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

Experience the enchantment of vintage funfair artistry at Paris's Musée des Arts Forains, a unique collection of 19th- and 20th-century treasures.

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Step into a time capsule of entertainment at Les Pavillons de Bercy, also known as the Musée des Arts Forains. This unique museum in Paris's 12th arrondissement showcases a captivating collection of fairground objects and performing arts from the 19th and 20th centuries, offering an interactive and nostalgic experience for all ages.

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

Local tips

  • Book your tickets online in advance, as the museum is only accessible via guided tours and spots fill up quickly.
  • Check the RATP website for closures on Metro Line 14 before your visit.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking on cobblestone streets within the museum.
  • Arrive a bit early to ensure you find the entrance, as the museum is located within a larger complex.
  • Consider visiting during the Festival du Merveilleux for a unique, unguided experience with many shows.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Musée des Arts Forains is easily accessible by public transport. Take Metro Line 14 to Cour Saint-Émilion station, which is about a 5-minute walk. Alternatively, you can take Bus lines 24, 109, or 111 to the Terroirs de France stop. A single bus or metro ticket costs €2.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the Bercy Village area, the Musée des Arts Forains is a short walk away. Head south on avenue des Terroirs de France, and you'll find the museum on your left. The walk is flat and easy.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you off directly at 53 Avenue des Terroirs de France. From central Paris, a short taxi ride would cost approximately €8-€15, depending on traffic and time of day.

  • Car

    If driving, exit the Boulevard Périphérique at Porte de Bercy and follow signs for Bercy Lumière/Saint Emilion. Several parking garages are nearby, including Indigo Bercy Saint-Emilion and Bercy Lumière. Parking rates typically range from €4.90 to €5.90 per hour.

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

Les Pavillons de Bercy - Musée des Arts Forains, is more than just a museum; it's an immersive spectacle that brings the magic of historical fairgrounds to life. Located in the former wine warehouses of Bercy, built in 1886 by architect Ernest Lheureux, the museum's history is intertwined with that of its creator, Jean Paul Favand, a passionate collector and curator of performing arts heritage. Inside, you'll discover a collection of show props, decorations, and antique merry-go-rounds dating from 1850 to 1950. Unlike traditional museums, Les Pavillons de Bercy encourages interaction; visitors can ride century-old carousels and play vintage fairground games. The museum is divided into thematic rooms, including the Venetian Lounges, the Theatre of Marvels, and the Fairground Art Museum, each offering a unique atmosphere. The museum is open year-round but accessible only through guided tours, except during special events like the Festival du Merveilleux. These tours, led by engaging guides, take you on a 90-minute journey through the collection, offering insights into the history and craftsmanship behind each piece. The Musée des Arts Forains is not just a display of artifacts; it's a living, breathing celebration of the arts and entertainment of a bygone era.

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