Jardin des Plantes Menagerie
A historic zoo nestled within Paris's beautiful Jardin des Plantes, featuring vintage architecture and unique animal species.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Jardin des Plantes Menagerie
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic zoo nestled within Paris's beautiful Jardin des Plantes, featuring vintage architecture and unique animal species.
"A lovely little zoo in the heart of Paris! "
Allocate Enough Time
Plan for 3-4 hours to fully explore the zoo and its surroundings.
Check for English Signs
New signs in English enhance the visitor experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic 19th-Century Buildings
Throughout the Menagerie
Explore charming, vintage animal houses that add a unique historical ambiance to your visit.
Unique and Rare Animals
Various enclosures
Discover fascinating species you might not see elsewhere, adding an element of surprise to your exploration.
Beautiful Landscaping
Throughout the Menagerie
Enjoy the well-maintained gardens and floral displays that complement the animal exhibits.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for a Better Experience
Understanding Animal Welfare Concerns
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allocate Enough Time
Plan for 3-4 hours to fully explore the zoo and its surroundings.
Check for English Signs
New signs in English enhance the visitor experience.
Explore the Gardens
The zoo is within the stunning Jardin des Plantes, don't miss it!
Hidden Entrances
Some exhibit entrances can be tricky to find, keep an eye out.
Tips
from all over the internet
Allocate Enough Time
Plan for 3-4 hours to fully explore the zoo and its surroundings.
Check for English Signs
New signs in English enhance the visitor experience.
Explore the Gardens
The zoo is within the stunning Jardin des Plantes, don't miss it!
Hidden Entrances
Some exhibit entrances can be tricky to find, keep an eye out.
Weekday Visits Recommended
Weekdays are much quieter than weekends or holidays.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Jardin des Plantes Menagerie to be a charming, historic zoo within a beautiful Parisian garden. While some enclosures are noted as potentially small, many appreciate the unique animals, the well-maintained grounds, and the vintage architecture. It's often seen as a pleasant extension of a visit to the broader Jardin des Plantes.
"I never really give bad reviews we accidentally stumbled across this place and were at first delighted to find a place, in all honesty the more we went around the worst I felt. Some animals had space but many seemed to be in places far too small and you can see something isn’t quite right mentally for many. ( it might be worth reducing th number of animal breeds and expanding their housing).
In saying the negative the place has lovely gift shop and some beautiful gardens and flowers.
The gardens"
Wayel Salih
"We happened across the Menagerie by accident, saw the park and walked in. Then saw the menagerie and decided to visit. It was much larger and more comprehensive than we originally expected. We visited for nearly 3 hours. Lots to see, great to see new signs in English, it really added to our visit. Some animal enclosures seemed small for the animals, but it clear to see the park making changes.
Some incredible animals that we have never seen anywhere else.
Lots of amazing and interesting buildings, which add to the visit.
It was busy with children but on the most part they were well looked after by adults. I had to stop a couple of school children pulling up flowers.
My only negative, is that some entrances to buildings and exhibits are not all that clear. Such as the tree kangaroos and the large aviary. These entrances are really hidden."
Ian
"A lovely little zoo in the heart of Paris!
I’ve visited this zoo several times with my kids, and it’s always a nice experience.
It’s a relatively small zoo located inside the beautiful Jardin des Plantes.
There are several interesting and well-cared-for animals, and the overall atmosphere is very relaxed.
If you can, try to visit on a weekday or when French school holidays are over—it’s much quieter.
You can easily spend 3–4 hours walking around.
The best part? When you leave the zoo, you’re right in the Jardin des Plantes—a stunning garden you definitely shouldn’t miss!"
Eskeatnaf Mulugeta
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Menagerie is located within the Jardin des Plantes in Paris. You can easily reach it via public transport. Several Métro lines (e.g., Jussieu, Place Monge) and bus routes stop nearby.
While driving is possible, parking in central Paris can be challenging and expensive. Public transport is generally recommended for ease of access.
