Futuroscope
Science And Image Theme Park Near Poitiers Opened 1987, Known For Its Futuristic Buildings, Simulator Rides And Night Show · Chasseneuil-du-Poitou, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Futuroscope is a theme park built on science, images and technology, opened in 1987 by the Vienne department just north of Poitiers. It began as a showcase of giant screens and cinema formats, and its odd buildings, a leaning glass cube, a huge crystal and a sphere, still make it look like a world's fair frozen in time. Over the last decade it has moved towards rides: a flying theatre that sweeps you over imaginary landscapes, a spinning coaster with a space theme, a tornado ride, motion-simulator films and 4D shows with water and wind effects. Most attractions are indoors, which helps on rainy days, and many suit families with children of about 6 to 14 more than serious thrill seekers. The day ends with a water, fire and light show on the lake, confirm its current name. The park closes for part of the winter, confirm the calendar, and tickets are dated. It has its own TGV station and on-site hotels, and pairs well with Poitiers old town or the Marais Poitevin.
Futuroscope, 86360 Chasseneuil-du-Poitou, near Poitiers, Vienne, Chasseneuil-du-Poitou, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France
Futuroscope does not open every day of the year. It usually runs from around February or the school holidays in late winter through to early January, with closures on some weekdays in the quieter months and a winter break of several weeks; the exact calendar changes every year, so confirm it on the official site before you plan. On open days the gates open in the morning and the rides run until the evening; in spring, summer and many weekends the park stays open late for the night show on the lake, which starts around dusk, so the finishing time moves with the season, confirm on the day. Some attractions close earlier than the park itself, and one or two may be shut for maintenance on any given day. Tickets are sold for a chosen date, with lower prices on quieter days and online, and two-day tickets exist for people staying in the on-site hotels, confirm current formulas. School holidays, bank holiday weekends and July and August bring the longest queues. A separate water park has been added next to the main park in recent years, with its own hours and tickets, confirm whether it is open when you go. The car parks open before the gates and are paid.