A Weekend in Manchester with Kids: What to Do and Book Tickets For

Planning a weekend in Manchester with kids? You’re in for a treat! This vibrant city offers a wealth of activities and attractions perfect for family fun. From fascinating museums to exciting parks and interactive experiences, Manchester has something for everyone. Whether your kids are budding scientists, football fanatics, or just love to explore, you’ll find plenty to keep them entertained.

Let nothing stop you from discovering the city, not even your luggage! With Bounce, you can book a luggage locker in Manchester in any of the 37 convenient storage facilities throughout the city to keep your bags safe as you explore. In partnership with local businesses in over 4,000 cities, Bounce offers secure storage for travelers. It’s an easy and budget-friendly option, especially useful when you can’t check into your hotel earlier than expected or need to leave your bags somewhere while visiting a place. With an excellent 4.9/5 App Store rating, 24/7 customer support, and $10,000 in bag protection, you can rely on Bounce. Unlike other services that charge by the hour, Bounce has an affordable daily rate, and all bookings are fully refundable if canceled before drop-off, with no fees. 

Explore the Museum of Science & Industry

Start your adventure at the Museum of Science and Industry. This museum is a fantastic place to ignite your children’s curiosity. They can learn about the city’s rich industrial history, see impressive machinery, and engage with interactive exhibits. The museum is housed in a historic railway station, adding to the sense of adventure as you explore its vast halls and displays.

The museum has a special section dedicated to kids, where they can explore hands-on science activities. From the air and space hall to the revolution Manchester gallery, there’s plenty to see and do. The interactive science shows are a hit with younger visitors, providing both entertainment and education. It’s a perfect spot to spark an interest in science and history.

Catch a Football Match

Football fans will be thrilled to visit Manchester, home to two of the most famous football clubs in the world. While in town, why not experience the iconic Old Trafford stadium with Man United tickets? Getting your hands on Man U tickets can be a highlight for any young football enthusiast. Watching a match live or taking a stadium tour provides an unforgettable experience.

If match day isn’t on your schedule, consider a visit to the National Football Museum. It’s a fun and interactive way to learn about the history of the sport and its impact on the city. The museum’s interactive exhibits and memorabilia will delight football fans of all ages. Exploring the history and culture of football adds another layer of excitement to your Manchester trip.

Visit LEGOLAND Discovery Centre

LEGOLAND Discovery Centre is a must-visit for any LEGO-loving family. This indoor attraction is packed with fun, from interactive rides to a 4D cinema experience. Your kids can even build their own LEGO creations in the creative workshops. The LEGO Ninjago City Adventure play area is a particular favourite, offering a chance for kids to test their ninja skills.

Don’t miss Miniland, where you can see famous Manchester landmarks made entirely out of LEGO bricks. It’s a fun way to see the city in miniature form and spot familiar sights. LEGOLAND offers hours of entertainment for kids of all ages, making it a perfect rainy day activity. The centre also regularly updates its exhibits, ensuring there’s always something new to discover.

Wander Around Heaton Park

Heaton Park is one of the largest municipal parks in Europe and a great place to enjoy the outdoors. There are plenty of activities to keep the kids busy, including a boating lake, playgrounds, and an animal centre. The park’s historic tramway and observatory add an educational twist to your visit, making it both fun and informative.

The park also hosts regular family-friendly events and has plenty of open space for picnics and games. You can rent bikes or enjoy a leisurely walk along the many trails. The beautiful gardens and woodlands provide a serene backdrop for a family day out. It’s a perfect spot to relax and let the kids burn off some energy in a beautiful setting.

Experience Sea Life Manchester

Sea Life Manchester offers an underwater adventure that will captivate your kids. The aquarium is home to a variety of marine life, from colourful fish to majestic sharks. Walk through the ocean tunnel for a 360-degree view of the underwater world, where you can see rays and other sea creatures swimming above and around you.

There are also interactive rock pools where kids can touch starfish and other sea creatures. Sea Life Manchester provides educational talks and feeding demonstrations that are both fun and informative. The themed zones, like the Rainforest Adventure, add to the excitement, offering a glimpse into different aquatic environments. It’s a fascinating experience for the whole family.

Discover the Manchester Museum

The Manchester Museum is another gem that shouldn’t be missed. This museum has a wide range of exhibits, from ancient Egyptian artefacts to dinosaur skeletons. The collections are sure to intrigue and inspire young minds. The newly renovated galleries offer an engaging experience, blending traditional displays with modern interactive elements.

Kids will love the Nature Discovery gallery, which is specifically designed for them. Here, they can learn about different animals and even meet live creatures. The museum’s family-friendly activities and workshops make learning fun and interactive.

Enjoy the Whitworth Art Gallery

For a dose of culture, head to the Whitworth Art Gallery. This gallery is part of the University of Manchester and offers a variety of exhibitions, from contemporary art to historic collections. The diverse range of artworks provides something for everyone, making it an engaging visit for both adults and children.

The gallery also has a beautiful art garden and regular family-friendly activities. The creative workshops and drop-in sessions are designed to engage children and inspire their artistic side. The on-site café offers a relaxing spot for a break, and the surrounding parkland provides a lovely setting for a post-gallery stroll.

Visit the People’s History Museum

The People’s History Museum is a unique attraction that tells the story of democracy in Britain. It’s a great place for kids to learn about history and social change through engaging exhibits and interactive displays. The museum’s collections highlight the struggles and triumphs of ordinary people, making history relatable and interesting.

The museum often hosts special events and activities for families, making it a fun and educational visit. The hands-on nature of the exhibits helps bring history to life for young visitors. The engaging storytelling and interactive displays ensure that the whole family can learn and enjoy together. It’s an inspiring and thought-provoking experience for everyone.

Take a Canal Boat Ride

Exploring Manchester by canal boat offers a unique perspective of the city. There are several companies offering boat tours along the historic canals, providing a relaxing and enjoyable way to see the sights. The tours often include commentary on the history and significance of the canals, adding an educational element to the journey.

The kids will love the novelty of travelling by boat, and you’ll all get to enjoy the scenic views of Manchester’s waterways. It’s a different and delightful way to explore the city and learn about its history. The peaceful pace of a canal boat ride provides a nice contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city, offering a relaxing break during your busy weekend.

Spend Time at the Play Factore

The Play Factore is the ultimate indoor play centre for kids. With the UK’s largest play frame, thrilling slides, and even a zip wire, it’s a paradise for active children. The centre also features laser tag and go-karting for extra excitement, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Parents can relax in the café while the kids have a blast. The Play Factore is designed to keep children entertained for hours, with activities suitable for different age groups. It’s a great place to let them burn off some energy, especially on a rainy day.

Summing Up

A weekend in Manchester with kids promises an exciting and diverse range of activities. From the interactive exhibits at museums to the thrilling rides at LEGOLAND, there’s something to delight every member of the family. Exploring parks, watching a football match, and discovering the city’s history will create lasting memories. Manchester’s blend of education and entertainment makes it an ideal destination for families.