As a resident of Paris, Tennessee for over 15 years, you’ve likely explored many of the hidden gems and popular attractions that make this city special. However, with so much to experience, it can be easy to miss some of the best things to do in Paris TN.

This insider’s guide covers 26 of the must-see things to do in Paris TN to ensure you make the most of living in or visiting this charming Southern city. From stunning parks and museums to delicious food and outdoor recreation, Paris has something for everyone. Even if you’ve lived here your whole life, you’re sure to find new things to do in Paris TN on this list. Get ready to discover (or rediscover) what makes Paris so unforgettable.

26 Things to Do in Paris TN: An Insider’s Guide to the Best of the City

Things to Do in Paris TN: Visit the Eiffel Tower

As one of the top Things To Do in Paris TN, a visit to the iconic Eiffel Tower should be at the top of your list. Completed in 1889, the Eiffel Tower was built as the entrance arch for the 1889 World’s Fair. It has since become a global cultural icon of France and one of the most recognizable structures in the world.

Standing at 324 meters (1,063 feet) tall, the Eiffel Tower dominates the Parisian skyline. From the three levels of the tower, you’ll get panoramic views of the city in all directions. On a clear day, you can see up to 60 km (37 miles) away. The tower is open every day of the year, so you can visit whenever is most convenient for your trip.

To visit this world wonder, you have a few options. You can take the stairs up to the first and second levels, but for most visitors, the elevators are a more practical choice. The elevators take you directly to the second level at 115 meters (377 feet) high. From there, another elevator takes you to the top level at 275 meters (902 feet). For the best experience, visit the tower just before dusk so you can enjoy the views in daylight, at sunset, and after dark when the tower is illuminated.

A trip to the top of the Eiffel Tower is one of the most popular Things To Do in Paris TN, so be prepared for crowds, especially in the summer and on weekends. It’s best to book your tickets in advance through the official Eiffel Tower website. An ascent to the top level offers unparalleled 360° views that you will surely never forget. No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to this architectural and cultural wonder.

Things to Do in Paris TN: Stroll Along the Champs-Élysées

One of the most iconic Things To Do in Paris TN is strolling along the Champs-Élysées, especially at night when the boulevard is aglow. This grand 1.9-mile avenue lined with chestnut trees is a spectacle to behold. Walk from the Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe and experience the opulence of Paris.

Shopping Along the Champs-Élysées

The Champs-Élysées is also a premier shopping destination, with flagship stores of famous French brands like Louis Vuitton, Cartier, and Chanel. Even if you don’t buy anything, window shopping the high fashion boutiques is entertaining. For a shopping break, stop by one of the many charming cafés for coffee or hot chocolate.

Arc de Triomphe

At the western end of the Champs-Élysées stands the magnificent Arc de Triomphe, a monument commissioned by Napoleon in 1806 to commemorate those who fought and died for France in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Climb the 284 steps to the top of the arch and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views down the boulevard. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Eternal Flame also flank the arch.

A stroll down the Champs-Élysées, especially when lit up at night, is a quintessential Parisian experience with shopping, dining, monuments and more. No trip to the City of Light is complete without a promenade along this world-famous boulevard. Add it to your list of must-do Things To Do in Paris TN for your next visit.

Things to Do in Paris TN: Visit the Louvre Museum

The Louvre Museum is one of the world’s largest museums and a historic monument in Paris, France. Housing over 380,000 objects and 70,000 works of art, the Louvre contains some of the most famous pieces of art in the world, including the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo.

Explore the Louvre’s many collections

The Louvre has a vast collection of art and artifacts, including Egyptian, Etruscan, Greek, Coptic, and Roman antiquities; Islamic art; sculpture; decorative arts; and paintings. Some of the highlights include:

• The Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci. No trip to the Louvre is complete without seeing this enigmatic masterpiece.
• Venus de Milo, a famous Greek sculpture of the goddess Aphrodite.
• Winged Victory of Samothrace, a Hellenistic marble sculpture of Nike, the Greek goddess of victory.
• The Raft of the Medusa by Théodore Géricault, a major work of French Romantic painting.

