Things to do in Manchester with Toddlers

Manchester is a city full of surprises, especially for families with toddlers. Whether you’re looking to explore new spots or revisit old favourites, the city offers a variety of activities that cater to young children. From interactive museums and lively play areas to beautiful parks and kid-friendly attractions, Manchester has something for every curious child. In this guide, we'll highlight the top 10 things to do in Manchester with toddlers, ensuring you have a memorable and fun-filled experience with your little ones.
27 June 2022 8 min read
Things to do in Manchester with Toddlers

Toddler-Tastic Manchester: Top Spots for Little Explorers

Manchester is a haven for toddlers, offering a variety of exciting activities perfect for young adventurers. From interactive museums to playful parks, here’s a quick guide to the best spots that will keep your little ones engaged and entertained. Dive in and discover where to go for a fun-filled day out with your toddler!

1. The Science and Industry Museum

The Science and Industry Museum in Manchester is a fantastic destination for families exploring things to do with kids in Manchester. This engaging museum features a range of interactive exhibits designed to captivate young minds. Toddlers will delight in the hands-on activities that allow them to explore science in a fun and accessible way. 

From interactive displays to sensory play areas, the museum ensures that even the youngest visitors are entertained and educated. It’s a perfect spot for those searching for things to do in Manchester with toddlers, combining learning with play in a stimulating environment.

things to do in manchester with toddlers museum

Highlights:

  • Location: Liverpool Road, Manchester
  • Timing: Open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily
  • Price: Free entry
  • Toddler Activities: Interactive exhibits, sensory play areas, hands-on science experiments, and child-friendly workshops

2. The Lowry

The Lowry is a vibrant arts center in Manchester that offers a wealth of activities perfect for families searching for things to do with toddlers in Manchester. Known for its family-friendly shows and performances, this venue frequently hosts interactive exhibits and workshops specifically designed for young children. 

The engaging space ensures that toddlers are not just spectators but active participants in creative experiences. Whether it’s a lively performance or a hands-on activity, The Lowry is an ideal spot for anyone looking to find exciting Manchester things to do with kids.

things to do in manchester with toddlers the lowry

Highlights:

  • Location: Pier 8, Salford Quays, Manchester
  • Timing: Open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours for shows
  • Price: Varies by event; many free exhibitions
  • Toddler Activities: Interactive exhibits, family-friendly shows, creative workshops, and engaging performances

3. Heaton Park

Heaton Park, one of Manchester’s largest and most picturesque green spaces, offers a wealth of options for families seeking things to do with kids in Manchester. This expansive park is ideal for outdoor adventures, with its well-equipped playgrounds, charming boating lake, and ample open spaces perfect for picnics and active play. 

For toddlers, there are numerous opportunities to explore and enjoy the natural surroundings. It’s a great spot to let young children run free and engage in toddler activities in Manchester, making it a go-to destination for a fun, relaxed day out.

things to do in manchester with toddlers park

Highlights:

  • Location: Middleton Road, Manchester
  • Timing: Open from 7:00 AM to dusk
  • Price: Free entry
  • Toddler Activities: Playground fun, boating on the lake, picnic areas, and open space for running and playing

4. Legoland Discovery Centre

Legoland Discovery Centre is a top choice for families seeking places to take kids in Manchester. This indoor attraction is a haven of LEGO-themed fun, featuring a variety of play areas designed with toddlers in mind. Children can explore building zones where they can unleash their creativity and engage with a mini Manchester made entirely of LEGO bricks. 

It’s an exciting environment that perfectly blends play with imagination, making it an ideal spot for toddler activities in Manchester. For anyone looking for things for kids to do in Manchester, Legoland Discovery Centre offers a vibrant and interactive experience that’s sure to delight.

things to do in manchester with toddlers legoland

Highlights:

  • Location: Manchester Arena, Lower Byrom Street, Manchester
  • Timing: Open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours on weekends
  • Price: From £20 per person
  • Toddler Activities: LEGO building zones, mini Manchester display, interactive play areas, and themed attractions

5. Children’s Library and Escape Room at Z-arts

The Children’s Library and Escape Room at Z-arts offer a unique and engaging experience for families looking for things for kids to do in Manchester. The Children’s Library is a haven for young readers, filled with a diverse selection of books and interactive story sessions that spark imagination and a love of reading. 

For a more adventurous twist, the Escape Room provides interactive challenges designed to be both fun and stimulating for older kids. This combination of activities makes it an ideal spot for a variety of toddler days out in Manchester, with options for both quiet and active play. 

For those seeking things to do with children in Manchester, Z-arts delivers a dynamic and educational experience.

things to do in manchester with toddlers library

Highlights:

  • Location: 335 Stretford Road, Hulme M15 5ZA
  • Timing: Open from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM daily
  • Price: From £15 per child
  • Toddler Activities: Soft play areas, sensory play zones, interactive games, and creative activity stations

6. Good Life Skates at Escape To Freight Island

Good Life Skates at Escape To Freight Island is a standout option for families seeking kids’ attractions in Manchester. This vibrant indoor venue features a specially designed skating area that’s perfect for young children to enjoy, offering a safe and exciting environment for toddlers to experience the joy of skating. 

