I've always thought that the one thing missing from Paris is a beach. Well from mid-July to mid-August (this year it's from July 19th to August 17th) Paris makes its own beach by shipping in sand and deck chairs and setting them up along the riverbanks of the Seine. While it's a good idea, it is mostly tourists and non-Parisians that end up using this attraction (as most Parisians have fled the city by August...they do have 5 weeks annual holiday!) and there is still no sea or ocean to swim in! Still, this is a really great place for kids, with picnic areas, ice cream stands, water fountains, dancing demonstrations and other activities to keep the whole family occupied!