Manchester is a vibrant city in the North of England and a place that is welcoming. A bustling city full of everything that you would expect. Vibrant and lively bars, fabulous restaurants, theatres and entertainment, and some of the best hotels in the UK.
If you are looking for somewhere to relax and get pampered, check out these Spa Days in Manchester
But as a family, is there much to do there? The answer is yes! While the city may be overwhelming with shops and tall buildings, there are also some amazing places to visit in the center and just outside of it in surrounding locations. With that in mind, here are some of the best things to do in Manchester with kids.
14 Things To Do With Kids in Manchester
National Football Museum
Location : Urbis Building, Cathedral Gardens, Manchester, M4 3BG
It doesn’t matter whether you are a die-hard fan, a parent trying to encourage a love of football, or simply are just interested in sport generally, the National Football Museum is a great attraction for kids and parents. It shows the history of football and some of the most iconic teams and players. There are also interactive exhibits where you can hold the trophies, take a penalty and listen and learn about the history. While you may be thinking this is just for football fans, even people who are less enthused about the sport will find this museum interesting. A different day out for the family.
Check out all the latest information HERE
The Lowry
Location : Pier 8, The Quays, Salford, Greater Manchester, M50 3AZ
The Lowry is a magnificent building that can be found on Salford Quays. Three stunning theatres will regularly have shows at all times of the year. In the Lowry Galleries, you will find masterpieces from some of the best creatives in the UK. The one to mention is LS Lowry where you can witness some of his amazing works of art. The Lowry also has a fabulous onsite restaurant so you can relax after musing around the gallery or taking in a show. A great attraction that can be enjoyed by all ages.
Check out all the latest information HERE
Science and Industry Museum
Location : Liverpool Road, Manchester M3 4FP
The Science and industry museum sits in the heart of manchester city center. It is a place that houses some of the most revolutionary thinking that has shaped the modern world today. With one-off exhibitions exploring many different things as well as interactive exhibits where you can understand science, explore the textiles industry, or be more aware of the mechanical elements that shaped the industrial world, it is a place that will keep you occupied for hours.
Check out all the latest information HERE
Things To Do in Manchester For Kids
Manchester Art Gallery
Location : Mosley Street, Manchester, M2 3JL
The Manchester Art Gallery has recently seen a huge investment. It houses some of the finest art collections, and the building itself is pretty spectacular. A great indoor activity you can leisurely take in the different exhibitions, as well as getting to the top floor where it is a little more interactive. Even for family members who are not art enthusiasts, this gallery does a lot to showcase and help express an interest.
Check out all the latest information HERE
The Trafford Centre
Location : Manchester, M17 8AA
The Trafford Centre is one of the largest indoor shopping spaces where you will find an array of high street and designer shops for you to peruse.
However, there are also many restaurants and cafes offering different cuisines, crazy gold, laser quest, and a cinema. It is the ideal spot for a rainy day with plenty of things to do for kids.
The Trafford Centre is much more than a shopping paradise. It’s a haven for food lovers, and an exciting playground for families. Top tip: with tastecard, you can access remarkable Manchester restaurant deals, enabling you and your family to enjoy more for less.
Your tastecard opens the door to an array of dining options at the Trafford Centre. Popular chains such as Pizza Hut restaurants, Zizzi, and Gourmet Burger Kitchen offer tastecard members exclusive deals, like 2 for 1 meals or up to 50% off. So whether you fancy a slice of pizza, a hearty Italian meal, or a gourmet burger, you’re in for a treat without breaking the bank.
But the fun doesn’t stop at dining. The Trafford Centre also offers a range of entertaining activities. Challenge your family at crazy golf, take aim at Laser Quest, or unwind with the latest films at the cinema, with discounted tickets courtesy of tastecard.
