Musée Rodin
Métro: Varrene     Museum Pass: Yes        Closed: Monday
This is the former residence of the famous sculptor.   Home of “The Thinker”.  Impressive gardens and visitor center.     A masterful collection of works of sculpture.  Enjoy a “croque madame” at the Café du Musée on the corner.   Combine with a trip to Napoleon’s Tomb and the Military Museum.  1 1/2  hours.  Website:  http://www.musee-rodin.fr/welcome.htm

Musée d'Orsay
Métro: Solférino    Museum Pass: Yes        Closed:  Monday
This grand museum is located in a former railroad station on the left bank.  The building is a work of art in itself.    In my opinion, this museum is more enjoyable than the Louvre.  Start at the top floor where you encounter the greatest collection of Impressionist paintings in the world.  The sculptures are magnificent.  Keep an eye out for a few surprises too.  Have lunch in the restaurant in the museum.  Crowded on weekends.  You should spend two half-days here.  Open late Thursday.  Website: http://www.musee-orsay.fr/en/home.html

Musée Picasso
Métro:  St-Paul        Museum Pass:  Yes        Closed:  Tuesday
Located in the Marais, this museum has an engrossing and varied collection of Picasso works.  The exhibits change on a regular basis.  The museum is located in a 17th century hotel.   This museum is a “must-see” for Picasso fans.   The works are constantly rotated and I never tire of visiting this museum.  2 hours.  Website: http://www.musee-picasso.fr/.  Please note that the Picasso Museum is currently closed for renovations.

Musée des Arts et Metiers
Métro: Arts et Metiers    Museum Pass: Yes    Closed: Mondays
This museum contains artifacts of engineering, science, and technology.    The first personal computer (so the French claim), the first automobile (so the French claim), and the first airplane (so the French claim) are located here.   Foucault’s Pendulum, Edison’s machines, and TV’s from the 1930’s are just part of the fascinating collection.   Essentially, it is a history of engineering and technology museum that will impress you with its amazing collection.  Open late Thursday. 2-3 hours.  Website: http://www.arts-et-metiers.net/?lang=ang

Musée National du Moyen Age-Thermes et Hôtel de Cluny (Cluny Museum)
Métro:  Cluny La Sorbonne        Museum Pass: Yes        Closed:  Tuesday
This museum of medieval art is located in the heart of the Latin Quarter at the intersection of boulevards Saint-Germain and Saint-Michel.  It is on the site of ancient Gallo-Roman baths.  Contained within are some unforgettable artifacts from the Middle Ages.   This is one of my favorite hidden gems.  The artifacts and famous tapestries are impressive.  Have a take-out lunch in the beautiful gardens.   Don’t miss this one for a relaxing day.  1 ½ -2 hours.
http://www.musee-moyenage.fr/ang/index.html

Canal Saint Martin-Canauxrama
Métro:  Jaurès
A lovely boat tour through the Canal Saint-Martin. Take the opportunity to cruise through some of the most adorable neighborhoods in Paris.  People watch you as you pass through the locks.  Complete with historical commentary.  Depart from the Bassin de la Villette and end up at the Bastille.  An easy-going and worthwhile tour.  I highly recommend it.  Sit at the very front of the boat.  1 ½   hours.
Website:  http://www.canauxrama.com/e_saint-martin.htm

Cathédrale de Notre Dame de Paris (Notre Dame Cathedral)
Métro:  Cité or St-Michel Notre Dame        Museum Pass: Only for towers
This cathedral is a classic example of 12th century Gothic architecture.  It stands on Île de la Cité and is close to Sainte-Chapelle and the Conciergerie.  If you want to climb to the top of the cathedral, get there early, before 9 a.m.    There is no admission fee to get into the cathedral itself.  The Museum Pass does not let you skip the line to climb the towers.  Make sure you bring binoculars to view the stained glass and other objects.    You may wish to visit the “Treasury” for a few euros inside the cathedral.  Watch out for gypsies and pick-pockets.  Île Saint-Louis is directly across the bridge from Notre Dame.  Sainte-Chapelle and the Conciergerie are also in the immediate area.  This is where I always start my trip in Paris.   In the center of the “Parvis” (yes, the spelling is correct) or the plaza in front of the cathedral, you will notice a bronze marker from which all distances in France are measured. The Crown of Thorns, worn by Jesus, is put on display at Notre Dame every Friday during Lent and on the 1st Friday of each month.   1-2 hours.  Website:  http://www.notredamedeparis.fr/

Musée Marmottan
Métro: Muette            Museum Pass: No        Closed:  Monday
A museum containing some fabulous works of Impressionists, especially Monet.    The best kept secret in Paris.  A comprehensive collection of Monet’s paintings are displayed here in a relaxing atmosphere, quite different from what you will find at the Orsay.  Don’t pass it by especially if you are an Impressionist art lover.  A little bit out of the way.  No photos.  About 90 minutes to 2 hours. Website: http://www.marmottan.com/uk/

La Cité des Sciences et de l'lndustrie
Métro:  Porte de la Villette        Museum Pass: Yes        Closed: Monday
A colossal science museum located on the outskirts of the city.  Appropriate for those interested in science and non-scientists alike.   This is another one of the best kept secrets in Paris.  It is perhaps the top science museum in the world.   I could spend 2 days here – seriously. However, I would say most people visit about half a day.   Kids are amazed by this museum, adults are astounded. The exhibits are very interactive and can be very contemporary.   I understand the music museum is nearby, but I have never been to it.  You can combine your trip here with a cruise down the Canal St. Martin.  Website:  http://www.cite-sciences.fr/english/index.php

Place des Vosges
Métro:  St-Paul
Located in the heart of the Marais, this is the oldest public square in Paris.   It is surrounded by picturesque 17th century townhouses. Drop in on the splendid art galleries around the square.  Visit Victor Hugo’s home at 6, place de Vosges.  30-45 minutes.  Victor Hugo home website:  http://www.hugo-online.org/Paris/maison.html