Sailing Toy Boats in the Jardin des Tuileries #Paris

One the most fun and unique activities kids can take partake in Paris is to sail toy boats in the  Jardin des Tuileries (The Tuileries Gardens.) The gardens, which separate the Louvre from the Place de la Concorde, are a cultural walking place for both Parisians and tourists where Maillol statues stand alongside those of Rodin or Giacometti.

My daughter and I wandered by the little pond on our first day in Paris and she was insistent on returning to sail the colorful toy boats.  I will admit that this was not on my agenda but it  turned out to be the perfect activity after spending three hours touring The Louvre. The pond is literally across the street from the Louvre so it’s a big deal to get there after you finish the museum.

Once my daughter got the hang of it, she basically spent the next hour moving the toy boat across the pond and watching the wind power it to and fro.  If not for the fact, the owner closed up, she would have stayed for another hour.  I, on the other hand, enjoyed an ice cream cone, relaxing and people watching while sitting in one of Paris’ iconic gardens. The Jardin des Tuileries was created by Catherine de Medicis but only was open to the public after the French Revolution.

Wondering how much it cost? Only 2 Euros for thirty minutes to sail toy boats in the Jardin des Tuileries, a bargain if you ask me for participating in a truly Parisian activity.

Definitely visit the Jardin des Tuileries as it offers so many activities for kids including riding a beautiful carousel,  pony rides (in summer) and trampolines.

Disclosure: NYC Single Mom was not compensated for this post.