
Whether it’s the holidays or the weekend, the big question is how to keep the kids entertained? If you’re stuck for ideas or in need of fresh inspiration for things to do with the kids in Manchester, we’ve made things a little easier. We’ve rounded up some of the best things happening in Manchester this February half term which are suitable for kids and families, including some indoor activities in case the weather doesn’t deliver. So, without further ado here are the most thrilling things to do in Manchester with kids, which are bound to make the holidays pretty memorable and enjoyable for all.
The best things to do with kids in Manchester
1. Be bowled over at the Trafford Centre’s bowling venue, King Pins

Adding to the activity bar circuit in Manchester, is King Pins with its flagship at Trafford Palazzo and now also in the Arndale. The ‘crown jewels of bowling’ has a plethora of activities on offer including 15 lanes of Ten Pin bowling and four lanes of Duck Pin bowling (a shorter-laned, faster game of bowling, new to the UK), shuffleboard, ice free curling, air hockey, karaoke booths and arcade games galore for guests of all ages. It also features two independent food concessions, a full-service bar and its very own dessert kiosk.
2. Bounce and fly around at new playzone Oxygen Activeplay at Salford Quays

The brand-new Oxygen Activeplay experience is landing at Quayside in Salford on February 17, with the new playzone promising to bring a whole new world of exploration, excitement, and fun. Little ones can bounce their way across 24 epic trampolines, dive into awesome inflatables, and challenge their friends in the super cool interactive strike arena. Older children can take to the sky and test their skills on the high ropes course, climbing and navigating obstacles as they conquer the heights of the Activeplay park. Plus, the indoor aerial Sky Rider is not to be missed, where you can forget about gravity and fly high above the Activeplay park giving you the ultimate birds eye view of the fun below. The perfect February half term activity!
3. Escape to an immersive world at DNA VR

Providing a unique entertainment experience, DNA VR allows visitors to dive into unimaginable virtual worlds spanning horror, fantasy and music. From surviving a zombie apocalypse, to traveling to the pyramids in Egypt or fighting off dragons, DNA VR has a game for everyone whether it be one from their arcade or free-roam sessions. At DNA VR in Manchester visitors can solve an escape room, explore the depths of the deep blue ocean or even save the Earth from an intergalactic disaster. Arcade sessions are suitable for kids over seven and free-roam sessions are available for kids over 12 years old.
4. Head to the Super Duper Family Festival with six play zones across the city

This February half term, Manchester has just the thing as the city is set to launch The Super Duper Family Festival – a brand-new four-day celebration filled with imagination, creation and free family-friendly activities that will transform the city into a giant, interactive playground. Taking place from Saturday 15th February to Tuesday 18th February, families can explore unique play zones scattered across Manchester’s most iconic spaces, each bursting with everything from giant mazes and steam-powered carousels to retro video games and family raves.
5. See adorable donkeys up close at The Donkey Sanctuary

In search of free things to do with the kids in Manchester? Look no further than The Donkey Sanctuary in Abbey Hey. Both a great cause and a chance to see cute donkeys up close, it’s great way for kids to enjoy the outdoors and interact with animals. Visitors will have the chance to see the different areas in which the donkeys live, learn about how we care for them, discover the dynamics of the herd and get answers to all questions that they may have about our donkeys. The Donkey Sanctuary is free and can be booked online, however donations are welcomed.
6. Discover Oldham in a new light with the return of this free, family-friendly festival

Oldham is set to welcome back its much-loved late-night light festival, Illuminate Light Night, for its eighth year and promises to be bigger and brighter than ever. On Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 February, the festival invites visitors of all ages to discover Oldham in a whole new light, with this year’s theme, ‘Illuminating the Everyday.’ The free event will feature awe-inspiring installations, dazzling performances, and interactive experiences created by acclaimed artists from the UK and beyond.
7. Get behind the wheel at the UK’s first live action go-karting video game experience

Offering a new way to hit the pedal to the metal is Chaos Karts, an all new attraction which combines real-life racing with augmented reality in Manchester. And this is definitely one of the top things to do in Manchester if you’re looking to squeeze something in before the kids go back to school. The UK’s first live action video game experience throws players into a virtual world, living inside a real-life video game to race-battle their friends, family and rivals. With no physical obstacles on the track and anti-collision technology, helmets and driving suits are not required to create a fun-fuelled experience for everyone aged 11 and above.
8. Make a splash at aqua park Wild Shore Blackpool

Having made waves in Delamere for a while now, Wild Shore is hopping across the North West to grace Blackpool, once again making the Lancashire town a hotspot for watersports and fun. Wild Shore Blackpool is a brand new water-based adventure hub, offering a number of unique, dynamic and adrenaline-charged outdoor activities including the Aqua Park, Wakeboarding, Stand Up Paddleboarding and Open Water Swimming. Open from May 29 at Ream Hills Holiday Park, Wild Shore is the perfect day out for friends and families.
9. Test out your piloting skills as Flight Academy returns to Manchester Airport

