The beautiful Jardin des Plantes (botanical garden) also encompasses a 19th century hothouse, the Gallery of Evolution, the Minerology and Geology museum, and a Ménagerie (zoo) housing animals from all over the world. There is something here to interest young and old. The Jardin des Plantes was created in the 17th century as a medicinal garden for Louis XIII. Today, it includes five gardens inspired by different environments, including an Alpine garden, an iris garden and a rose garden. The hothouse featuring tropical and desert plants is not to be missed, both for its iron and glass architecture and for the beauty and rarity of the plants. The Gallery of Evolution features taxidermy and exhibitions about the diversity of species and their environments. On the ground floor, children and adults alike love the exhibition showing a “Noah’s Ark” parade of animals in all their diversity. The Minerology and Geology Museum houses incredible rock and mineral specimens and special exhibitions. The Menagerie was created in 1794 and today houses some 1800 animals, including many rare species. The manageable size of the museum makes it a good outing with children.
The garden, the museums and the zoo all organize many special events for children and adults alike. For more information: www.jardindesplantesdeparis.fr.
Hours
Botanical Gardens (until September 27th) : 7.30 – 20.00
Gallery of Evolution: 10.00 – 18.00; closed Tuesdays. Reopens June 24th.
Hothouse: 10.00 – 18.00; closed Tuesdays. Reopens June 24th.
Minerology and Geology Museum: 10.00 – 18.00; closed Tuesdays. Reopens June 24th.
Zoo: 9.00 – 18.00; Sundays and holidays: 9.00 – 18.30
How to get there?
The main entrance is located at Place Valhubert in the 5th arrondissement, near the Austerlitz train station. To get there, take the metro from Place Maubert (line 10) to the last stop, Austerlitz, or Bus 63. It is a 10 minute ride. Other entrances to the garden are located at 36 rue Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire, 18 rue Buffon and 57 rue Cuvier in the 5th arrondissement.
Hotel Marignan’s advice
You can easily spend a pleasant day here with your children, and take a leisurely walk back to the hotel along the Seine. You will pass in front of the Arab Institute and have a beautiful view of the Ile Saint-Louis and the Ile-de-la-Cité (Notre Dame) on your right. Tip for adults: the Botanical Garden is a great place to jog early in the morning.
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