There comes a point when family days out become a lot more difficult. Finding ideas for days out with teenagers is tough!
One minute your child is happy with a trip to the park, a scooter and an ice cream. The next, they’re rolling their eyes at the suggestion of a children’s farm and telling you that everything is boring.
I’ve started noticing this with my own son. At eight years old, he’s already beginning to outgrow some of the places we used to visit regularly. While he still enjoys a day out, he’s becoming much more selective about where he wants to go and what he wants to do.
As children get older, their interests become more specific too. Some teenagers are obsessed with gaming, others love sport, while some are happiest shopping with friends, trying viral food trends or finding somewhere they can take photos for social media. The challenge is finding places that feel exciting enough to tempt them away from their phones and out of their bedrooms.
It can also be a tricky age for parents. Days out suddenly become more expensive, teenagers often want more independence and if you have younger siblings in the mix, finding something that keeps everyone happy can feel almost impossible.
Over the years I’ve visited hundreds of attractions across Birmingham and the Midlands, both as a parent and as a family blogger. I’ve put together this list of days out that are perfect for older children and teenagers, whether you’re planning a family day out, looking for somewhere they can visit with friends or searching for ideas for a birthday celebration.
From gaming venues and water parks to adventure activities, shopping hotspots and unique experiences, these are some of the best days out for teenagers in Birmingham and the Midlands.
Gaming and tech Activities for Teenagers
F1 Arcade Birmingham
If you’ve got a teenager who loves gaming, Formula One or a bit of competition, F1 Arcade is a great shout. Located in Paradise Birmingham, it feels much more grown up than a traditional arcade. The racing simulators are seriously impressive and there is a real buzz about the place.
We’ve visited with children ranging from eight to fourteen years old and they all loved it. Younger children may need a booster seat to reach the pedals comfortably, but older children and teenagers can jump straight in. The venue becomes busier with adults later in the day, but during the afternoon it’s a fantastic family activity.
The food is good, there are regular offers available and I can easily imagine teenagers coming here with friends for a birthday celebration or weekend trip into Birmingham.
Location: 2 Chamberlain Square, Paradise Birmingham, Birmingham, B3 3AX
TOCA Social Birmingham
TOCA Social is one of those attractions that manages to appeal to football fans and non-football fans alike. The interactive games challenge players to test their shooting, passing and accuracy skills, with plenty of friendly competition along the way.
What stood out to me was how many teenagers were genuinely having fun. There were groups of friends, families and mixed-age groups all getting involved. It has that rare ability to get teenagers off their phones and fully engaged in what they’re doing.
It’s easy to see why it’s popular for birthdays and group outings. Older teenagers could comfortably visit with friends, while younger teens will enjoy it just as much as part of a family day out.
Location: TOCA Social, Bullring, 11 St Martin’s Walk, Birmingham, B5 4BU
NQ64 Birmingham
NQ64 combines retro gaming, neon lighting and a cool Digbeth location to create an attraction that feels a little different from your average arcade.
While family sessions are only available at certain times, Sunday 11-3 – it’s a fantastic option if your teenager enjoys gaming. The mix of classic arcade machines and retro consoles means there’s something for parents and teenagers alike, making it one of those rare attractions where everyone ends up joining in.
Its location is another bonus. You’re right in the heart of Digbeth, close to street food venues, independent businesses and plenty of other things to do if you’re making a day of it.
Location: The Custard Factory, Gibb Street, Deritend, Birmingham, B9 4BG
Sandbox VR Birmingham
Sandbox VR was one of the biggest surprises for us. The experience is incredibly immersive and feels much more like stepping into a video game than simply putting on a headset.
We tried the Squid Game experience as a team and it was brilliant fun. Working together, competing against each other and reacting to what was happening around us created plenty of laughs. Even spectators enjoyed watching.
If your teenager enjoys gaming, technology or simply trying something new, this is one of the most memorable attractions on the list.
Location: Unit 25A, Grand Central Shopping Centre, Birmingham, B2 4BF
Lucky Claw Birmingham
Lucky Claw feels like stepping into a giant arcade packed with claw machines, prizes and colourful displays. It’s particularly popular with teenagers who enjoy anime, collectables, plush toys and social media trends.
I did find it quite expensive compared to some attractions, but it’s easy to see the appeal. The venue is packed with quirky prizes, imported snacks and interactive games. There is also a digital floor game area which adds something a little different to the usual arcade experience.
It’s probably best combined with a wider day out in Birmingham, especially if you’re already exploring Chinatown or the city centre.
