Located between Metz and Thionville in France’s Moselle region, close to Luxembourg, Belgium, and Germany’s Saarland, Amnéville is one of France’s top destinations for family fun. Within one area that’s easy to explore almost entirely on foot, you’ll find a major zoo, France’s only indoor ski slope, an amusement park, an aquarium, thermal baths, an Olympic-size ice rink, and treetop adventure courses. This guide covers things to do in Amnéville and the surrounding area, with practical tips for planning a trip that suits your family and budget.
Zoo d’Amnéville: the highlight of Amnéville’s leisure complex
Zoo d’Amnéville is undoubtedly the main attraction at Amnéville’s leisure complex. Home to nearly 2,000 animals representing 360 species across 10 themed areas and 44 acres of forest, it’s one of France’s most diverse and popular zoos. Since spring 2025, visitors can also enjoy Jurassic Expedition : a 650-foot forest trail featuring 70 animated, life-size dinosaurs, included with admission.
What makes the zoo stand out:
- Open year-round, even during the off-season
- Fun for all ages, from babies to seniors
- Free admission for children under 3
- Free parking
- Jurassic Expedition (dinosaurs) included with admission
- The Luminescences festival, October through March: a 1.5-km trail of glowing lanterns after dark
Check prices and opening hours before your visit, and get ready by exploring the animals at the zoo.
Snowhall: Ski in Moselle, year-round
The Snowhall has the longest indoor ski slope in France and is one of the largest in Europe. With a 620-meter slope and a 90-meter vertical drop, kept at a constant temperature year-round, you can ski, snowboard, or try snow sports in the middle of summer or winter.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Slope length | 620 meters |
| Vertical drop | 90 meters |
| Activities available | Downhill skiing, snowboarding, sledding, cross-country skiing (depending on the area) |
| Opening hours | Year-round |
| Lessons available | Yes, for beginners and experienced skiers |
| Equipment rental | On-site |
| Recommended minimum age | Ages 3 to 4 for first lessons |
Snowhall is especially popular with families whose children have never skied. It’s a safe place for a first lesson, with no need to worry about the weather. It’s also a great choice on summer days when kids want to stay cool and get active. Official website: snowhall.fr.
Walygator Grand Est: Thrills just minutes from the zoo
Located in Maizières-les-Metz, about 4 kilometers from Zoo d’Amnéville, Walygator Grand Est is one of the largest amusement parks in the Grand Est region. Open from April through November (check the calendar), it offers more than 40 rides and shows for all ages.
| Ride type | Examples | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Thrill roller coasters | The Monster (B&M Inverted Coaster), l’Anaconda, Space Shoot | Teens and adults (minimum height required) |
| Family rides | Waly Mille-Pattes, Rocky Rangers | Children ages 4 to 10 |
| Water attractions | River and water rides | The whole family (summer) |
| Shows | Themed shows and seasonal entertainment | The whole family |
Walygator Grand Est is especially well suited to families with children ages 6 or 7 and up. For younger kids, Zoo d’Amnéville is a better fit. Book your tickets online at walygatorparc.com for the best prices.
Amnéville Aquarium: an underwater adventure
Located in the heart of the leisure complex, just a short walk from the zoo, the Amnéville Aquarium invites you to explore underwater habitats from around the world. From tropical rivers and oceans to African and Amazonian waters, each themed area reveals more of the world’s aquatic wildlife.
The aquarium is a natural addition to a day at the zoo, offering a different perspective on biodiversity. It’s also a great option on a rainy day or for an extra half-day during a two-day visit. Plan to spend 1 to 2 hours exploring.
France Aventures: a treetop adventure in the forest
At France Aventures, you can tackle treetop courses in the heart of the forest, right next to the leisure complex. With several difficulty levels, there’s something for everyone—from children as young as 3 on age-appropriate courses to seasoned adults.
- Rope bridges, zip lines, climbing walls
- Courses ranked by difficulty (green, blue, red, and black)
- Time needed: 2 to 3 hours, depending on the course
- Great for groups and birthday parties
Information and reservations at france-aventures.com.
Amnéville Olympic Ice Rink
The Amnéville ice rink is open year-round except in summer. It welcomes everyone from casual skaters to athletes competing at the highest level. Ice skating is a great family activity for kids ages 5 and up, with skate rentals available on-site and dedicated public skating sessions.
Thermal Spas: Thermapolis and Villa Pompéi
For adults looking to unwind—or parents ready to recharge after an active day—Amnéville offers two wellness destinations:
- Thermapolis : warm pools, massage jets, a sauna, a steam room, and a lazy river. Open to adults and children who meet the minimum age requirement (check before visiting).
- Villa Pompéi : a thermal spa with warm mineral-water pools and relaxation areas. A quieter, more intimate setting geared mainly toward adults.
These spas offer a relaxing way to end a day packed with activities.
The Motorcycle and Bicycle Museum
A hidden gem for enthusiasts, Amnéville’s Motorcycle and Bicycle Museum features Maurice Chapleur’s private collection: more than 230 vehicles on display, including around 60 motorcycles and bicycles dating from 1895 to 1950. It’s a fascinating stop for transportation history fans and kids who love vintage machines.
Metz: A Day of Culture Just 12 Miles Away
Amnéville is a great base for combining fun and culture. Metz, just 12 miles (19 km) away, is one of the most beautiful cities in the Grand Est region and well worth a half-day or full-day visit.
| Place in Metz | Type | Kid-friendly | Suggested time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saint-Étienne Cathedral | Gothic landmark with France’s largest stained-glass windows | Ages 6 and up | 1 hour |
| Centre Pompidou-Metz | Museum of modern and contemporary art | Ages 8 and up (varies by exhibition) | 2 to 3 hours |
| Musée de la Cour d’Or | Archaeology and the history of Metz (Gallo-Roman collections) | Ages 8 and up | 2 hours |
| The Moselle riverfront | Stroll along the waterfront | All ages | 1 hour |
| The Imperial Quarter | German architecture (1900–1914), Place de la République | Ages 10 and up | 45 minutes |
| Porte des Allemands | 13th-century medieval fortress | Ages 6 and up | 30 minutes |
Metz is 20 minutes from Amnéville by car or bus (route 77 from Metz). If you’d like to see the city from the water, Les Vedettes de Metz offers guided cruises on the Moselle River during the season.
Suggested itineraries for different visit lengths
One-day family itinerary (with kids)
| Time | Activity | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 9:30 a.m. | Arrive at Zoo d’Amnéville and check today’s activities | 30 min |
| 10:00 a.m. | Must-see animal areas (gorillas, orangutans, giraffes) | 2 h 30 |
| 12 hours 30 minutes | Lunch break at the zoo (restaurant or picnic) | 1 hour |
| 1:30 p.m. | Jurassic Expedition : dinosaur forest and interactive area | 1 hr 30 min |
| 3:00 p.m. | Continue exploring the zoo (big cats, penguins, African area) | 1 hr 30 min |
| 4:30 p.m. | Leave the zoo |
Full weekend itinerary in Amnéville (2 days)
| When | Activity |
|---|---|
| Saturday morning | Zoo d’Amnéville: animal areas and Jurassic Expedition |
| Saturday afternoon | Zoo d’Amnéville: keep exploring, then enjoy Luminescences in the evening (October–March) |
| Sunday morning | Walygator Grand Est (ages 6 and up) or Snowhall (indoor snow sports) |
| Sunday afternoon | Aquarium d’Amnéville or France Aventures (treetop adventure course) |
Cultural day trip to Metz and Amnéville
- Morning (9 a.m.–noon): visit Saint-Étienne Cathedral and Metz’s Old Town
- Lunch: restaurant on the Moselle riverfront
- Afternoon (2–6 p.m.): Zoo d’Amnéville or Centre Pompidou-Metz, whichever you prefer
How do I get to Amnéville?
| Departure city | Distance | Driving time | Best for transportation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metz | 19 km | 20 minutes | Bus route 77 from the Metz bus station |
| Thionville | 15 km | 15 minutes | Check with local transit providers |
| Nancy | 74 km | 50 minutes via the A31 | Train to Metz, then bus route 77 |
| Luxembourg | 47 km | 40 minutes via the A31 | Train jusqu’à Thionville, puis correspondance |
| Strasbourg | 175 km | 1 hour 45 minutes via the A4 and A31 | Train to Metz, then bus route 77 |
| Paris | 320 km | 3 hours via the A4 and A31 | TGV Paris-Est jusqu’à Metz (1 h 20), puis bus ligne 77 |
By car, take exit 37, “Mondelange-Amnéville,” from the A31 highway. Zoo parking is free. For more details, visit our Getting Here page.
For places to stay near the Amnéville entertainment complex, visit the zoo’s Accommodations page. Hôtel Diane is in the heart of the complex, within walking distance of all the attractions.
Seasonal events you won’t want to miss in Amnéville
The Amnéville entertainment complex has a changing lineup of events throughout the year. Here are the seasonal highlights to plan around:
| Season | Event | Location | Public |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (April–May) | Peak season begins at the zoo, and Jurassic Expedition returns | Zoo d’Amnéville | Families |
| Spring–summer | Walygator Grand Est opens | Maizières-lès-Metz | Kids and teens |
| Summer (June–August) | Falconry shows and activities at the zoo | Zoo d’Amnéville | Families |
| Fall (Oct.–Mar.) | Luminescences festival: 0.9 miles of themed lanterns after dark | Zoo d’Amnéville | Families |
| Winter | Ice skating, Snowhall, and Christmas festivities at the entertainment complex | Entertainment complex | Families |
| Year-round | Shows at Galaxie Mega Hall (schedule varies) | Galaxie Mega Hall | Adults |
The Luminescences festival is especially worth seeing. The 2025–2026 theme is Fiesta Latina: six worlds inspired by Latin America (Mexico, the Amazon rainforest, pre-Columbian civilizations, the Andes, seas and oceans, and Brazil), with lanterns reaching over 26 feet tall along a 0.9-mile route. Luminescences tickets are sold separately from zoo admission: check the current opening hours and prices.
