What to do in Paris with children when it rains? Our best indoor ideas

When clouds cover the Paris sky and rain sets in for the day, Parisian families are faced with a recurring question: how to keep children occupied indoors without giving in to screens? Whether it's a Wednesday afternoon, a rainy weekend, or during school holidays, children are full of energy, even in the rain. Fortunately, the capital is full of places designed for them, combining discovery, games, awakening, and safety. Among these places, Octopia, located in the 17th arrondissement, offers a solution particularly suited to young children and their parents.

This article offers a selection of 7 ideas for family outings in Paris when it rains, designed to meet the needs of children aged 0 to 8, while taking into account the comfort and organization of adults.

1. Explore an immersive and sensory universe at Octopia

Octopia is an indoor space entirely dedicated to the awakening, creativity and motor skills of children from birth to 8 years old. Designed as a sensory discovery trail, the place is structured into 8 fun and educational zones: motor skills space, baby corner, creative zone, interactive digital space, workshops, reading corner, shop and birthday area.

What makes Octopia unique is its holistic approach: everything is designed so children can play, learn, move, create, and express themselves, all in a safe, clean, bright, and welcoming environment. The venue also offers creative and wellness workshops throughout the week, upon reservation. Whether you have a baby or a 6-year-old, you'll find a suitable experience, whether calm or more dynamic, depending on your mood.

2. Participate in an indoor creative workshop

When the weather doesn't allow for outdoor play, crafts are a great alternative. Children love to manipulate, create, and invent. At Octopia, you can sign your child up for a painting, slime, collage, or clay workshop, depending on their age. These workshops are led by specialized instructors and allow children to develop their fine motor skills, their ability to concentrate, and their imagination. Plus, they take their creations home with them, adding to the sense of pride they share.

3. Discover musical awakening and movement

One of the best ways to channel children's energy indoors is through movement. Musical and physical activities like the Octomusic workshop or the children's yoga sessions offered by Octopia allow children to express their emotions, discover their bodies, and let off steam in a constructive way. Younger children can participate in musical awakening sessions with percussion instruments, nursery rhymes, and rhythm games, while older children love the choreographed workshops or dance battles offered in some birthday packages.

4. Read in a cozy reading corner

Sometimes, when it rains, children need to slow down and refocus. Octopia's reading corner is designed for this: soft cushions, soft rugs, illustrated books adapted to each age group, and sometimes even stories told in small groups. This type of quiet time is often appreciated by more introverted children or those at the end of their exploration journey. It also allows parents to spend a few moments together as a family, without pressure.

5. Offer a snack in a sheltered family setting

Rain can be an opportunity to share a delicious moment with the family. Octopia offers a café-snack area where parents can enjoy a hot drink while the children play, or gather after a session for a sweet snack. On birthdays, this snack is prepared and served in a dedicated room, but the rest of the time, families can enjoy the relaxation area while keeping an eye on their children.

6. Take advantage of a safe motor space

When parks are impassable, children still need to run, jump, and climb. The Octopia playground's play area is designed for this purpose: mini-climbing, foam structures, agility courses... everything is in place to allow children to move freely while remaining safe. This is particularly useful for children aged 2 to 5, who need a stimulating environment to expend their energy.

7. Organize an indoor birthday party

You were planning an outdoor birthday party and the weather disrupts your plans? Octopia offers several turnkey packages for celebrating birthdays, even (and especially) when it rains. Themed workshops, supervised entertainment, and a buffet are all organized so all you have to do is enjoy the moment with your child and their friends. And no need to worry about cleanup or logistics—everything is taken care of.

Practical information

Octopia is located in the 17th arrondissement of Paris, a stone's throw from Porte des Ternes. The venue is open Tuesday through Sunday, with two-hour slots for free play sessions and specific slots for workshops.

• Address: 5 rue Émile Allez, 75017 Paris
  

• Access: metro line 1 – Porte Maillot
  

• Opening hours: Tuesday and Thursday from 2 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Wednesday-Friday-Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  

• Prices: €27 for 1 child + 1 adult (2 hours) during the week and €29 on weekends.
  

• Online booking recommended
  
  

Internal meshing

• Read also: How to organize an unforgettable birthday for a child in Paris?
  

• Discover: Our parent-child well-being workshops
  
  

Book: Your play or workshop slot at Octopia