20 fun things to do in birmingham for kids
Looking for the best things to do in Birmingham for kids? Whether you're planning a rainy-day escape or an epic weekend adventure, Birmingham has plenty to keep the whole family entertained.
From indoor attractions and interactive museums to high-energy bowling lanes, this list of the top 20 kids' activities in Birmingham has something for every age, interest, and energy level.
Indoor and Outdoor Fun for All Ages
Whether you’re looking for high-energy indoor fun, educational attractions, or budget-friendly days out, Birmingham has it all. Ideal for weekends, school holidays, and everything in between, we’ve got you covered!
Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
With hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and interactive zones for your little ones, Thinktank makes this a favourite day out in Birmingham for families. This science museum is educational and fun, which is a win-win for everyone
National Sea Life Centre
Take a deep dive into the underwater world with sharks, rays, and a 360° ocean tunnel. It’s one of the top things to do in Birmingham with family, especially if you’ve got curious little explorers.
Hollywood Bowl
Kick off your fun day out in Birmingham with a strike! At Hollywood Bowl, kids (and grown-ups) can enjoy a full-on family experience, think dazzling bowling lanes, arcade games, tasty food and drink, and much more… all in one place. It’s the ultimate indoor escape for birthdays, holidays, and rainy afternoons.
Choose from one of our Birmingham venues:
● Wolverhampton Bentley Bridge
Legoland Discovery Centre
Ideal for younger kids, this indoor play paradise is packed with rides, a 4D cinema, and endless brick-building fun. Not only is this one exciting day out, but it will be an activity you’ll want to return to time and time again.
Cadbury World
Who can say no to chocolate? Unwrap the magic of chocolate with an interactive tour at the iconic Cadbury World. It’s a deliciously memorable family day out with games, history and of course, SAMPLES!
Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park
A small but mighty zoo experience, with red pandas, lemurs, and wallabies, the Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park is a great day out for kids. It’s budget-friendly and great for keeping the kids entertained whilst learning about all the different animals!
Inflata Nation Birmingham
If your kids are little daredevils and love to bounce, slide, and climb, this inflatable theme park is one of the best indoor things to do in Birmingham. Get ready to skip, hop and jump your way to Inflata Nation!
Cannon Hill Park
This vast green space in the heart of Birmingham is the perfect spot for a family day out. With multiple playgrounds, beautiful walking trails, and plenty of open space for picnics and games, there’s something for everyone.
Families can hire pedal boats or swan boats on the lake, visit the on-site mini funfair during the summer months, or take a ride on the land train.
Rush UK Trampoline Park
Let the kids bounce off the walls – literally – at this high-energy indoor venue. Rush is packed with wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits, slam dunk lanes, and a ninja warrior-style obstacle course.
It’s an ideal choice for an indoor activity, especially on rainy days or when the kids need to burn off some serious energy.
Escape Hunt Birmingham
For older children and teens who love a challenge, Escape Hunt offers a thrilling, brain-teasing experience. Work together to crack codes, find hidden clues, and escape themed rooms in under an hour.
It’s a fantastic way to encourage teamwork and problem-solving, and with immersive storylines and props, the experience feels just like stepping into your own adventure movie.
Go Ape Adventure
Looking for an unforgettable outdoor activity that gets the whole family moving? There are three Go Ape centres in Birmingham offering thrilling treetop adventures that are perfect for older kids, teens, and adventurous adults.
Whether you’re tackling the treetop course or cheering from below, it’s a fun day out that’s packed with excitement, fresh air, and unforgettable views.
Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Escape the city buzz and explore 15 acres of lush greenery, exotic plants, and peaceful trails at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. There are four stunning glasshouses, from tropical rainforest to arid desert, as well as a large playground and seasonal trails designed to keep younger visitors engaged.
Family-friendly events and craft activities take place throughout the year, so there’s always something new to discover.
Midlands Art Centre
MAC is a buzzing cultural hub nestled in Cannon Hill Park, offering a packed calendar of family-friendly activities. Little ones can get creative with pottery, painting, and drama workshops, while older kids might enjoy a film at the cosy independent cinema, so it’s a great option for a more relaxed and creative day out.
Library of Birmingham
This isn’t just any library, it’s a bold and modern building with some serious wow factor. Inside, kids can join free storytelling sessions, family reading clubs, and craft events.
The children’s floor is bright and engaging, and there’s even a secret garden terrace where you can take in stunning views of the city. It’s a peaceful yet inspiring place for curious minds, and a brilliant free activity for families visiting Birmingham.
Planet Ice Birmingham
If you’re looking for fun indoor activities in Birmingham, skating at Planet Ice is a cool way to spend the day. The rink offers family skate sessions, skating lessons, and even special toddler-friendly events with penguin skating aids.
It’s a great way to try something new or revisit a classic while getting everyone moving and laughing together on the ice.
TeamSport Indoor Karting
Unleash your inner racer at TeamSport’s multi-level indoor track, where kids aged 8 and up can experience the thrill of go-karting in a safe, supervised environment. With exciting twists, turns, and plenty of overtaking opportunities, it’s an adrenaline-fuelled day out that’s sure to be remembered. They also offer family races, so you can all battle it out for bragging rights on the podium.
Ikon Gallery Family Events
Art doesn’t have to be hands-off, especially at the Ikon Gallery, which regularly hosts family workshops and events that encourage kids to get stuck in. Explore thought-provoking exhibitions, then create your own masterpieces at hands-on sessions.
The gallery is based in a beautiful old building by the canal, and there’s even a family-friendly café to refuel after a creative session.
Climbing at Redpoint Birmingham
Climbing is a brilliant way to build confidence, coordination, and strength, and Redpoint Birmingham makes it accessible for all skill levels. Their dedicated kids’ area includes beginner-friendly walls, while experienced young climbers can try out more advanced routes.
With expert supervision and equipment hire available, it’s a safe and exciting option for adventurous families.
Lapworth Museum of Geology
Dinosaur bones, glittering gems, and ancient fossils – what’s not to love? Located at the University of Birmingham, this fascinating museum is one of the oldest specialist geology museums in the UK. Kids can follow interactive trails, touch real rocks and fossils, and even explore virtual exhibits.
Best of all? Admission is free, making it one of the best-value days out in Birmingham for families.
Sarehole Mill
Literary fans and history buffs will love Sarehole Mill – a beautiful working watermill that inspired J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth.
Families can take a tour of the historic site, explore the millpond and woodland, and enjoy regular family workshops and storytelling sessions. It’s a peaceful yet magical spot for a slower-paced day out, blending nature, imagination, and heritage.
Plan Your Ideal Day Out in Birmingham
Whether you’re hunting for indoor things to do, adrenaline-filled adventures, or chilled-out culture spots, this list should give you plenty of inspiration for your next day out in Birmingham.
And when in doubt? You can’t go wrong with a visit to Hollywood Bowl – the go-to choice for bowling, mini golf and arcade games, especially on rainy days, birthdays, and everything in between.
