Les Pavillons de Bercy – Musée des Arts Forains

Description

Located in the heart of Paris’s Bercy district, the [Musée des Arts Forains offers a magical journey](https://arts-forains.com/en) through the enchanting world of vintage fairgrounds and entertainment. This isn’t your typical stuffy museum – it’s an interactive wonderland housed in former wine warehouses that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped into a fantastical time machine.

Y’know what makes this place really special? It’s how they’ve managed to preserve the spirit of old-world entertainment while letting visitors actually experience it. We’re talking about a remarkable collection of fairground art and attractions from the 19th and 20th centuries that you can actually touch, ride, and play with!

[The museum features four distinct themed spaces](https://parisjetaime.com/eng/convention/pro/les-pavillons-de-bercy-pc4186), each offering its own unique slice of entertainment history. From venetian salons to magical theaters, every corner tells a story of how people found joy and wonder in simpler times.

Key Features

• [Authentic vintage carousels and fairground rides that visitors can actually ride](https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowUserReviews-g187147-d2507208-r745686335-Musee_des_Arts_Forains-Paris_Ile_de_France.html)
• Interactive 19th and 20th-century carnival games
• Mechanized music instruments and automated performances
• Stunning collection of fairground artifacts and decorative arts
• Theatrical lighting and immersive atmospheres
• Venetian-themed salons
• The mesmerizing Théâtre du Merveilleux
• Historical fairground memorabilia
• Unique photo opportunities throughout
• Professional guided tours that bring the exhibits to life

Best Time to Visit

Listen up, ’cause this is important – you can’t just show up whenever you feel like it! This museum is special because [it’s only accessible through guided tours that need to be booked in advance](https://arts-forains.tickeasy.com/en-GB). The best time to visit is during the winter holiday season when they typically have extended hours and special events. But honestly? Any time you can snag a ticket is a good time to visit.

I’d recommend booking a morning tour if possible – that’s when the lighting is particularly magical and the crowds tend to be smaller. And if you’re visiting during December, you’re in for an extra treat as they usually put on special Christmas-themed events that transform the already magical space into something even more spectacular.

How to Get There

Getting to the Pavillons de Bercy is pretty straightforward using Paris’s excellent public transport system. The closest Metro stations are Cour Saint-Émilion (Line 14) and Bercy (Lines 6 and 14). From either station, it’s just a short walk through the charming Bercy neighborhood.

If you’re coming from central Paris, you might wanna give yourself about 30 minutes for the journey. Trust me, it’s worth venturing slightly off the typical tourist track – plus, you can explore the lovely Bercy Village before or after your visit.

Tips for Visiting

Alright, here’s the inside scoop on making the most of your visit. First things first – don’t even think about just showing up! [You absolutely must book your tickets in advance](https://arts-forains.com/en/visitors/individual-visitor) as they don’t sell tickets at the door. The guided tours last about an hour and a half, and they’re totally worth every minute.

Bring your camera, but remember that flash photography isn’t allowed in some areas to protect the delicate artifacts. Wear comfortable shoes because you’ll be standing and walking quite a bit. Oh, and bring some cash – you might want to try some of the carnival games!

Keep in mind that most tours are conducted in French, but they do offer English tours at specific times. If you need an English tour, make sure to check the schedule carefully when booking.

And here’s a pro tip that not many folks know about: arrive about 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time. This gives you a chance to take in the impressive exterior of the building and snap some photos before diving into the magical world inside.

Consider visiting during weekdays if possible – weekends can get pretty packed, especially during peak tourist season. And if you’re traveling with kids (or kids at heart), you’re in luck! The interactive nature of the museum makes it an absolute blast for all ages.

Remember to dress appropriately for the season – the buildings are old and can get a bit chilly in winter or warm in summer. And don’t rush out right after your tour – the surrounding Bercy neighborhood is worth exploring, with its lovely park and converted wine warehouses now hosting shops and restaurants.

Location

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

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