6 Unusual Museums in Paris for Curious Travelers

Looking for something different in Paris? I've discovered six fascinating museums that'll make your jaw drop! Check out the magical Musée De La Magie with its mind-bending mirror maze, or step into the whimsical Musée Des Arts Forains filled with vintage carnival rides. There's also a vampire museum, a hunting museum, the historic Paris sewers, and an incredible science and technology collection. These hidden gems offer experiences you won't find in any guidebook, and that's just scratching the surface.

Musée De La Magie: Paris's Hidden House of Magic

Tucked away in the historic Marais district, the Musée de la Magie (Museum of Magic) offers visitors a enthralling journey through the enchanting world of illusion and prestidigitation. This unique institution, housed in a 16th-century cellar beneath the Marquis de Sade's former residence, showcases centuries of magical history, from antique automatons to modern illusions.

The museum stands as a reflection of France's rich contribution to the art of magic, featuring an impressive collection of artifacts, optical illusions, and vintage posters from the golden age of magic shows. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, witness live magic demonstrations, and discover the secrets behind some of history's most famous illusions, making it an engaging destination for both magic enthusiasts and curious travelers seeking something beyond Paris's typical tourist attractions.

Quick Facts:

• Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• Admission: €12 adults, €9 children (5-12)
• Photography: Allowed without flash
• Duration: 1-2 hours recommended
• Languages: Guided tours in French, English handouts available
• Location: 11 rue Saint-Paul, 75004 Paris
• Accessibility: Limited due to historic cellar setting

The museum's main exhibition space features an extensive collection of magical apparatus dating from the 18th century to the present day. Highlights include rare mechanical illusions, vintage magic posters, and a remarkable assortment of antique automatons that still function. Each visit includes a live magic show in the intimate theater, where professional magicians perform classic French illusions.

The basement level houses the "Mirror Maze," a stunning collection of optical illusions that challenges visitors' perceptions. This section includes historic fun-house mirrors, holograms, and interactive installations that demonstrate the principles of optical illusion. Insider tip: Visit during weekday afternoons to have more time to experiment with the interactive exhibits without crowds.

The museum shop offers a carefully curated selection of magic tricks, books, and unique souvenirs. Notable items include reproductions of historic magic props and beginner-friendly illusion kits designed exclusively for the museum. Many items come with instruction in multiple languages.

Pro Tips:

To maximize your visit, arrive shortly before a scheduled magic show (performances typically start on the hour). The demonstrations provide context for the exhibits and enhance the overall experience. Consider combining your visit with the adjacent Musée des Automates, as a combined ticket offers significant savings. Photography enthusiasts should bring cameras capable of low-light shooting, as the atmospheric lighting can make capturing images challenging.

Practical Advice:

Book tickets online to secure preferred time slots, especially during peak tourist season (July-August). The museum's location in the Marais makes it easily combinable with visits to Place des Vosges or the Picasso Museum. The narrow stairs and historic setting make this venue challenging for visitors with mobility issues, so contact the museum in advance to discuss accessibility options.

Musée Des Arts Forains: a Vintage Wonderland of Fairground Art

Step into a magical world where the golden age of fairgrounds comes alive at the Musée Des Arts Forains, tucked away in the charming Bercy district of Paris. This enchanting museum houses an extraordinary collection of restored vintage fairground art and attractions from the 19th and early 20th centuries, allowing visitors to not only admire but also experience these historic pieces firsthand.

Unlike traditional museums where items sit behind glass, this interactive wonderland invites guests to ride century-old carousels, play historic fair games, and immerse themselves in the atmospheric world of Belle Époque entertainment. The museum's founder, Jean-Paul Favand, has spent decades collecting and restoring these magnificent pieces, creating an immersive experience that transports visitors to the magical world of vintage European fairgrounds.