The Jardin des Plantes is quite large. The Menagerie is a specific section within it. Maps are available at the entrance to help you find your way.
Absolutely! The Menagerie is part of the larger Jardin des Plantes, which also houses the Natural History Museum and beautiful botanical gardens.
Information on whether the Paris Pass covers the Menagerie can vary. It's best to check the official Paris Pass website or the Menagerie's official site for the most up-to-date details.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary. It's advisable to check the official Jardin des Plantes website for current admission fees and any potential discounts.
Purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended, especially during peak seasons, to save time and guarantee entry.
Opening hours can change seasonally. Always consult the official Jardin des Plantes website for the most accurate and up-to-date information on operating times.
The Menagerie is a section within the Jardin des Plantes. You will enter the gardens first, and then proceed to the Menagerie entrance.
Keep an eye on the official website for information on special events, family days, or potential discounts that might be offered throughout the year.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend around 3 to 4 hours exploring the Menagerie and its grounds.
While not always explicitly advertised, inquire at the information desk upon arrival about any available guided tours or educational programs.
The Menagerie houses a variety of animals, including mammals, birds, and reptiles. Some visitors highlight seeing unique species not commonly found in other zoos.
Yes, it's a popular spot for families. However, some visitors have noted that children should be supervised to ensure they respect the gardens and animals.
Yes, there are typically restrooms and other visitor facilities available within the Menagerie and the broader Jardin des Plantes.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are usually cafes or snack bars within the Jardin des Plantes, offering light refreshments.
Picnicking is often allowed in designated areas within the Jardin des Plantes. Check the park's rules for specific guidelines.
The surrounding Latin Quarter offers a wide array of restaurants, bistros, and cafes to suit various tastes and budgets.
Cafes within the park might offer limited options. Restaurants in the nearby Latin Quarter are more likely to have diverse vegetarian and vegan choices.
On-site cafes are generally moderately priced. Dining in the nearby Latin Quarter offers a range of price points.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic buildings, unique animal enclosures, and the beautifully landscaped gardens offer many picturesque opportunities.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to avoid disturbing the animals.
A versatile lens (e.g., 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both animals and the garden's ambiance. A telephoto lens can be helpful for animal close-ups.
Yes, the 19th-century buildings are a significant feature and make for excellent photographic subjects.
Early morning or late afternoon light can provide softer, more flattering light for both animals and the gardens.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting with children, remember to supervise them closely, as some reviews mention kids pulling flowers or being overly boisterous.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
Combine your visit with an exploration of the surrounding Jardin des Plantes, which boasts stunning botanical collections and museums. This allows for a diverse and enriching experience, whether you're interested in nature, history, or simply enjoying a beautiful Parisian setting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History: The Menagerie's Architecture
Walking through the Menagerie feels like stepping back in time. You'll encounter buildings that reflect the architectural trends of their era, some featuring ornate details and others showcasing functional design for their animal inhabitants. This blend of natural history and architectural heritage makes for a visually engaging experience. It's a place where you can appreciate both the diversity of the animal kingdom and the ingenuity of past generations in housing and displaying them.
While the park is reportedly making efforts to update enclosures, the preservation of these historic buildings remains a key aspect of the Menagerie's identity. This commitment to history, combined with the presence of diverse species, creates a truly distinctive destination within Paris. It’s a reminder that zoos have a long and evolving history, and the Menagerie at Jardin des Plantes is a tangible part of that story.
Navigating the Menagerie: Tips for a Smooth Visit
Some visitors have pointed out that certain entrances to exhibits can be a bit hidden, so it's helpful to pay attention to signage or grab a map upon arrival. The park is generally well-maintained, and new signs in English have been added, which significantly improves the visitor experience.
Remember that the Menagerie is part of the broader Jardin des Plantes, which is a beautiful space in itself. Don't hesitate to take breaks, enjoy the landscaping, and perhaps even pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the designated areas. This approach allows you to fully appreciate both the animal collection and the serene environment of the gardens.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit