Musée de l'Orangerie
About
The Musée de l'Orangerie offers a perfect introduction to Impressionist art for families, with its manageable size preventing museum fatigue. Kids are mesmerized by Monet's giant Water Lilies murals displayed in oval rooms designed specifically for these masterpieces, creating an immersive experience that feels more like stepping into a painting than viewing one.
Highlights
- ✓Monet's famous Water Lilies murals displayed in two oval rooms with natural lighting
- ✓Compact, easy-to-navigate galleries perfect for families with young children
- ✓Impressive collection of Renoir, Cezanne, and Picasso works on the lower level
- ✓Beautiful location in the Tuileries Garden with playgrounds and green space nearby
- ✓Interactive family guides available at the entrance to help kids engage with the art
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit on Wednesday mornings right at 9:00 AM opening for the quietest experience, as most tour groups arrive later in the day.
- 2.Purchase tickets online in advance through the official website to skip ticket lines. The Paris Museum Pass also grants entry and can save time with multiple attractions.
- 3.Start with the Water Lilies rooms on the ground floor when kids are fresh, then explore the lower level collection if energy allows.
- 4.Bring a small sketchbook and colored pencils so kids can try drawing their favorite paintings, a great way to keep them engaged.
- 5.The museum is located in the Tuileries Garden, perfect for letting kids run around before or after your visit to balance quiet museum time with active play.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings, especially Wednesday or Thursday at opening (9:00 AM), offer the calmest experience. Avoid weekends and Monday afternoons when crowds peak. Spring and fall provide pleasant weather for enjoying the surrounding gardens.
What to Know
Admission is very affordable at around 12.50 euros for adults (free for children under 18 from EU countries, reduced rates for others). The museum has elevators and is stroller accessible. Note that Tuesday is the weekly closure day. No cafe on-site, but plenty of options nearby in the Tuileries.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round except Tuesdays, May 1st, July 14th morning, and December 25th. Summer (July-August) sees the highest tourist crowds, so early morning visits are essential. Winter offers a quieter experience with shorter lines.
Real Experiences
@museeorangerie
View on TikTok
Nearby Eats
Angelina Paris (nearby on Rue de Rivoli) is famous for hot chocolate that kids love, though expect tourist prices. For a more casual option, the Tuileries Garden has several kiosks and cafes where families can grab crepes, sandwiches, and ice cream.
More Activities Near Paris
Musée de l'Air et de l'Espace
Located at Le Bourget Airport just outside Paris, the Musée de l'Air et de l'Espace is one of the world's oldest and most impressive aviation museums. With everything from vintage biplanes and Concorde jets to space rockets and flight simulators, this massive collection brings aviation history to life in a way that captivates children and adults alike. The interactive exhibits and hands-on simulators make this far more than just looking at planes, offering an engaging educational experience that inspires future pilots and engineers.
Louvre Museum
The iconic Louvre Museum offers far more than just the Mona Lisa for families. With specially designed children's tours, interactive family guides, and treasure hunt activities, even young visitors can engage with world-class art spanning thousands of years. The museum's sheer size means you can focus on just a few galleries, making it manageable for families without feeling overwhelmed.
Musée de Montmartre
The Musée de Montmartre offers families a peaceful escape from busy Paris, combining art history with enchanting gardens that once inspired Renoir. Kids can explore the charming historic buildings, wander through the beautiful vineyard gardens, and discover how famous artists lived and worked in this bohemian neighborhood. The museum's intimate size and outdoor spaces make it perfect for families who want culture without overwhelming little ones.
Musée Grévin
Musée Grévin is Paris's beloved wax museum where kids can get up close with incredibly lifelike figures of celebrities, superheroes, historical icons, and French personalities. Unlike traditional museums, children are encouraged to touch, pose, and take photos with the figures, making it an interactive experience that keeps young visitors engaged throughout. The museum's themed rooms and theatrical settings create a magical atmosphere that brings history and pop culture to life.