I wish Le 104 CentQuatre wasn’t all the way up in the northeast corner of Paris, because I’d love to stop by this place more often. The 19th-century building used to house the Municipal Funeral Services (1905-1997) and now is a multi-purpose arts center hosting theatre, dance, music, and artist exhibitions in its immense series of halls and former stables.

But if you’re looking for something unique in Paris, come for the shopping. There’s an Emmaüs charity thrift shop that’s adorably decorated, a book store with special sections dedicated to arts and kids, and pop-up space for temporary shops such as the current SAWA-Made in Africa boutique and the ETHOS PARIS organic clothing shop.

There was a very special carousel installed over the holidays at Le 104 CentQuatre called the Manège Carré Sénart. It looks like a creation right out of a Tim Burton film, with space for 49 kids or adults to ride on the poetic, whimsical metallic buffalo, insects, fish, and other odd creatures. Happily, its residency has been extended through June 26, so if you haven’t yet been, you still have time! The cost is €4, and it’s open April 1-24 on Wed-Fri 2-6pm, and Sat-Sun noon-8pm; open April 30-June 26 Wed 2-6pm and Sat-Sun noon-8pm.
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