Background

Les Pavillons de Bercy - Musée des Arts Forains: A Whimsical Journey Through Fairground History

4.7 (6406)

Discover a hidden gem in Paris: a whimsical museum showcasing antique fairground attractions and offering an interactive, immersive experience for all ages.

Step into a captivating world at Les Pavillons de Bercy - Musée des Arts Forains, a unique museum in Paris showcasing a remarkable collection of fairground and spectacle objects from the 19th and 20th centuries. Housed in former wine warehouses, this living museum offers an immersive experience where visitors can interact with centennial rides and attractions.

A brief summary to Les Pavillons de Bercy - Musée des Arts Forains

Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Les Pavillons de Bercy - Musée des Arts Forains.

  • Book your tickets online in advance, as the museum is only accessible through guided tours and does not offer on-site ticket sales.
  • Check the RATP website for closures on Metro Line 14 before your visit.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on cobblestone streets between the different rooms.
  • Consider visiting during the Festival du Merveilleux for a unique experience with shows and open access to the museum.
  • Note that tours are primarily in French, though leaflets in English are available. Check for occasional English tours when booking.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Attraction

Atlantes

Discover the Majestic Atlantes in Paris
Attraction

Les Colonnes du Trône

Les Colonnes du Trône: Guardians of Parisian History
Attraction

Rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine

Rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine: The Heart of Parisian Craftsmanship

Unlock the Best of Les Pavillons de Bercy - Musée des Arts Forains

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Musée des Arts Forains is easily accessible by public transport. Take Metro Line 14 to Cour Saint-Emilion station, which is a short 5-minute walk to the museum. Alternatively, you can take Bus lines 24, 109, or 111 to the Terroirs de France stop, which is also close to the entrance. A single Metro or Bus ticket costs €2.10 [https://www.ratp.fr/en/titres-et-tarifs].

  • Taxi/Ride-sharing

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Paris. A taxi ride from the city center (e.g., Châtelet) to the Musée des Arts Forains will typically cost between €15 and €25, depending on traffic.

  • Driving

    If driving, take the Boulevard Périphérique and exit at Porte de Bercy, following signs for Paris Centre. Several parking options are available near the museum, including Indigo Saint-Emilion (12 Place des Vins de France) and Interparking Bercy Lumière (40 avenue des Terroirs de France). Parking rates typically range from €4.90 to €5.90 for an hour. Interparking Bercy Lumière offers rates starting at 2 euro an hour.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the Bercy area, walking to the Musée des Arts Forains is a pleasant option. From Bercy Village, it's just a short walk along Avenue des Terroirs de France. Follow the signs for the Musée des Arts Forains.

Discover more about Les Pavillons de Bercy - Musée des Arts Forains

Les Pavillons de Bercy - Musée des Arts Forains, officially named, is a hidden gem located in the Bercy neighborhood of Paris. This unique museum offers a captivating journey through the history of fairground arts and entertainment, showcasing a remarkable collection of objects from the 19th and 20th centuries. Housed within the Pavillons de Bercy, former wine warehouses built in 1886, the museum itself is a spectacle. Founded by Jean Paul Favand, a passionate collector and performer, the Musée des Arts Forains breaks away from traditional museum formats. Here, the objects are not behind glass but are active participants in the visitor experience. The museum is divided into themed spaces, each offering a distinct atmosphere. Visitors can explore the Venetian Lounges, filled with decorations and attractions inspired by Venice and Italy, ride a Venetian carousel, and admire the Theatre of Marvels, and the Magic Mirror. One of the highlights is the opportunity to ride on antique carousels and try out vintage fairground games.A visit to the Musée des Arts Forains is more than just a museum tour; it's an immersive experience that evokes the magic and wonder of the fairground. Knowledgeable guides lead visitors through the collection, sharing stories and operating the various attractions. The tour typically lasts around 90 minutes. The museum also hosts special events and festivals throughout the year, including the Festival du Merveilleux during the holiday season.Advance booking is essential as the museum is only accessible through guided tours. This ensures a personalized and engaging experience for all visitors.

Explore the best of what Les Pavillons de Bercy - Musée des Arts Forains has to offer

Mobile App

Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.



More about Ile De France

File:Eiffel Tower Paris 01.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

Explore Île-de-France, where Parisian charm meets historic grandeur, and every corner tells a story of elegance and timeless beauty.

Tell me more about Ile De France
Attraction

Discover the enchanting Ancienne église Saint-Jacques de la Boucherie, a historic gem in Paris showcasing stunning Gothic architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Ancienne église Saint-Jacques de la Boucherie
Attraction

Explore the captivating Atlantes, a historical landmark in Paris, where architectural beauty meets rich cultural significance in the heart of the City of Light.

Atlantes

Select Currency