Versailles with Kids and the Grand Ball: A Magical Family Adventure

In Versailles with Kids and the Grand Ball: A Magical Family Adventure, host Annie Sargent talks with Katie Danger, an American mom who has lived in Versailles for more than a decade. Katie knows the palace and its surroundings inside and out — and she shares all her best tips for families who want to enjoy this iconic destination without the stress.

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Together, Annie and Katie explore how to make Versailles fun and manageable with children. They talk about stroller-friendly paths, when to visit to avoid crowds, and why the gardens are often a better choice for kids than the formal palace rooms. Katie recommends favorite picnic spots, like near the Grand Canal or the Queen's Hamlet, where families can relax and feel the magic of French history in a natural setting.

The conversation also touches on local life in Versailles — the lively markets, neighborhood cafés, and parks that most tourists miss. Katie shares practical advice about buying tickets, timing your visit, and how to add a touch of sparkle by attending the Grand Ball of Versailles, one of the most extravagant costume events in France.

If you're planning a family trip to Versailles, this episode is packed with insider ideas to make it both educational and enjoyable. You'll come away inspired to slow down, explore beyond the palace walls, and experience Versailles like a local.

🎧 Subscribe to the Join Us in France Travel Podcast for more personal stories, practical tips, and smart itineraries that help you explore France beyond the clichés. Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning for your tenth, Annie and her guests will help you plan a trip you'll never forget.

Table of Contents for this Episode

• [00:00:15] Introduction
• [00:00:31] Today on the podcast
• [00:01:13] Podcast supporters
• [00:01:40] Bootcamp 2026
• [00:02:10] The Magazine segment
• [00:02:47] Welcome Katie Danger
• [00:03:47] Living in Versailles: A Personal Experience
• [00:05:25] Exploring Versailles with Kids
• [00:07:53] The Grand Canal and Outdoor Activities
• [00:09:35] Versailles Gardens: A Year-Round Attraction
• [00:14:56] Dining and Markets in Versailles
• [00:17:14] Extended Stay Recommendations
• [00:18:12] Unique Ways to Explore Versailles
• [00:23:19] Exploring Children's Books at Versailles
• [00:24:10] The Grand Ball: A Night to Remember
• [00:25:55] Versailles' Exclusive Costume Culture
• [00:30:09] Dining and Picnicking in Versailles
• [00:31:28] Bringing a Picnic Into Versailles
• [00:34:56] Versailles Beyond the Castle
• [00:36:29] Living in Versailles: A Personal Perspective
• [00:37:21] Conclusion and Final Thoughts
• [00:41:08] Tour Reviews
• [00:42:16] Podcast listeners discount
• [00:42:49] Seine River flood tests – Hydros 25
• [00:44:38] Robert Badinter
• [00:47:22] France, a mostly rural country
• [00:54:09] Next week on the podcast
• [00:54:56] Copyright

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