A family visit to the Musée d'IzernoreA family visit to the Musée d'Izernore
©A family visit to the Musée d'Izernore|Marc Chatelain/ Haut-Bugey Tourisme
Cerdon cavesCerdon caves
©Cerdon caves|S.Godin
A magical moment at the Parc des Oiseaux in Villars-les-DombesA magical moment at the Parc des Oiseaux in Villars-les-Dombes
©A magical moment at the Parc des Oiseaux in Villars-les-Dombes|Anthony Rey/ Parc des Oiseaux
Galette de PérougesGalette de Pérouges
©Galette de Pérouges|Bokeh

With the family: the top things to do with your children in the Ain!

Want to share great emotions and collect beautiful memories? Discover our ideas for outings with your children, just 1 hour from Lyon, Mâcon or Geneva.

Ain en famille: fresh air and great memories!

Here, we chase butterflies in the Parc des Oiseaux, walk in the footsteps of dinosaurs at Dinoplagne, listen to the silence of the Grottes du Cerdon. Pedal along the Voie Bleue, climb trees, laugh, fall and start again. The Ain is an adventure at a child’s level, simple moments that end up as engraved memories. Because the most beautiful discoveries are the ones we share.

Bird Park A feathered world tour

At the Parc des Oiseaux, it’s as if the whole world has come to Ain. More than 250 species from five continents roam free in an exceptional natural setting. Children will marvel at the immersive loris aviary, where these colorful little parrots peck at their hands. The highlight of the show? The in-flight presentation, where pelicans, macaws and other rare species fly over the audience in perfect choreography. A magical, sensory adventure for the whole family.

The Cerdon caves Prehistoric Leisure Park

Descending into the Grottes du Cerdon is like stepping back in time. This underground network sculpted by water offers an enchanting decor of stalactites and secret galleries. The tour, which is accessible to the whole family, leads to a superb natural balcony with a breathtaking view over the valley. After the visit, head to the prehistoric park to learn how to fire a thruster or light a fire, as in the days of early man. A fun-filled geological adventure for young and old alike.

Dinoplagne® In the footsteps of giants

At Dinoplagne, literally walk in the footsteps of the world’s largest dinosaur. Along a 150-metre trail, follow the 110 footprints left 150 million years ago by the 35-metre-long titan. The site offers an immersive visit, with animations and a scenography that takes young and old back to the Jurassic era. A unique experience to arouse the curiosity of children and thrill dinosaur enthusiasts. A real leap back in time!

Why not take a break?

Because there’s a time to run and a time to float. The Ain lakes are the perfect blue, the silence that caresses the water and the thrill of the first plunge. Walks, it’s the air that whips the face, the sound of leaves underfoot and that little bit of sky between two branches. Dive or walk, but above all, breathe.

La Cuivrerie de Cerdon When metal comes to life

Here, copper doesn’t just shine, it resonates. Hammers strike, machines rumble, flames dance. Since the 19th century, the Cuivrerie de Cerdon has been shaping pots, pans and everyday objects with millimetric precision. An immersive scenography plunges you into the heart of the workshop: sounds, lights and smells recreate the atmosphere of yesteryear. Children’s eyes light up as the glowing metal transforms before their very eyes. The craftsmen hammer, polish and create. Raw know-how, a living art.

The House of Izieu A place of remembrance never to forget

Maison d’Izieu is a deeply moving place of remembrance, dedicated to the 44 Jewish children and their teachers arrested during the round-up on April 6, 1944, and deported to Auschwitz, where they perished. The family-friendly tour explores the history of the colony through exhibits and poignant testimonies. Children can gain a better understanding of history thanks to specially adapted teaching aids, while the peaceful setting overlooking the Bugey Massif invites them to reflect. A special moment to pass on, remember and educate future generations.

The Lèbe Observatory Head in the stars

Perched at an altitude of 927 metres, the Observatoire de la Lèbe is the ideal spot for an evening with your eyes riveted to the sky. Equipped with powerful telescopes, you can admire planets, constellations and even the Milky Way in a sky free from light pollution. Enthusiastic guides guide young and old alike in this exploration of the universe, making astronomy accessible to all. A celestial experience to share with the whole family.

Ambronay Abbey A treasure hunt through history

Ambronay Abbey can’t be visited, it has to be experienced. Within its walls steeped in history, immerse yourself in a life-size investigation during an immersive escape game, where every clue takes you back to the time of the Benedictine monks. For a more leisurely approach, let us guide you on a themed tour, featuring historical anecdotes and architectural secrets. It’s a fun and exciting way for families to discover this heritage gem. Ready to take up the challenge?

Did you know? Family mountain biking: trails for all ages

With over 2,500 km of signposted trails, the Ain is a veritable playground for family mountain biking. From gentle tracks in the plains to more technical trails in the mountains, there’s something for everyone. The Ain Forestière mountain-biking area, which has FFC certification, offers routes suitable for all levels, perfect for a fun outing with the kids. An ideal way to discover nature while sharing a sporting and friendly moment!

The Lavours marsh Immerse yourself in the wilderness

This is one of Europe’s last great marshes. A wooden footbridge winds its way through this nature reserve, offering a walk accessible to the whole family. Along the way, observe dragonflies, herons and perhaps even an active beaver. Educational panels line the route to help you better understand the richness of this preserved ecosystem. A wild interlude of observation and wonder.

Giant zip line and 4-season sled Family adrenaline at Monts Jura

Looking for a thrill? Monts Jura’s giant zip line propels you 905 meters down a 37% slope above the forests of the Jura massif. A breathtaking view, exhilarating speed and a guaranteed adrenalin rush! For an extra dose of fun, try out the 4-season luge: a 955-metre descent on rails with a twist and five hairpin bends, where you manage your speed at your own pace. It’s all about sliding, fresh air and unforgettable memories!

The medieval city of Pérouges Take your family back in time!

This medieval town, with its cobbled streets, stone houses and perfectly preserved ramparts, takes young and old back to the days of knights and craftsmen. Children will love exploring the secret passageways and period stalls. And don’t leave without tasting the famous galette de Pérouges, crispy and golden, a delicacy to share with the whole family.