72 Hours in Manchester - Family Itinerary

Manchester is a brilliant city to explore with the whole family, full of energy, character and plenty to discover together. From hands-on attractions to memorable days out, it’s a place where curiosity is rewarded at every turn.

This family-friendly itinerary brings together ideas to help you plan an easy, fun-filled trip, with something to suit all ages and interests. Whether you’re discovering interactive museums, enjoying exciting attractions, or taking time to wander through the city’s neighbourhoods, there’s always something to keep the whole family entertained.

Welcome to Manchester

If you’re arriving into Manchester Airport, you can transfer by train, bus, taxi or pre-arranged car service to your hotel in Manchester city centre.

Once you’ve reached Manchester city centre, it’s easy to get around on foot, or by bus, bike, tram or train. Look out for City Hosts, who are here to help if you need directions, public transport information, or details of events taking place.

Morning

A city full of innovation and creation, you could choose from one of Greater Manchester’s free attractions to kickstart your visit to the city:

Science and Industry Museum

Discover world-changing ideas with science shows, exhibitions and interactive galleries.

Child with phone taking photo of dinosaur skeletan at museum

Manchester Museum

As one of the UK’s biggest university museums, you can explore the incredible collections and meet…

Museum of Illusions

Enter the fascinating world of illusions where nothing is ever quite as it seems.

Lunch

There are so many spots to stop to grab a bite in the city. Why not try one of the following:

Franco Manca

A cosy pizzeria packed full of character – and pizza of course!

Gooey

Sweet and savoury food bursting with sticky, messy flavours you won’t find anywhere else.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring football together in a city that truly lives and breathes the game. At the National Football Museum, families can discover the sport’s story through interactive exhibits and hands-on displays, including skill-based challenges and game zones designed for all ages. Or pick a side, get involved, and go behind the scenes at either of our iconic football stadiums.

National Football Museum

Learn about the beautiful game with exhibitions, interactive games, tours and more.

Group of fans inside football stadium on a tour

Manchester City Stadium and Club Tour

See the magic of City brought to life with this immersive tour.

Manchester United to welcome visitors back to its Museum & Tour as Old Trafford reopens

Manchester United Stadium and Club Tour

Go behind the scenes at the world’s most iconic stadium; Old Trafford.

Evening

After a fun-filled day, you’ll be ready to refuel. The Corn Exchange is a vibrant food hall offering flavours from around the world. Take your pick from:

The Real Greek

The Real Greek offers an authentic menu and great ongoing deals for children. *

Riva Blu

Enjoy Southern Italian authenticity at Riva Blu, plus a fun DIY pizza station for children.

Sixes Social Cricket

The World's first immersive cricket dining experience brings Great British BBQ to Manchester.

Morning

On your second morning in Manchester check out one of Manchester’s most integrative experiences perfect for the whole family.

LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Manchester

The ultimate indoor LEGO playground, offering an inspirational day out for all the family.

Family walking through tunnel of aqurium with children pointing at animals

SEA LIFE Manchester

Get up close to thousands of creatures including sharks, jellyfish, and green sea turtles.

Inside of a shopping mall in Manchester with people walking and glass roof

The Trafford Centre

More than just shopping, there’s also bowling, mini-golf and a cinema to enjoy!

People driving electric go-karts on an indoor track with glowing neon lines and digital projections, creating a futuristic, space-themed racing environment.

Chaos Karts

Race into a world of immersive gaming. Chaos Karts is an all-new experience that combines the worlds…

Lunch

After an action-packed morning, head back into the city centre for something to eat. You could choose from:

Group of friends eating food in food hall

Mackie Mayor

This cosmopolitan food hall offers something for everyone with a range of artisan vendors.

Black Milk

One of the city’s best spots for treats and desserts with shakes, brownies, cakes and more.

Afternoon

Challenge the family to a little friendly competition. Try your hand at adventure golf, see if you can escape Manchester’s real, live escape room, or explore the city on a treasure hunt:

Child playing crazy golf on indoor course

Treetop Adventure Golf

Play a game of mini golf against a backdrop of crumbling temples and raging waterfalls.

2 people in escape room taking on challenge and laughing

Breakout Manchester

Can you escape? Solve the puzzles and try to beat the clock.

Group of people looking at treasure hunt app on phone

Treasure Hunt Manchester

Have an adventure and discover the city by solving clues and following treasure maps.

Evening

After exploring more of Manchester, you’re bound to be ready for food. Choose from:

Evelyn’s

Evelyn's is a casual dining room and bar with a menu inspired by flavours from around the world.

Mollie's Diner

Mollie’s Diner serves up all-day modern Americana - think classic comfort food, reinvented with…

On your final day, why not explore a little further afield and head out into Greater Manchester. Choose from some of our top attractions, all of which are included in the Visit Manchester Pass*