Jardin public is the main public garden of Bordeaux, a short walk from Place des Quinconces. Created in 1746 and open to the public from the start, it combines formal French flowerbeds, a small botanic garden, a pond with ducks, geese and carp, and a river crossed by footbridges. Inside the park you will also find the Natural History Museum, an antique carousel and the Guignol Guérin puppet theatre. Plan a slow afternoon with a picnic, a walk along the water and time in the shade.
From 1746 to today
The park was created in 1746 and was built to be opened to the public, which was unusual for a garden at that time. It was made for the people of Bordeaux to enjoy.
The garden is credited to Jacques Ange Gabriel. Its formal French layout still shapes the central areas, with clipped beds and straight paths. In other parts the planting is looser, so the walk changes from one section to the next.
Classic Bordeaux mansions line the edges, and 18th-century buildings stand among the trees and statues.
The botanic garden and the museum
A small botanic garden sits inside the park, with plants from many parts of the world. Visitors can walk through it between the lawns and the ponds.
The Natural History Museum stands at the edge of the park, in one corner. It is an easy visit on a grey or wet day, when the paths and lawns are less appealing.
The Orangerie, a terrace used as a bar and restaurant, is close to these areas, so you can combine a museum visit with a break.
Puppets, carousel and play areas
The Guignol Guérin puppet theatre has been running since 1853 and is one of the best-known things to do with children in the park. The shows are mainly on weekends, so check before you plan around them.
The children's play area has an antique carousel and playgrounds. Parents can sit on the shaded benches nearby while children play.
The park also has a basketball court, a volleyball court, a tennis court and a skateboarding area, so older children and teenagers have space to be active.
Walking, the water and the dog zone
Footbridges cross the small river, and the pond is home to ducks, geese and carp. Several bridges give a clear view down to the water.
A short boat ride on the river gives a different view of the park and its wildlife. It is a simple option if you want to sit down for a while.
Dogs are allowed in the park, and a separate dog zone is set aside for them. Many locals walk their dogs here, and people also spend time dancing in groups on the paths and lawns on sunny days.
For a picnic, the lawns and picnic tables work well, and there is a barbecue grill for those who want one.
Häufige Fragen
Is there an entry fee?
Entry to the park is free. Some activities inside, such as the puppet theatre and the boat ride, are separate.
What is there for children?
The park has a playground, an antique carousel and the Guignol Guérin puppet theatre, which has been running since 1853.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes. Dogs are allowed in the park, and there is a dog zone.
Can you eat in the park?
Yes. The Orangerie terrace has a bar and restaurant, and there is a small ice cream cafe. Picnics on the lawns are also common.
