6 Things To Do With Toddlers in Manchester City Centre in 2024

It can be really difficult to find fun things to do with your toddlers at the best of times. Ideas on things you can do with family this summer or any season, for example, can often be exhausting.

We know there are only so many times you can sit through their favourite film, read that same story or play the same games inside the house before going stir-crazy.

Where Can I Take My Toddler In Manchester City Centre?

Manchester is full of surprises, and when it comes to children, there's plenty to do. From indoor afternoon activities for toddlers to outdoor ventures, you can create an ideal plan for a fun-filled day for your little ones. Check out 6 of the best toddler activities you can do in Manchester. 

1. Discover A World Underwater at the Trafford Centre’s SEA LIFE

Location: SEA LIFE. Barton Square, intu Trafford Centre, Manchester, M17 8AS

Price: Parent and Toddler Ticket - £14

Both you and your kids will love diving into a whole world underwater at Manchester’s SEA LIFE centre. Here you can come face to face with some of the ocean’s most magnificent creatures, learning all about the conservation of our planet and participating in the centre’s interactive activities on your way around. Prices start from £14 for an adult and toddler admission, but be sure to book online in advance to secure your slot and get the best deal.

2. Take Your Child To A Magical Treasure Trail

Location: From St. Peter's Square

Price: £9.99

Manchester is well-known for its culture, and Treasure Trails creates a magical experience for children to immerse themselves in the city's wonderful architecture.   

Get instant access to the trailing 'venture with the app, and get exploring around Manchester's finest sceneries. 

3. Awaken Your Inner Scientist at the Science and Industry Museum

Location: Science and Industry Museum. Liverpool Road, Manchester, M3 4FP

Price: Free

With events on all year round, there’s always so much fun to be had at the Science and Industry Museum in Manchester. Whether your little one is into space exploration, steam trains or just getting stuck into new ideas and activities. The Science and Industry Museum here in Manchester provides hours of fun for both you and your little ones. What’s more - it’s absolutely free to visit and has its own cafe so you can grab a coffee or a cake after a day of exploring.

4. Craft a Masterpiece Keepsake at Pottery Corner

Location: 34 Beech Rd, Chorlton-cum-Hardy, Greater, Manchester M21 9EL

Price: £50 for framed clay hand/footprints

If you’re looking for a quieter place to spend a morning or afternoon with your toddler, head over to Pottery Corner in Chorlton-cum-Hardy. Just 3 miles out of the city centre, this hidden gem is definitely not to be missed. One of their most popular activities for toddlers (and babies) is clay hand and footprint making, and it’s no surprise given how sentimental the finished products are! You can choose from 36 colours and personalise it with your child’s name and age. Also - Pottery Corner is pet-friendly, so the whole family can enjoy a day out! 

5. Wrap Up And Get Your Skates on at Manchester’s Chill Factore 

Location: 7 Trafford Way, Trafford Park, Stretford, Manchester M41 7JA

Price: £100 for 3 x 50 minute sessions

If there’s any Frozen fans or Ice Age fans in your household (adults included), you’ll love a visit to the Chill Factore for a session in their mega Snow Park! From sledging to snow slides and even doughnut lanes to keep the whole family occupied and burn off some steam. For those looking to learn a new skill, why not book some sessions with their trained instructors? Available for children aged 4+, the Mini Mooses beginner’s class is a great way to safely introduce your child to a new hobby!

6. Let Your Child Build A Bear

Location: Manchester Arndale, Barbirolli Mall, Manchester M4 3AQ

Price: Costs will vary 

Help your child build their very own custom bear at Build-a-Bear in Arndale. Let your child get creative with making their own custom-bear stuffed toy. Maybe they have a favourite colour, animal, or fictional character they want to base it on. The limits are sky-high for making your kid's own Build-a-Bear, and we can guarantee a fun day with your toddler when you visit Manchester's Build-a-Bear. 

Are you taking your family to Manchester? 

The city centre and the areas surrounding it are continuously building new entertainment for families across the area. There's no doubt that there will be something that your family will enjoy! 

Whether you need to find family-friendly museums, theatre breaks or if you're simply exploring your options, CitySuites is here to help you make the most of it.