Family Fun in Manchester -
Activities Kids Will Love
Are you after things to do in Manchester with kids? Manchester has fun stuff for families, from interactive museums to beautiful parks.
Here’s a list of awesome things to do to entertain the whole family.
1. Explore the Science and Industry Museum
The Science and Industry Museum is among the best things to do in Manchester with kids. It is free to enter, but they do ask for donations when you do. It’s not too far from the town centre—just a quick walk. Upstairs, there’s a part called Experiment where you can try out lots of fun stuff, like making a bubble tube light up, bouncing balls, and playing different sounds. The whole place has a great atmosphere. Plus, there’s a spot where you can mix sounds on a DJ machine, which is awesome.
2. Discover Sea Life Manchester
Sea Life makes for a fantastic family day out in Manchester. The aquarium also features a VR experience, adding an exciting, immersive element to the adventure. Friendly staff enhance the experience, making it enjoyable for all ages. The soft play section is a great addition, perfect for young visitors. While the gift shop provides an excellent selection of souvenirs to remember the visit, items can be expensive.
3. Check Out LEGOLAND Discovery Centre
For kids (and adults) who love building and playing with LEGO, the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre is a dream. It’s got rides, a 4D cinema, and tons of LEGO building areas. Getting in is expensive, but watching your kids have so much fun will be worth it. It’s one of the best family days out in Manchester.
4. Visit the Manchester Museum
Another free thing to do with families in Manchester is the Manchester Museum, which is home to fascinating things like dinosaur skeletons and mummies. It’s an excellent way to introduce kids to history and the natural world, with plenty of interactive stuff to keep them engaged.
5. Visit The Play Factore
If you are after indoor things to do with kids in Manchester, head to Play Factore, the UK’s largest indoor play area.
Play Factors doesn’t disappoint with its range of activities, including virtual reality and an exciting zip-wire ride, though these come with a small additional cost. There’s also a safe toddler area, which is well-monitored by security, ensuring a safe environment.
While the price might be higher than in some places, the quality and range of activities make it worth every penny.
6. Chill Factore
Chill Factore is an excellent place for a family day out in Manchester. It has indoor snow all year round, and kids and adults can try skiing or snowboarding.
There are tubing, sledging, and lessons if you want to learn or improve your skiing or snowboarding. It feels like a real winter wonderland, perfect for a day out. You can also find shops and places to eat, making it easy to spend the whole day without the kids getting bored.
7. Have an Adventure at Dino Falls Adventure Golf
Dine Falls is located right next to Play Factore and Chill Factore. It’s an exciting 18-hole mini-golf course with giant dinosaurs, waterfalls, and a volcano! It’s a fantastic way for the family to have competitive fun and is suitable for all ages.
8. Enjoy a Show at the Lowry
The Lowry offers a variety of family-friendly performances, from theatre to dance and live shows. Check their schedule to catch something entertaining for both you and the kids. It’s a great way to introduce them to the arts.
9. Spend Time in Fletcher Moss Park & Botanical Gardens
For a more relaxed day, Fletcher Moss Park & Botanical Gardens offer beautiful scenery and lots of things for kids to in Manchester. There’s a playground and nature walks, and it’s a lovely spot for a family picnic.
10. Take a Ride on the East Lancashire Railway
For a unique experience, take a family ride on the historic steam trains of the East Lancashire Railway. It’s like stepping back in time, and the scenic route offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
13. Explore the Manchester Bee Trail
The Manchester Bee Trail is a unique way to see the city and learn about its symbol, the worker bee, representing Mancunians’ hard work ethic and community spirit.
You can download a map and follow the trail of bee sculptures throughout the city, each uniquely designed and painted. It’s a fun, free family activity that gets the family walking, exploring, and even snapping some fun photos along the way.
Final Thoughts
So, there you go. You’re all set for a good time if you’re looking for things to do in Manchester.
This city’s got loads of places where kids can have fun and learn new stuff, all without you having to spend a fortune.
From excellent museums and underwater worlds to snowy slopes and outdoor adventures, every day can be something different.
11. Visit the National Football Museum
If your family loves sports, the National Football Museum is a must-visit.
It’s not just for adults; kids can enjoy interactive games, try their hand at commentary, and even take a penalty shootout. The museum celebrates the world of football (soccer) and its impact on society.
Entry is free for kids under 5, making it an excellent option for cheap family things to do in Manchester.
12. Watch a Movie at HOME
HOME is a contemporary arts centre that showcases independent films and hosts family-friendly screenings and workshops. It’s a fantastic spot for families looking to introduce their kids to the world of cinema beyond the mainstream.
It’s perfect for a relaxed family day out in Manchester, with comfortable seating and a welcoming atmosphere. Keep an eye on their program for special events aimed at younger audiences.
