Futuroscope

Futuroscope opened in 1987 as an experiment: a park whose attractions were image technologies rather than rides, built in a cluster of angular glass and steel pavilions that still define its look. Over the years it has run large-format film, 3D and 4D, dome projection, simulators on motion bases and, more recently, mixed-reality attractions; the emphasis stays on screens, sound and movement rather than height and speed. It draws around two million visitors a year, which makes it one of the most visited parks in France. An evening water and light show closes the day in season. Some coasters have been added.

What you actually see

• The pavilion architecture - angular glass and steel buildings from the 1980s.
• The screen attractions - dome, large-format and mixed-reality shows.
• The motion simulators - seats moving in time with projected film.
• The evening show - a water, light and projection finale in season.

When to go

April to October; the park closes for parts of winter and some weekdays out of season. School holidays are busiest. Attractions rotate as technology dates, so returning visitors find changes.

Honest expectations

Older attractions can feel dated next to modern screens at home. Queues are long in holidays. It is largely indoors, which helps in bad weather but means crowding.

Nearby

Poitiers lies south; Saint-Savin abbey is east.