Explore Manchester - Things to do this Spring  (2023)

Greetings from CitySuites! We’ve gathered some of the best things to do and visit in Manchester this spring in 2023.  

Many people are already checking places for a quick or lengthy holiday, and there’s no other city better to visit than the heart of Northern England, Manchester. In fact, this great city was recently featured in Lonely Planet’s “Best in Travel” accolades this year.  

You can stop by Manchester this spring for great restaurants, live music and other fun activities. Whether you’re here to take a quick scenic visit or a longer stay, there’s an event suited for everyone.

A perfect getaway for families, business travellers and tourists alike. Visit England’s top-rated city to discover high-quality entertainment and unforgettable experiences.

What to do in Manchester during your Spring stay

There are lots of things to get into during your stay. For example, you can experience cultural highlights and great entertainment, but the options are near endless. 

Visitors can wrap up for exciting picturesque walks across the city, or shelter indoors at our deluxe shopping centres. Spring in the city also offers a range of events to suit all interests this year. Whether you're a sports fan, film enthusiast, or have other passions, you'll find something that appeals to you. With countless events to choose from, you're sure to have a great time exploring the city.

To make things easier, we've selected some of the best events and activities you can book this spring in 2023. Take a look at our list below.

Spring Events & Things To Do in Manchester

Manchester’s Film Festival

Manchester’s Film Festival (MANIFF) makes its appearance this spring. 

MANIFF is a special event where you can watch a selection of films from all around the world. The audience will have the chance to talk to the filmmakers and other experts about their projects. It's a great opportunity to see new and exciting movies, perfect for enthusiasts or film fans. Attendees can expect independent films that expand diverse genres, from animation to experimental by up-and-coming directors. 

MANIFF is one of the most sought-after events in the city. It's also ranked in the top 10 of best-reviewed festivals on FilmFreeway. Get your MANIFF ticket today and enjoy a night of thrilling films from emerging filmmakers.

The Power of Music Exhibition

If you’re a fan of music overall, then explore the anticipated major music exhibition at the Science and Industry Museum. Turn It Up: The Power of Music.

Fans of music can enjoy the anticipated major music Exhibition at the Science and Industry Museum. This unique experience allows visitors to explore how music makes us feel. Have you ever wondered why a song makes us energetic? Or why a ballad makes us more emotional?  This exhibition is perfect for families, allowing you to participate in various activities. From interactive sessions to meeting the musical robot Haile (capable of playing with human musicians). 

Each session is jam-packed with activities, ideal for anyone staying over the weekend. Book your tickets to Turn It Up: The Power of Music today.

Looking to stay in Manchester over the weekend? Discover more about our short stay experience at CitySuites.

Oldham’s The Magic of Science

"The Magic of Science" is presented by Amethyst in Oldham. This show combines the illusions of magic with science, creating a wonderfully chaotic experience. 

The audience will get to interact with the experiments created during the show. This hands-on event will see children get entertained and educated! Through mind-blowing illusions and experiments, you won't want to miss out on this magical show. Don’t miss your chance; acquire your tickets through Visit Manchester today.

The Harlem Globetrotters 

Photo by Markus Spiske

Are you looking for something more dynamic? The Harlem Globetrotters might be the event for you. The Harlem Globetrotters are a group of American basketball players that mixes theatre, comedy and athleticism in a non-stop basketball exhibition that showcases their otherworldly skills. 

These world-famous athletes create a unique entertainment experience for sports fans and tourists. See basketball like never before, with jaw-dropping stunts and extraordinary theatrics. Score your tickets to see the Harlem Globetrotters today, and don’t miss the chance to see the Harlem Globetrotters live. 

Scott Bradlee’s  Postmodern Jukebox

Do you enjoy today's top charts? Listen to your favourite songs like never before with Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox. This lively band combines music from two different centuries, creating a catchy selection of re-imagined modern songs.

Listening to PJB brings you to another period in time. Listen to covers of your favourite music titles like never before, like Beyonce's "Crazy in Love" with a jazzy twist, or Radiohead's "Creep" sung with soul. Celebrate the greatest musical genres in the 20th century blended with recognisable hits of today. 

Experience Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox live and get your tickets today. 

Take A Stroll Through Manchester’s Green Spaces

Photo by Mark Arron Smith 

A walk in the park is nothing compared to Manchester’s green spaces. What’s more, there are plenty of park options to explore, including Whitworth Park, All Saints Park, or even Heaton Park (reachable by tram!).

Take some time in admiring the city's selection of parks, hills and forests. Whether you want to relax or take part in outdoor activities, the city's beautiful green spaces are the ideal areas to choose from! Explore Manchester’s diverse range of natural parks today. 

Interested in walks in the city? Check out our blog on the best places to walk in Manchester

Visit MediaCityUK in Salford!

Home to the BBC, ITV and other well-known channels you see on TV and online, MediaCityUK is a fantastic way to see what Manchester has to offer. Located just a few tram stops away from St. Peter Square, MediaCityUK is home to lots of local attractions, including Piazza, BBC tours or even an afternoon walk around the quays! 

The area boasts great restaurants and colourful sightseeing during the day or even nighttime. This makes MediaCityUK an exceptional choice if you’re visiting Manchester for a day or two. It’s even more perfect because the area will be suited for tourists looking for family-friendly activities and outings, as well as visitors looking for excellent nightlife. Explore what MedicaCityUK has to offer for your visit! 

St. Patrick’s Day in Manchester

Photo by Laura Tancredi 

St. Patrick’s Day is a celebration of Irish culture, and in Manchester, the day consists of parades, special dishes, music, drinking, and a theme of green. 

The city becomes more lively, with celebrations that display Irish culture. Filled with spirit and energy, St. Patrick’s Day in Manchester is a celebration like you’ve never seen before. Visitors of the city can expect traditional Irish dancing, parades, and live music, as well as highlighted events with marching bands, family-friendly entertainments, and even Irish games! 

Need a place to stay during St. Patrick's day? Check out our apartments at CitySuites I and CitySuites II.

Indulge in diverse cultures with our many museums 

Photo by Adrien Olichon 

If you want to learn more about the heart of North England, Manchester’s range of museums is a must for quick or long-stay visits. These museums tell the story of Manchester through their display of valuable art and interactive exhibits. 

There are many museums to visit, but the ones that we can recommend close to CitySuites are the National Football Museum famous for reflecting Manchester’s rich history of the sport, and the Science and Industry Museum for showcasing the city’s industrial past.

Spring brings a host of entertainment and worthwhile events that suit the interests of all visitors. Take your time to see what this lively city has to offer! 

For a luxurious, extended stay, check out our CitySuites apartments for longer stays.