16èME ARRONDISSEMENT. The Bois de Boulogne offers more than 2100 acres of beautiful terrain, including woods, lakes, waterfalls and gardens. Originally fenced in as royal hunting grounds, the park was opened to the public in the early 19th century by Napoleon III, who had the wall built by Henri II torn down. This act marked the park's beginning. Today, multiple footpaths invite folks to explore the lovely grounds. It's best, however, to restrict visits to daytime hours, because some areas can be sketchy after dark. METRO: Sablons, Porte Maillot

12èME ARRONDISSEMENT. The Bois de Vincennes, Paris's largest park, was originally fenced off as royal hunting grounds. Today, scattered among its trees are peaceful lakes and even a château completed in 1370 under the reign of Charles V. In past years, the château has served as a city fortress and prison. Parc Floral (the flower garden) is a delight throughout the year, thanks to its hundreds of species of rainbow-hued flowers. Also located in the park is a zoo with 1200 bird and mammal inhabitants. METRO: Porte Dorée

6èME ARRONDISSEMENT. One of Paris's most famous parks, Luxembourg was originally established in the 1600s. Not until the 19th century, however, were its grounds opened to the public. The park is known for its two elaborate fountains and for its manicured design. While many folks come simply to enjoy its beauty, the park also invites folks to play a game of tennis or chess or sail a model boat across the water. Kids love Luxembourg's puppet shows, and everyone enjoys just sitting back and relaxing. METRO: Odéon

15èME ARRONDISSEMENT. Established in 1984, Parc Georges Brassens is alive with color and the whispers of running water. Formerly the site of slaughterhouses, the park has been reinvented with lush gardens, playgrounds, and a bandstand. One section was even designed for the blind and comes complete with braille signs. Architectural elements, sculpture, incredible plantings, and even a weekly book market add to the appeal of the delightful park. METRO: Convention

8èME ARRONDISSEMENT. In the late 18th century, Parc Monceau was created on the Monceau plain for the Duke of Chartres. It was filled with water features, statues and architectural elements from many other cultures, including a recreated pagoda and Roman temple. Visitors can take time to admire Dutch windmills and Swiss farms or simply wander through medieval ruins. The park became public domain after the French Revolution. METRO: Monceau