Discover science in the making
The philosophy of the Palais de la Découverte — revolutionary when it was founded — is to help as many people as possible discover science in the making through live demonstrations and eye-catching experiments led by science demonstrators, as well as meetings with researchers, exhibitions and talks.
By interacting directly with science, everyone — no matter their background or knowledge — can understand both the basics of science and the latest research across all fields.
In just under 90 years, more than 36 million people have passed through its doors.
Science demonstrations
-
Science demonstrations
Science demonstrations define the Palais de la Découverte — they’re a big part of what makes it what it is. Since it opened in 1937, it has been a living museum, where visitors can discover science in action, join in experiments, interact with science demonstrators and explore scientific questions for themselves.
No lifeless objects behind glass here! Visitors can watch scientific experiments and demonstrations just like in a real lab, led by expert demonstrators who make science easier for everyone to understand.
This direct, hands-on approach has become its trademark, delighting visitors of all ages, inspiring science museums worldwide and launching the careers of future scientists.
Now it’s your turn to join the adventure!
Come and meet us!
In June 2025, the museum opened a brand-new space in its striking, historic building in the 8th arrondissement of Paris, close to the Champs-Élysées: the Palais des enfants!
Designed for 2- to 10-year-olds in partnership with GrandPalaisRmn, this unique space at the crossroads of art and science invites children to explore, be amazed, have fun and let their imagination run wild. Come and discover Transparency, the museum’s very first exhibition, open now!
You can also join in talks and workshops (only in French) at our pop-up space, Les Étincelles du Palais de la découverte, in the 15th arrondissement of Paris.
History of the Palais de la découverte
Discover its origins, meet its founders and explore nearly a century of bringing science to life.