Black and white photograph of demonstrations in Paris on June 1, 1958, in support of Charles de Gaulle

Palais Des Glaces

Palais des Glaces Paris: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction to Palais des Glaces in Paris

In the heart of Paris, the Palais des Glaces stands as a testament to the city’s vibrant cultural tapestry, inviting visitors to experience a unique blend of historic charm and contemporary artistic expression. Whether you are drawn to the legendary theater in the 10th arrondissement—celebrated for its comedy, music, and theatrical performances—or the world-renowned seasonal ice rink under the Grand Palais’s majestic glass roof, Palais des Glaces offers something for every cultural explorer.

First established in 1876 as a bustling café-concert, the historic theater has undergone a series of architectural and artistic metamorphoses. From its illustrious mirrored facade of 1924 to the playful elephant sculpture that defines its current identity, Palais des Glaces has hosted generations of artists, nurturing both prominent and emerging talents within Paris’s performing arts scene (Theatre in Paris, Cityzeum).

Separately, the Grand Palais des Glaces ice rink in the 8th arrondissement transforms the Grand Palais into a magical winter playground, merging art, sport, and Parisian nightlife for a truly festive atmosphere (Grand Palais des Glaces).

This comprehensive guide covers the rich heritage, practical visitor information—including visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and nearby attractions—and insider tips to help you make the most of your visit to both the Palais des Glaces theater and the Grand Palais ice rink.

Palais des Glaces theater entrance in Paris 10th arrondissement

Palais des Glaces: A Historic Parisian Cultural Gem
Discovering Palais des Glaces: Parisian Performing Arts Hub
Grand Palais des Glaces Ice Rink 2024–2025
Summary and Visit Tips
References

Palais des Glaces: A Historic Parisian Cultural Gem

Origins and Early Years (1876–1924)

The Palais des Glaces, located at 37 rue du Faubourg-du-Temple in the 10th arrondissement, opened in 1876 as Boléro Star before becoming Bijou Concert—a lively café-concert venue famed for its chanson performances and vibrant, convivial atmosphere. Managed by notable figures like Albert Schrameck and Paul Ruez (who also oversaw the Folies Bergère and Moulin Rouge), the venue became a staple of Parisian nightlife during the Belle Époque, adapting to the artistic tastes of the era (source).

The Mirror Facade (1924) and Architectural Transformation

In 1924, the Palais des Glaces was dramatically transformed with a mirrored facade, earning its name—“Palace of Mirrors.” This architectural innovation became a beacon of Parisian glamour and a recognizable city landmark. The venue also transitioned into cinema, briefly operating as the “Grand cinéma du palais des glaces,” attracting moviegoers with its dazzling exterior (source, source).

Theater’s Evolution: From Cinema to Modern Identity

The 1970s saw the Palais des Glaces return to its roots as a live performance venue, welcoming iconic artists including Marcel Dadi, Touré Kunda, Nina Simone, and The Clash. Its intimate 480-seat auditorium fostered energetic and eclectic experiences, from music to comedy and avant-garde performances (source).

In the 1980s, the mirrored facade was replaced by a whimsical elephant sculpture, inspired by a memorable show and now a symbol of the theater’s playful spirit. Today, nestled near the Canal Saint Martin, the Palais continues its tradition with a diverse program of musicals, stand-up, circus acts, and more (source).

Renovations and Recent Developments (2022–Present)

A new chapter began in 2022 when Mickael Chétrit and David Boukhobza acquired the theater, initiating major renovations to modernize facilities while preserving its storied heritage. Improvements include a refreshed logo and enhanced amenities for audiences (source).

Visiting Hours, Ticketing, and Accessibility

Visiting Hours: Typically open Tuesday to Saturday, with evening performances around 8 PM. Afternoon matinees, especially for families, are scheduled on weekends and during school holidays. Always check the official schedule for the latest showtimes.
Tickets: Purchase online via the Palais des Glaces website or at the box office. Prices usually range from €15 to €40, with discounts for students, seniors, and groups.
Accessibility: The venue is accessible to those with limited mobility. République metro station (Lines 3, 5, 8, 9, 11) is a short walk away. Amenities include cloakroom, bar, and accessible restrooms.

Special Events and Unique Experiences

Palais des Glaces regularly features special events, such as themed comedy nights, festivals, and circus showcases. Guided tours, highlighting the venue’s history and unique architecture, are occasionally offered—check the website for details. The theater’s famous elephant facade and Canal Saint Martin setting provide excellent photo opportunities.

