Children are bursting with energy and have a curiosity we can only envy. Whatever their personality (artistic, adventurous, scientific…), there’s plenty to do in Lyon and the surrounding area. Here are a few ideas for activities to do with your children, nieces, godchildren, or grandchildren… in short, there’s something for everyone!
Immerse yourself in the heart of Disney magic to the glow of thousands of candles. For a cultural outing that appeals to young and old alike, this Candlelight Concert revisits Disney’s most beautiful songs, performed in the candlelit setting of the Palais de la Bourse in Lyon. The next performance is on Saturday, October 10, at 7:00 p.m. for a nostalgic, family-friendly evening.
Soar to new heights with your family
It’s impossible to miss the climbing craze that’s been sweeping the city for the past decade or so. In Lyon, the mountains are never too far away, but there’s no denying it: indoor climbing gyms are popping up everywhere. The good news is that climbing is for all ages. Several climbing gyms offer introductory workshops as well as classes for families to climb safely together. Trust us, nothing beats a good climbing session to calm down even the most hyperactive kid!
Science Expériences is ready and waiting to help you unravel the mysteries of the universe and test the laws of physics in all their forms, through more than 850 m² of immersive and fun experiments. This multi-science museum has already captivated more than 300,000 visitors of all ages. Here, you can let off steam, experiment, learn, and above all… have fun again and again. In short, it’s the must-do family activity in Lyon!
Take advantage of the nice weather for a family getaway
Whether you head toward the Alps, the Beaujolais region, or along the Rhône, our region is brimming with small villages and towns to discover: Chanaz, Malleval, Cluny, Saint-Antoine-l’Abbaye, Pérouges… There are almost as many villages to visit as there are bouchons in Lyon. And with kids, it’s even more magical. Our latest favorite? The village of Polignac!
Looking for a nature getaway to enjoy with kids, easily accessible by car from Lyon? Head to the Mont du Chat lookout point: it offers a 360° panoramic view of Lake Bourget, the Mont Blanc range, and the entire surrounding Alpine massif. While you’re there, you can also go hiking (including the Dent du Chat), watch paragliders take off, try a tree-top adventure course, and plan a gourmet stop.
At nearly 120,000 years old, it’s the oldest known resident of Lyon to date! The Choulans Mammoth has an incredible story that’s waiting to be rediscovered at the Musée des Confluences. It’s one of our favorite activities to do with kids in Lyon.
And with both feet on the ground! Set out to discover fish from all over the world through the impressive aquariums, and learn about this underwater world that we rarely get the chance to encounter. Don’t miss the yellow-fronted angelfish, the humphead grouper, and the porcupinefish. And for the more adventurous—and for a breathtaking spectacle—head to the shark tank for a glimpse of some of the most impressive species.
Relive the magic of Guignol
It’s been a Lyon institution since 1966. Guignol is an integral part of French popular culture and our heritage. Why not come rediscover it in 2026? Located in the heart of Old Lyon, the theater is a little gem in its own right. In fact, housed in the vaulted cellar of the Palais Bondy, the 260 puppets come to life in this setting with passion and fun. This year’s program promises to be rich and original. Enjoy it with the whole family and take a trip down memory lane (it feels good, too) to the memories of our childhood…
Step into the Cinema & Miniature Museum, a place unlike any other in the world where the magic of cinema comes to life! Across more than 2,000 m², discover over 10, 000 original artifacts: miniature sets, costumes, and plenty of treasures straight from your favorite movies. The museum is housed in a 15th-century building, a UNESCO World Heritage Site! Get ready to run into Harry Potter, Indiana Jones, Spider-Man, and Batman, and to experience a fun, surprising, and magical adventure at every turn of the exhibition.
Visit the magical world of “Mini World”
Located in Vaulx-en-Velin, Mini World is the largest miniature park in France! Children can explore detailed scenes of everyday life full of surprises. A fascinating miniature world for young and old alike to explore. New this year: come discover the fantastic landscapes and beaches of the French Riviera to help us beat the unbearable heat this summer!
In the mood for a fun stroll? Set out to explore the city streets on this treasure hunt that will guide you to Lyon’s most beautiful trompe-l’œil paintings! Is it a painting or a real person? How many windows on this building’s facade are real? These are just some of the questions that will cross your mind during this walk that will make you question reality…You’ll also get to enjoy murals paying tribute to Lyon’s most famous figures.
Relax in one of Lyon’s parks
A day at the park remains a must-do activity with kids. And we’ll admit it—the Parc de la Tête d’Or is hard to beat, and it’s a great place to spend a day with the family, taking a stroll before enjoying a delicious homemade picnic. And if they’ve been on their best behavior, you can even treat your kids to a waffle or a crêpe at one of the stands. But it’s not the only park in the City of Lights where you can have a great time, so for a change of scenery, explore them one by one!
We all have a memory tied to a movie theater. Whether it’s a film that left a lasting impression or a Smurf candy we chewed on during the trailers, going to the movies remains a timeless pleasure. And even more so when you can do it at the best price! By buying your tickets online, you’ll enjoy a significant discount at Pathé or CGR theaters. It’s enough to make you want to go to the movies more often and give the seventh art the recognition it deserves!
Explore the streets of Lyon and its many delights
One of the reasons we love strolling through Lyon and its iconic neighborhoods so much is as much for its picturesque streets as for the pleasure of savoring one of its many local specialties! With kids, it’s often the simplest pleasures that make the biggest impression. What could be better than a delicious Praluline or some tasty bugnes, to be enjoyed while strolling through the Croix-Rousse or along the riverbanks? Perfect for this time of year!
