Having spent a day or two at Parc Astérix in the company of our favorite Gauls, it's time to explore the surrounding area! From amusement parks to forests, medieval towns and more cultural visits, there are plenty of points of interest worth your attention. Our selection of 15 things to do around Parc Astérix in Plailly offers visits for adults and children alike. Take your pick!
1. Disneyland Paris, the must-see theme park
One of France's best theme parks is impossible to miss, located just an hour or so from Parc Astérix: Dinseyland Paris. In fact, even if you're in the area, the best thing to do is to try and combine the two parks during the same stay: your kids will go wild! The little ones will love the fairytale atmosphere of the "It's a small world" attraction, while the older ones will have a blast on the thrill rides.
Tempted? Click here to book your 1-day ticket to Disneyland Paris.
To make sure you don't miss a thing, we recommend downloading the Disneyland Paris app. You'll find show times, a park map and much more. What's more, the organizers have thought of everything, with a host of clever services at your disposal. One of parents' favorite tips is the Baby Switch. One parent rides the attraction while the other looks after the baby, then switches without having to queue again!
The article to read 15 tips for your first visit to Disneyland Paris in 2025
2. Give in to the medieval charm of Senlis
Yes, there are medieval towns within easy reach of Parc Astérix (14 km)! In the Oise region, Senlis is a fine example, just a quarter of an hour from the park. One of its jewels is the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Senlis, a superb 12th-century Gothic edifice. The architecturally impressive Abbaye Saint-Vincent is also well worth a visit. Beyond the ramparts and medieval gates, your stroll also takes you to the Musée d'Art et d'Archéologie de Senlis.
Are you visiting the Parc Astérix in Plailly with children? Nearby, discover the Maison du Jouet Ancien, a charming museum brimming with old and traditional games. What a delight! And don't forget to relax in the Parc des Cordeliers. Its paths, shaded by numerous species of trees, offer a pure moment of escape. From relaxation to heritage, Senlis has so much to offer!
3. Chantilly, or a passion for horses
The superb Château de Chantilly is one of the must-sees in Chantilly, with its famous horse museum and magnificent stables. If you're lucky, you might even catch an equestrian show!
Good to know: the Château de Chantilly, one of the best places to visit around the Parc Astérix in Plailly, is also home to exceptional art collections (sculptures, paintings, etc.). Have we whetted your appetite? Click here to book your ticket to the Château de Chantilly!
Visiting Chantilly also means getting lost in the forest, on foot or mountain bike, or taking the time to hit a few balls on the golf course. The estate is less than half an hour from Parc Astérix, a distance of 23 km. With so many different activities to choose from, it's perfect for families!
4. What to do around Parc Astérix in Plailly? Les Étangs de Commelles
Head for the Chantilly forest, the ideal place to unwind and relax after the hectic atmosphere of Parc Astérix in Plailly. The commelles pondsin Coye-la-Forêt are just 19 km from Parc Astérix, or just 25 minutes by car. You can also get there from the Gare du Nord station by TER train. Here, fauna, flora and ecology take center stage. So, first and foremost, respect for the environment! The site, which is classified as part of the Domaine de Chantilly, is part of the magnificent Parc Naturel Régional Oise-Pays de France.
It comprises four ponds, including the Etang de la Loge. It's on this side that you'll have the chance to admire the lovely Château de la Reine Blanche. Finally, if you like to walk and stroll in the middle of nature, you've found the perfect place!
Good to know: you'll find a picnic area, cafeteria and tearoom on the site.
5. Sherwood Parc, adventure in the great outdoors
Step into the shoes of Robin Hood at Sherwood Parc30 minutes from Parc Astérix (23 km). There's something here for every taste and age! Those who love heights will have fun in the trees thanks toaccrobranche activities, zip lines, and many other amazing activities. Even the youngest guests have their own dedicated area, with a ball pool, pony rides and other inflatable games. Do your kids like shooting ? From archery to Archery Tag and laser games (to name but a few), there are plenty of activities for older children, including teenagers! Even adults can have fun, with dedicated activities such as quad biking. In short: a paradise for families!
Click here to book your Sherwood Parctickets in advance .
6. Family fun at Parc Saint-Paul near Parc Astérix
Thanks to the freeway, you can reach the Parc Saint-Paul in just over an hour from Parc Astérix (96 km). Its name may not sound very appealing, but it's a place dedicated to fun, leisure and attractions! Are you more of an Aquasplash, Ferris wheel or roller coaster fan? Either way, you'll find plenty of attractions to keep you, your family or your friends entertained at Parc Saint-Paul. Family shows featuring farm animals and giant bubbles are also on offer. Open from spring to autumn, this park offers the perfect compromise between amusement park and funfair, to delight young and old alike.
