Do you live in Paris’s 19th arrondissement and wonder what to do there to rediscover it as if you were on vacation? With its large parks, cultural venues, spots for drinks, and water activities, it’s a real playground right on your doorstep.
What to do in the 19th arrondissement? A guide to the neighborhood’s hidden gems.
Reading time: ~9 min
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- Why the 19th is the perfect neighborhood for your outings
- The must-see parks in the 19th arrondissement for some fresh air
- Culture, concerts, and exhibitions: places you won't want to miss
- Nightlife and waterfront hangouts
- Water activities: an experience you won't want to miss
- Suggested itineraries based on your profile
- Other activity ideas to round out your outings
- FAQ
- The 19th: A playground to (re)discover every day
Why the 19th is the perfect neighborhood for your outings
Long considered on the outskirts, the 19th arrondissement is now one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in Paris: spacious parks to relax in, a cultural hub centered around La Villette, a lively canal lined with street art and water activities, and a wide range of outings for all ages and budgets. Looking for a unique activity, a family outing, a team-building event, or just a spot to chill by the water? You’ll find it all practically right around the corner.
The must-see parks in the 19th arrondissement for some fresh air
Buttes-Chaumont Park: a classic natural destination
With its winding paths, lake, cliffs, and the Temple of the Sibyl, this park is perfect for a brisk walk, a picnic with a view of Paris, or a family outing (playgrounds and rides available depending on the season). It’s a peaceful haven in the heart of the district.
Parc de la Villette: A Playground for Everyone
Vast lawns, contemporary architecture, and cultural amenities come together here: frisbee, picnics, festivals, outdoor movies, and areas dedicated to children (Little Villette, Philharmonie des enfants). It’s the perfect starting point for exploring the Bassin de la Villette and the Canal de l’Ourcq on foot, by bike, or by water.
Butte Bergeyre & Red Hat Hill Park: Hidden Views
La Butte Bergeyre offers the atmosphere of a hilltop village with views of the Sacré-Cœur, while La Butte du Chapeau Rouge provides a quieter green space overlooking eastern Paris: both are perfect for a romantic stroll or a break away from the crowds.
Culture, concerts, and exhibitions: places you won't want to miss
City of Science and Industry: the ultimate family outing
Interactive exhibits, workshops, and the planetarium are designed to make learning fun. In 2026, events such as “Rendez-vous aux jardins” and themed workshops will further enrich the program.
Philharmonie de Paris and La Villette: for music lovers
Symphony concerts, performances, temporary exhibitions, and outdoor festivals: the area around the Philharmonie and the Zénith delights visitors of all ages. The Children’s Philharmonie offers a sensory experience that’s a hit with families.
The Centquatre and alternative art venues
Artist residencies, exhibitions, performances, and unique cafés all coexist here. The Ourcq Canal, meanwhile, has been transformed into an open-air gallery thanks to street art and the Ourcq Living Colors festival.
Nightlife and waterfront hangouts
Rosa Bonheur, Pavillon des Canaux & Co: Great Spots for Aperitifs
Rosa Bonheur à l’Est offers drinks, dancing, and a festive atmosphere on the waterfront; the Pavillon des Canaux, a colorful building perched on the water, is perfect for coffee during the day or drinks with friends in the evening.
Concert venues and bars with a local vibe
More intimate venues, such as La Petite Halle, host open-mic nights, jazz, and contemporary music—the perfect way to round off a stroll along the canal with an evening of music.
Water activities: an experience you won't want to miss
The Ourcq Canal: a water sports playground right in the heart of Paris
River cruises, introductory canoeing, kayaking, or rowing sessions on select summer weekends, urban scavenger hunts… but the star attraction remains the rental of small electric boats that don’t require a license.
Akwa Experience: License-free boat rentals right around the corner
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Accessibility | Boats that don't require a license, quick overview |
| Navigation | Self-guided tour along the Ourcq Canal |
| Groups | Private events available (friends, family, bachelorette parties, birthdays, team-building events) |
| Environmentally friendly | Electric motor and sustainability |
For residents of the 19th arrondissement, it’s the perfect local getaway: it feels like going away for the weekend without leaving Paris.
Plancha boats, floating aperitifs, and custom experiences
Beyond just cruising, Akwa offers boats equipped with grills and barbecues, floating cocktail parties or meals, water rallies, and employee benefits packages: a unique way to explore the canal, its flora and fauna, and its street art murals.
Suggested itineraries based on your profile
| Profile | Morning | Afternoon | End of the day |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family | Cité des Sciences or Buttes-Chaumont | Afternoon tea at the Bassin de la Villette | Akwa (non-alcoholic drinks) – No license required |
| Group of friends | Chill out on the lawns at La Villette or play shuffleboard | Akwa Plancha Boat | A drink at Rosa Bonheur or the Pavillon des Canaux |
| Company | Meeting at your office | Akwa Water-Based Team Building | Cocktail party or floating dinner |
More ideas for things to do in the 19th arrondissement to round out your outings
From open-air movies at La Villette in the summer to street-art walks along the canal, outdoor scavenger hunts and escape games in the parks, and sports (tennis, padel): the 19th arrondissement offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, sports, and relaxation—all without a moment of boredom.
FAQ
What's the best way to feel like you're on vacation without leaving Paris?
A license-free electric boat ride on the Ourcq Canal with Akwa offers the ultimate escape: a peaceful cruise surrounded by nature, with the option of an aperitif or grilled dishes on board to round off the day in style.
Are there any kid-friendly activities in the 19th arrondissement?
Yes: Cité des Sciences, Little Villette, the playgrounds at Buttes-Chaumont, supervised water activities in the summer, and electric boat rides with Akwa (life jackets provided) are suitable for young children.
Is it possible to organize a corporate event or a team-building activity on the Ourcq Canal?
Absolutely. Akwa offers private boat charters, boat rallies, and floating cocktail parties: a unique and eco-friendly alternative for companies in Paris and the Île-de-France region.
The 19th: A playground to (re)discover every day
With its large parks, vibrant cultural scene, welcoming spots, and water activities, the 19th arrondissement is much more than just a residential neighborhood. Enjoy these hidden gems all year round; book your next getaway on the Ourcq Canal with Akwa Experience and savor the local way of life without having to cross all of Paris.
