Fodor's Expert Review Musée de la Poupée

Providing an impressive overview of dolls through the ages, this charming museum is a little girl's dream. Here you'll see dolls made from Bisque porcelain, sturdy wood, soft cotton, delicate papier-mâché, plus the first plastic dolls from the early 20th century. Some play music, others make tea. Cases lining the walls are stocked with baby dolls, minidolls (mignonettes), and grown-up lady dolls in satin dresses—the foremothers of Barbie. There are also antique toy strollers, high chairs, and tattered teddy bears in need of a hug. Too extensive to show at one time, the permanent collection changes frequently and can be arranged by period or theme. Temporary exhibitions might focus on Barbie's evolution or offer a classic look at postwar French dolls. Workshops allow kids to make a doll to take home (they're in French, but the mostly bilingual staff is happy to speak English; check the website for details). There's also an on-site doll hospital and a well-stocked gift shop.