Visit of the machines of the Ile de Nantes

Want to see the giant animals of Nantes in action with your own eyes? Read on!

The idea of two big kids at heart

From the drawing to the setting in motion of their creations, Pierre Orefice and François Delaroziere like to share everything with the public. The two men have only one desire: to conceive a Jules Verne-like universe and to make the animals live in a machine.

Since 2003, the machinists have done much more than innovate. Indeed, the installation of the Machines de l'île de Nantes has allowed this part of the city to become urbanized and popular. Today, everyone knows this district of Nantes, even at the other end of France.

Timeless visits

Some spaces can be visited by everyone on the island of Nantes.

• The Galerie des Machines

This is where the creations come to life. During the visit, discover the history of this innovation and how these giant mechanical animals work.

• The big elephant

Be the lucky one to travel on the back of a giant elephant in the city of Nantes. An extraordinary experience that is worth the detour.

• The carousel of marine worlds

Dive into the world of the sea with your family or friends. Everything has been done to reveal the secrets of the sea floor, from the abyss to the surface of the sea. Giant fish are waiting for you.

• The terraces of the workshop

Attend the work of the builders of these fabulous creatures of Nantes.

• Participate in events throughout the year

During the year, the machines of the island of Nantes change their decor according to the seasons. Theater, music, circus or dance shows are organized. To reach a maximum of public, these representations are completely free and accessible to all.

Young and old are thus delighted to meet for a while to admire the work of the small hands of the region.

The practical information of the machines of Nantes

According to the period of the year, you will be able to discover the different workshops and shows. In low season, the opening is generally done only in the afternoon except exception. In summer, the machines of Nantes are open

• from 10 am to 8 pm maximum.

Each ticket gives access to the terraces, the film and the prototype branch of the Heron Tree. For the rest of the activities, you will have to buy an additional ticket in the Nave.

For the Big Elephant tour :

• 8,50 € for full price
• 6.90 € for the reduced rate

For the visit to the Galerie des Machines :

• 8.50 € full price
• 6,90 € for the reduced rate

To enter the Carrousel des Mondes Marins :

• 8.50 € full price
• 6,90 € for the reduced rate

Family rates and day passes are also available for sale.