Take a guided tour

With over 70,000 works of art on display, the Louvre can be overwhelming. Taking a guided tour is a great way to navigate the vast collections and learn about the highlights. The Louvre offers daily guided tours in multiple languages, as well as private tours.

Visit the Louvre at night

The Louvre is open late on Wednesdays and Fridays, until 9:45 pm. Visiting in the evening is a magical experience, as you can see the art illuminated and wander the halls without the usual crowds. The atmospheric evening also offers a perfect opportunity to dine at one of the Louvre’s restaurants or cafes.

Tips for visiting the Louvre

• Buy tickets in advance to avoid long queues. You can purchase tickets on the Louvre website and many Paris tourist passes include Louvre admission.
• Be prepared for large crowds, especially around the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo. Go early and head to these must-sees first.
• The Louvre is open every day except Tuesday, from 9 am to 6 pm. It is closed on some public holidays.
• Photography is allowed but no flash. Selfie sticks are not permitted.

Visiting the Louvre museum is undoubtedly one of the top Things To Do in Paris TN. No trip to Paris is complete without exploring this world-renowned museum and gazing upon some of humanity’s greatest artistic achievements. Spending a day getting lost in the vast collections of the Louvre should be on every visitor’s itinerary.

Things to Do in Paris TN: Take a Cruise on the River Seine

One of the top Things To Do in Paris TN is to take a cruise along the River Seine. As the lifeline of Paris, the River Seine has been an integral part of the city’s history and culture for centuries. A river cruise offers a unique perspective of the city’s landmarks and architecture.

\n\n###Bateaux Mouches Cruises

The Bateaux Mouches cruises are a popular way to sightsee while sailing the River Seine. They offer open-top, glass-covered, and private luxury boat tours along the river. The cruises depart from the Pont de l’Alma and last around an hour. You’ll float by attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Musée d’Orsay, Louvre, and Notre Dame Cathedral. Tickets can be purchased on their website or in person before the cruise.

\n\n###Vedettes du Pont Neuf

Another highly-rated river cruise is with Vedettes du Pont Neuf. They provide live guided commentaries in multiple languages as you pass by landmarks. The cruises depart from Pont Neuf, the oldest bridge in Paris, and lasts around an hour. You can choose from open top, covered, heated, and evening dinner cruises. Booking in advance on their website is recommended, especially for the evening cruises.

\n\n###Private River Seine Cruises

For a more intimate experience, book a private River Seine cruise. Companies like Paris Canal offer luxury yacht rentals for private cruises on the river. Their fleet includes motor yachts, sailboats and electric boats that can accommodate 2 to 12 passengers. A 2-hour private cruise along the River Seine is a perfect romantic Things To Do in Paris TN for couples or a unique way to see the city’s highlights with a small group.

A river cruise in Paris offers a perfect combination of relaxation and world-class sightseeing. As a top Things To Do in Paris TN, it provides an unforgettable way to experience the magic of the River Seine and soak in the beauty of Paris. Whether you choose a large tour boat or private rental, a river cruise should not be missed.

Things to Do in Paris TN: Visit Notre Dame Cathedral

Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the most famous churches in Paris, TN. Constructed in the French Gothic architectural style, Notre Dame Cathedral is considered a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.

History

Notre Dame Cathedral was built between 1163 and 1245. The cathedral was damaged and looted during the French Revolution but then went through several restorations in the 19th century. Tragically, the cathedral suffered a devastating fire in April 2019 that caused the collapse of the cathedral’s spire and considerable damage to its roof and windows. Restoration efforts are underway to restore the cathedral to its former glory.

Architecture

Notre Dame Cathedral features many of the hallmarks of Gothic architecture, including flying buttresses, rib vaults, large windows, and sculpted decorations. Two 69-meter towers grace the cathedral’s west façade. The cathedral’s roof and spire were constructed with wood and lead. Prior to the 2019 fire, they were some of the oldest examples of medieval wood and lead roofing in Paris.

