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Where to cool off in Paris: water play areas in parks
Monday 4 August 2025, by
On hot summer days, children and adults flock to free water play areas across Paris to cool down. These parks feature fountains, jets and mist sprayers, letting visitors splash and relax without spending a cent. Here are the best places to beat the heat in the French capital.
Water play areas in Paris
Parc Andre-Citroen
On the left bank in the 15th arrondissement, Parc Andre-Citroen offers vast lawns and a modern fountain system. Children can run through rows of jets that shoot up from granite slabs, and an inflatable hot air balloon floats overhead. The water play area is open daily and is free of charge.
Parc Martin-Luther-King
In the Batignolles district of the 17th arrondissement, Parc Martin-Luther-King combines landscaped gardens with ecological design. Its playground includes mist sprayers and shallow pools where children can splash during warm afternoons. Admission is free.
Jardin Nelson-Mandela
This garden above the Forum des Halles shopping centre features 85 water jets embedded in the pavement. The jets rise and fall unexpectedly, delighting young visitors. The area is open every day from morning until night and is free.
Place de la Republique
At the foot of the Republique statue is a large paved plaza with a play fountain. Dozens of jets shoot up from the ground, inviting passers-by to cool their feet. The fountain operates daily, usually from mid-morning to late evening.
Jardins du Trocadero
Opposite the Eiffel Tower, the Trocadero gardens boast the famous Warsaw fountains with 20 water cannons and 24 jets. In summer the lower pools transform into a playful water maze where children run between jets. The fountains operate daily and access is free.
Parc de la Villette
This cultural park in the 19th arrondissement has a water playground near the Canal de la Villette with around 30 jets. It is open to visitors in the warmer months, usually from noon to early evening. Nearby lawns and the canal provide plenty of space to relax after cooling off.