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Futuroscope Travel Tips: How to Spend a Day at France’s 2nd Largest Theme Park

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Kids are always looking for the next big adventure.  If you’re visiting the west coast of France, stop by Futuroscope, France’s 2nd largest theme park.  Kids can dance with a robot, go on a 4D adventure with Arthur and laugh at the antics of the Raving Rabbids.  We’ve put together some Futuroscope travel tips to help you prepare for a visit.

Just be aware that this is not a traditional theme park with roller coasters and thrill rides. At Futuroscope, you’ll experience multimedia attractions with 3D and 4D shows, watch educational videos on massive domed screens and even learn about water pollution through a laser game in the 8th Continent.

After entering the park and having your tickets scanned, go to the services center to the right of the entrance. You’ll see the British and Spanish flags above the doorway. Trade an ID card for free translator headsets. These will allow you to follow along with the shows in English or Spanish. All films are in French, but 9 shows can be translated. You’ll also want to grab an English map before starting your day.

Once equipped with your translator, head to Danse with les robots and Arthur, the 4D Adventure. They are 2 of the most popular rides in the park, so make these your first or last stops of the day.

 

Kids favorite rides:

  1. Dances with Robots (Danse avec les Robots) – Dance party strapped into 23ft high robots
  2. Raving Rabbids Time Machine (La Machine à Voyager dans le Temps) – Take a trip through time with the Raving Rabbids.
  3. Arthur, the 4D Adventure (Arthur, l’aventura 4D) – 4D adventure through the world of Minimoys.
  4. Ice Age (L’Âge de Glace) –  A 4D experience with the nutty squirrel, Scrat and other Ice Age friends.
  5. La Gyrotour – Get 360º views of the park from 150ft in the air.
  6. The Little Prince in Studio 16 – Embark on a 3D adventure with Le Petit Prince.
  7. The Arena (L’Arena fun Xperiences)- The kids loved the slides so grab a mat and zip along.

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Heidelberg Castle Germany – Surviving Lightening Strikes, Fires, Pillage and Wars Since 1214

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One of the first things we research when deciding what to see during our travels, is whether or not castles and palaces are nearby that we can visit. We love the rich history of these structures and the beauty they present- even when in disrepair.   The hilltop landmark of Heidelberg, Heidelberg Castle or Heidelberger Schloss, is no exception. Heidelberg Castle, Germany is said to be among the most important Renaissance structures north of the Alps. The red sandstone ruins tower over the Neckar valley and standout against a beautiful backdrop of deep green forests.

Plan at least a day to explore Heidelberg and it’s many attractions. When visiting, it’s worthwhile to not only take a guided tour of the castle, but to visit the gardens, see the huge wine barrel, explore the apothecary museum and take a ride on the funicular railway.  And that’s all before visiting the town itself!

Mark Twain described Heidelberg Castle in his 1880 travel book A Tramp Abroad saying:

“A ruin must be rightly situated, to be effective. This one could not have been better placed. It stands upon a commanding elevation, it is buried in green woods, there is no level ground about it, but, on the contrary, there are wooded terraces upon terraces, and one looks down through shining leaves into profound chasms and abysses where twilight reigns and the sun cannot intrude.”

It was so well placed that the earliest castle structure, built in the early 1200’s, was later expanded into two castles. As the home to the King of Germany in 1401, expansion became a necessity. Not only was additional space needed  his for court and entourage, but so were additional defenses. In the end, it was no longer a castle, but a fortress.

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Manteo Travel Idea – Discover Outer Banks History at Roanoke Island Festival Park

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When you and your family need a break from the beach, Roanoke Island Festival Park is a great destination. Our top Manteo travel suggestion is only five miles from Nags Head. This 27 acre park will keep the kids busy for hours.

We visited with my 9 and 12 year old as well as my nephews ranging in age from 1 – 5 years.  There was plenty to keep the kids of all ages entertained.   However, Roanoke Island Festival Park isn’t just for kids.   This is the perfect spot for adults to discover Outer Banks history as well. We saw plenty of people exploring the park sans kids with the Elizabeth II being a highlight for all visitors.

Must See Site Attractions:

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Photos That Will Make You Want to See The Nice Carnaval Battle of Flowers

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One of the largest carnivals in the world is held on the sunny French Riviera.  The colorful parades of the Carnaval de Nice entertain visitors, both young and old.   For the 3rd year in a row, we joined in the fun during the elegant Bataille de Fleurs or Battle of Flowers. The Nice Carnaval Battle of Flowers is Lucy’s favorite event. She loves dancing to the music, seeing the gorgeous floral displays and admiring the extravagant costumes.

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Day Trip from Nice: What to Do in Menton for 1 Day

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Located near the border of Italy, the coastal city of Menton boasts beautiful pastel colored buildings, quaint cobblestone streets and fabulous sea views. If visiting the South of France, the historic city makes a great day trip from Nice.

A bit of history – in 1346, Menton was purchased by Prince Charles Grimaldi.  It remained part of Monaco for just over 500 years before being annexed to France and becoming part of the Alpes Maritimes department.  In the late 1800’s, Menton was a famed health resort. British families flocked to the city to spend their winters soaking up the warm Mediterranean sun.  Today, it’s easy to see this why the city was a draw for the Prince of Monaco and northern Europeans.  Wandering the old streets, visitors will  be transported back in time.

So, what to do in Menton for 1 day?

 

Follow the narrow, cobbled streets as you climb through the Old Town. The dark alleys are spotted with bursts of greenery & fragrant flowers around every corner.

The Basilica St. Michel was built in 1619 at the direction of Prince Honoré II of Monaco, but was completely restored in 1887.  The ornate architecture, frescos and imposing altar make it well worth a visit.   The Basilica isn’t open all day, so check the opening times, as it varies by season.

Next to the Basilica is La Chapelle des Pénitents Blancs or The Chapel of the Immaculate Conception, which was built in the 1680’s on the grounds outside the walls of the medieval city.   The beautiful altars and unique red walls inside the chapel are worth a look.

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