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Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin

4.2
·3k reviews·Blois, France

Step into a world of wonder at the Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin, celebrating the father of modern magic with illusions, automata, and dragon spect...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Hourly, on the hour

Dragon appearances!

CrowdMedium
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Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin - Image 1

Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin

Best Time

Hourly, on the hour

Dragon appearances!

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into a world of wonder at the Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin, celebrating the father of modern magic with illusions, automata, and dragon spectacles.

4.2
(3k reviews)

"The dragons appearing from the windows every hour are the coolest thing ever!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🐉 Dragon Watch

Time your visit for the hourly dragon appearances from the windows – it's a crowd-pleaser!

🎭 Show Schedule

Check the theatre showtimes upon arrival; they are limited and a highlight of the visit.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dragon Appearances

Dragon Appearances

Museum Facade

Mechanical dragons emerge hourly from the windows, a surprising and enchanting sight for all ages.

Instagram
Live Magic Shows

Live Magic Shows

Theatre

Experience captivating live magic performances, often with mime and classic tricks, included with admission.

Reddit
Interactive Illusions

Interactive Illusions

Museum Rooms

Explore a fascinating collection of automata, illusions, and the history of prestidigitation in an engaging way.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Dragon Spectacle Schedule

Don't miss the hourly dragon appearances from the windows! Check the schedule upon arrival to time your visit perfectly for this unique, magical spectacle that delights all ages. Instagram

Showtimes & Tickets

The museum offers a fantastic magic show included with your ticket. Inquire about showtimes upon arrival, as they are limited. Booking ahead isn't usually necessary, but checking schedules ensures you don't miss the main theatre performance. Reddit

Best Times

When
Hourly, on the hour
Why
Dragon appearances!
Crowd
Medium
When
Mid-afternoon
Why
Catch a theatre show
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍Maison de la magie, Blois #maisondelamagie #maisondelamagieblois #maisondelamagieroberthoudin #blois #bloismaville #bloiscity #centrevaldeloire #loirercher #loiretchertourisme #francetourisme #destinationfrance #guidetouristiquefrance
guidetouristiquefrance
0 likes • 1.7K views

🐉 Dragon Watch

Time your visit for the hourly dragon appearances from the windows – it's a crowd-pleaser! Instagram

🎭 Show Schedule

Check the theatre showtimes upon arrival; they are limited and a highlight of the visit. Reddit

Fin de Saison 2023 à la Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin ! #maisondelamagie #magicien #magie #lovemyjob
kevin.nain.magicien
40 likes • 1K views
Entrer dans la matrice de la Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin c’est faire un voyage dans le surnaturel, dans l’extravagante ferveur du divertissement et du mystère . Derrière ses collections et ses expositions uniques au monde , des spectacles d’illusions et de splendeurs qui existent pour qui veut les voir … @à la une Frederic Georges Maurice Props location cinema/tv Atomik Family The Last muse...
fredericgeorgesmaurice
10 likes • 115 views

🎟️ Affordable Entry

Reasonable ticket prices, with free entry for children under 6. Great value! Reddit

🗣️ Language Friendly

Shows often use mime, making them enjoyable even if you don't speak French. Reddit

Pèlerinage à Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin , là où tout a commencé pour mon numéro avec l' Equipes de France de Magie FFM Heureux d'avoir fait découvrir ce lieu unique à ma famille, c'est une source d'inspiration inépuisable ! Merci à Arnaud Dalaine pour son accueil et bravo pour ces belles créations de la saison 2025 ! Bravo aux artistes et content d'avoir revu le superbe Sébastien Gayou et d...
mervilmagie
23 likes • 815 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🐉 Dragon Watch

Time your visit for the hourly dragon appearances from the windows – it's a crowd-pleaser! Instagram

🎭 Show Schedule

Check the theatre showtimes upon arrival; they are limited and a highlight of the visit. Reddit

🎟️ Affordable Entry

Reasonable ticket prices, with free entry for children under 6. Great value! Reddit

🗣️ Language Friendly

Shows often use mime, making them enjoyable even if you don't speak French. Reddit

📍 Prime Location

Conveniently located opposite the Chateau, perfect for combining with other Blois attractions. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.2
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin for its enchanting atmosphere and unique attractions, particularly the hourly dragon appearances and engaging magic shows. While some find the museum exhibits a bit small, the overall experience is considered a magical and worthwhile addition to any Blois itinerary, offering great value for families and magic enthusiasts alike. Reddit

"We had a fantastic time at the house of magic in Blois! My kids were absolutely amazed by the magicians performance live tricks throughout the museum. It really brought the magic to life in such a fun and interactive way!

But the highlight for all of us was definitely the dragons that appear from the Windows every half hour. The kids thought it was the coolest thing ever and couldn't stop talking about it!

If you are in the area, this museum is definitely worth a visit. Even better: entry is free for children under 6 years old and the other ticket prices are very reasonable! Definitely a magical experience for the whole family! You don't need reservations, you can buy tickets at the entrance on the day of your visit."

Kenneth Van Baelen

"Amazing find, and truly enchanting addition to Blois. This is a different experience to other chateau’s and a deep dive into the history of magic and Robert-Houdin. The museum was interesting and interactive and the show was a surprising, yet fantastic extra included in the entry fee. Kept my children on the edge of the seats in amazement throughout the show (6-13 yrs)"

Ben Neal

"Situated just opposite the Chateau is this museum.

For A relatively small fee we were able to experience both the museum and a show in the theatre at the premises.

