Top 10 unusual museums in Paris to discover in 2026

Summary: Unusual museums to discover in Paris in 2025

Paris, the city of lights and culture, is full of fascinating museums that stand out for their originality:

• Louvre Museum;
• Centre Georges Pompidou;
• Musée du Quai Branly;
• Musée de la Vie Romantique;
• Etc...

In 2025, don't hesitate to explore unexpected places like the Musée d'Orsay, known for its impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art. This museum, housed in a former train station, offers a unique experience for the whole family.

Why visit the Musée d'Orsay?

The Musée d'Orsay is not limited to its famous works. You will also find captivating temporary exhibitions, workshops for children, and guided tours suitable for families. For more information, check our dedicated page on Musée d'Orsay.

To learn more about the temporary and permanent collections, feel free to get your tickets for the Musée d'Orsay.

Get ready to experience an unforgettable cultural adventure!

1. Atelier des Lumières: An immersion in the world of The Little Prince

The Atelier des Lumières in Paris is alive with the rhythm of the immersive exhibition “The Little Prince, The Immersive Odyssey.”

This unique experience immerses you in the masterpiece of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry through 360° projections and a captivating sensory journey. Extended until August 31, 2025, this exhibition allows families to rediscover the watercolors and iconic settings of the work.

Why visit this exhibition?

• A family experience: Designed for all ages, the exhibition attracts both children and adults, making culture accessible to everyone.
• Innovative technologies: Thanks to digital installations, visitors can interact with the poetic universe of Saint-Exupéry in an immersive and engaging way.

Don't miss this opportunity to experience a unique adventure! To complete your stay in Paris, another immersive experience is available with the Aura Invalides Tickets, which will plunge you into the wonders of the Dome of the Invalides.

2. Paradox Museum Paris: Optical Illusions and New Immersive Experiences

The Paradox Museum Paris, recently opened in the 9th arrondissement, has become a must-visit destination for families. Spanning 1,700 m², this immersive museum offers nearly a hundred interactive installations that blend visual illusions and sensory pathways.

An Enriching Experience for Everyone

Children and adults will be amazed by the various optical illusions and new immersive experiences that are regularly added. For example, the museum has recently integrated five new captivating attractions as well as a themed café, Hans & Gretel, where both young and old can enjoy refreshments in a playful atmosphere.

Why Visit the Paradox Museum?

This museum is designed to stimulate the curiosity of visitors of all ages. By offering a playful exploration of science and perception, it fits perfectly into the trend of interactive museums in Paris. To plan your visit, feel free to check the information on available tickets at Paradox Museum Paris. A family outing that promises to be both educational and entertaining!

3. Zoo Art Show Paris La Défense: Dive into Contemporary Street Art

The Zoo Art Show Paris La Défense is a must-see event for families and art lovers. From June 7 to December 21, 2025, this ephemeral museum dedicated to urban art will settle in the dynamic district of La Défense, transforming the space into a true open-air gallery.

An Event Not to Be Missed

With over 500 artists from 26 countries, this exhibition showcases monumental murals and immersive installations. Children can participate in creative workshops, while parents will enjoy live artistic performances. Additionally, the dining areas provide an ideal setting to relax after a day of exploration.

Why Visit the Zoo Art Show?

The Zoo Art Show is not just an exhibition; it's a celebration of creativity and the diversity of street art.

To complement your visit to another Zoo, feel free to discover the Parc Zoologique de Paris, which also offers many family activities, combining culture and nature. Don't miss this opportunity to dive into the fascinating world of contemporary street art!

4. Maison Jean Paul Gaultier: A Unique Sensory Experience

Discover the fascinating world of Jean Paul Gaultier through an immersive exhibition that promises to delight the whole family!

From June 12 to 15, 2025, the Maison Jean Paul Gaultier in Paris opens its doors for a unique experience titled "And Gaultier Created Man - Le Male: Past, Present, Future."

What Awaits You?

This free exhibition immerses you in a 360° sensory world, blending fashion, interactive olfactory installations, and contemporary art. Visitors will have the opportunity to discover mythical archives and quirky works while exploring reimagined spaces that embody the inclusive and avant-garde spirit of the designer.

Why Go?

• An original and educational family outing;
• An immersion in art and fashion;
• Interactive activities for children.

Don't miss this opportunity to experience something unique in the heart of Paris, where art meets fashion in an enchanting setting!

5. Korean Cultural Center: Journey Through the Legends of Jeju

Discover a piece of Korean culture in the heart of Paris! The Korean Cultural Center invites you to a fascinating exhibition, Journey Through the Legends of Jeju, taking place from May 22 to September 6, 2025. This immersive exhibition highlights the traditions and legends of Jeju Island, particularly the haenyeo, these traditional divers inscribed in UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage.

An experience not to be missed!

The event combines contemporary art and authentic objects, providing a unique opportunity to discover the riches of Jeju, known as the island of three abundances. Don't miss this chance to dive into a rich and colorful culture.

To enrich your visit, why not take a tour of the Quai Branly Museum: History, Information and Access?

This museum celebrates the art and culture of non-Western civilizations and is a perfect complement to your cultural experience in Paris.

Come explore, learn, and be amazed at the Korean Cultural Center!

How to choose the unusual museum that suits you?

Paris is full of unusual museums that will delight the whole family. For a unique experience, start by exploring the available options. You can uncover hidden treasures like the Museum of Fairground Arts, where children can have fun while discovering the history of entertainment.

What criteria should you consider?

Think about your children's ages: some museums offer interactive activities suitable for younger ones. Temporary exhibitions can also influence your choice.

To discover free options, don't forget to check our selection of free museums and monuments in Paris.

The Come To Paris tip: a fun and cultural outing

Visiting an unusual museum not only sparks children's curiosity but also allows for a pleasant time with family. Feel free to include guided tours to enrich your experience. Ultimately, the choice of museum will depend on your interests and those of your children, so have fun exploring!

Practical Information: Hours and Access to Unusual Museums

Paris is full of fascinating museums, often unknown, that are worth a visit with family. To plan your visit, it is essential to know the opening hours and means of access.

General Opening Hours

Most museums in Paris, including the lesser-known ones, open their doors between 10 AM and 6 PM, but some, like the Museum of Fairground Arts, are open only on weekends.

Access to Unusual Museums

For a hassle-free experience, prefer public transport. Most museums are accessible via the Paris metro. For example, the Museum of Romantic Life is easily accessible by line 2.

For additional information, discover the list of the 14 best museums to visit in Paris to explore hidden treasures and enjoy activities suitable for children.

Don't forget to check the closing days and access conditions for each museum before you go. Good preparation will make your visit even more enjoyable!