10 Best Family Things to Do in Lyon

The Parc de la Tête d’Or, or Park of the Golden Head in English, is an almost 300-acre urban park just north of the city center. Featuring boat tours on the lake, pony rides, a mini train, and a kid’s playground, the park is a true hive of attractions and activities for children.

The park is also home to a zoo in its central part. You can see animals from all around the world here, including African plains, rainforests, and more. You’ll also find snack stands and restaurants in the park to keep those little ones fueled all day long.

Located in the heart of Lyon’s Old Town, the Musée Cinéma et Miniature, or Movies & Miniature Museum in English, is a treasure trove for both cinephiles and lovers of fine detail. The museum is home to an awe-inspiring assembly of film memorabilia, boasting props and costumes from blockbusters such as Spiderman, James Bond, and Gremlins, whisking you behind the scenes of your favorite flicks. 

Beyond the silver screen, the museum mesmerizes with its astonishingly precise miniatures. These meticulous works of art, from a quaint restaurant to a beautiful abandoned theater, demonstrate the intricacy of miniature making. The museum's charm lies in its ability to transport you into different realms, from fantastical movie sets to tiny, lifelike urban scenes.

Just a 20 km journey southeast from downtown Lyon lands you in the adrenaline-filled world of Actua Karting, one of the largest go-kart complexes in Europe. With 5 well-maintained race courses, each offering a unique challenge, and 250 karts at your disposal, you're set for a day of high-octane fun. Long-established and extremely professional, Actua Karting is accredited by the French Federation of Automobile Sport.

There are 3 types of karts available for children, but the minimum height to use them is 1.3 meters. Whether you're a seasoned karting pro or a first-timer looking for a new adventure, Actua Karting offers an unforgettable experience.

Head to the center of Lyon, to the picturesque Presqu'île, to sample the delicious macarons and chocolates of Sève Saint-Antoine, one of the most famous pastry shops in the city. The multi-award-winning master chocolatier Richard Sève produces chocolate delicacies from bean to bar.

Besides chocolate and macarons, you’ll find a vast assortment of other tasty treats here. You and your children can also learn the basics of patisserie at the MUSCO Chocolate Museum, founded in Lyon by Richard Sève.

Take a break from sightseeing and enjoy a slightly more energetic experience at France Aventures Lyon Fourvière. A short stroll away from the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, the park offers a refreshing blend of nature and adrenaline, featuring 6 acrobatic treetop courses and 1 interactive orienteering course.

Each treetop course is designed to suit the ability of a specific age and features a minimum height requirement. For those seeking respite between courses, the park houses a snack bar, offering the perfect spot to rest and refuel.

Situated at Confluence’s southern tip, the Musée des Confluences is a treat for families, offering an adventure into human history, behavior, and our connection with animals through 4 permanent exhibitions. The museum offers interactive exhibits ranging from life’s origins to cosmic mysteries, encouraging a conversation between sciences to deepen our understanding of the world around us.

The museum also features 5 rotating exhibits focusing on varying aspects of science, history, and art. The futuristic steel and glass building is a must-see in itself, and its rooftop terrace offers a tranquil space with panoramic views of the confluence of the Saone and Rhone rivers and the cityscape. 

Immerse yourself in a world of fun and exploration at Wakoo Park, an outdoor amusement park 7 km southeast of Lyon city center. This park is a paradise for children, offering an array of exhilarating activities from racing on a pedal-go-kart circuit to bouncing on large castles and navigating an acrobatic treetop course.

When the heat of the day kicks in, find your oasis at 2 large on-site misters, perfect for a cooling splash, and unleash your playful spirit with a friendly water fight. To recharge after the excitement, the park houses a quaint restaurant serving a variety of snacks and refreshing beverages.

Located an hour’s drive north of downtown Lyon, the Touroparc Zoo emerges as a multifaceted wonderland. More than just a zoo, this large complex houses 2 museums and an amusement park alongside its diverse array of exotic animals. Encased in habitats resembling their natural environments, the animals provide an authentic and fascinating exploration of the wild.

Nestled within a beautifully reconstructed 1930s village, the 2 museums offer a peek into history and geology. The amusement park extends the fun with its charming carousel, mini train, and a playground complete with seasonal water slides. To refuel between adventures, indulge in a leisurely lunch at the park's restaurant or grab a quick bite from the snack stalls.

Experience the charm of Lyon's theatrical history at the Théâtre La Maison de Guignol, located in the city's enchanting Old Town. This theater is home to the beloved 19th-century character, Guignol, who brings laughter and joy to the whole family with his satirical antics that mock authority.

As the show is very visual and inspired by Commedia dell'arte, you don't have to speak French to get the gist. An added treat awaits after the show when you have the opportunity to see the puppets up close. Don't miss this chance to partake in a quintessential Lyon tradition.

Mini World Lyon is an impressive miniature museum showcasing small-scale representations of well-known urban and natural landscapes. The endearing exhibit has tiny models of the city’s most iconic landmarks, from Tête d’Or Park to Piscine du Rhône and Place Bellecour. Temporary exhibitions span fictional favorites like Minions and Star Wars.

A team of 20 workers spent over 50,000 hours constructing the displays, which feature 35,000 tiny characters and 1,000 buildings. Most families spend several hours marveling at the minute details. The affordable entry fee includes a 3D movie theater experience and a Jurassic Tour.