This expansive park, twice the size of New York's Central Park, is generally known as the green lung of Paris, an informal haven in west side of Paris. The park is a family-friendly location, with lakes, cycling paths, horse-riding trails and more than 35 kilometres of footpaths.

The forest as it stands is a scrap of what was once the ancient oak forest of Rouvray, first mentioned in writing in 717. It was converted into a park by Napoleon III, who sold some of the north end and brought in Baron Haussmann, a preeminent architect in Paris, to help with the design. They were greatly influenced by other European countries, particularly Hyde Park in London. The earth from the digging of the upper and lower lakes was used to create the butte Montmartre.

The landscaping in the Bois de Boulogne is informal; it is the trees, not the flowers, that are the attraction here. Many exotic and ancient species grow in the woods, including huge redwoods. Up in the north corner is the Fondation Louis Vuitton which hosts extraordinary contemporary art exhibitions and  the Jardin d'Acclimation, landscaped grounds with a stylish adventure playground and zoo, that will provide hours of entertainment for children. Nearby, the charming greenhouses of Auteuil feature a collection of plants from all over the world. 

Other attractions include the Parc and Château de Bagatelle, a neoclassical manor and grounds, as well as a beach garden and a puppet theatre. There is also a Japanese Kiso house in the Shogun style, the Hippodrome de Longchamp racetracks, and the tennis courts at the Stade de Roland Garros, where the French Open is hosted.