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.

• ✓Walking through the actual Concorde and Boeing 747 on display
• ✓Flight simulators where kids can pilot various aircraft
• ✓The planetarium with space shows (check schedule, presentations may be in French)
• ✓Over 400 aircraft including WWI fighters, WWII bombers, and space rockets
• ✓The outdoor tarmac display with massive military aircraft and helicopters kids can get up close to

1. 1.The museum is enormous, so grab a map at entry and prioritize the halls most interesting to your kids. Hall 5 (World War I and II aircraft) and Hall 7 (space exploration) are usually top favorites.
2. 2.Flight simulators cost extra and can have long waits on weekends, so arrive early or visit midweek to maximize simulator time without queues.
3. 3.Pack snacks and drinks as the on-site cafe options are limited and can be pricey. There are picnic areas outside during good weather.
4. 4.Don't miss the Concorde and Boeing 747 you can actually walk through. Kids love exploring inside these iconic aircraft.
5. 5.Download the museum app before visiting for English audio guides and interactive content, as most signage is primarily in French.

Weekday mornings (especially Tuesday through Thursday) are ideal to avoid school groups and weekend crowds. The museum can get very busy during French school holidays. Spring and fall offer comfortable weather for exploring both the indoor halls and outdoor aircraft display area.

Entry to the permanent collection is free, though special exhibitions and flight simulators require paid tickets (budget around 7-15 euros per simulator). The museum is easily accessible via RER Line B to Le Bourget station, then a 15-minute walk or short bus ride. Food options are limited on-site, so consider bringing your own or planning lunch elsewhere.

Open year-round except January 1, May 1, and December 25. The outdoor aircraft display is best enjoyed in mild weather (April through October), though the main indoor halls are comfortable any time of year. Special events and air shows occasionally take place in summer months.

The museum's on-site cafe offers basic sandwiches and snacks but has limited options. For better family dining, head back toward Paris or try the shopping center at Parinor (10 minutes by car) which has multiple chain restaurants. Alternatively, pack a picnic to enjoy in the designated outdoor areas during nice weather.