Book my tickets for Parc Saint-Paul
Petit Futé Tip :for just €5 each way, a shuttle bus will take you to the park from Beauvais SNCF station. It's a great way to avoid traffic jams and get around easily if you don't have a car!
7. What to do around Parc Astérix in Plailly? Visit Royaumont Abbey
It only takes half an hour to get from Parc Astérix to the superb Royaumont Abbeynestling in its green setting. Located in Asnières-sur-Oise, it offers a perfect blend of history, culture and nature. Founded in the 13th century by Louis IX (the famous Saint Louis), this Cistercian abbey has magnificently preserved its medieval architecture, notably its church and lovely cloister.
A visit to Royaumont also means discovering a site that doesn't hesitate to host events, concerts and other exhibitions. Even children can enjoy dedicated events, such as Easter egg hunts, play trails and brunches. So, in the midst of this superb natural setting, landscaped gardens and ponds, serenity invites itself into your day.
Good to know: royaumont Abbey is closed on Mondays, but open every other day from 10am.
8. Stroll through the Parc Jean-Jacques Rousseau
Stay close to Parc Astérix, just 24 km away, to discover the superb Parc Jean-Jacques Rousseau, located in Ermenonville. Twenty minutes is all it takes to reach this listed site . It's a magnificent English-style park, extending over 62 hectares, whose origins date back to the XVIIIᵉ century! Its great age has not prevented it from retaining its splendor, as it still remains magnificently well-maintained.
Good to know: the park owes its name to its creator, the Marquis René de Girardin, who was greatly inspired by the writings of Jean-Jacques Rousseau.
The philosopher spent his last weeks here, before his death in 1778. Between meadows, ponds and rivers, you'll discover a varied and sometimes rare flora. Conceived as a veritable landscape garden, it incorporates "philosophical landscapes" where each element has been carefully arranged to awaken reflection, like a living tableau. Simply unique!
As you stroll along, your steps will lead you to the Writers' Path. From the park and Chaalis Abbey, you'll plunge into the writings of Rousseau, Gérard de Nerval and Etienne Pivert de Senancourt. Now that's a 100% poetic visit to make near Parc Astérix!
Good to know: this free park is open from Wednesday to Sunday, April to October.
9. Walking in the Halatte Forest near Parc Astérix
Further north, 23 km from Parc Astérix, you can reach the Halatte forest in Verneuil-en-Halatte in half an hour. Need a breath of fresh air after the hustle and bustle of the park? You've come to the right place! Spread over 4,300 hectares, this green setting invites you to discover an exceptional natural and historical heritage. You're plunged into the heart of a massif of oak and beech forests. In short, the ideal setting for a hike or bike ride! During your walk, don't hesitate to "climb" the 140 meters of Mont Alta, for a beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding area.
History buffs will also find plenty to interest them in the Halatte forest, thanks to the remains of bygone eras, including :
- the Indrolles menhirs,
- the "Cheval de Chancy",
- armorial markers testifying to the division of the forest between the king and the lords.
During your stroll, you'll have the chance to admire some exceptional flora, including magnificent wild orchids.
10. What to do around Parc Astérix in Plailly? Test the Full Flight Simulator
Only 20 minutes, and 20 km, separate Parc Astérix from Full Flight Simulator in Roissy-en-France. Let's face it: arriving in front of this imposing white mass high above the ground is impressive. Now you're ready to step into the shoes of an airplane pilot! The cockpit, a true simulation of a real airplane, features a multitude of buttons and other controls. Here you are "in the air", or rather as if you were really there, simulating a real Boeing flight.
It's an ideal activity for teenagers (aged 15 and over) and adults looking for thrills and new experiences. Looking for an unusual and original gift idea near Paris? You've found it too! Then go here to book this A320 airliner flight imulator experience at Roissy CDG.
The article to read: Tips and tricks for your first visit to Parc Astérix in 2025
11. Cooling off on the Île de Loisirs de Vaires-Torcy
It takes just 40 minutes to get from Parc Astérix to theÎle de Loisirs de Vaires-Torcy, with its green spaces and lakes. Does your family love horses? The equestrian center, offering rides and a variety of activities, is sure to please! The center even offers Baby Pony lessons for younger children, who will delight in this first experience. You'll also find a golf course in this verdant paradise, as well as a lake for swimming and water sports. All in all, it's the ideal place to have fun, relax or discover new outdoor activities. Snack bars and restaurants are also available, although the area is 100% suitable for a family picnic.