The show in the theatre was amazing with this being a great experience.

My dissapointment was that the museum itself felt quite small, it could do with one or two more illusions to be installed.

I would still highly recommend to go, with both children and adults enjoying this.

If you manage to hit both the theatre show (this only occurs 2/3 times a day from memory) and the smaller shows in some of the rooms as well as the museum this museum does offer exceptional value, I would suggest to find out when the theatre shows are before arriving."

Nathan Tall

What People Like

Hourly dragon appearances
Engaging magic shows
Interactive illusions

What People Dislike

Museum exhibits feel small

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin is centrally located in Blois, directly opposite the Royal Château. It's easily accessible on foot if you're exploring the city center. Public transport options in Blois are limited, but parking is available nearby if you're arriving by car. Instagram+1

Yes, there are several parking options available in the vicinity of the Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin, especially near the Château de Blois. Be aware that parking in the city center can be paid. Instagram

The Blois-Chambord train station is a bit of a walk from the city center and the museum, approximately 20-30 minutes. Taxis or local buses are available from the station if you prefer not to walk. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices are very reasonable, offering excellent value for money. Children under 6 often get free admission, making it a budget-friendly option for families. Reddit

Generally, you do not need to book tickets in advance. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance on the day of your visit. However, it's wise to check their official website or inquire about potential special events. Reddit

Your admission ticket typically includes access to the museum's exhibits, the interactive illusions, and a live magic show in the main theatre. Some smaller shows in different rooms might also be included. Reddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin website for the most up-to-date information on opening times and show schedules before your visit. Reddit

While specific group discounts aren't always advertised, the general admission prices are already quite affordable. The free entry for young children makes it particularly attractive for families. Reddit

🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience

The main attractions are the hourly dragon appearances from the museum's windows, the captivating live magic shows in the theatre, and the interactive exhibits on the history of magic and illusions. InstagramReddit

The live magic shows are primarily performed in French. However, many shows incorporate mime and visual magic, making them understandable and enjoyable for international visitors. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! The museum is very family-friendly. The dragon appearances, interactive illusions, and engaging magic shows are particularly captivating for children. InstagramReddit

A visit can take anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on how long you spend in the museum exhibits and if you catch multiple shows. It's recommended to check the show schedule upon arrival. Reddit

The Room of Illusions offers fun, interactive experiences that play with perception and perspective, providing great photo opportunities and a playful engagement with magical principles. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted in most areas of the museum for personal use. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain exhibits or during live performances to protect the displays and performers. Instagram

The exterior with the dragon windows is iconic. Inside, the Room of Illusions offers fun, perspective-bending shots. The theatre stage and displays of historical magic artifacts also make for interesting photos. InstagramReddit

Definitely try to capture the moment the dragons appear from the windows! The interactive illusions in the dedicated room also provide unique and memorable photo opportunities. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin is a fantastic destination for families. The hourly dragon appearances are a guaranteed hit with children, providing a whimsical spectacle. The interactive illusions and the engaging magic shows (even if in French, they are visually captivating) ensure kids remain entertained and amazed throughout the visit. InstagramReddit

With affordable ticket prices and free entry for the youngest visitors, it's a budget-friendly outing. The museum's location opposite the Château de Blois also makes it easy to combine with other family-friendly activities in the area. Plan your visit around the showtimes to maximize the magical experience for everyone. Reddit

✨ Magic Enthusiasts & History Buffs

For those with a passion for magic, this museum is a pilgrimage. It offers a deep dive into the history of prestidigitation and the groundbreaking work of Robert-Houdin, the father of modern magic. You'll find fascinating exhibits on his automata, illusions, and performance techniques, providing valuable insights into the evolution of the art form. Instagram

The museum's collection is a treasure trove for understanding the craft. The live shows and interactive elements also offer a contemporary connection to the magic world, showcasing how these ancient arts continue to evolve and captivate audiences today. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Robert-Houdin

The Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin is dedicated to Jean-Eugène Robert-Houdin, a renowned French illusionist born in Blois in 1805. He is widely considered the father of modern magic due to his innovative approach, which blended scientific principles with theatrical presentation. Unlike earlier magicians who relied on mystique and showmanship, Robert-Houdin aimed for a more refined and elegant performance style, often incorporating intricate mechanical devices and illusions that appeared to defy natural laws. His influence extended far beyond his lifetime, shaping the art of magic into what we recognize today. Instagram

Visitors can explore exhibits detailing his life, his groundbreaking inventions, and the evolution of magic through his era. The museum showcases a collection of automata, optical illusions, and historical magic apparatus, offering a glimpse into the ingenuity and artistry of 19th-century prestidigitation. It’s a journey through the history of illusion, highlighting how one man’s vision transformed entertainment. InstagramReddit

Experiencing the Magic: Shows and Illusions

Beyond its historical collections, the Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin offers a dynamic and interactive experience. A key highlight is the live magic show performed in the on-site theatre. While primarily in French, these performances often utilize mime and universal visual magic, making them accessible and entertaining for a global audience. The shows are known for their engaging routines and surprising twists, keeping visitors on the edge of their seats. InstagramReddit

The museum also features a dedicated Room of Illusions, where visitors can engage with various optical and perspective-based tricks. These interactive elements are designed to be fun for all ages, providing memorable moments and fantastic photo opportunities. Coupled with the spectacular hourly dragon appearances from the building's facade, these elements combine to create a truly enchanting and unique visit that goes beyond a typical museum experience. InstagramReddit

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