Superb, fun exhibition for the whole family. The film on dinosaurs is interesting and visually very well produced. Good experience to be repeated. The sound is also very good.
Armelle
Dec 2025
5/5
I missed van gogh but the immersive experience with the dinosaurs was amazing.
The sound the atmosphere the technique of the images
I had a great time
Renard
Dec 2025
5/5
Excellent information about dinosaurs living film very beautiful virtual photos children are
Passionate I recommend a very good time fascinating
Alexandre
FranceNov 2025
5/5
Non aime pas de places assisses....salle remplie et bruyante, pas assez de matiere ...(16€ pour 50mn de documentaire et une trentaine de photos vues en se serrant....certes vous optimisez votre endroit mais au detriment de l'art et de la connaissance
Madeleine
FranceNov 2025
5/5
This exhibition was very interesting, very well done. It allowed me to relive what I felt when that first visit to the moon took place. I was very moved.
Beatrice
FranceNov 2025
5/5
I really enjoyed the whole exhibition, as did the person who accompanied me.
The film took us back 50 years; it was very nostalgic and the explanations were very useful.
I advise everyone to come and see
Perset
FranceOct 2025
4/5
Nice, but standing for an hour with people walking past you, jostling you and stepping on you quickly becomes annoying.
What to expect at Atelier des Lumières
1/5
Arrival & atmosphere
Step into a former iron foundry transformed into an immersive art space. The high ceilings and industrial charm set the stage for a digital art journey like no other.
Your main exhibit
Discover The Moonwalkers, a 30–40 minute cinematic voyage co-created by Tom Hanks. Surround yourself with astronaut stories, moon missions, and awe-inspiring projections playing on a seamless loop.
Immersive projections all around
From floor to ceiling, every surface pulses with visuals and sound. You’re free to walk, sit, or stand as the artwork surrounds you in a rhythmic, 360° flow.
Interactive zones
Move through light-reactive zones that respond to your presence. This playful interaction adds a layer of movement and surprise, great for both kids and adults.
Children's workshop
Kids can join a self-led art station inspired by the exhibitions. Color digital templates and watch them come to life on wall projections. Entry is included and subject to availability.
Things to know before booking your tickets to Atelier des Lumières
Your Atelier des Lumières Immersive Experience Tickets are timed entry, which means you must select a specific time slot at checkout and aim to arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled time for a smooth experience. Re-entry is not allowed.
All tickets include access to interactive zones. One highlight is L’Atelier des Enfants, where kids can color digital templates inspired by famous artists and see them projected onto the walls. No additional reservation is required, but capacity is limited with a 10-15 minute wait during peak hours.
Note that the experience contains intense lighting effects and strobe visuals, which may not be suitable for individuals with photosensitivity or certain sensory conditions.
Tickets tend to sell out, especially on weekends or school holidays. Book at least 2-3 days in advance to avoid missing out. Walk-ins are not accommodated if the venue is full.
Atelier des Lumières highlights
Historic industrial architecture to future art
Art in a reimagined foundry
Before it became Paris’s leading immersive art space, Atelier des Lumières was a 19th-century iron foundry. Its towering ceilings, raw iron framework, and cavernous spaces now form a dramatic backdrop to cutting-edge digital projections, creating a unique contrast of history and innovation.
The Moonwalkers
The wonder of lunar exploration like never before
Step into the heart of space exploration in this immersive digital exhibition. Feel the thrill of the Apollo and Artemis missions through 360° projections, surround sound, and exclusive NASA footage, all brought to life by Tom Hanks’ narration and astronaut interviews.
Creative Children's Workshop
Hands-on art for younger visitors
Inspire the next generation of artists with Atelier’s children's workshop. Designed to educate and entertain, the workshop offers hands-on activities, including digital drawing, storytelling, and animation creation. It’s the perfect way for kids to engage with themes from the exhibits in a playful setting.
Top areas to explore in Atelier des Lumières
The main gallery space
📍 Ground floor
Step into an expansive gallery where iconic art and moving stories come alive through immersive 360° projections that cover walls, floors, and ceilings, creating a breathtaking multi-sensory journey.
