Jardin des Plantes is a historic botanical garden covering 23.5 hectares in the heart of Paris, founded in 1626 as the royal medicinal herb garden. It houses the Ménagerie (Paris's oldest zoo), the Gallery of Evolution with 7,000 animal specimens, and the Grandes Serres greenhouses with thousands of tropical species. Specialized gardens include the Alpine Garden, rose garden, and iris garden. Entry to the gardens is free, while the Ménagerie, museums, and greenhouses require separate tickets. Perfect for families with children.