Quick Facts:

• Opening Hours: Open only for guided tours, typically Wednesday to Sunday
• Price: €16.50 for adults, €8.50 for children (4-11 years)
• Tour Duration: Approximately 90 minutes
• Photography: Allowed without flash
• Location: 53 Avenue des Terroirs de France, 75012 Paris
• Reservation: Required in advance, especially during peak season
• Languages: Tours available in French and English
• Accessibility: Most areas wheelchair accessible

The Venice Room

The museum's crown jewel, this ornate space recreates a Venetian carnival atmosphere with automated music boxes, vintage gambling machines, and a spectacular carousel featuring gondolas instead of traditional horses. The ceiling's elaborate lighting creates a starry night effect, while mirrors multiply the space infinitely, creating an otherworldly experience.

The Theater of Marvels

Housing rare optical illusions and automata from the 19th century, this area showcases incredible mechanical innovations that once amazed fairground audiences. The highlight is the "Magic Bicycle," where visitors can pedal to create animated projections using original techniques from the 1850s.

The Fairground Art Room

This space features a collection of traditional carnival games that visitors can actually play, including the "German Ball," a restored gambling game from 1900. The room also houses an impressive collection of fairground organs that still perform their original melodies.

Pro Tips:

Book the first tour of the day for the most intimate experience and best photo opportunities. The museum's lighting is specifically designed to create a magical atmosphere, but it can be challenging for photography. Consider bringing a camera that performs well in low light conditions. For the most enhanced experience, visit during December when the museum adds special holiday decorations and programming to their regular exhibits.

Practical Advice:

The museum is located in the Bercy Village area, which can be reached via Metro line 14 (Cour Saint-Émilion stop). Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time, as tours start promptly. While the museum is fascinating for all ages, children under 4 might find some of the mechanical sounds overwhelming. Consider bringing a light jacket as some rooms are kept cool to preserve the antique pieces. Most importantly, wear comfortable shoes as the tour involves considerable standing and walking on various surfaces.

Le Musée Des Vampires Et Monstres De L'imaginaire

Tucked away in the eastern suburbs of Paris, Le Musée Des Vampires Et Monstres De L'imaginaire stands as Europe's only museum dedicated to vampires and imaginative monsters. This peculiar institution, founded by historian and vampire expert Jacques Sirgent, houses an extensive collection of artifacts, books, and memorabilia related to vampire mythology and folklore from around the world.

The museum offers visitors a fascinating journey through centuries of vampire lore, from ancient cultural beliefs to modern pop culture interpretations. Within its atmospheric rooms, guests encounter everything from authentic 19th-century vampire-killing kits to rare editions of Bram Stoker's "Dracula," making it an essential destination for those interested in the macabre and supernatural aspects of human imagination.

Quick Facts:

• Opening Hours: By appointment only, typically Thursday through Sunday
• Cost: €13 per person
• Location: Les Lilas, eastern Paris (exact address provided upon booking)
• Duration: Tours last approximately 90 minutes
• Photography: Limited photography allowed, no flash
• Language: Tours available in French and English
• Age Restriction: Not recommended for children under 12
• Accessibility: Small space with stairs, limited wheelchair access

The Museum Experience:

Housed in a private residence, the museum's collection spans multiple rooms filled with over 1,000 artifacts. Highlights include antique vampire-hunting equipment, religious artifacts used in vampire folklore, original artwork, and an impressive library of vampire-related literature. The museum's creator, Jacques Sirgent, often conducts tours personally, sharing his extensive knowledge and passionate insights into vampire mythology.

Insider tip: Request an evening tour for the most atmospheric experience, as the museum takes on an entirely different character after dark.

Pro Tips:

The museum's appointment-only policy means visitors must book well in advance, typically at least two weeks. For the most immersive experience, try to schedule a visit during one of the museum's special events, which often include themed presentations and occasional film screenings. Consider combining your visit with exploration of the nearby Père Lachaise Cemetery to create a full day of gothic-themed sightseeing.