Things to See

There is much to admire inside Notre Dame Cathedral. The cathedral houses many beautiful works of art, including its famous gargoyles and chimeras adorning the exterior. Other highlights include:

• The three rose windows, particularly the North Rose Window which dates to the 13th century.
• The masterpiece of Gothic art: the Virgin and Child sculpture.
• The Great Organ, one of the finest in France with nearly 8,000 pipes.
• The archeological crypt which contains remnants of previous religious buildings on the site.

Even with the damage from the 2019 fire, Notre Dame Cathedral remains an architectural and artistic wonder. A visit to this magnificent cathedral is a must for understanding the history and beauty of Paris. The restoration efforts will ensure that future generations can continue to experience its grandeur.

Things to Do in Paris TN: Explore the Latin Quarter

The Latin Quarter is one of the most charming areas of Paris, TN, filled with bookshops, cafes, and historical landmarks. This eclectic neighborhood on the Left Bank of the Seine river gets its name from the Latin students who studied at the Sorbonne in the Middle Ages. Today, it remains the intellectual and cultural center of the city.

Explore the Sorbonne and University of Paris

The historic University of Paris, also known as the Sorbonne, was established in 1257 and is one of the first universities in the world. Take a guided tour to discover the architecture and history of this prestigious institution. The Sorbonne chapel and library are particularly impressive.

Stroll through the Luxembourg Gardens

The Luxembourg Gardens is a perfect place to enjoy a sunny day. Go for a walk, sit by the fountain, rent a toy sailboat to float in the pond, or just find a chair and people watch. The gardens feature beautiful lawns, flowerbeds, and tree-lined promenades.

Visit the Pantheon

The Pantheon is a striking example of neoclassical architecture and the final resting place of famous French figures like Voltaire, Rousseau, and Marie Curie. Climb to the dome at the top for panoramic views of Paris. The crypts below contain the tombs of the luminaries interred here.

Explore the Bookshops

The Latin Quarter is a paradise for book lovers, with dozens of bookshops lining the streets. Browse the shelves at Gibert Jeune and Abbey Bookshop, which feature used and new books. Or check out La Hune, a historic bookstore open since the 1950s that specializes in art and humanities. Spending an afternoon perusing the bookshops is one of the great pleasures of the Latin Quarter.

Dine at a Sidewalk Cafe

There’s no experience more quintessentially Parisian than dining at a sidewalk cafe. In nice weather, the Latin Quarter cafes set up outdoor seating so you can enjoy a coffee, glass of wine, or meal while people watching. It’s a perfect way to soak in the ambiance of this lively neighborhood. Some highly-rated cafes include Les Deux Magots, Cafe de Flore, and Cafe Panis.

The Latin Quarter’s scholarly and artistic roots create an inspiring atmosphere that stimulates the senses. With so much history, culture, and natural beauty in one place, exploring the Latin Quarter should be at the top of your list of things to do in Paris TN.

Things to Do in Paris TN: Visit the Palace of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles is one of the most opulent royal chateaus in the world and a top Things To Do in Paris TN. Built in the 17th century, the palace was the center of political power in France for over a century. Spanning over 63,000 square feet with over 2,000 rooms, the Palace of Versailles offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of French royalty.

The Palace

The Palace of Versailles itself is a spectacular sight. Walk through the gilded gates to view the sprawling gardens and golden palace facade. The interior is even more grand, filled with art, antiques, and handcrafted details in every room. Some of the highlights include:

• The Hall of Mirrors, a grand ballroom spanning 240 feet with 17 mirror-clad arches and gilded detailing.
• The Royal Opera, an impressive auditorium that held grand operas and ballets.
• The King’s and Queen’s Apartments, the private chambers of Louis XIV and Marie Antoinette, decorated in the height of 17th-century luxury.

