Deyrolle

Deyrolle is the most unique curiosity shop in all of Paris — a novelty hardware store with stuffed bears, zebras, ostriches, lions, tigers and other wild game sold to collectors worldwide.  When we first moved to Paris, we lived right next door to Deyrolles but had no clue what was really inside, though found it interesting the shop windows showcased gardening tools with a large stuffed bear standing in the window.

A small, winding staircase in the back of this little shop leads you upstairs to a whole different world of all kinds of animals for sale — an old taxidermy shop where the most unique specimens are sold, including gargantuan Brazilian butterflies, horses, cheetahs, ostriches, exotic birds, and other so un-pc animals.  Featured in Woody Allen’s Midnight In Paris, the shop also sells books and other collectables, and is more of a museum than a gift shop.

The best part about Deyrolle is that entry is free, yet, you can experience a part of Paris that is unbelievably unique.   Originally established in 1831 by French naturalist by Émile Deyrolle, it is located on the very chic 46 Rue du Bac, within walking distance to the Louvre, Jardin des Tuileries, and for gourmet shopping La Grand Epicerie.