars
• Immersive atmosphere with carefully curated lighting and music
• Rare opportunity to experience entertainment from the Belle Époque era
• Mix of art, history, and interactive entertainment
• Family-friendly attraction suitable for all ages

Best Time to Visit

Alright, let’s talk timing. Visiting Les Pavillons de Bercy – Musée des Arts Forains isn’t as straightforward as your average tourist spot. This place likes to keep you on your toes!

First things first, you should know that this museum isn’t open to the public year-round. Yep, you heard that right. It’s kinda like that elusive friend who’s hard to pin down but always worth the effort when you do manage to catch up.

The best time to visit? Well, that’d be during the holiday season. Every year, from late December to early January, the museum throws open its doors for the Festival du Merveilleux. This is when the place really comes alive, with special performances, extra decorations, and a festive atmosphere that’ll knock your socks off. It’s like Christmas, New Year’s, and a vintage carnival all rolled into one magical experience.

But hey, don’t despair if you can’t make it during the holidays. The museum also opens to the public during school holidays and on certain bank holidays throughout the year. These times can vary, so you’ll want to check their website or give ’em a call to get the most up-to-date info.

Now, here’s a little insider tip for ya. If you’re visiting during one of the public opening periods, try to go on a weekday if you can. Weekends can get pretty crowded, especially during the Festival du Merveilleux. Trust me, you’ll appreciate having a bit more elbow room to really soak in all the details and maybe snag an extra ride on those vintage carousels.

Oh, and one more thing. If you’re planning a trip to Paris and really have your heart set on visiting this unique museum, it might be worth planning your dates around their opening times. I know it sounds a bit extreme, but once you’ve experienced the magic of this place, you’ll understand why it’s worth the extra effort.

Remember, part of what makes Les Pavillons de Bercy so special is its limited accessibility. It’s not just another tourist trap you can pop into any old time. It’s a rare treat, a hidden wonder that requires a bit of planning and maybe a sprinkle of luck to experience. But boy oh boy, is it worth it!

How to Get There

Alright, folks, let’s talk about how to actually get to this magical place. Les Pavillons de Bercy – Musée des Arts Forains is tucked away in the 12th arrondissement of Paris, and while it might not be as central as the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre, it’s still pretty easy to get to. Trust me, the journey is part of the adventure!

First up, let’s talk metro. This is probably gonna be your best bet if you’re already in the city. You’ll want to hop on Line 14 and get off at the Cour Saint-Émilion station. From there, it’s just a short walk to the museum. And let me tell ya, this walk is a treat in itself. You’ll be strolling through Bercy Village, a charming area with cobblestone streets and converted wine warehouses. It’s like a little appetizer of history before the main course at the museum.

If you’re more of a bus person, you’ve got options too. The 24 and 64 buses both stop nearby. Just get off at the Parc de Bercy stop, and you’ll be a stone’s throw away from your destination.

Now, for my fellow walkers out there (hello, step count!), you can actually hoof it from the center of Paris if you’re feeling energetic. It’s about a 45-minute walk from Notre-Dame Cathedral. Just head east along the Seine, and you’ll eventually hit Bercy Village. It’s a lovely walk, especially on a nice day, and you’ll get to see a different side of Paris along the way.

If you’re coming from further afield, like one of the airports, your best bet is probably to take the RER or a taxi to a central location in Paris, then switch to the metro or bus.

Oh, and for those of you who prefer to be chauffered (fancy!), taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you off right at the entrance. Just make sure you give them the full address, as some drivers might not be familiar with the museum itself.

One last thing – and this is important, folks – make sure you [double-check the museum’s opening times](https://arts-forains.com/en/practical-information) before you set out. Remember, this isn’t your typical museum with regular daily hours. You don’t wanna show up all excited only to find the place closed. Talk about a fairground buzzkill!

Getting to Les Pavillons de Bercy might take a little more effort than some of the more central Paris attractions, but I promise you, it’s worth every metro stop, bus ride, or step. The anticipation of what awaits you will make the journey fly by!

Tips for Visiting

Alright, my fellow adventurers, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. I’ve been to Les Pavillons de Bercy – Musée des Arts Forains a few times now, and I’ve picked up some handy tips along the way. So, grab a pen and paper (or just, you know, remember this stuff), ’cause here comes the inside scoop on making the most of your visit!

First things first: reservations. This ain’t your average walk-in museum, folks. You gotta book in advance, especially during peak times like the Festival du Merveilleux. Trust me, you don’t wanna show up and find out they’re full. It’s like getting all dressed up for the carnival only to find out it left town yesterday. [Book your tickets online](https://arts-forains.com/en/visitors/individual-visitor) as soon as you know your dates.

Now, about those guided tours. They’re not just good, they’re essential. The guides here are like the wizards of Oz, pulling back the curtain on all the secrets and stories behind the exhibits. Plus, some areas are only accessible with a guide. So unless you speak fluent French, make sure to book an English tour when you reserve your spot.

Timing is everything, my friends. Try to arrive about 15 minutes before your scheduled tour. This’ll give you time to soak in the atmosphere and maybe snap a few photos of the exterior. But don’t be late! The tours wait for no one, not even if you’re the Queen of England (which, if you are, Your Majesty, I’m honored you’re reading my humble advice).

Speaking of photos, here’s a hot tip: bring a camera that does well in low light. The museum is often dimly lit to create that magical atmosphere, which is great for ambiance but not so great for your phone camera. And remember, flash photography is a big no-no in most areas.

Now, let’s talk clothes. You might be tempted to dress up all fancy for those Instagram shots, but comfort is key here. You’ll be doing a fair bit of walking and standing, so leave the stilettos at home. And maybe bring a light jacket – those old wine cellars can get a bit chilly, even in summer.

Got kids? Bring ’em along! This place is a hit with the little ones. Just keep an eye on them around the vintage equipment. Oh, and if you’ve got a stroller, be aware that some areas might be a bit tight. Baby carriers could be a good alternative.

Here’s something a lot of folks don’t realize: the museum is part of a larger complex called the Pavillons de Bercy. If you’ve got time, check out the other spaces too. Each one has its own unique theme and charm.

Hungry? There’s no cafe in the museum itself, but fear not! Bercy Village is right next door and it’s packed with restaurants and cafes. Grab a bite before or after your visit – it’s a great way to round out your Bercy adventure.

Lastly, and I can’t stress this enough: be present. I know we all love our phones, but try to resist the urge to experience everything through a screen. This place is all about rekindling that childlike sense of wonder, so let yourself get swept up in the magic. Touch the carousel horses, play the games, listen to the stories. You’re not

Location

Places to Stay Near Les Pavillons de Bercy - Musée des Arts Forains

Find Tours in Paris

Explore More Travel Guides