The Gardens

The Palace of Versailles’ elaborate gardens, also known as the Gardens of Versailles, are a major attraction and considered a masterpiece of garden design. Spanning over 1,000 acres, the symmetrical gardens are adorned with flowerbeds, paths, pools, fountains and sculptures. The gardens took 40 years and 35,000 workers to complete, a testament to the extravagance of King Louis XIV’s reign. The gardens are open daily for walking and exploration.

Day Trips and Tours

The Palace of Versailles is an easy day trip from central Paris. It is located just 10 miles southwest of the city center. You can reach Versailles by train from Paris in about 30 minutes. Guided tours provide in-depth information about the palace’s history and architecture. Audio guides are also available for self-guided exploration. No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to the magnificent Palace of Versailles, a pinnacle of 17th-century grandeur and a peek into the lavish lifestyle of French royalty during the reign of Louis XIV.

Things to Do in Paris TN: See a Show at the Moulin Rouge

One of the most iconic Things To Do in Paris TN is seeing a dazzling show at the Moulin Rouge. The Moulin Rouge is a legendary cabaret in the Pigalle district of Paris that opened in 1889. It is best known for being the spiritual birthplace of the modern form of the can-can dance. Today, the Moulin Rouge is a tourist attraction, offering musical dance entertainment for visitors from around the world.

To experience this historic site, buy tickets to one of the cabaret shows. The shows feature extravagant sets, costumes, and a troupe of nearly 100 artists, including 60 Doriss Girls dancers. The entertainment includes exciting dance numbers interspersed with circus acts like juggling, acrobatics, and comedy sketches. The finale always culminates in an energetic can-can. Shows are offered most nights at 9 pm and 11 pm. It is recommended to book tickets in advance on the Moulin Rouge website.

When attending a show at the Moulin Rouge, visitors can expect an evening full of delight and enchantment. The venue is opulently decorated in belle époque style, with red velvet seats, gold trimmings, and giant elephant statues. Before and after the show, you can enjoy a glass of champagne at the bar. The Moulin Rouge puts on a spectacular production that captures all the glamor and decadence of Paris at the turn of the 20th century.

Seeing a dazzling cabaret revue at the Moulin Rouge should be at the top of your list of Things To Do in Paris TN. An evening there promises an unforgettable night filled with the romance and gaiety of Paris. Let the Moulin Rouge sweep you away to another era in one of the most magical places in the City of Light. This iconic venue is a must-see when visiting Paris.

Visit the Louvre and Palazzo Vecchio

To learn the Louvre inside and out, you’d need half a lifetime. Still, one has to start somewhere. The site of the world’s most extensive and varied collection of pre-20th-century painting, sculpture, and decorative objects, the Louvre is a global tourist drawcard. Not to mention the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo , be sure to visit less crowded wings, to bask in the works of Vermeer, Caravaggio, Rembrandt, and countless others. The centuries-old palace itself is a testament to a rich history dating no less than from the Middle Ages to the present.

See the Notre Dame Cathedral, a Gothic marvel.

No first trip to Paris is complete without a visit to this marvel of Gothic architecture, dating back to the 12th century. One of Europe’s most unique and magnificent cathedrals, Notre Dame Cathedral’s impressive towers, spire, stained glass and sculptures are guaranteed to take your breath away.

Witness firsthand the place that was once the heartbeat of medieval Paris , and that took over 100 years of forced labor to complete. Climbing the North Tower to see Paris from the hunchbacked Quasimodo’s Vantage is essential, too. You will quickly understand why Notre Dame is one of Paris’ top attractions.

Also Read: Things to do in Paris For Teenager

Go to the top of the Eiffel Tower

More than any other landmark, the Eiffel Tower has come to represent an elegant and contemporary Paris, but this was not always so. The iron tower, which was built for the 1889 World Exposition by Gustave Eiffel, was wildly popular with Parisians when it was unveiled and had almost been torn down.

