20 Fun Things To Do In Manchester

Manchester is a city in the north of England that many people love. And you can see why, it is packed with history and culture. It’s a city that’s seen the rise of the Industrial Revolution, the birth of the suffragette movement, and the creation of some of the world’s most famous Premier League football clubs. But what really makes Manchester worth a visit is its collection of museums, art galleries, and cultural hotspots as well as the many Manchester events held throughout the year.

I have been to Manchester a few times, but it’s always been for fly-in visits. I’d love to go back and spend some more time discovering the city of Manchester. There are so many things to do in Manchester, so if you are planning to visit, check out some of these fantastic things to do in the city. 

1. Manchester Art Gallery

If you love art, then a trip to the Manchester Art Gallery is a must. Manchester Art Gallery is home to a large collection of artworks that spans various periods, styles, and media. From classical paintings to contemporary installations.- There’s lots to see. The gallery has over 25,000 objects of fine art, decorative art, and costume, making it one of the most significant art collections in the UK.

2. The Northern Quarter

Just a short walk from the Manchester Art Gallery is the Northern Quarter, a district known for its unique charm and bohemian atmosphere. It’s one of the best places to visit in Manchester, and it’s full of red-brick buildings, street art, and independent businesses. One of the most famous features of the Northern Quarter is its street art. As you walk through its streets, you’ll come across many murals and graffiti art.

The Northern Quarter is also home to many art shops and studios, where local artists showcase their work. There are paintings, sculptures, handmade crafts and trinkets. It’s a great place to pick up a unique souvenir or even try your hand at an art workshop.

The Northern Quarter in Manchester has plenty of restaurants and cafes, ranging from trendy coffee shops to international food. It has a great nightlife scene, which comes alive at night with bars, pubs, and live music venues. The Northern Quarter is also home to many live music venues showcasing both established and emerging artists. It serves as a vibrant hub for Manchester’s LGBTQ+ community, hosting LGBTQ+ friendly venues and events, alongside creative spaces such as design agencies, co-working spaces, and tech startups.

3. Old Trafford Museum and Stadium Tour

For Football fans, no visit to Manchester would be complete without a trip to Old Trafford. It’s the home of Manchester United and is known as the “Theatre of Dreams”. Old Trafford is one of the most famous football stadiums in the world. 

Old Trafford houses the Manchester United Museum, where you can explore the club’s history through a collection of memorabilia, interactive exhibits, and multimedia presentations. The stadium tour, on the other hand, offers a behind-the-scenes look at the stadium, taking you to places usually reserved for players and officials.

4. The National Football Museum

Just a short distance from Old Trafford is the National Football Museum. The National Football Museum is a museum dedicated to the sport of football in England. It’s one of the world’s leading football museums and teaches you all about the history of football in the UK.

The museum has a large collection of football-related artefacts, memorabilia, and exhibits. You can explore the history of football, from its origins to the present day. The exhibits cover various aspects of the sport, including famous players, iconic matches, historical jerseys, trophies, and more. You can participate in various football-related activities, such as penalty shootouts and interactive games. These hands-on experiences make the museum fun for children, too.

6. Manchester City Stadium Tour

The Manchester City Stadium Tour gives an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience at the Etihad Stadium, the home of Manchester City Football Club. You can gain access to areas typically reserved for players and staff, including the players’ dressing rooms and the tunnel leading to the pitch. 

Throughout the tour, there are interactive exhibits and displays. You get insights into the club’s rich history, key moments, and legendary players. Knowledgeable guides accompany visitors, sharing fascinating facts and stories about the club, making the tour both engaging and informative. You also get to explore areas like the press conference room, where managers and players address the media, gaining a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes operations of a top football club. There’s also the chance to see exclusive views of the stadium’s architectural design and the pitch from various vantage points.

The tour also includes a visit to the official Manchester City Club Store, where you can buy team merchandise. The club often hosts special events and themed tours, such as legends tours led by former players.

7. Museum of Science and Industry

The Museum of Science and Industry (MSI) in Manchester is a brilliant place to visit that celebrates the city’s rich industrial heritage and scientific advancements. The museum is inside the historic buildings of the world’s oldest surviving passenger railway station and educates you about Manchester’s industrial past.

There’s a wide range of exhibits and interactive displays that showcase the city’s role in the Industrial Revolution. From textile manufacturing to steam power, the museum tells you all about the innovations that transformed Manchester into a global industrial powerhouse during the 18th and 19th centuries.

One of the highlights of the museum is the demonstration of working machines and engines. Skilled technicians often conduct live demonstrations, so you can witness the machinery that powered Manchester’s industrial era. 

The museum’s collections have many artefacts, ranging from vintage vehicles to scientific instruments. You can learn about the evolution of transportation, from early steam locomotives to modern aeroplanes. There are exhibits related to computing, communication, and the development of the modern world, providing insights into the ongoing progress of science and technology. There are also many temporary exhibitions, so check them out before you arrive! 