Kids can try their hand at becoming a pilot this half term, as the popular Flight Academy returns to Manchester Airport’s Runway Visitor Park. From sitting in the cockpit to dressing the part and “taking control” of the flight deck, it’s the perfect activity for aspiring pilots. Kids can also head outside to have a look at Manchester Airport’s runways and watch the planes take off and land as well as take a tour of the park’s retired airliners, including the iconic Concorde.
10. Bounce around at Inflata Nation Manchester

If you and the kids want to still bounce around but the weather isn’t looking the best then head to Inflata Nation. With loads of jaw dropping features and fun activities including the epic double tipping slide, it’s twice the fun but can you hang on? Inflata Nation Manchester offers kids and adults alike unrivalled bouncing fun, and can be enjoyed by just about anyone, of any age, shape and physical ability. The inflatable park also has a variety of classes including Disability Friendly sessions and Inflata Tots sessions (just for pre-schoolers).
11. Attend an enchanting Candlelight concert

Experiencing timeless melodies in a candlelit setting is a fun plan for the whole family. If your kids are eight or older, you can bring them to a breathtaking Candlelight tribute. These performances recreate some of the best music ever written, including classical works by Vivaldi and iconic ABBA and Queen hits. Taking place at some of the city’s most charming and historic venues, your little ones can get introduced to musical legends or rediscover popular hits.
12. Reach for the stars at one of Manchester’s many rock climbing walls

If you and the kids are looking for a challenge right here in Manchester, then rock climbing or bouldering is one of the top things to do. Push yourself to new heights (quite literally) as Manchester has plenty of indoor climbing and bouldering spots, whether you’re a rock climbing rookie or a seasoned climber. From Stretford to Stockport, Bolton to Oldham, there are many venues which are suitable for kids and some even have cafes offering light refreshments or a place to watch the youngsters scale some walls from afar.
13. Experiment with fluorescent colours at a family-friendly art session
Both kids and parents alike can enjoy these fun-filled, fluorescent workshops, where creativity shines in a whole new light—literally. Led by an experienced artist, you can experiment with neon paints to create everything from abstract portraits to glowing galaxies. Neon Brush Kids in Manchester is perfect for high-energy kids that need a creative outlet, or that are little adventurers at heart and want to explore new worlds of limitless imagination.
14. Boggle your mind at the brand new Museum of Illusions

New to the city, Museum of Illusions should definitely be on the cards for a mind-bending day out this half term, and you’re sure to leave rather mind-boggled. The brand new 10,700 sq ft space is filled with “fascinating holograms, mind-bending illusion rooms, and astonishing exhibits intended to trick the mind and puzzle perceptions”. In addition to the museum’s signature, most popular and photo-worthy exhibits, such as the Walk-in Kaleidoscope, Vortex Tunnel, and Infinity Room, visitors will be treated to custom-made installations that celebrate Manchester’s unique culture and heritage.
15. Visit the Paddington bear statue in Spinningfields

A trail of Paddington Bear statues, known as Paddington Visits, are currently touring the UK and Ireland which celebrated the release of Paddington in Peru in cinemas. As part of the trail, Paddington fans will be able to spot the statue at Hardman Square, Spinningfields. Each meticulously crafted and painted statue will sport the wise bear’s signature red hat, blue duffle coat, and, naturally, a marmalade sandwich in paw. Fans, friends, and family can step into Mr. Gruber’s shoes, sit with Paddington for a spot of tea, a sandwich or two, or even write a postcard to Aunt Lucy!
16. Be starstruck by the clear night sky at the annual Dark Skies Festival

OK, so not exactly in Manchester, but it’s a very magical festival worth the journey with the kids this half term as it’s a chance to see the full expanse of the night sky (which is rare in Manchester city centre). One of the best places to see the stars and less light pollution is the Forest of Bowland, just over an hour’s drive from Manchester, which is hosting a brand-new photography exhibition alongside its annual Dark Skies Festival, celebrating the practice of stargazing. The Dark Skies Festival returns from February 17 where you can find out about some of the area’s nocturnal inhabitants, discover the international career of a local astronomer and get creative with fun, family-friendly activities, as well as an opportunity to stargaze.
17. Swing into action at Total Ninja Manchester

Families can kick boredom to the curb this half term, with some ninja fun at Total Ninja Manchester. Thrill-seekers can take on obstacles, climbing, leaping and swinging their way through over 25 challenges. Ninjas can find their inner calm on Balance Logs, sail through the Sea of Swings and reach new highs on the challenging Warped Wall, with challenges ranging to suit all ages and abilities. This February half term, families can make the most of the Feb Feast deal (available on weekdays from 4pm) which includes 2 x 1-hour ninja sessions and a sharing pizza for just £26.