Birmingham, the vibrant heart of the West Midlands, is brimming with exciting activities for families with children. Whether you're a local or visiting the city for the first time, Birmingham offers a fantastic mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and indoor fun. If you're looking for ways to keep the little ones entertained, here are some of the best things to do in Birmingham right now!
1. Visit Birmingham's Thinktank Science Museum
The Thinktank Science Museum is a must-visit for families with curious minds. Located in the city centre, this interactive museum is filled with hands-on exhibits that make learning about science fun and engaging. From exploring the wonders of space to discovering the workings of the human body, kids will love the wide range of exhibits. The museum also has a fantastic outdoor Science Garden, perfect for some fresh air and outdoor play.
- Opening Hours: Daily, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Ticket Price: Adult £16, Child £12.50, Family Ticket £50 (2 adults, 2 children)
- What’s on Right Now: Special exhibitions and fun science demos!
- Learn More: https://www.birminghammuseums.org.uk/thinktank
2. Birmingham Botanical Gardens
If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some beautiful green space, the Birmingham Botanical Gardens is a fantastic choice. These stunning gardens are home to four distinctive glasshouses filled with tropical plants, as well as a variety of outdoor gardens for children to explore. With plenty of space for kids to run around, play, and enjoy nature, this is a peaceful and fun outing for the whole family.
- Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Ticket Price: Adults £8.50, Children (3-16) £4, Family Ticket £25
- What’s on Right Now: The gardens are beautiful year-round, with seasonal plants in bloom!
- Learn More: https://birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk/
3. Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park
If your kids love animals, the Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park is a hidden gem. Home to a range of exotic species, including lemurs, red pandas, and meerkats, this small but well-maintained zoo offers a fun and educational day out. It’s a great opportunity for children to learn about wildlife conservation while getting up close with animals they might not usually see.
- Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Ticket Price: Adults £7.50, Children £4.50, Family Ticket £22
- What’s on Right Now: The park is always changing, with special events for kids such as animal talks and feeding sessions.
- Learn More: https://www.birmingham.gov.uk/conservationpark
4. Winterbourne House and Garden
Nestled near the University of Birmingham, Winterbourne House and Garden offers a lovely family day out with a mix of history and nature. The 20th-century house is surrounded by 7 acres of beautiful gardens, which children can explore. The gardens include a Victorian terrace garden, a rock garden, and even a bamboo maze! The house also runs seasonal activities and workshops for kids, including arts and crafts.
- Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Ticket Price: Adults £7.50, Children (5-16) £4, Family Ticket £22
- What’s on Right Now: Seasonal garden tours and children’s workshops.
- Learn More: https://www.winterbourne.org.uk/
5. Cadbury World
No visit to Birmingham is complete without a trip to Cadbury World, especially for families with kids who have a sweet tooth! This interactive experience is perfect for chocolate lovers, with a variety of fun activities and exhibits that teach visitors all about the history of Cadbury chocolate. Kids can enjoy making their own chocolate creations, visit the 4D cinema, and even take a ride through the magical Cadabra attraction.
- Opening Hours: Daily, from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM
- Ticket Price: £21.50 per person (online prices may vary)
- What’s on Right Now: Seasonal events like Easter-themed chocolate-making workshops!
- Learn More: https://www.cadburyworld.co.uk/
6. The Library of Birmingham
For families who enjoy a bit of quiet time, the Library of Birmingham offers a wonderful space for children to explore. The library has a dedicated children’s section with a variety of books, interactive areas, and regular storytelling sessions. It’s a great way to nurture a love for reading while also allowing children to participate in creative activities. The library also has a beautiful outdoor terrace with views of the city.
- Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (check for seasonal variations)
- Ticket Price: Free entry
- What’s on Right Now: Storytelling sessions and kids' craft workshops.
7. The Sea Life Centre Birmingham
For children who love the ocean, the Sea Life Centre Birmingham is an exciting underwater adventure. Located in the heart of the city, this aquarium offers families the chance to see a wide variety of sea creatures, from tropical fish to sea turtles and even sharks. The kids will love walking through the 360-degree tunnel, which gives the feeling of being surrounded by marine life. The centre also offers interactive exhibits like touch pools, where children can learn about sea life up close.
- Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Ticket Price: £15.50 per adult, £12.50 per child, Family Ticket £50
- What’s on Right Now: New exhibits and seasonal animal talks.
- Learn More: https://www.visitsealife.com/birmingham
8. Escape Live Birmingham
For families with older children or teens, Escape Live Birmingham is a thrilling indoor activity that will get everyone thinking. This escape room experience is perfect for families who enjoy problem-solving and adventure. You’ll work together to solve puzzles and escape within a set time limit. It’s a fun and challenging way for families to bond and have a great time together.
- Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, various times
- Ticket Price: Prices start at £20 per person, depending on the game
- What’s on Right Now: Themed escape rooms for all ages!
9. Birmingham’s Lunar Society Walking Tour
For families with older children who are interested in history, the Lunar Society Walking Tour is a fascinating way to explore the city’s scientific and industrial heritage. The tour highlights key figures in Birmingham’s history and shows how the city played a major role in the industrial revolution. It’s an educational yet fun way to discover Birmingham’s past.
- When: Check for availability
- Ticket Price: Around £10 per person
- What’s on Right Now: History walking tours (check for availability).
10. Parks and Playgrounds
Birmingham is also home to several fantastic parks where families can enjoy a picnic, let the kids run around, and explore. Cannon Hill Park, located close to the city centre, offers playgrounds, pedal boats on the lake, and plenty of green space for ball games. Sutton Park, one of the largest urban parks in Europe, has lakes, woodlands, and lots of outdoor activities for families to enjoy.
- Free Entry: Open year-round
- Perfect For: Picnics, outdoor games, and exploring nature.
11. Ultimate Activity Camps at King Edward VI High School
Are you looking for exciting and caring school holiday childcare in Birmingham? Ultimate Activity Camps provide outstanding, inspiring, and Ofsted-regulated activity day camps with the primary function of delivering a very high level of care and welfare for 4-14-year-olds during the Easter and Summer school holidays. We deliver this childcare through a fantastic range of exciting activities whether these be in the art room, the sports hall, playing fields or in the woods. We use our many years of experience and enthusiastic staff to create a programme that changes each day and delivers the outstanding levels of care you would expect whilst ensuring that the children of all ages are thoroughly engaged and inspired to try new activities and make new friends.
- Opening Hours: Easter and Summer School Holidays 8am to 6pm
- Ticket Price: Prices vary and early bird discounts available
- Suitable for: Children aged 4-14 years
- Book here: Birmingham Summer Camp
Birmingham is a family-friendly city that offers a diverse range of activities for children of all ages. From science museums and wildlife parks to outdoor adventures and indoor fun, there’s always something to keep your little ones entertained. So whether you’re looking for an educational outing or just some outdoor playtime, Birmingham has you covered for a fantastic family day out!