It has since attracted more than 220 million visitors, and it would be hard to imagine Paris now without it. The tower crowns the Paris night sky with its festive light and glitters up a storm every hour. In addition, it has recently firmly entered the twenty-first century, resting with solar panels and with glass floor observation platforms, to the delight of some and the vertigo of others. Cliché? Yes, perhaps. But essential.

See Breathtaking impressionist art at the Musée d’Orsay

Walk across the bridge from the Louvre to the Musée d’Orsay and witness a literal and figurative bridge between classical and modern art. Housing the world’s most important collection of impressionist and post-impressionist painting , the Musée d’Orsay’s bright, airy rooms whisk you through three floors of modern wonders from ethereal dancers Degas’ to Monet’s water lilies, all the way to green jungles Gaugin’s. Important works by Van Gogh, Delacroix, Manet, and others await you, too.

Walk around the Sorbonne and the Latin Quarter

he Sorbonne University is the historic soul of the Latin Quarter, where higher education has flourished for centuries. Founded in 1257 for a small group of theology students, the Sorbonne is one of the oldest universities in Europe. It has hosted countless great thinkers, including philosophers René Descartes, Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir. Enjoy a drink on the terrace in front of the college before exploring the winding streets of the Latin Quarter behind it.

Admire the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs-Elysees

The 164-foot Arc de Triomphe commissioned by Emperor Napoleon I does exactly what it was created to do: Evoke pure military power and triumph. It was built at a time when leaders erected monuments in their own honor and scaled to their ego. Magnificent statues and reliefs line the arch to commemorate generals and soldiers of Napoleon. Visit the Arc de Triomphe to begin or culminate a walk along the equally grandiose Avenue des Champs-Elysées . You can’t help but feel grand yourself.

Visit Centre Pompidou and the Beaubourg Quarter

Parisians consider the Centre Georges Pompidou to be the cultural heart of the city. This modern art museum and cultural center, located in the neighborhood affectionately dubbed Beaubourg by locals, opened in 1977 in honor of President Georges Pompidou.

The Center’s signature skeletal design, evoking bones and blood vessels, is either loved or reviled-no in between. If wacky design is not your cup of tea, the permanent collection of the National Museum of Modern Art is a must and stand works by Modigliani and Matisse. Rooftop views of the city are also in order.

Discover the Sacré Coeur and Montmartre

With its unmistakable white dome that some compare to a meringue crowning the city, the Sacré Coeur sits at the highest point in Paris on the Montmartre hill, or butte . This basilica, which was consecrated in 1909, is best known for its gaudy golden mosaic interiors and for its dramatic terrace, from which you can expect a stunning view of Paris on a clear day.

Take the cable car with a metro ticket and stop at Sacré Coeur before exploring the winding, village-like streets of Montmartre . And after spending all your energy climbing formidable hills and stairs of Montmartre, consider spending an evening at a traditional Parisian cabaret like the legendary Moulin Rouge or the ultra-folky Au Lapin Agile .

Take a boat ride on the River Seine

Seeing some of the most beautiful sights of Paris glide past as you drift along the Seine River is an unforgettable and essential experience. Companies like Bateaux-Mouches and Bateaux Parisiens offer one-hour trips down the Seine year-round for around 10 euros. You can hop on near Notre Dame or the Eiffel Tower. Go at night to enjoy the shimmering play of lights on the water, and dress warm-the wind out of the Seine can be cold. You can also take tours of some of Paris’ canals and waterways, which will allow you to see a semi-hidden side of the City of Light.

Walk through Pere Lachaise

Paris has within its walls many of the world’s most poetic cemeteries, but Père-Lachaise surpasses them all. Countless famous figures are buried here: the most popular are The Doors singer Jim Morrison , whose grave is kept constantly vigil by fans. French playwright Molière, Oscar Wilde, Edith Piaf and Richard Wright are a few others. On a sunny day, climbing to the top of the cemetery and looking down on the richly designed crypts can be surprisingly joyous.