✔ Included in ticket
The courtyard projection area
📍 Rear of the building
Step outside to enjoy outdoor digital art projected across courtyard walls, blending immersive visuals with fresh air for a unique, open-air extension of the main exhibits.
✔ Included in ticket
The workshop and educational zone
📍 Near the entrance
Dive deeper into the creative process through interactive stations, multimedia activities, and hands-on displays that bring an artist’s techniques, inspirations, and world to life.
✔ Included in ticket
The temporary exhibition hall
📍 Inside the main gallery
Discover rotating digital installations by diverse artists, offering fresh perspectives and immersive storytelling beyond the main feature. Content changes seasonally, so every visit feels different.
✔ Included in ticket
The café and relaxation lounge
📍 Mezzanine level
Pause your visit with artisan coffee, themed snacks, and sweet treats, all while overlooking the courtyard and soaking in the venue’s relaxed, artistic atmosphere.
✔ Free to access
The gift shop
📍 Next to the exit
Browse an eclectic range of art-inspired prints, books, home décor, and exclusive merchandise tied to current exhibits, perfect for taking a piece of the experience home.
✔ Free to access
History of Atelier des Lumieres
1835: Chemin-Vert Foundry is established by brothers Jacques and Hilaire Plichon to produce cast iron parts for the navy and railway companies.
1859: Jacques passes the foundry to his sons, Jean and Edouard, who continue the business as Plichon Brothers.
1929: The foundry shuts down during the global economic crisis, after struggling with new competition from welding, forging, and plastics.
2000s: Bruno Monnier of Culturespaces discovers the abandoned site and envisions transforming it into a digital art centre.
2018: After major renovations, Atelier des Lumières opens to the public on April 13. It welcomed 1.2 million visitors in its first year.
2018 welcomed: Four exhibitions in 2018, three in 2019, five in 2020, four in 2021, and three every year since.
Plan your visit to Atelier des Lumières
Opening hours: Daily from 10am to 6pm
Last entry: 45 minutes before closing (5:15pm)
Closed: No regular closing days; open year-round except for exceptional maintenance or holidays (check venue website before visiting)
Time to spend: Allocate 1 to 1.5 hours to enjoy the immersive exhibitions and multimedia presentations fully.
Best time to visit
Weekdays: Best to visit Tuesday to Thursday mornings (10am to 12pm) to avoid crowds.
Weekends: Expect higher visitor numbers, especially afternoons.
Season: Off-peak seasons like late autumn and winter (excluding holidays) offer fewer crowds.
Special events: Avoid major Paris holidays and school vacation weeks when the venue is busiest
The entrance is marked with signage and accessible from the street.
Close to the intersection with Rue Saint-Maur and Rue Saint-Ambroise.
Accessibility:
The main entrance is wheelchair accessible with a ramp and automatic doors.
Staff are available to assist visitors with mobility needs.
Photography without flash is allowed; tripods and selfie sticks are prohibited to avoid disturbing other visitors.
Large bags and backpacks are not permitted inside; small bags are allowed but subject to security checks.
No food or drinks are allowed inside the exhibition spaces.
Maintain a respectful silence or low voice to preserve the immersive atmosphere. No running or disruptive behavior.
No specific dress code, but comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended due to standing and walking
Children under 6 years old are not recommended due to the dark and immersive environment
Service animals allowed; guide dogs welcome
Cloakroom: Available at the entrance for coats and small bags; free of charge.
Lockers: No lockers available on-site; plan accordingly.
Restrooms: Clean and accessible restrooms are located near the entrance and exit areas.
Wheelchair accessibility: The entire venue is wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators. Wheelchairs are available upon request (subject to availability).
Seating: Limited seating areas inside the exhibition for resting.
Information desk: Staffed to assist with visitor inquiries and provide maps or guides.
Souvenir shop: Located near the exit, offering art prints, books, and themed merchandise.
Audio guides: Available for rent in multiple languages to enhance the experience.
Arrive at the right entrance: The venue is tucked into a quiet street. Use 38 Rue Saint-Maur for navigation, not just “Atelier des Lumières,” as nearby construction can confuse map pins.
No designated photo ops: This isn’t an Instagram-driven exhibit. Most people do take photos, but the emphasis is on full-room immersion, not posed shots or selfie stations.
