Created in 1867 as a green extension of the Jardin du Luxembourg, the Garden of the Great Explorers honors two iconic figures: Marco Polo and René‑Robert Cavelier de La Salle. Covering approximately 2 hectares along Avenue de l’Observatoire, it offers a more intimate atmosphere, often dubbed the "petit Luco" by locals.

Its crowning jewel is the Fountain of the Four Parts of the World, crafted between 1875 and 1877 by Gabriel Davioud, Jean‑Baptiste Carpeaux, and Emmanuel Frémiet. This monumental bronze features a globe supported by four female figures representing continents, surrounded by horses, dolphins, turtles, and zodiac signs engravings. Listed as a historical monument since 1926, it brings lasting charm to the serene setting.

Throughout the park, four white marble sculptures symbolize phases of the day: Night (Charles Gumery), Twilight (Gustave Crauck), Day (Jean-Joseph Perraud), and Dawn (François Jouffroy). They punctuate the main chestnut‑tree avenue, framing the perspective toward the Luxembourg garden .

Family‑friendly, the space includes playgrounds, ping‑pong tables, a foosball table, a dog area, and water fountains. Leashed dogs are welcome. Wheelchair accessible, the garden also holds the Ecojardin label, promoting sustainable management.

Another hidden gem lies behind the pharmacy faculty: a botanical garden established in 1884, housing over 400 medicinal and scientific plant species, open for free. This historic botanical richness completes the blend of art, science, and nature.

As a "celestial refuge," the garden hosts “Paris under the stars” each summer, featuring evening sky‑watching sessions led by the French Astronomy Association. Visitors can observe stars, planets, and constellations through telescopes, creating a poetic and educational experience.

The audience is diverse: families, students, history lovers, nature enthusiasts, and astronomy fans all find here a peaceful and enriching retreat off the beaten path. The atmosphere is studious in the morning, playful by day, and contemplative at dusk.

Fun anecdotes: students nicknamed it "Michelet Park" or "Pharma Park" due to its relaxed vibe and proximity to the faculty. Another quirky fact: some locals considered it less supervised than the Luxembourg garden, making it their secret hangout.