Admire Sculptures at the Musée Rodin

Tour studio a great sculptor in a romantic setting at the Musée Rodin , fully renovated and reopened to visitors in November 2015 housed in an 18th-century mansion, the museum is home to more than 6,000 works by Rodin, including “The Thinker” and “The Kiss.” There are also 15 sculptures in the permanent collection by French sculptor Camille Claudel, another master.

After seeing the sculptures, be sure to spend some time admiring the extensive collection of drawings and cast molds on display. The lush grounds are home to a rose garden, a café and fountains. More iconic sculptures by Rodin adorn the gardens, including “Orpheus” and bronze studies for “The Citizens of Calais.”

See World-Class contemporary art at the Louis Vuitton Foundation

This stunning new foundation designed by Frank Gehry and offers world-class contemporary art shows and one of the most unique additions to the Paris skyline in recent years. The collection houses work by Bernard Arnault, the chairman and CEO of LVMH. You’ll see everything from giant Gerhard Richter paintings to interactive installations by Danish artist Olafur Eliasson. Afterward, have a picnic or stroll in the sprawling park and wood known as the Bois de Boulogne .

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Shop (or Windows Shop) on the Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré

If you want to store like a Parisian high-roller-or at least pretend to-head to Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré and the surrounding district. Participating in the 1st and 8th arrondissements (districts) , the street is lined with the biggest names in fashion and luxury, ranging from old-school couture labels like Goyard, Hermès, Gucci and Prada, as well as contemporary, coveted houses and designers (Apostrophe June Ashida). You’ll also find custom-made perfume, high-end jewelry, delicious pastries and even old world, fine luggage. It’s no wonder it’s included in our guide to the best shopping streets in the French capital .

Find a Vintage Treasure at the Marché aux Puces de Clignancourt / St. Ouen

It’s easy to get overwhelmed at this sprawling Parisian flea market . After all, the 150-year-old puces – literally, “fleas” – is one of the largest in the world. But with a little attention and perseverance, you can find treasure in the labyrinth of stalls, regardless of whether you’re hunting for antique silverware or vintage Chanel couture. The market is located on the edge of northern Paris, where the 18th arrondissement meets the suburb of St. Ouen.

The easiest way to get there? Take the metro line 4 to “Porte de Clignancourt” and follow the signs to the market. You can also take line 13 to the Porte de St Ouen station (and on the side of the “puces” that extend into the suburb).

Wander through the Marais district

If there is a better French neighborhood to walk, sightsee, store, taste and people watch all in one morning or afternoon, we have not found it. Spanning the 3rd and 4th arrondissements, the Marais has a rich history in Paris: It is home to the city’s historic Jewish quarter ( pletzl ), and also serves as the heartbeat of the city’s vibrant LGBT community.

Within the ever-bustling, you’ll also find a stunning hôtel particulier (old-school mansions), numerous medieval sites and monuments, a plethora of high-end and designer boutiques, and many of the city’s best museums, including the Musée Picasso.

Relax & Stroll by the Jardin du Luxembourg

Even if you know very little about the French capital, you can get a mental picture of Parisians relaxing in deck chairs on terraces having over decorated, manicured lawns and ponds. This is an iconic image you can play out for yourself by visiting the Jardin du Luxembourg, an Italian and French style haven that was once the stomping ground of the Queen Marie da Medici.

Although a favorite place to relax with a picnic, the Renaissance-era formal gardens are popular with joggers and walkers, and children who race their sailboats behind the Sénat. You should also admire the collection of sculptures: some of our favorites are stately sculpted statues of the various Queens and other royal women of France throughout history.

See the largest public collection of Picasso’s Work

After closing for nearly five years, the Musée Picasso in Paris reopened at the end of 2014, fresh from an expensive renovation. Now, this world-class museum covers more than 50,000 square feet and houses thousands of works by the inimitable Spanish artist. The main building, a 17th-century mansion in the Marais (see #15), features furniture designed by the legendary Diego Giacometti.

Housing masterpieces as well as works from lesser-known periods in Picasso’s work, the museum also offers temporary exhibitions showcasing the work of artists like Giacometti. It is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of 20th-century art.

