School’s Out! Best Things to Do in Manchester with Kids This Summer

Summer is finally here, and with schools nearly out, are you looking for the best things to do in Manchester with kids this summer? With school holidays just around the corner, now is the perfect time to plan a fun-filled family adventure in the heart of the city. Whether you’re a local looking for new ideas or staying at the stylish CitySuites aparthotels in Manchester, you’ll find plenty of exciting activities to keep the little ones entertained all summer long.

From interactive museums to wildlife encounters, here are the top 11 things to do in Manchester with kids this summer.

1. Explore the Science and Industry Museum

Perfect for curious minds of all ages, the Science and Industry Museum offers hands-on exhibits that bring science to life. Learn about Manchester’s industrial past, explore real steam engines, and dive into the fascinating world of innovation. It’s educational, interactive—and free to enter!

📍 Location: Liverpool Road, M3 4FP
Entry: Free

2. Visit Manchester Museum

Freshly renovated and packed with exciting exhibits, the Manchester Museum is home to ancient Egyptian mummies, dinosaur skeletons, and a live vivarium. Kids can enjoy drop-in craft sessions and discovery days throughout the summer.

📍 Location: Oxford Road, M13 9PL
Entry: Free

3. Head to Heaton Park for Outdoor Fun

As one of Europe’s largest municipal parks, Heaton Park is the ultimate outdoor destination for families. Expect adventure playgrounds, an animal centre, boating lake, tram rides, and acres of space to roam free. Pack a picnic and make a full day of it.

📍 Location: Middleton Road, M25 2SW
Entry: Free (charges apply for some activities)

4. Dive into SEA LIFE Manchester

Take a deep dive under the sea with a trip to SEA LIFE Manchester, where kids can come face-to-fin with sharks, rays, and rescued sea turtles. It’s a calming, educational, and fun day out—especially great for rainy days!

📍 Location: Trafford Centre, M17 8AS
Entry: From £18

5. Burn Off Energy at Play Factore

Need to let off some steam? Play Factore is one of the UK’s largest indoor play areas, featuring a huge slide, laser tag, zip wires, trampolines, and soft play zones. It’s ideal for children aged 1 to 14, with a handy café for parents to relax in too.

📍 Location: Beyond, Trafford Way, M17 8DD
Entry: From £7.95

6. Visit the National Football Museum

If your kids love football, this place is a must. The National Football Museum in Manchester is packed with fun, interactive exhibits including penalty shoot-outs, historic memorabilia, and changing exhibitions celebrating football culture.

📍 Location: Cathedral Gardens, M4 3BG
Entry: From £9 (under 5s free)

7. Climb and Bounce at Treetop Trek

Let your little thrill-seekers swing through the treetops at Treetop Nets Manchester, located in Heaton Park. This high ropes course is designed for all ages and abilities, offering family fun that’s active, outdoorsy, and memorable.

📍 Location: Heaton Park, M25 2SW
Entry: From £20

8. Solve Puzzles at the Crystal Maze LIVE Experience

Older kids and teens will love the adrenaline of The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience. Work together as a family to solve puzzles and crack codes across different zones—just like the TV show. It’s a brilliant team activity and a unique summer highlight.

📍 Location: Lower Byrom Street, M3 4FP
Entry: Family Tickets From £46.33

9. Enjoy a Family-Friendly Theatre Show

For a dose of culture, check out Manchester’s family theatre scene. Venues like Z-Arts, Waterside Arts, and The Lowry are offering summer performances perfect for kids, including musicals, storytelling, and interactive plays.

📍 Location: Varies
Entry: Varies, from £5–£15

10. Get Creative at LEGOLAND Discovery Centre

Build, explore and play your way through LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Manchester! This indoor world of LEGO features 4D cinema experiences, a mini version of Manchester, and hands-on building fun that’ll keep kids entertained for hours.

📍 Location: Trafford Centre, M17 8AS
Entry: From £17.50

11. AO Arena fun-filled 

Mr Tumble CBeebies House Party Live is coming to AO Arena this July —a fun-filled, interactive show perfect for young children and their families! Don’t miss the exclusive 2-for-1 ticket deal available for a limited time.

📍 Location: AO Arena, M3 1AR 
Bookable via the links below: 

📅 Tuesday 22 July, 2025
🕚 11:00AM – Book here
🕝 2:30PM – Book here

📅 Wednesday 23 July, 2025

🕚 11:00AM – Book here
🕝 2:30PM – Book here

📅 Thursday 24 July, 2025
🕚 11:00AM – Book here
🕝 2:30PM – Book here

Why CitySuites is Ideal for Family Stays

When it comes to family-friendly accommodation in Manchester, CitySuites offers the perfect home-from-home. Whether you’re here for a weekend break or a longer summer holiday, you’ll enjoy:

• Spacious serviced apartments with kitchens and lounge areas
• Heated indoor swimming pool
• On-site restaurant, Embankment Kitchen, with kid-friendly options
• Central location—walking distance to top attractions and transport links

With all the comforts of home and the luxury of a hotel, CitySuites makes exploring Manchester with kids even easier.

Whether you’re climbing treetops, exploring underwater worlds, or enjoying a theatre show, there are so many things to do in Manchester with kids this summer. With its perfect mix of indoor and outdoor fun, family-friendly attractions, and free activities, Manchester is an unbeatable destination for your school holiday getaway.

Book your summer family break at CitySuites today and get 20% off when you book direct enter code BONUS20. Make unforgettable memories this summer in the heart of the city.