Practical Advice:

Due to the museum's location in a residential area and its appointment-only nature, detailed directions will be provided upon booking. It's recommended to arrive 10 minutes early and bring cash, as card payments aren't always accepted. The intimate setting means groups are limited to 12 people maximum, so coordinating with larger groups requires special arrangements. For international visitors, requesting an English-speaking tour during booking is essential, as not all guides are bilingual.

Musée De La Chasse Et De La Nature: Where Art Meets Wildlife

Nestled in the historic Marais district, the Museum of Hunting and Nature (Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature) offers an unexpected blend of classical taxidermy, contemporary art installations, and centuries-old hunting artifacts. This unique institution challenges traditional museum concepts by creating thought-provoking dialogues between nature, art, and human culture within a stunning 17th-century mansion.

Unlike conventional natural history museums, visitors journey through elaborately decorated rooms that seamlessly merge historical hunting traditions with modern artistic interpretations. From ornate antique firearms displayed alongside contemporary sculptures to immersive wildlife dioramas complemented by avant-garde installations, the museum creates an atmosphere that both educates and sparks imagination.

Quick Facts:

• Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed Mondays and holidays)
• Admission: €12 for adults, free for under 18
• Photography: Allowed without flash
• Best visiting time: Weekday mornings
• Location: 62 Rue des Archives, 75003 Paris
• Average visit duration: 1.5-2 hours
• Accessibility: Elevator available
• Audio guides: Available in multiple languages

The Cabinet of the Dog room showcases an impressive collection of canine-related art and artifacts, featuring everything from medieval hunting hounds to modern interpretations of human-canine relationships. The room's ceiling-high displays and interactive elements make it a highlight for both art enthusiasts and animal lovers.

The Trophy Room presents a striking juxtaposition of traditional hunting trophies and contemporary art installations, encouraging visitors to contemplate humanity's complex relationship with wildlife. The room's dramatic lighting and careful curation create an almost theatrical experience.

The Weapons Gallery houses an extensive collection of ornate hunting weapons from various historical periods, displayed alongside contemporary artworks that comment on themes of power and preservation. The gallery's innovative presentation transforms potentially controversial objects into thought-provoking cultural artifacts.

Pro Tips:

The museum's unique lighting conditions create exceptional photography opportunities, particularly during late afternoon when natural light streams through the historic windows. Visit on Wednesday afternoons when local art students often sketch in the galleries, adding to the creative atmosphere. Consider timing your visit to coincide with the museum's rotating contemporary art exhibitions, which frequently feature internationally renowned artists.

Practical Advice:

Purchase tickets online to avoid queues, and consider combining your visit with exploration of the surrounding Marais district's artisanal shops and cafes. The museum's gift shop offers unique items that blend natural history with contemporary design, making it an excellent source for distinctive Parisian souvenirs. The building's historical architecture can make navigation challenging, so pick up a floor plan at the entrance and plan your route through the themed rooms accordingly.

Musée Des Égouts De Paris: Journey Through the Historic Sewers

Beneath the glamorous streets of Paris lies an unexpected attraction that tells the fascinating story of the city's innovative underground infrastructure. The Paris Sewer Museum (Musée des Égouts de Paris) offers visitors a unique glimpse into the engineering marvel that has kept the City of Light clean and functional since the 1850s, showcasing both historical significance and modern urban planning.

This extraordinary museum takes visitors through actual functioning sewers, revealing how Baron Haussmann's revolutionary underground network transformed Paris from a disease-ridden medieval city into a modern metropolis. The immersive experience combines educational exhibits about urban development, environmental conservation, and public health with an adventurous journey through the city's carefully maintained subterranean passages.