Good to know: the Ile de Loisirs de Vaires-Torcy is home to the Stade Nautique Olympique d'Île-de-France, which hosted the Olympic rowing and canoeing events at the 2024 Olympics.
12. Fun in the American West at La Mer de Sable
Located in Ermenonville, 21 km from Parc Astérix (20 minutes), La Mer de Sable invites you to discover its three worlds:
- the Valley of the Mississi'ptits,
- the Colorado Canyon,
- the New Mexico desert.
In all, 25 attractions for young and old await you. Three Wild West-themed shows are also on offer, to fully immerse you in the Western atmosphere. They are staggered every two hours from 1:30 p.m., so you won't miss a single one if they all tempt you!
Good to know! a new attraction opens in 2025: Wild Buffalo, a vertiginous roller coaster. The roller coaster is accessible to children from 1.10 m, but accompanied by an adult for those under 1.30 m.
So, are you ready to play cowboys and Indians? Click here to book your Mer de Sable tickets!
13. What to do around Parc Astérix in Plailly? The Freeing escape game
Not far from the Forêt d'Halatte, 25 km from Parc Astérix (20 minutes by car) lies an activity that will appeal to big kids, teens and adults alike. Welcome to theFreeing escape game in Saint-Maximin. This 100% immersive play area, spread over 2,000m² indoors, offers several activities:
- escape game,
- karaoke,
- darts,
- immersive game,
- quiz,
- shuffleboard.
Twenty-three rooms plunge you into a variety of worlds, for family fun. With 16 different escape games to choose from, you're sure to find what you're looking for! A food court offering pizzas, snacks and cocktails is also at your disposal, so you can make the most of your activities while staying on site. Finally, there's so much entertainment on offer that it's easy to spend the whole day, as well as the evening. Whether you're visiting the Parc Astérix area as a couple, with friends or family, including teenagers, you're sure to have a 100% enjoyable time.
Good to know: board game evenings are organized every Tuesday evening. On Thursday evenings, there's a Werewolf evening (registration required). Fridays are food truck nights!
14. Discover the Royal Chaalis Abbey and its archaeological garden
In just 20 minutes, you can cover the 22 km between Parc Astérix and the Domaine de Chaalis. Its main point of interest is undoubtedly the former royal abbey founded in the XIIᵉ century. From the Gothic ruins, bearing witness to its rich monastic history, to the magnificent natural setting that surrounds it, we might as well warn you: the visit is a pure marvel.
The Sainte-Marie chapel, nicknamed the "French Sistine" for its Renaissance frescoes, is a pleasant addition to your visit, and there are still plenty of surprises on this exceptional estate! For example, the Musée Jacquemart-André, housed in the estate's château, lets you admire an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures and decorative arts.
The estate's park, meanwhile, invites you to stroll through its rose garden , classified as a "Remarkable Garden". A veritable maelstrom of intoxicating scents and colors sweeps you away, creating a whirlwind of emotions conducive to a romantic stroll. Every year, on the second weekend in June, rose enthusiasts gather on the estate. Enjoy!
Good to know the Domaine de Chaalis is close to the Ermenonville forest, the Parc Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Senlis and the Mer de Sable. A great idea if you're in the area for a few days!
15. What to do around Parc Astérix in Plailly? Visit the Musée de l'Air et de l'Espace
Visit Musée de l'Air et de l'Espacelocated in Le Bourget near Paris, is just 28 km from Parc Astérix (about 25 minutes). It's one of the world's oldest and largest aviation and space museums! Founded in 1919, it invites you to discover an exceptional collection retracing the history of aerostation, aviation and space exploration. Young and old love it!
Among its treasures are historic aircraft such as the Concorde prototype, the Air France Boeing 747, and emblematic planes from the First and Second World Wars. On the Space side, you can admire models of rockets, satellites and objects linked to space exploration. As an added bonus, the museum occasionally organizes events for families. Keep your eyes peeled, and don't forget to consult our dedicated article What to see and do at the Musée de l'Air et de l'Espace in Le Bourget? The 10 must-sees.
The article to readwhere to go for a weekend less than 2 hours from Paris? 19 destination ideas for 2025
The area around Parc Astérix in Plailly is full of surprises. As proof, discover our selection of the best places to visit around Paris, less than 1 hour away by public transport. Prefer the bucolic atmosphere of small villages? Discover the top 10 prettiest villages in the Oise region. They're the perfect complement to your getaway after the hustle and bustle of the theme parks. In short, whether you're staying for just a few days or for a two-week vacation, it's impossible to get bored, and you won't have to travel more than an hour from Parc Astérix!