No temperature control: The warehouse-style space is not strongly climate-controlled. It can feel cooler in winter or a bit warm during peak summer, dress accordingly.
Space fills from the center out: The central area gives you the best panoramic views. If you want an immersive experience, walk straight in and find a spot in the middle. Side benches offer partial views only.
It can get dark and disorienting: The projection space is dimly lit throughout, with constantly shifting light and music. It’s magical but might be overwhelming for visitors with sensory sensitivities.
Frequently asked questions about Atelier des Lumières tickets
Yes, but it’s recommended to book online in advance. Time slots often sell out, especially on weekends and during popular exhibitions like The Moonwalkers.
No, re-entry is not allowed. Your ticket provides single-entry access for the 30-minute window selected at checkout.
The exhibitions run for about 45 minutes to an hour, playing in a continuous loop. You can stay for multiple loops if you'd like to revisit your favorite moments.
Narration, when present, is in French. However, the experience is primarily visual and musical, making it accessible regardless of language.
Yes, Atelier des Lumières occasionally offers themed nights, extended evening hours, or seasonal installations. These are typically announced on their website or social media channels.
There is limited bench-style seating along the edges of the main hall. Most visitors walk around or sit on the floor to fully engage with the immersive projections.
Non-flash photography is allowed for personal use. However, video recording, tripods, and selfie sticks are generally not permitted to ensure an uninterrupted experience for all visitors.
Plan to arrive about 10–15 minutes before your scheduled entry. This gives you time for ticket checks and allows for a smoother start to your experience.
Yes, the shows are family-friendly and often enchanting for kids aged 6 and up. Some scenes are darker or more abstract, so very young children might need supervision or reassurance.
Atelier des Lumières Tickets
4.1(158)
Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction.
Step into a prehistoric world with immersive 360° dinosaur projections and a cinematic soundtrack.
Everything you get: Your entry unlocks a multi-sensory journey through Prehistoric Planet, surrounded by 360° projections, insightful educational segments, Gérard Lanvin’s narration, and a powerful score by Hans Zimmer, Anže Rozman, and Kara Talve.
Why choose this: A rare chance to see life-size dinosaurs through 360° digital art, offering an educational, immersive experience you won’t find elsewhere, which is an immersive upgrade over traditional dinosaur exhibits.
Inclusions
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Entry to Prehistoric Planet: Dinosaurs in Paris for approximately 50 minutes
360° immersive projections and visual displays
Educational content from the Prehistoric Planet series on Apple TV
Narration by Gérard Lanvin (French, English subtitles)
Specially composed soundtrack by Hans Zimmer, Anže Rozman, and Kara Talve
Exclusions
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Meals and refreshments
Transfers or transportation to Atelier des Lumières
What to bring
Bring a valid photo ID if you are eligible for a reduced rate (holders of disability cards and their accompanying person).
Tickets can be presented on your smartphone; printing is not required.
A baby carrier is recommended if visiting with infants, as strollers are not allowed.
What’s not allowed
Strollers are prohibited inside the exhibition for safety reasons.
Pets are not permitted.
Luggage or suitcases wrapped in plastic film (cellophane) are not allowed in storage.
Accessibility
The venue is fully accessible for people with reduced mobility.
Accessible restrooms are available on site.
Additional information
Children under 3 years enter for free; free entry must be arranged on-site.
Entry is permitted up to 15 minutes before or after your reserved time slot.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak periods.
Photos and videos are allowed inside the exhibition.
A gift shop is available on-site.
These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Tickets
NaN
Atelier des Lumières: Prehistoric Planet Immersive Experience
Step into a prehistoric world with immersive 360° dinosaur projections and a cinematic soundtrack.
Everything you get: Your entry unlocks a multi-sensory journey through Prehistoric Planet, surrounded by 360° projections, insightful educational segments, Gérard Lanvin’s narration, and a powerful score by Hans Zimmer, Anže Rozman, and Kara Talve.
Why choose this: A rare chance to see life-size dinosaurs through 360° digital art, offering an educational, immersive experience you won’t find elsewhere, which is an immersive upgrade over traditional dinosaur exhibits.