For younger visitors, the MSI offers interactive workshops and educational programs, encouraging hands-on exploration and experimentation. These programs are designed to engage children and students, fostering their interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.

And the best part – entry to the museum is free!

8. The Manchester Cathedral

Another famous historical site in Greater Manchester is the Manchester Cathedral, a stunning medieval church known for its beautiful stained glass windows and intricate woodwork. It’s officially known as the Cathedral and Collegiate Church of St Mary, St Denys, and St George.

Its construction began in the 15th century, and it has since become an iconic symbol of the city. The interior of the cathedral features intricate stone carvings, beautiful stained glass windows, and vaulted ceilings, The stained glass windows depict biblical scenes, saints, and historical events.

The cathedral is home to significant historical artefacts, including ancient tombs, brasses, and monuments. These artefacts provide glimpses into Manchester’s past, showcasing the lives of notable figures and the evolution of the city over the centuries.

You can stroll through the gardens, appreciating the ambience and the view of the cathedral’s majestic exterior. The cathedral’s location in the city centre makes it easily accessible, inviting individuals from various backgrounds and beliefs to explore its cultural and spiritual significance.

9. John Rylands Library

The John Rylands Library houses one of the world’s finest collections of rare books and manuscripts, including the oldest known piece of the New Testament, the St John Fragment.

The library has breathtaking architecture. The Gothic Revival-style building features intricate stone carvings, vaulted ceilings, and stained glass windows. Its historic reading rooms are that are decorated with motifs and detailed woodwork, creating a wonderful atmosphere that takes you back to the past.

The Special Collections include an extensive range of ancient manuscripts, including medieval texts, early printed books, and literary treasures. One of the library’s most renowned holdings is the Gutenberg Bible, one of the first major books printed using movable metal type in Europe.

If you love libraries, then it may also be with visiting Chetham’s Library – the oldest public library in the UK.

10. Salford Quays  

On the waterfront of Greater Manchester, you’ll find Salford Quays, a modern cultural and entertainment hub. This scenic area, often referred to as the “Media City,” offers a blend of contemporary architecture, cultural attractions, and recreational space.

The Quays serve as a hub for media, technology, and creative industries, housing renowned institutions such as the BBC, ITV, and the University of Salford, contributing to the area’s vibrant atmosphere and intellectual energy.

The Quays are home to some fantastic cultural attractions, including The Lowry, a world-class theatre and arts venue and Imperial War Museum North. The area features picturesque canals, waterfront promenades, and green spaces that are perfect for walks, and bike rides. The Quays also has a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars.

11. The Imperial War Museum North

Here, you can visit the Imperial War Museum North, a striking building designed by architect Daniel Libeskind. The museum’s structure resembles a shattered globe, conveying the disruption and disorientation caused by war. The museum offers a powerful exploration of the impact of war on people’s lives, featuring a vast collection of artefacts, personal stories, and multimedia presentations.

Inside the museum’s exhibitions, you can find out about the stories behind global conflicts, emphasising the personal experiences of individuals affected by war. Through displays, artefacts, photographs, and multimedia presentations, the museum educates you on the war’s far-reaching consequences, focusing on themes such as courage, loss, resilience, and the quest for peace. 

One of the museum’s standout features is its Big Picture Show, a visually immersive experience that utilises a 360-degree projection to depict significant moments from the 20th and 21st centuries. It gives an overview of major historical events, offering context for the museum’s more in-depth exhibits.

The museum’s diverse collections include military vehicles, weapons, uniforms, and personal memorabilia, allowing visitors to gain insights into the lives of soldiers and civilians during wartime. The Exhibitions often highlight lesser-known aspects of conflicts, shedding light on marginalised voices and overlooked stories.

12. The Lowry

The Lowry is located at Salford Quays in Greater Manchester. Named after the renowned artist L.S. Lowry, this iconic waterfront venue serves as a hub for visual and performing arts, including theatre, dance, music, and fine art exhibitions.

One of the main attractions of The Lowry is its theatres. There are two theatres: the Lyric Theatre, which hosts a range of theatrical performances, from classic plays to contemporary productions, and the Quays Theatre, an intimate space that often features innovative drama, dance, and musical events. 

In addition to live theatre, The Lowry is home to the Lowry Galleries, showcasing an impressive collection of visual arts. The galleries exhibit works by both renowned artists and emerging talents, offering visitors a chance to engage with contemporary art in various forms, from paintings and sculptures to digital installations. The exhibitions often explore thought-provoking themes, fostering dialogue and artistic expression.

There’s also a restaurant, bar and coffee shop so you can enjoy pre-show meals, and post-performance drinks, or simply relax with a cup of coffee while overlooking the picturesque Salford Quays waterfront. 

13. Manchester Chinatown

Manchester’s vibrant Chinatown is a colourful celebration of Chinese culture, featuring ornate archways, traditional lanterns, and a lively atmosphere that transports you to the streets of Asia.

