Top 10 activities in Manchester

Manchester’s industrial roots, creative culture, and buzzing nightlife make it a haven for those seeking more than just the usual sightseeing. From immersive cocktail bars to adrenaline-fuelled adventures, this city knows how to show you a good time.

Whether you’re a local looking for something new or a visitor ready to explore, here’s your ultimate guide to the top 10 activities to do in Manchester – full of fun, quirky, and totally unforgettable experiences.

1. Serve time at Alcotraz – Manchester’s most notorious immersive bar

Yes, you can serve time in Manchester too. Alcotraz has made its way up north and brings all the theatrical chaos of its London sibling to Deansgate. Smuggle in your own liquor, don the orange jumpsuit, and play along with corrupt guards as your drinks get crafted behind bars.

It’s immersive, hilarious, and perfect for a birthday, stag/hen do, or wild date night. Definitely one of the top unusual activities in Manchester.

2. Battle it out at Chaos Karts

Forget go-karting as you know it – Chaos Karts Manchester blends real-life racing with augmented reality. Think Mario Kart in the real world, complete with power-ups, drifting, and wild courses. It’s competitive, silly, and ridiculously fun.

Ideal for group outings or a chaotic team-building session.

3. Get locked in at Breakout Manchester

When it comes to fun experiences in Manchester, escape rooms are always a fail-safe option – and they don’t get more intense than Breakout Manchester. With themes like “Sabotage”, “Captivity”, and “The Detective Office”, it’s a must-try for puzzle lovers, thrill-seekers, and anyone who wants to test friendships under pressure.

Perfect for a brainy, screen-free night out.

4. Climb to the skies at Parthian Climbing Manchester

Feeling adventurous? Parthian Climbing offers indoor rock climbing for all skill levels inside the stunning converted St. Benedict’s Church. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or a total newbie, this is a unique and active way to spend an afternoon.

Bonus: they’ve got a great café for post-climb chill vibes.

5. Laugh it off at The Frog and Bucket Comedy Club

A Manchester staple, Frog and Bucket is one of the UK’s oldest comedy clubs and home to the famous “Beat the Frog” night. From seasoned comedians to rising stars, you’ll get a night packed with belly laughs.

Fun, cheap, and perfect for date night or a spontaneous evening with mates.

6. Cocktail chemistry at Science & Industry

Hidden above Cane & Grain in the Northern Quarter, Science & Industry is where cocktail innovation meets mad science. Expect smoky flasks, lab gear, and some of the most creative drinks in the city.

It’s classy, quirky, and ideal for lovers of mixology with a twist.

7. Experience immersive cinema at Backyard Cinema

Popcorn and chill? Not here. Backyard Cinema occasionally pops up in Manchester with fully themed, immersive movie experiences – think snow-filled winter wonderlands or 80s neon arcades.

A seriously cool upgrade to your standard cinema trip.

8. Drink and play at Roxy Ball Room

Roxy Ball Room brings all your favourite games into one buzzing venue – beer pong, shuffleboard, bowling, ping pong, even crazy golf. Add in a solid drinks menu and a soundtrack of bangers and its game on.

A guaranteed hit for groups and party people.

9. Take a haunted ghost walk

Explore the darker side of the city with The Manchester Ghost Walk. Led by Flecky Bennett, it’s spooky, theatrical, and just the right amount of creepy. Learn about the city’s haunted spots and gory history in this alternative city tour.

Perfect for date night, Halloween vibes, or history lovers with a dark side.

10. Chill in an ice bar at Sub Zero Events

Yes, Manchester has its own frozen paradise. Sub Zero Events‘ Ice Bar pops up seasonally and offers you the chance to drink in a bar made entirely of ice. Cosy up in thermal cloaks, sip chilled cocktails, and embrace the cold.

Definitely one for your winter bucket list.

Why Alcotraz Manchester is a must-do experience

Among the fun activities to do in Manchester for adults, Alcotraz stands out as a fully immersive, story-driven night out. You’re not just drinking cocktails – you’re living a prison break narrative, complete with sneaky guards and shady inmates. It’s wild, weird, and totally worth it.

Whether you’re planning a birthday bash or want to shake up your typical Friday night, book your cell now and smuggle in the fun.