Acclimatization Garden

The Garden of Acclimatation in Paris is one of the most charming and historically significant parks in the French capital. Located in the prestigious XVI arrondissement, near the Bois de Boulogne, this 19-hectare park offers an extraordinary combination of nature, fun, and culture, making it a must-visit destination for Parisians and tourists of all ages. Founded in 1860 by the will of Napoleon III and Empress Eugenia, the Garden of Acclimatation was created with the intention of studying and acclimating exotic plants and animals. Initially, the park housed a variety of animal species from different parts of the world, serving as a true zoo. The garden’s design was entrusted to engineer Jean-Charles Adolphe Alphand, who collaborated with landscape architect Jean-Pierre Barillet-Deschamps and architect Gabriel Davioud, creating an environment that blended elements of a natural park and a scientific garden. Over the decades, the Garden of Acclimatation has undergone various transformations, adapting to the needs and tastes of different eras. In the 1930s, the park began to focus more on entertainment and leisure, while still maintaining its educational vocation. Attractions such as a puppet theater, pony rides for children, and various rides were introduced, making the garden a beloved place for families. One of the most distinctive elements of the Garden of Acclimatation is its train, introduced in 1878 for the Universal Exhibition in Paris. This steam train, now replaced by an electric version, is an iconic attraction that allows visitors to explore the park in a pleasant and picturesque way. The train route offers enchanting views of the different landscapes of the garden, including lakes, meadows, and groves. The Garden of Acclimatation also hosts numerous historical and modern attractions, including a science museum for children, the Musee Enfantin, which offers interactive exhibitions and educational workshops on various scientific and naturalistic themes. There are also play areas with slides, swings, and adventure trails, making the park a true paradise for children. In 2018, the Garden of Acclimatation underwent a major restoration that renewed many of its structures, improving accessibility and enriching the range of activities and shows. This intervention further enhanced the park’s historical heritage, while maintaining a contemporary and innovative vision. The garden now offers a perfect mix of tradition and modernity, with historical attractions alongside new installations and well-maintained green spaces. A particularly interesting area of the Garden of Acclimatation is the Korean village, a corner dedicated to the culture and architecture of South Korea. Inaugurated in 2002, this space features pavilions in traditional Korean style, zen gardens, and a small pond with wooden bridges. The Korean village is an example of the park’s international and multicultural character, which over the years has hosted events and exhibitions dedicated to various cultures of the world. The park also offers a wide range of sports and recreational activities, including mini-golf, archery, and climbing courses. Additionally, the Garden of Acclimatation is known for its shows and festivals that animate the park throughout the year. Among the most anticipated events are the Festival of Lights, which illuminates the garden with artistic light installations, and the Paris Carnival, a colorful and joyful celebration that involves both adults and children. A curious anecdote related to the Garden of Acclimatation concerns the famous illusionist Houdini, who in the early 20th century chose this park for one of his most spectacular performances. Houdini locked himself in a wooden crate, which was then thrown into the garden’s pond. He managed to free himself to the amazed eyes of the audience, solidifying his reputation as a great escapologist. The Garden of Acclimatation is also a place of great botanical interest, with a vast collection of exotic and native plants. Its themed gardens, including the medicinal plant garden and the rose garden, offer visitors the opportunity to discover a variety of plant species and learn about their history and uses. The tree-lined avenues and flower-filled meadows of the park invite relaxation and contemplation, providing an oasis of peace in the heart of the bustling city of Paris.