Eat Some Famous Parisian Ice Cream

Tucked away on the Ile Saint-Louis, then, you’ll find nearly 100 flavors of ice cream at the famous Berthillon . Depending on the season, you can try everything from wild strawberry to peach, hazelnut, pistachio and white chocolate. Idyllic the store’s setting-on a small island in the Seine, opposite Notre-Dame-makes it a must-visit. You can stroll the streets, lined with 17th-century mansions, while enjoying your cone.

Satisfy Natural Curiosities at Deyrolle

Looking for a bit of the old-fashioned and the strange? Deyrolle is an old Parisian boutique (open since 1831), which particularly specializes in taxidermied animals (nothing recent, however, is potentially reassuring to those with animal rights).

Located in the 7th arrondissement, this true cabinet of curiosities houses life-size tigers, bears, birds, and more, as well as countless drawers filled with every possible butterfly, bug, or insect you can imagine. Many of the subjects the boutique’s have been used in the study of botany, entomology, and zoology. This is definitely one of the strangest stores in Paris – and well worth a visit, if you can handle the taxidermy.

Store at a French Food Market

The French take their food very seriously, and there’s no better way to experience that firsthand than to visit one of the city’s many open-air food markets . These markets are usually held several times during the week, and there is one in almost every neighborhood. Even if you’re staying at a hotel, you can stock up on fresh fruit, cheese, cold cuts, and other snacks-perfect for taking a picnic along the Seine.

Get Lost in an Old World French Department Store

Besides being masters of all things cuisine and gastronomy, Parisians are also expert shoppers. This is evident in their sprawling, elegant department stores.

These multiple-story behemoths – many built in the elegant, antique turn-of-the-twentieth century known as the “Belle Epoque” – stock everything from wine to haute couture to hardware and home deliveries. Among our favorites: BHV, in Le Marais, Galeries Lafayette and Le Bon Marché , the very first modern department store.

Stroll around the Latin Quarter

Nothing says free Paris like a day strolling through the Latin Quarter, one of the city’s most talked about and beloved neighborhoods. Start by browsing books at the beloved English bookstore Shakespeare and Company, before heading to the Sorbonne University square for a coffee. Then check out the medieval treasures at the Musée Cluny, browse rare books and antiques near the Jardin du Luxembourg, and wind through the narrow streets behind the Pantheon at the Place de la Contrescarpe.

Or just stroll and make some of your own discoveries: morning light shining on the tops of buildings; the joy of tasting fresh bread, pastries and fruit at the market-centric Rue Mouffetard or the Place Monge … the possibilities are almost endless.

Explore the Canal St Martin & its Hip Shops, Restaurants

Anyone who wants to understand contemporary Paris should spend some time walking on and around the Canal St. Martin, one of the most vibrant and innovative parts of the city. Walk to the center of one of the ornate, metallic green bridges to watch boats float down the canal (and come through complex locking systems).

Enjoy a glass of wine and some small plates at a wine bar, or snack on eclectic fare at one of the countless, utterly hip new restaurants in the area. Browse boutiques and bookstores for the latest in style and design. You can even have a picnic right by the water-a favorite local pastime.

See Some of Monet’s Most Beautiful Works at This Little Museum

Many visitors to Paris fully overlook a small collection on the west side of the Tuileries gardens that houses one of Impressionist master Claude Monet’s most breathtaking works of art. But they shouldn’t.

Visit the Musée de l’Orangerie and witness the sweeping, poetic beauty of Nymphéas , a series of murals that plunge you into Monet’s distinctive world of color, light and watery landscape. His water lilies are a symbol of peace in the world, painted after the end of World War I as a gesture of hope and reconciliation.

In addition to Monet stirring masterpiece, the Orangerie museum also houses the Jean Walter – Paul Guillaume collection, with notable works by Cézanne, Renoir, Picasso, Sisley, Matisse and Modigliani, among others. After you’ve seen the Orsay and Centre Pompidou collections, an afternoon here has another dose of artistic inspiration and education.