Distinguishing the Theater from the Grand Palais des Glaces Ice Rink

The historic theater at 37 rue du Faubourg-du-Temple is distinct from the “Grand Palais des Glaces,” a seasonal ice rink held at the Grand Palais in the 8th arrondissement. Since 2012, this winter event has transformed the Grand Palais into the world’s largest indoor ice rink, hosting thousands of skaters each season (source).

Nearby Attractions

Near the Theater: Canal Saint Martin, Place de la République, Centquatre-Paris arts center, Théâtre Antoine, and numerous restaurants and bars.
Near the Ice Rink: Champs-Élysées, Petit Palais, Avenue Montaigne, Seine river cruises, and luxury shopping districts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Palais des Glaces visiting hours?
A: Evenings, Tuesday to Saturday; matinees on selected weekends and holidays. Check the official website for current showtimes.

Q: How can I buy tickets?
A: Online at the official website or at the box office.

Q: Is the venue accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, with wheelchair access and staff support.

Q: Is there a difference between the theater and the Grand Palais ice rink?
A: Yes—one is a year-round theater, the other a seasonal ice rink at a different location.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Occasionally—check the official site for details.

Discovering Palais des Glaces: Parisian Performing Arts Hub

Cultural and Historical Significance

Palais des Glaces is a pillar of Paris’s performing arts, with its main hall hosting major acts and the Petit Palais des Glaces nurturing emerging comedians and improvisers. Its motto, “morosité n’a pas sa place” (“gloom has no place here”), encapsulates its mission to foster creativity and joy (Cityzeum). Icons such as Bun Hay Mean, Gad Elmaleh, and Caroline Vigneaux have performed here (Agenda Culturel).

Venue Highlights and Facilities

Located at 37 rue du Faubourg du Temple, the theater offers both intimacy and versatility, with a welcoming foyer, cloakroom, bar, and accessible restrooms (France Voyage). The neighborhood buzzes with cultural life and excellent dining options.

Practical Visitor Information

Hours: Monday to Saturday, 7:30 PM–11:00 PM; weekend matinees at 3:00 PM.
Tickets: €22 to €50; discounts for students, seniors, and groups.
Transportation: Metro (République, Lines 3, 5, 8, 9, 11); bus lines 20, 56, and 65.
Accessibility: Wheelchair access and advance support available.

Community and Artistic Innovation

The theater’s commitment to inclusivity is evident through its family-friendly programming, support for new talent, and community engagement. The Petit Palais des Glaces is a launchpad for rising stars and experimental acts (Cityzeum).

FAQ

Q: What types of performances can I see?
A: Comedy, stand-up, improvisation, musicals, and children’s theater.

Q: How do I get there by metro?
A: République station is a 5-minute walk.

Grand Palais des Glaces Ice Rink 2024–2025

Event Overview and Cultural Importance

Held beneath the iconic glass dome of the Grand Palais (3 Avenue du Général Eisenhower, 8th arrondissement), this event is a Parisian winter highlight, combining ice skating, contemporary art installations, and festive nightlife (Grand Palais des Glaces).

Tickets, Visiting Hours, and Access

Tickets: Book online via the Grand Palais des Glaces website.
Visiting Hours: Three sessions daily—10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., and 8:00 p.m.–2:00 a.m.
Prices: Children (under 10) €15–€18, adults €20–€25, night sessions €36 per person.
Transport: Metro Lines 1 & 13 (Champs-Élysées – Clemenceau), multiple bus lines, RER C (Invalides). The venue is fully accessible.

Experience and Visitor Tips

Activities: Daytime family sessions, night DJ sets, monumental art installations, skate rental included.
Amenities: Food stalls with French treats, lockers, rest areas, accessible facilities.
Dress Code: Warm layers and gloves (required); helmets provided for children.
Photography: Allowed for personal use; professional equipment requires permission.
Nearby: Champs-Élysées, Petit Palais, luxury shopping, Seine cruises.

FAQ

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Online via the Grand Palais des Glaces website.

Q: Is the venue accessible?
A: Yes, with staff support for visitors with reduced mobility.

Summary and Visit Tips for Palais des Glaces

Palais des Glaces is a cornerstone of Paris’s cultural landscape, offering diverse programming and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors. From the historic theater’s legacy of live performance to the seasonal grandeur of the Grand Palais ice rink, both venues offer distinctive yet authentic Parisian experiences. Early ticket booking and checking official websites for current schedules are highly recommended.