Quick Facts:

• Opening Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM (closed Thursdays and Fridays)
• Admission: €9 for adults, €4.50 for children (5-16)
• Location: Pont de l'Alma, 93 Quai d'Orsay, 75007 Paris
• Tour Duration: Approximately 1 hour
• Photography: Allowed without flash
• Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users
• Temperature: Cool year-round (12-15°C)

The Historic Tunnels

The main gallery showcases the evolution of Paris's sewer system from Roman times to the present day. Visitors walk along elevated walkways above actual sewer channels, examining the innovative design of Engineer Eugène Belgrand. The gallery features original equipment, tools, and maintenance vehicles used throughout different periods.

Insider Tip: Visit during winter months when the smell is less noticeable and crowds are thinner.

The Modern Operations Room

A fascinating display demonstrates how today's sophisticated system manages wastewater for over 2.2 million Parisians. Interactive screens show real-time monitoring of water flow and treatment processes. This section provides insight into contemporary environmental challenges and solutions.

Insider Tip: Ask guides about the "boat-cleaner" system – a unique Parisian invention that keeps main collectors clear.

Pro Tips:

The best experience comes from visiting during non-peak hours, typically before 11 AM or after 3 PM. Consider wearing closed-toe shoes and bringing a light jacket, as the tunnels maintain a cool temperature year-round. The most interesting photographs can be captured where historical equipment meets modern technology, particularly in the main gallery's intersection.

Practical Advice:

While the smell is less intense than expected thanks to modern ventilation, sensitive visitors might want to bring a handkerchief. The museum provides excellent English-language audio guides, but booking in advance through their website is recommended, especially during peak tourist season (July-August). Those with mobility issues should note that the tour involves stairs and narrow walkways.

Le Musée Des Arts Et Métiers: Temple of Ancient Innovation

Nestled in the heart of Paris's 3rd arrondissement, Le Musée Des Arts Et Métiers stands as a monument to human ingenuity and technological advancement. Housed in the former Priory of Saint-Martin-des-Champs, this remarkable museum showcases an extensive collection of scientific instruments, inventions, and industrial design spanning over 250 years of innovation.

The museum's collection of over 80,000 objects, 2,500 of which are on permanent display, tells the story of scientific and technological progress through seven major collections: Scientific Instruments, Materials, Construction, Communication, Energy, Mechanics, and Transport. Each section offers visitors a unique glimpse into the evolution of human innovation, from early measuring devices to modern computers.

Quick Facts:

• Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (closed Mondays)
• Admission: €8 for adults, free for EU residents under 26
• Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings to avoid crowds
• Photography: Allowed without flash
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
• Audio Guides: Available in multiple languages
• Metro Station: Arts et Métiers (Lines 3 and 11)

Notable Highlights:

The Foucault Pendulum

Located in the former church, this replica of Léon Foucault's original 1851 experiment demonstrates the Earth's rotation. The pendulum swings continuously, marking time while drawing patterns in the sand below. The dramatic setting in the deconsecrated church adds an ethereal atmosphere to this scientific demonstration.

The Statue of Liberty Model

A lesser-known treasure is the original model used by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi to create the Statue of Liberty. This copper model, standing at 2.86 meters tall, offers an intimate look at the iconic statue's early development stages.

Aviation Collection

The museum houses an impressive collection of early aircraft and aviation instruments, including Clément Ader's bat-like flying machine, the Avion III, suspended dramatically from the ceiling of the former church.

Pro Tips:

The museum offers free admission on the first Sunday of each month, but this can mean larger crowds. For the best experience, visit during weekday afternoons when school groups have departed. The church section of the museum is particularly photogenic during late afternoon when sunlight streams through the stained glass windows, creating dramatic lighting effects on the exhibits.

Practical Advice:

Consider purchasing the Paris Museum Pass if planning to visit multiple museums, as it includes entry to Le Musée Des Arts Et Métiers. The museum's gift shop offers unique scientific toys and books that make excellent souvenirs. Plan at least 2-3 hours for a thorough visit, and don't miss the spectacular Arts et Métiers metro station, designed in a steampunk style with copper walls and mechanical elements that complement the museum's theme.