10 Things to Do in 10(ish) Kilometers
A Surprise Spring Break
Here in France, we’re making the most of a strange situation and the earlier arrival of spring break (along with the gorgeous weather!) by exploring all that the 10(ish) kilometers around our homes have to offer. While each family’s 10km travel radius will vary, our PFA team got together to share these fun, COVID-safe activities for families to enjoy over spring break!
Take care when picking out the activities––some are located too far into Paris for our families in the suburbs, and vice-versa! On the maps below, ASP is marked by a 10km red circle, and the activities in question are marked with a 10km blue circle.
1. Les Fermes de Gally
This trio of farms in the Paris area date their roots back to the late 1700s, and the farm in Sartrouville is an ASP favorite year-round! From picking apples in the fall, to gathering tulips in the spring, visiting the animals and exploring the beautiful grounds, there's plenty to do all day. Be sure to check out the adorable farm shop for local honey, crafts, and other delicious goodies.
*Note, of the three locations, only Sartrouville and Saint-Cyr-l'École are open, and you must reserve your place ahead of time. Sartrouville is north of ASP, great for families in Neuilly and Nanterre, while Saint-Cyr-l'École is to the southwest of campus for families in Garches, La Celle-Saint Cloud, and Versailles.
Source: Marie Claire
2. The Open Air Exhibit of Photography by Stéphane de Bourgies
This activity is great for families living in Paris and Boulogne! Head into the heart of the Marais to marvel at this exhibition of extraordinary flora photography. Visit the gallery’s website to learn more.
3. Stroll the Champs Elysée and admire the exhibition of sculptures from Le Chat de Geluck
Beautifully explained and documented in photos by Sortir à Paris, the iconic sculptures of Le Chat de Geluck are available for viewing on the Champs Elysée, and at the Galerie Huberty & Breyne on avenue Matignon. Be on the lookout for the roving food vendors, whose open-air carts seem to have doubled during the move towards outdoor activities!
3. The Paris-area AccroCamps
Looking for a little more adventure than braving the grocery store or strolling the block? Check out the AccroCamps in the Paris area! Three of their locations are quite conveniently located for most ASP families, one in Meudon, one in Saint-Germain-en-Laye, and one in Rueil-Malmaison. Please note that you are strongly encouraged to reserve in advance!
4. Explore the Jardin de Plantes
With spring flowers coming into bloom, the Jardin de Plantes in the 5éme arrondissement is beginning to bloom! Families can visit the labyrinth and various unique gardens, even though the zoo and greenhouses are closed for the time being. Check the garden homepage for the most up-to-date information about entry times.
6. Visit the royal village Marly-le-Roi
Many ASP families have come and gone through Marly-le-Roi, which was originally constructed as a royal residence of Louis XIV. The grounds are open during this time, and you can learn more about them here!
7. Walking the Seine between Saint-Cloud and Boulogne
One parent suggested walking along the quay of the Seine, beginning at the Parc de Saint-Cloud, and crossing down to La Seine Musicale on the Ile-de-Seguin. Don’t forget to climb up to the garden on the roof to see the views! Then, from the tram stop “Parc de Saint-Cloud” walk towards the tram stop Brumborion and the Ile Saint-Germain with its Point Club and sculptures by Jean Debuffet.
Special tip: Pop across the river into Boulogne Billancourt for a stop at Boca, a lovely little coffee shop with great American-style chocolate chip cookies! Open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. for takeway.
8. Visit the Parc de Bois Préau in Reuil Malmaison
This must-see park is home to beautiful black swans and stunning rose gardens. Although the castle itself is closed for the moment, there are several beautiful promenades that remain open.
9. Visit the Jardin des Grands Explorateurs (just near the Jardin de Luxembourg!)
After taking in the iconic statues of the queens of France dotted around the Jardin de Luxembourg, wander a few blocks up the street to the Jardin des Grands Explorateurs and visit its three beautiful fountains!
10. Go on a cherry blossom hunt around town!
Not just for families living in Japan or Washington D.C.! Paris is home to hundreds of flowering trees, and the cherry blossoms that bloom all over the city are not to be missed. Check out this article with several recommendations about where to find these stunning trees