Opened in 1996 in the former Lheureux wine warehouses, the Museum of Fairground Arts occupies picturesque pavilions facing Parc de Bercy. Founded by Jean Paul Favand – actor, collector, and heritage theatre director – this one‑of‑a‑kind attraction brings Belle Époque funfair to life with a living collection of rides, automata, curiosities, and immersive sets.

Pavillons de Bercy operates 90‑minute guided theatrical tours, available only by reservation: Wednesdays, weekends, holidays, and during school vacations. Actor-guides animate the spaces, operate the mechanical attractions, and offer English handouts for non-French speakers.

You'll explore three themed areas:

The Fairground Art Museum, a massive 1,800 m² hall set as a vintage fair, featuring bicycle rides (a 1897 velocipede carousel reaching 60 km/h), wooden horses, and interactive stalls.

The Theatre of Marvels, a cabinet of curiosities blending mechanical scenery with immersive video projections powered by 12 projectors.

The Venetian Lounges, a baroque Venetian palace set complete with automata, gondolas, and a mini-show.

The atmosphere is magical and dreamlike, with visitors – both children and adults – actively participating in the experience by riding attractions and engaging with the scenography. The museum is family-friendly, theatre lovers and history buffs alike. It also integrates sustainability initiatives, is ISO 20121 certified, and has been recognized as a Living Heritage Company for its preservation efforts .

Practically speaking: visits are reservation-only. Fully wheelchair accessible (single-level, accessible restrooms). Located near metro line 14 (Cour Saint‑Émilion), bus lines 24/109/111, and nearby Indigo and Interparking facilities. Be punctual – tours start on time.

A few fun facts: a “giant’s leg” found on-site, installed with a dwarf under an antique shoemaker’s sign, illustrates Favand’s whimsical creativity. During the Christmas season, the Festival of Marvels opens the site without guides, offering free-flowing shows and performances.

Though frequently used for private events—from weddings to corporate galas accommodating 40 to 4,000 people depending on the space—the core experience for individuals remains the guided immersive visit.