As an avid amateur historian, I became a member of the Musée des Blindes quite a few years ago as it's on my doorstep and I visit quite often. Each time I do visit, I usually end up finding something that I hadn't seen before, or some other detail pops out that I hadn't noticed. So a visit is never, ever wasted here. The staff are friendly and always ready to help. The static displays are made even more interesting when you realise that a good percentage of these machines still move under their own steam! The Tigre Royale (King Tiger) is the only example in the world that's still running. If you get the chance to visit around Pentecot (end of May), then do. There's the International Concours de Maquette (Model competition), that's fast becoming one of the foremost displays of its kind in France. Over the two days there are two displays of the tanks outside on the parking lot, and if you're lucky - you'll get to hear the Tiger II growl menacingly!

The only real downsides are the prices of plastic kits and other goodies in the museum shop. Very much on the expensive side when compared to both online prices as well as a local store. The other thing is the lack of a decent café. Often, it's the dads and boys that'll spend an hour or two here, leaving mums and sisters in the seating area by the Accueil. There are a couple of vending machines and plenty of seating and tables, but a café (as at Bovington, UK) would be a very welcome addition, not to mention a potential, additional income stream. It loses a star for me because of these two minor grumbles.

A voir absolument!