- What makes Manchester, UK, a great destination?
- Manchester offers a vibrant mix of culture, history, and entertainment.
- What museums can visitors explore in Manchester?
- Explore the iconic Manchester Museum or the Science and Industry Museum.
- What attractions are available for football fans?
- Football fans can visit Old Trafford or the Etihad Stadium.
- Where can visitors experience Manchester’s vibrant street culture?
- Wander through the Northern Quarter for indie shops, street art, and lively bars.
- What entertainment options are available in Manchester?
- Enjoy a show at the Palace Theatre or Bridgewater Hall.
- Where can visitors relax in Manchester?
- Relax at Heaton Park or explore the trendy Spinningfields area.
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1. Museum of Science and Industry
As is common with many museums in England, the Museum of Science and Industry offers free entry and is open nearly every day of the year to the public. This museum is located in downtown Manchester and is easily accessible by public transit, including the free Manchester City Center bus. Guests to the Museum of Science and Industry should expect rotating full exhibits with permanent smaller features, ranging from transportation focused exhibits to electricity, technological advancements, and other various human achievements. Given that content is ever changing, it is recommended that guests investigate the online calendar or contact the museum by telephone before visiting to learn what’s on exhibit.
Liverpool Rd, Manchester, M3 4FP, UK, Phone: +44-16-18-32-22-44
2. Whitworth Art Gallery
The Whitworth Art Gallery contains a large collection of diverse art, ranging from historic exhibitions to modern pieces, they also host various outdoor events for the community, and guests are always welcome free of admission. There is an onsite store where guests can purchase art supplies, an onsite cafe where guests can appease their appetites, and even special exhibits designed specifically for families to enjoy.
Oxford Rd, Manchester, M15 6ER, UK, Phone: +44-16-12-75-74-50
3. Manchester Art Gallery
There are a few different ways that guests can explore the Manchester Art Gallery, all depending on what type of visit they would like to have. For families, the Manchester Art Gallery has specific exhibits that allow parents and children to directly interact with art, whether they are playing on sculptures or creating their own pieces. For students ranging from elementary to university, the gallery is happy to host specific tours catered to their age range. Adults seeking a peaceful art viewing experience will want to attend one of the adult only tours to get the most out of their visit.
Mosley Street, Manchester, M2 3JL, UK, Phone: +44-16-12-35-88-88
4. John Rylands Library
Considered to be one of the most outstanding university based special collections libraries in the world, the John Rylands Library is a must see for architecture, knowledge, and history lovers alike. The library itself was originally designed in 1889 by Basil Champneys and was finished being built in 1900. In 1972 the library was adopted by The University of Manchester, and in modern day sees over 250,000 visitors each year. Whether guests want to participate in a program, a tour, perform research at the library, or simply explore the grounds and marvel at the architecture and collections, the John Rylands Library welcomes them with open doors seven days a week.
150 Deansgate, Manchester, M3 3EH, UK, Phone: +44-16-13-06-05-55
5. National Football Museum
Football, or soccer as Americans call it, is an integral part of Manchester’s history, so much so that they’ve dedicated an entire museum to showcase everything surrounding the game. Guests to the National Football Museum will have to pay admission, but all proceeds go to charity to help with local community groups, volunteer programs, and keeping the museum running. There are many exhibits and artifacts to explore in the museum, and every ticket includes the opportunity to take a photo with one of the famous trophies that reside there. Football fans will love this museum and can even book guided tours to have every jersey and ball explained to them and have their every question answered.
Urbis Building Cathedral Gardens, Todd St, Manchester, M4 3BG, UK, Phone: +44-16-16-05-82-00
6. Manchester Town Hall
Considered by locals and tourists alike to be one of the most iconic attractions in Manchester, the Manchester Town Hall is one of the most prominent instances of Neo-Gothic architecture in the whole UK. The building was originally commissioned in the late 1800s because the existing town hall on King Street was no longer large enough to house all the necessary functions. A competition was held, the winning architect was Alfred Waterhouse, and his designs were used to construct the Manchester Town Hall between 1868 and 1877 and at the time cost approximately $1.3 million USD.
Albert Square, Manchester, M60 2LA, UK, Phone: +44-16-12-34-43-43
7. Old Trafford
Being home to the world famous football team Manchester United is only one reason to visit Old Trafford Stadium, and guests can appreciate the stadium in far more detail when they aren’t attending a match. The stadium was originally built in the early 1900s and can seat 76,000 people, though one record breaking game had 76.962 attendees. Guests who visit Old Trafford can shop at the Megastore for Manchester United merchandise, take a guided museum and stadium tour to see behind the scenes and in the locker rooms, and even have the opportunity to sit in the Press Room for a photo.
Sir Matt Busby Way, Stretford, Manchester, M16 0RA, UK, Phone: +44-16-18-68-80-00
8. People’s History Museum
People’s History Museum offers free admission to guests, but guests can donate upon entry if they want to contribute to the museum. There are many different learning programs available through the museum, ranging in targeted ages from young school children all the way up to university students and adults. The museum offers the perfect opportunity to learn about ideas such as equality, cooperation in society, social justice, and ways to create a fair world for everyone. The museum welcomes all guests and is open every day of the year from 10am through 5pm, except on major holidays.
New Ct St, Manchester M3 3ER, UK, Phone: +44-16-18-38-91-90
9. HOME
Even though HOME just opened in 2015 they have already had over 1.8 million visitors to their facility. HOME, which is located in central Manchester, was created to help international and UK artists produce the most special experiences for guests as possible, whether that is through film, drama, dance, contemporary visual art, or something else. HOME works hard to push the boundaries when it comes to connecting art and cutting edge technology, and they are a great place to experience a potentially life changing exhibit or performance. Everyone is welcome at HOME, and guests can explore the calendar online or contact HOME by telephone for more details.
2 Tony Wilson Place, Manchester M15 4FN, UK, Phone: +44-16-12-00-15-00
10. Manchester Craft and Design Centre
The Manchester Craft and Design Centre was originally founded to help promote public education of contemporary visual art, crafts, and designs by increasing public access to various types of art. It is located approximately five minutes from Manchester’s primary shopping areas and offers a quiet place to retreat out of the city noise. The Manchester Craft and Design Centre has a cafe at which guests can eat all home cooked food that is made using local ingredients and purchase drinks like coffee and tea. There are rotating exhibits throughout the year, often with brand new content, so guests are encouraged to contact the Manchester Craft and Design Centre directly for up to date information.
17 Oak St, Manchester M4 5JD, UK, Phone: +44-16-18-32-42-74
| Best Time to Visit | Places to Stay | Tips for Visiting |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures, blooming parks, and fewer tourists. | The Midland Hotel – Luxury hotel with a historic charm and central location. | Visit Heaton Park – Enjoy a walk or picnic in one of Manchester’s largest green spaces. |
| Summer (June-August) – Warm weather, ideal for outdoor festivals and sightseeing. | Hotel Gotham – A chic, stylish hotel in the heart of the city. | Explore Manchester’s Northern Quarter – Discover quirky shops, street art, and hip cafés. |
| Fall (September-November) – Cool temperatures, vibrant autumn colors, and local cultural events. | The Lowry Hotel – Contemporary luxury near the River Irwell. | Attend the Manchester Food and Drink Festival – Celebrate the city's vibrant culinary scene. |
| Winter (December-February) – Cold temperatures, festive lights, and cozy indoor attractions. | Radisson Blu Edwardian, Manchester – Elegant stay with modern amenities and easy access to local sights. | Visit the Manchester Christmas Markets – Explore festive stalls for unique gifts, food, and mulled wine. |
Plan Your Trip
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