Les Invalides with Kids: Best Exhibits & Tips for Families

Parents often hesitate to bring kids to a "war museum," fearing it will be dry or too graphic. However, the Musée de l'Armée is surprisingly kid-friendly if you stick to the right sections.

Top Hits for Children

1. The Ancient Armor (Aile d'Occident): This is the #1 spot. Kids love the horse armor, the huge swords, and the tiny armor made for child-princes. It sparks the imagination immediately.
2. The Cannons: The main courtyard is spacious. Kids can walk around the massive green cannons (just don't let them climb on them!).
3. The Scale Models (Plans-Reliefs): The miniature cities fascinating for children who like Lego or model trains.

Digital Games

The museum has modernized significantly.

• Multimedia Guides: The audio guide for under-12s uses storytelling and characters to make the history accessible.
• Interactive Screens: In the Charles de Gaulle Historial and World War sections, there are touch screens and videos that engage digital-native kids.

Practical Tips

• Strollers: Most of the museum is accessible via elevators, but the cobblestones in the courtyard can be bumpy.
• Breaks: There isn't much running space inside. Take a break in the grassy areas of the Esplanade des Invalides right outside the front gate to burn off energy.
• Food: The cafeteria (Le Carré des Invalides) has kid-friendly options, but a picnic on the lawns outside is often more fun in summer.