“I’m bored!” – Does this sound familiar? As parents know all too well, one of the biggest challenges when caring for a child is keeping them entertained when you’re scratching your head for new, engaging things to keep them occupied.
However, one of the great things about caring for children and young people in Manchester is that you have a whole city of opportunities right on your doorstep. This cultural Northern powerhouse offers up plenty of distractions and stimulation for the whole family, including world-class galleries, interactive museums, and adrenaline-pumping days out that will keep the kids entertained for hours.
Take a look at our top 7 picks that make for the best family days out with the kids in Manchester…
Things to do in Manchester with the kids
1) LEGOLAND Discovery Centre
Aimed at children aged between 3 and 10 years old, this immersive playground of over 2 million Lego bricks is great to have up your sleeve as the perfect rainy-day activity.
With over 9 different attractions including; a 4D cinema, adventure play area, spellbinding rides, and an interactive mini city to explore and play – this really is one of Manchester’s top attractions for kids. Not forgetting under 5s can enjoy their own soft play area, whilst the most inventive of the family can try their hand at building their own Lego car to race with.
Visit LEGOLAND Discovery Centre
2) Science and Industry Museum
Suitable for kids of all ages, this family-friendly free museum takes science out of the classroom and brings it to life with hands-on galleries and interactive exhibitions that the kids will love. A fantastic fun (and educational) day out, this is a great way of getting even the most reluctant of little ones engaged in STEM subjects.
Showcasing Manchester’s rich history of scientific discoveries and the city’s industrial legacy, you’ll discover more about how science is shaping our lives today through full sensory experiences that are tailored to all the family.
3) I’m A Celebrity… Jungle Challenge
Ever watched the show and thought you could take on some of those bush-tucker challenges? Whist the eating bugs part might not be your bag, a jungle run assault course, rock climbing and rope course might be just the ticket to challenge the family for an epic adventurous day out! Put your kids through their paces as you work your way through 8 physical and mental challenges and race to collect as many stars as you can. Suitable for children aged 8 and above, this TV favourite is bound to get the adrenaline pumping.
Visit I'm A Celebrity...Jungle Challange
4) Chill Factore – indoor ski village
Who said you had to rely on the change in seasons to enjoy the snow with the family?! Chill Factore near the Trafford Centre is the perfect place to hit the slopes with a range of activities from private ski lessons, to sledging, and even challenging your kids to a race down the slopes in an inflatable doughnut!
Home to the UK’s longest real indoor snow slope in the UK, this is the perfect place for those adrenaline junkies in the family to get their fix, whilst the viewing gallery and cosy café allows the more relaxed members of the family to sit back and watch all the fun.
5) Inflata Nation Manchester
Giant inflatable slides… check, ball pool…check, obstacle course? Check! This inflatable indoor theme park really does tick all the boxes! Set over two levels, you’ll find everything from exhilarating vertical drop slides, to bouncy free-play areas, and an under 4s separate bounce area for the little ones. For the competitive ones of the family, why not challenge each other to an “inflata duel” as you battle to knock each other off the gladiator-style podiums.
6) The People’s History Museum
The People’s History Museum offers a great opportunity to teach your kids about the hard-earned fight for democracy in Britain throughout the ages. You’ll find ideas of equality and social justice presented in a fun and engaging way for children, with digital interactive displays, arcade-style games, and a chance to pick your favourite songs on a vintage jukebox.
7) Manchester Central Library
A great way to help nurture your child’s imagination and immerse them in the wonderful world of books, the Manchester Central Library is a fantastic free activity you can do with your foster child and the whole family.
Alight their imaginations inside the “Secret Garden”, where you’ll find a dedicated children’s section where your little ones can cosy up in a soft, colourful and sensory environment. Meanwhile, a digital wall display projects different animals in the garden for you to discover.
Visit Manchester Central Library
Are you looking to expand your family and foster in Manchester? If you have a spare room, are over the age of 21, and have the heart and home to offer to a young person then we would love to hear from you. Help the thousands of vulnerable children in Manchester who desperately need a home.
Please get in touch today, or download our Beginner’s Guide to Fostering a Child to find out everything you need to know about the process and what’s involved. Or come along to one of our fostering information events to discover more about the rewarding role of a foster parent.