So, despite the weather, the Trafford Centre provides an exciting retreat. It’s not just about shopping, it’s about savouring good food and enjoying a full day of entertainment and relaxation at an accessible cost
Check out all the latest information HERE
Legoland Discovery Center
Location : Barton Square, The Trafford Centre, Manchester, M17 8AS
At The Trafford Centre, there are two separate family fun attractions and one of them is the Legoland Discovery Center. It is the ultimate indoor lego experience that kids ages 3-10 will love. There are over 2 million lego bricks under this roof, and many of them have been crafted into different scenarios and situations, as well as there being a play centre for children to create their creations.
Check out all the latest information HERE
Sea Life Manchester
Location : Barton Square, intu Trafford Centre, Manchester, M17 8AS
Another indoor attraction at The Trafford Centre is Seal life Manchester. Here in this amazing aquarium you can get up close and personal with some of the most amazing sea creatures. While you are there, you can find out what it feels like to touch a starfish and other creatures in the interactive rock pool.
Check out all the latest information HERE
Play Factore
Location : Trafford Quays Leisure Village, Trafford Way, Manchester M41 7JA
If you are looking for one of the ultimate play centres, then look no further than Play Factore. A great indoor family entertainment space bursting with slides and things to do and climb.
Check out all the latest information HERE
Chill Factore
Location : Beyond, 7 Trafford Way, Trafford City, Manchester, M41 7JA
This location is one of the more unique attractions and things you can do as a family. Chill Factore promises to deliver fabulous experiences on snow. Skiing, snowboarding, sledging, and more, it is a fabulous and unique thing to do that a family of all ages will enjoy. It is especially worthwhile visiting around Christmas.
Check out all the latest information HERE
Treetop Trek Manchester
Location : Heaton Park, St Margaret’s Road, Manchester, M25 2GT
For those who are a little more adventurous and want to factor in time outside in the woods or nature, then Treetop Trek is for you. There is something to suit the whole family, but the main attraction is the Treetop Trek. It can take around 2 hours to complete and within it, you will encounter zip wires, climbing obstacles, and general high rise fun. An outing not for the faint-hearted, but you can sit back and watch the others do it if you wish.
Check out all the latest information HERE
Manchester United Football Club
Location : Sir Matt Busby Way, Old Trafford, Stretford, Manchester M16 0RA
For any football fan, visiting an iconic football stadium is one not to be missed. So taking a tour of Manchester United Football Club could be just what you want to do with the kids.
Check out all the latest information HERE
Manchester City Football Club
Location : Ashton New Rd, Manchester M11 3FF
For any football fan, visiting an iconic football stadium if one not to be missed and heating to The Etihad could be an option. Taking a tour of Manchester City Football Club could be just what you want to do with the kids.
Check out all the latest information HERE
Manchester Cheese Crawl
Location : Richard Cobden Statue, 2-437 St Anns Square, Manchester M2 7LG, UK
Calling all cheese lovers! This is the perfect way to explore the city of Manchester through the world of cheese.
Save time reading through reviews, and instead—get taken to a selection of local haunts that offer delicious cheese samples.
Along the way, find out fun facts about cheese, take part in games, meet cheesemongers, and, of course, try delicious cheese
Check out all the latest information HERE
City River Tour
Location : The Quays, Salford, Manchester M50 3AZ
Swap the hustle and bustle of central Manchester for a more peaceful sightseeing option—a scenic river cruise on a dutch sightseeing vessel.
It’s a great way to see multiple top landmarks without being stuck in the middle of crowds.
Glide past Manchester Ship Canal, and access great views of Media City, Old Trafford, the Imperial War Museum, and more.
Check out all the latest information HERE
Many of the above Manchester days out can become much more affordable thanks to tastecard, they have up to 23% off at Legoland and 24% at SeaLife. If you sign up now you can get a 60 day trial for just a £1 – although this offer may change
If you are having a child free day, check out these 13 Things To Do in Manchester in 24 Hours
Looking for more inspiration check out Things To Do In Blackpool with Kids