One of the key features of Manchester’s Chinatown is its arch, a symbol of good fortune and prosperity. This arch marks the entrance to the neighbourhood and serves as a welcoming gateway for residents and tourists. The streets are full of decorations, especially during cultural celebrations like Chinese New Year when the area comes alive with dragon dances, traditional music, and vibrant parades.

The food scene in Manchester’s Chinatown is very tempting. There are many Chinese restaurants, from dim sum and Sichuan delicacies to Cantonese seafood and aromatic noodles.

Manchester’s Chinatown hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year. These events showcase traditional arts, performances, and ceremonies, providing a glimpse into Chinese customs and traditions. 

Chinatown is home to specialty grocery stores, herbal medicine shops, and vibrant markets, where you can explore an assortment of Asian products, spices, and unique souvenirs.

14. Market Street

Market Street is a lively pedestrianised street that is home to a range of stores, from high-street fashion brands and department stores to independent boutiques and speciality shops. It’s also great for seeing street performers, musicians, and artists who often line the street, creating a lively ambience and entertaining passersby. 

The area is also dotted with cafes, restaurants, and food stalls. During festivals and events, the street comes alive with colourful decorations, music, and performances, celebrating Manchester’s multicultural heritage. Market Street often hosts art installations, pop-up markets, and promotional events. 

15. Albert Square

Albert Square is the main square in Manchester. It’s surrounded by some stunning buildings. At the centre of Albert Square stands the Albert Memorial, a monument dedicated to Prince Albert, the beloved husband of Queen Victoria. The famous Manchester Town Hall is also here, a beautiful Gothic building with intricate carvings, spires, and gargoyles. There are many Manchester events held at the town hall. Over Christmas, Albert Square transforms into a winter wonderland, featuring a festive market, ice rink, and decorations. 

It is surrounded by shops, restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it a perfect place to explore for an afternoon. 

16. Heaton Park

Heaton Park is in the northern part of Manchester and covers over 600 acres. It’s one of the largest municipal parks in Europe. You can enjoy a walk along the tree-lined path, have a picnic on a sunny day and take a stroll by the lakes. Heaton Park is perfect for outdoor sports, jogging, and family-friendly activities. For families, Heaton Park boasts an array of attractions, including a boating lake, an animal farm, and a children’s playground. The park’s animal farm lets children to interact with various animals. There is a playground, equipped with modern play structures for hours of fun.

Heaton Hall, a Grade I listed neoclassical mansion, stands as the park’s centrepiece. This historic mansion, surrounded by well-maintained gardens, showcases stunning architecture and offers a glimpse into the region’s aristocratic past. You can explore the grand rooms, beautiful ceilings, and period furnishings. You can even visit the Tramway Museum and take a tram ride. 

17. Canal Street 

Canal Street is known for being the centre of Manchester’s LGBTQ+ community. There are many bars, clubs, and restaurants here. You can enjoy live performances, drag shows, and themed parties, where everyone can feel celebrated and accepted. Canal Street is a safe and welcoming space for the LGBTQ+ community, promoting inclusivity and acceptance. 

Canal Street hosts a variety of events and festivals, the most notable being Manchester Pride. 

Canal Street also has a range of LGBTQ+ oriented services and resources. Support organisations, community centres, and advocacy groups are located along the street.

18. Manchester Piccadilly Gardens

Manchester Piccadilly Gardens is a lovely place to visit where you can enjoy seasonal flowers, trees, and sculptures. It’s a great post to unwind on benches, enjoy picnics, or simply soak in the atmosphere. 

19. Printworks

Printworks is an entertainment complex that is housed in a former newspaper printing house. Inside, there are restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and entertainment venues where you can see some live entertainment. It’s a great place to spend an evening in Manchester, where you can grab some food and then check out the nightclubs and bars to dance the night away. We went to Printworks before we went to see a concert in Manchester and ate at Chiquito!

20. Manchester Arndale

Manchester Arndale is a shopping centre in the heart of Manchester. It has a large selection of stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities. You can find high-street favourites and international brands, boutique stores and speciality retailers. There is also a food court, restaurants and cafes. There’s plenty of entertainment at Manchester Arndale, including a multi-screen cinema and gaming centres, so it’s fun for the whole family. If you ever find yourself in Manchester during bad weather, then the Arndale is worth visiting, as there are plenty of fun activities here. 

The Best Things to Do in Manchester

From the Manchester Art Gallery and Manchester Town Hall to Old Trafford and the Imperial War Museum North, Manchester is filled with popular attractions for everyone. So, whether you’re into art, history, sports, or culture, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste. Manchester is a city that’s always buzzing with events. From art exhibitions and music festivals to sports matches and cultural celebrations, there’s always something happening. There are lots of fun things to do in Manchester!

Have you ever visited Manchester city centre? 

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