Photo of Cite des sciences in ParisChildren have entertained themselves with their own shadows forever. Of course they’re fun, but light and shadows play important roles in child self discovery as well. Located in the relaxed 19th arrondissement, the Cite des Sciences et de l’Industrie, is a wonderful, hands-on museum for children, embraces the role of light and shadows in child development with an exhibit titled Shadow and Light. New York Habitat as several apartments in and around the museum’s neighborhood.

The Cite des Sciences et de l’Industrie museum takes science out of the classroom and exposes children to a hands-on experience second to none. The museum is outfitted with a planetarium, children’s media library, aquarium, and interactive cinema among others. The new exhibition Shadow and Light is part of the museums year-long interactive exhibition program. Shadow and Light is unique in its use of a theatrical representation to explain the properties of light and shadow. Upon entering, children are entered into the fictional world of Archibald Ombre, a “teacher, dreamer, poet and collector of shadows,” as the museum’s website explains. The exhibit encourages children to roam about Archibald’s home in search of his shadowy collection and ultimately their own omnipresent twin.

Located adjacent to the Parc de la Villette near Paris’ northern border, the museum is a short distance from dozens of New York Habitat apartment rentals in the 19th arrondissement.

One family accommodation choice might be this flashy 2-bedroom apartment in Gare de Nord (PA-3792). For larger families there is this bookish, yet kid-friendly 3-bedroom in Cite des Sciences – Buttes Chaumont – Canal St. Martin (PA-3543).

Often seen as a romantic city perfect for canoodling couples, Paris is also a great destination for jet-setting families. The Cite des Sciences et de l’Industrie museum is a big part of why this city has become so family friendly.

Other neighborhoods to consider:

Off of Paris’ beaten path in Bercy

Why else do you think that Paris is not just for lovers? Please comment below.