The area is tailored for toddlers, providing a fun way to engage in indoor activities while staying active. For those looking for things to do with babies in Manchester, this spot combines playful exercise with a lively atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for indoor activities for toddlers in Manchester.

things to do in manchester with toddlers good life

Highlights:

  • Location: Unit 2, 13-17 Baring Street, Manchester
  • Timing: Open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily
  • Price: From £10 per child
  • Toddler Activities: Skating area, soft play sections, interactive games, and sensory activities

7. Sea Life Manchester

Sea Life Manchester is a fantastic destination for families searching for things to do in Manchester with toddlers. This captivating aquarium showcases a diverse range of marine life, offering toddlers an exciting and educational experience. 

The aquarium features interactive displays and touch pools where young children can engage directly with sea creatures, sparking their curiosity and learning about marine ecosystems. 

For anyone looking for things to do with kids in Manchester, Sea Life Manchester provides an immersive experience that combines fun with education, making it an ideal spot for an engaging day out.

things to do in manchester with toddlers sea life

Highlights:

  • Location: Trafford Centre, Stretford, Manchester
  • Timing: Open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily
  • Price: From £18 per person
  • Toddler Activities: Touch pools, interactive marine displays, underwater viewing tunnels, and educational exhibits

8. Play Factore

Play Factore is a premier indoor play center in Manchester, perfect for families looking for a range of activities for young children. This vibrant venue offers an array of features including expansive soft play areas, exciting climbing structures, and engaging interactive games. 

Designed specifically with toddlers in mind, Play Factore provides a safe and stimulating environment where children can climb, explore, and play to their heart’s content. For anyone searching for things to do with kids in Manchester, Play Factore is an ideal spot that combines active fun with creative play, making it a top choice for indoor entertainment.

things to do in manchester with toddlers play factore

Highlights:

  • Location: The Royal Exchange, Manchester
  • Timing: Open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily
  • Price: From £15 per child
  • Toddler Activities: Soft play areas, climbing structures, interactive games, and sensory play zones

9. Chorlton Water Park

Chorlton Water Park is a delightful option for families seeking things to do with kids in Manchester. This scenic park offers a serene natural environment perfect for nature walks and outdoor play. The park features a large pond, walking trails, and expansive grassy areas where toddlers can explore and enjoy the great outdoors. 

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It’s an ideal location for families looking to combine exercise with exploration, providing a refreshing change from indoor activities. For anyone wondering what to do with kids in Manchester, Chorlton Water Park presents a tranquil yet engaging setting for a day of outdoor fun.

things to do in manchester with toddlers water park

Highlights:

  • Location: Maitland Avenue, Chorlton, Manchester
  • Timing: Open from 7:00 AM to dusk
  • Price: Free entry
  • Toddler Activities: Nature walks, pond observation, open grassy areas for running and playing, and exploring walking trails

10. Frog and Bucket Comedy Club

The Frog and Bucket Comedy Club offers a unique experience for families looking for things to do with kids in Manchester, though it’s more suitable for older children and teens due to its comedy performances. Known for its lively atmosphere and entertaining shows, this venue provides a chance to enjoy a night of laughter and entertainment. 

While it may not be specifically tailored for toddlers, families with older kids can enjoy a humorous evening out together. If you’re exploring what to do with kids in Manchester, and they are old enough to appreciate comedy, the Frog and Bucket is a great option for a fu

things to do in manchester with toddlers comedy club

Highlights:

  • Location: 102 High Street, Manchester
  • Timing: Shows typically start at 8:00 PM; check schedule for specific times
  • Price: From £10 per person
  • Toddler Activities: Not specifically suited for toddlers; more appropriate for older children and teens.

Curate A Day Of Family-Friendly Fun For All! 

Finding a toddler-friendly restaurant that meets your needs can be challenging, especially after a long day of keeping your little one entertained. Instead of stressing over where to eat, why not enjoy a fine dining experience in the comfort of your own home? With Yhangry, you can book a private chef who will craft a delicious, customized meal just for you and your family. 

You can even curate the perfect dish for your toddler, choosing only the freshest ingredients that you know they’ll love. It’s the perfect way to end a busy day—relaxing at home with a meal everyone can enjoy. And don’t worry about the clean-up! From meal prep to dishes, our private chefs handle it all! 

FAQs

Indoor play centers like Legoland Discovery Centre and The Playroom at Home offer engaging and safe environments for toddlers to explore and play. Sea Life Manchester also provides an exciting indoor experience with interactive marine displays.

Heaton Park and Chorlton Water Park are fantastic outdoor spots. Heaton Park offers playgrounds and open spaces, while Chorlton Water Park provides scenic trails and grassy areas for exploration.

Yes, the Science and Industry Museum offers interactive exhibits that are both fun and educational. The Children’s Library at Z-arts also provides an enriching experience with story sessions and creative activities.