Day trips from Amnéville
Amnéville’s location makes it an ideal home base for exploring the area. Here are a few destinations less than an hour away:
| Destination | Distance | Main attractions | Kid-friendly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metz | 19 km | Cathedral, Centre Pompidou-Metz, Old Town | Ages 6 and up |
| Thionville | 15 km | Tour aux Puces (museum), lively downtown | Ages 8 and up |
| Lake Madine | 60 km | Lake, beach, water activities | All ages |
| Luxembourg City | 47 km | UNESCO-listed Old Town, Chemin de la Corniche | Ages 8 and up |
| Verdun | 80 km | Sites de la Grande Guerre, Mémorial de Verdun | Ages 10 and up |
| Saarbrücken (Germany) | 60 km | Shopping, museums, regional cuisine | All ages |
If you’re spending several days in the area, Moselle also has wonderful natural spaces to explore as a family: the ponds of the Sarrebourg Forest, the Moselle River gorges between Metz and Thionville, and Lorraine Regional Natural Park, with trails and lakes suitable for even the youngest visitors. The Moselle tourism office (moselle-tourisme.com) lists activities and places to stay throughout the region.
Estimated budget for a family weekend in Amnéville
To help you plan your stay, here are estimated costs for different activities (not including lodging or transportation):
| Activity | Estimated adult price | Estimated child price | Free for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zoo d’Amnéville (online ticket) | See official prices | Reduced price | Under 3 |
| Jurassic Expedition | Included with zoo admission | Included | Everyone with zoo admission |
| Luminescences (evening) | Separate ticket; see zoo prices | Reduced price | Varies by age |
| Snowhall (2 hours of skiing) | About €25–€35 | About €20–€30 | Variable |
| Walygator Grand Est | About €30–€40 | About €25–€35 | Children under 4 |
| France Aventures (treetop adventure course) | About €15–€22 | About €12–€18 | Varies selon parcours |
| Aquarium d’Amnéville | About €10–€15 | About €7–€12 | Under 3 |
Prices are estimates and may change. Always check each attraction’s official website for current prices before your visit.
FAQ: Your Questions About Things to Do in Amnéville
Can you do everything in Amnéville in one day?
Not realistically. The zoo alone is worth a full day. To visit the zoo, Snowhall, and Walygator, plan on at least a weekend. The leisure complex is best enjoyed over two or three days.
What’s the most affordable thing to do in Amnéville?
The zoo offers the most for your money, especially with Jurassic Expedition included in your ticket. Walks in the surrounding forest and some public areas of the leisure complex are free. Most major attractions (Snowhall, Walygator, and the aquarium) charge admission.
Are there free things to do in Amnéville?
The Coulange Forest, which surrounds part of the leisure complex, has lovely trails you can enjoy for free. Public play areas are also available. Most tourist attractions and activities, however, charge admission.
Can you get to Amnéville from Paris by public transportation?
Yes. A TGV train from Paris-Est reaches Metz in 1 hour and 20 minutes. From Metz, bus route 77 goes directly to the Amnéville leisure complex. The total trip from Paris takes about 2 hours.
When is the best time to visit Amnéville?
Every season has its charms. In spring and summer, you can enjoy all the outdoor attractions (the zoo, Walygator, and the ropes course). Fall is perfect for pairing a zoo visit with the Luminescences festival in the evening. Winter offers a quieter zoo visit and a Snowhall session with a cozy winter feel.
Are there plenty of restaurants in Amnéville?
Yes. Amnéville’s leisure complex has plenty of places to eat, from brasseries to themed restaurants. The zoo also has its own food options: visit the Food & Drink page to see what’s available inside the park.
In short: Amnéville, an all-in-one destination for family fun
Amnéville is one of the few places in France where you can spend two full days exploring without getting back in the car between activities. A zoo, dinosaurs, indoor skiing, roller coasters, ice skating, thermal spas, treetop adventures, and a museum—all in one area—make it a standout destination for fun in the Grand Est region.
For families coming from Lorraine, Alsace, Belgium, or Luxembourg, it’s an ideal base for a full weekend. If you’re traveling from farther away, combining Amnéville with a visit to Metz adds a rich cultural experience to your trip.
To plan your visit to Zoo d’Amnéville, explore Prices, Opening Hours and Activities, Getting Here, and Places to Stay.
Sources: zoo-amneville.com (official 2025–2026 information) | amneville.com, Cité des Loisirs d’Amnéville | sncf-connect.com (Amnéville activity guide, June 2025) | walygatorparc.com | explore-grandest.com | mosl.fr | tripadvisor.fr (Amnéville attractions)
