If you’re looking for a Paris outing that is rife with both scenic beauty and artistic wonder, you’ll definitely want to check out Jardin du Luxembourg. Commonly referred to as the Luxembourg Gardens, this popular destination is the second largest public park in all of Paris. It also boasts a fascinating history, hearkening back to the assassination of Henry IV, according to the Project for Public Spaces. From the architectural feat of Luxembourg Palace to the quaint appeal of apple and pear orchards, there’s something to please every visitor lucky enough to traverse the Luxembourg Gardens.
Visiting Luxembourg Gardens With Kids
Luxembourg Gardens is a favorite family destination, and no wonder — kids get tired of being couped up in the Louvre and the Notre Dame Cathedral. Far preferable is an exploration of Luxembourg Gardens, which combines great works of art with the open space necessary for everyday playtime. If you visit with children, be sure to check out the puppet theater in the southwest corner of the gardens. You’ll also want to check out the park’s impressive playground, complete with a vintage carousel. Be sure to stop by the main fountains, where you and your kids can enjoy racing one another with toy sailboat rentals.
Luxembourg Gardens’ Most Impressive Statues
Whether you catch a brief glimpse of Luxembourg Garden’s legendary statues while running after your children or are able to enjoy a solitary stroll around the park, you’ll definitely appreciate their historical appeal and sheer beauty. Luxembourg Gardens is home to over one hundred statues and fountains, which means that a single visit may not be enough for you to take it all in. If nothing else, you’ll want to stop by a few of the park’s most famous works of art, including the original model for the Statue of Liberty, Auguste Cain’s animal sculptures, Ernest-Eugene Hiolle’s Narcissus and Antoine Bourdelle’s tribute to Ludwig van Beethoven.
Touring Luxembourg Palace
Currently the official seat for the French Senate, Luxembourg Palace began as a residence for Marie de Medicis. Throughout its long, long history, the structure has acquired a vast array of paintings, sculptures and other important artifacts. The best way to enjoy all this is through a guided tour, during which you’ll learn dozens of fascinating tidbits from a knowledgeable guide. This is a particularly great option for winter visitors unwilling to contend with the cold, snowy weather of the Luxembourg Garden’s outside attractions.
Dining Near Luxembourg Gardens
Consider pairing your trip to Luxembourg Gardens with a meal at one of the area’s top dining establishments. Les Papilles, Restaurant Polidor and Au Petite Suisse are all perennial favorites, although, if you’re looking to keep spending to a minimum, you can always enjoy fresh produce from Marche rue de Buci.
Whether you decide to tour Luxembourg Palace, stroll amongst the outside statues or goof off with your kids at the park’s impressive playground, you’ll be bound to enjoy a memorable visit. Be sure to set aside, at minimum, several hours to enjoy the attraction — you’ll need plenty of time to discover all this Paris wonder has to offer.
+DJL Lalique is the forum of David Weinstein for buying and selling the artwork of Rene Lalique. Learn more at his website: www.djllalique.com.