Planning a family city break this year? Birmingham is packed with exciting attractions, interactive museums, outdoor spaces and unforgettable experiences for visitors of all ages. From chocolate-filled adventures to hands-on science exhibits and beautiful green parks, there are endless things to do in Birmingham that keep children entertained while giving parents plenty to enjoy too.
If you're searching for the best things to do in Birmingham 2026, or planning a memorable Birmingham city break, this guide highlights some of the city's top attractions, all within easy reach of the city centre.
Discover Birmingham's Most Popular Family Attractions
No family trip to Birmingham is complete without a visit to Cadbury World in Bournville. One of the city's most famous attractions, Cadbury World takes visitors behind the scenes of Britain's favourite chocolate brand with immersive experiences, interactive zones, a 4D cinema experience and, of course, plenty of chocolate. It's one of the most popular things to do in Birmingham for families and continues to be a must-visit destination throughout 2026.
Another favourite is the National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham, located in Brindleyplace. Home to sharks, penguins, sea turtles, jellyfish and thousands of fascinating marine creatures, it's one of the best indoor Birmingham activities for families. After your visit, enjoy a walk along Birmingham's famous canal network, stop for lunch at one of the waterside restaurants or explore nearby Brindleyplace, where there's always plenty happening throughout the year.
Spark Curiosity at Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
For families looking for educational things to do in Birmingham, Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum at Millennium Point is one of the city's standout attractions. With four floors of interactive exhibits covering engineering, transport, medicine, space exploration and technology, it's designed to keep curious minds engaged for hours.
Younger children will love MiniBrum, while older visitors can experience the impressive planetarium and hands-on science galleries.
Located just a short walk from Birmingham New Street Station and the Bullring, Thinktank fits perfectly into a day exploring the city centre. It's one of the most popular family activities Birmingham 2026, especially during school holidays when additional workshops and interactive events are available.
Enjoy Birmingham's Parks, Gardens and Outdoor Adventures
When the weather is on your side, Birmingham's outdoor spaces offer plenty of opportunities for family fun. Cannon Hill Park remains one of the city's favourite green spaces, complete with boating lakes, adventure playgrounds, miniature golf and scenic walking routes. Right next door, Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park gives visitors the chance to see lemurs, red pandas, reptiles and a range of endangered animals, making it a fantastic addition to your family itinerary.
For a slower pace, head to the Birmingham Botanical Gardens in Edgbaston, where tropical glasshouses, colourful gardens and seasonal family events provide a peaceful escape from the busy city centre. If you're looking for even more outdoor Birmingham activities, Sutton Park National Nature Reserve offers miles of walking and cycling trails, woodlands, lakes and open heathland, making it one of the UK's largest urban parks.
What's On in Birmingham in 2026
If you're wondering what's on in Birmingham 2026, you'll find an exciting calendar of events alongside the city's year-round attractions. One of the biggest highlights is the European Athletics Championships, taking place at Alexander Stadium from 10–16 August 2026. The event will welcome Europe's top athletes to Birmingham, creating an incredible atmosphere for visitors and adding another reason to plan a Birmingham city break 2026.
The August Bank Holiday also sees the return of Birmingham Weekender, when the city centre comes alive with free performances, street entertainment, live music, interactive installations and activities designed for all ages. Throughout the year, families can also enjoy seasonal exhibitions at Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, creative workshops at the Midlands Arts Centre (MAC), food festivals, local markets and special holiday programmes hosted by many of Birmingham's leading attractions. If you're searching for Birmingham events 2026, there's something happening in every season.
Families can also discover the independent shops and cafés of the Jewellery Quarter, explore the colourful street art around Digbeth, or enjoy an afternoon strolling Birmingham's historic canals. With so many attractions, green spaces, museums and entertainment venues close together, it's easy to see why Birmingham continues to be one of the UK's best destinations for a family city break.
Stay Close to Birmingham's Best Family Attractions
With so many things to do in Birmingham, and unforgettable family activities Birmingham 2026, staying in the heart of the city means you can experience more while spending less time travelling.
aparthotel Birmingham offers spacious, modern accommodation just moments from the city's biggest attractions, including Cadbury World, Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum, the National SEA LIFE Centre, Bullring & Grand Central, Brindleyplace and Birmingham's famous canal network.
If you're looking for a comfortable hotel in Birmingham that puts you close to the action, aparthotel Birmingham is the perfect choice. Book your stay direct today and enjoy easy access to the very best things to do in Birmingham 2026, the city's biggest events and all the family-friendly attractions that make Birmingham a fantastic destination all year round.