Take a day trip to Versailles

Versailles and its world-famous palace and gardens are a quick one-hour trip outside the city, making it an essential and easy day out of Paris.

This 17th-century palace had humble beginnings as a hunting lodge before turning into an opulent palace under the reign of Louis XIV, also known as the “Sun King.” Today, a walk through the extensive formal gardens and visit to the impressive Hall of Mirrors is an experience you probably won’t forget. Also be sure to set aside some time for the quieter, lesser-known buildings and gardens, including the Petit Trianon and Queen’s Hamlet, where Marie Antoinette bid farewell to the pressures of court life and even pretended to be a modest shepherdess or milkmaid at times.

Go Underground in the Catacombs

It doesn’t have to be Halloween for you to thoroughly enjoy the eerie experience of going far the metro to see Paris’ catacombs . There are dozens of miles of tunnels dug way below street level, but only a small portion of these (legally) can be visited.

Here, after buying a ticket and descending a long spiral staircase, you are plunged into a strange world of death. Millions of human bones and skulls are neatly stacked (in curious, very French fashion) next to the pathways-souls transferred from crowded cemeteries in the 18th and 19th centuries. Some will find this attraction decidedly chilling, while others will enjoy it as an archaeological and social curiosity. Either way, it’s worth a few hours.

Things to Do in Paris TN FAQs: Everything You Need to Know for Your Trip

As the capital city of Henry County, Paris has no shortage of exciting things to do. Here are some of the top things to do in Paris TN to help you make the most of your trip:

Explore the Eiffel Tower at Paris Landing State Park

No trip to Paris is complete without seeing its Eiffel Tower. Head to Paris Landing State Park to see a half-scale replica of the iconic Parisian landmark. Climb the tower to take in scenic views of Kentucky Lake. The park also offers camping, hiking, boating and golfing.

Learn Local History at the Memorial Building

Gain insight into the history of Paris at the Memorial Building museum. This National Register of Historic Places site was once the Henry County courthouse. Now it houses artifacts, documents and exhibits on the development of Paris from the early 19th century onward. Admission to the museum is free.

Shop for Antiques on Market Street

Market Street is the place to go for antique shopping in Paris. You’ll find over a dozen antique stores lining the street, offering vintage home decor, clothing, books, and more. Even if you don’t buy anything, browsing the eclectic collections is entertaining. Market Street is also on the National Register of Historic Places.

Explore Beautiful Churches

Paris has some stunning historic churches worth checking out. Visit First United Methodist Church, built in 1885, to see its Gothic spires and stained glass windows. drop by First Baptist Church, established in 1823, or Church of the Holy Cross, a Gothic-style Episcopal church built in 1858.

Catch a Show at the Krider Performing Arts Center

See live music, theater, dance and other shows at the Krider Performing Arts Center. This historic theater originally opened in 1919 and today hosts local and touring performers. Check their schedule to see what’s on during your trip.

Take a Stroll Across the Bridge

The beautiful stone bridge spanning the Tennessee River is a Paris landmark. Take a stroll across the 2,362-foot bridge, then stop at one of the overlooks to get panoramic views of the river and surrounding countryside.

In summary, between the outdoor attractions, historic sites, shopping, dining and entertainment, you’ll find plenty of exciting things to do in Paris TN to fill your itinerary. Have a great trip!

Conclusion

As you have seen, Paris, Tennessee offers a delightful array of activities for visitors and locals alike. From enjoying the beautiful countryside and outdoor recreation at Paris Landing State Park to experiencing the history and culture at the Krider Performing Arts Center or Lee Academy for the Arts, there are many memorable Things To Do in Paris TN. Whether you want to shop for antiques, dine on classic Southern fare, or just stroll through the historic downtown, Paris has something for everyone. On your next trip to Tennessee, make sure to spend some time exploring all the wonderful Things To Do in Paris TN. You’ll be glad you did.