Location: Bromsgrove Street, Birmingham, B5 6RG
Adventure Activities and days out for Teenagers
iFLY Indoor Skydiving
If your teenager loves adrenaline-fuelled experiences, iFLY is one of the most unique activities in the Midlands. Using a powerful vertical wind tunnel, participants experience the sensation of freefall without having to jump from an aeroplane.
It’s suitable for a wide range of ages and makes a great birthday treat or special occasion experience. Even those who are a little nervous often come away wanting another go.
Location: Pendigo Way, Marston Green, Birmingham, B40 1NT
Go Ape Cannock Chase
Go Ape is perfect for teenagers who love being active. The treetop courses include rope bridges, zip wires and climbing challenges high above the forest floor.
One of the biggest advantages is that teenagers can enjoy a degree of independence while parents relax below. Cannock Chase itself is also worth exploring, making this easy to turn into a full day out.
Location: Birches Valley Forest Centre, Rugeley, Staffordshire, WS15 2UQ
Habberley Trail
Habberley Trail combines woodland walks with climbing structures, obstacle courses and outdoor adventure activities. It’s ideal for teenagers who have outgrown traditional playgrounds but still enjoy being active.
The relaxed woodland setting makes it feel less structured than some adventure attractions, giving older children the freedom to explore at their own pace.
Location: Habberley Road, Kidderminster, Worcestershire, DY11 5RJ
Escape Rooms
Escape rooms continue to be hugely popular with teenagers. Working together to solve clues, crack codes and beat the clock encourages teamwork, communication and problem solving.
Whether they’re visiting with friends or family, escape rooms offer something a little different from the usual day out and work particularly well on rainy days.
Location: Various locations across Birmingham and the Midlands
Fun City Dudley
Fun City is a good option for older children and younger teenagers who still enjoy active days out but have started to outgrow traditional soft play centres. With trampolines, climbing activities, inflatables and challenge zones, it feels much more suited to that tween and early teen age group.
It’s also useful if you’re trying to entertain a wider age range, as younger siblings can usually find something to do as well.
Location: Castlegate Way, Dudley, West Midlands, DY1 4TA
Laser Combat Birmingham
If your teenager enjoys gaming, competition and a bit of friendly rivalry, Laser Combat Birmingham is a great choice. Located inside TeamSport Karting in Oldbury, this isn’t the laser tag many parents remember from years ago. The arena features multiple levels, ramps, obstacles, lighting effects and plenty of places to hide while plotting your next move.
It’s a brilliant option for birthdays, group outings and family competitions, with enough action to keep older children and teenagers fully engaged. If you’ve got a teenager who loves first-person shooter games, this is about as close as you can get in real life.
Location: Laser Combat Birmingham, c/o TeamSport Karting, Park Lane, Oldbury, West Midlands, B69 4JX
Teamworks Karting Birmingham
Karting is one of those activities that almost every teenager enjoys. Teamworks is another venue which offers indoor circuits where drivers can race friends and family in a safe but exciting environment.
If your teenager enjoys gaming, Formula One or anything competitive, this is likely to be a hit.
Location: 202 Fazeley Street, Birmingham, B5 5SE
The Floodgate
The Floodgate offers a mix of activities including baseball batting cages, curling, shuffleboard and interactive games. It feels modern, social and designed with older children, teenagers and young adults in mind.
It’s particularly good for groups of friends and is one of those places where everyone can find an activity they enjoy.
Location: 104 River Street, Digbeth, Birmingham, B5 5SA
Roxy Lanes Birmingham
Roxy Lanes combines bowling, karaoke, shuffleboard, arcade games and a range of other competitive activities under one roof.
The variety is what makes it stand out. If you’ve got a group of teenagers who all enjoy different things, chances are they’ll find something here to keep them entertained.
Location: 58 – 60 Heath Mill Ln, Deritend, Birmingham B9 4AR
Water Parks and Summer Activities for Teenagers
Aztec Adventure
Aztec Adventure is one of those attractions that seems to get the balance right for both teenagers and parents. The Aqua Park is the main attraction, with giant inflatable obstacles, slides, climbing walls and balance challenges spread across the lake. It’s physically demanding enough to keep teenagers entertained, but still feels like pure fun.
There are also kayaks and paddleboards available to hire. During our visit, I noticed groups of teenagers paddling around together, falling in, laughing and generally enjoying the freedom of being on the water. Meanwhile, plenty of parents were relaxing nearby with a coffee and watching from the sidelines.
It’s easy to see why this is such a popular choice for birthday celebrations, summer meet-ups and family days out.
Location: Aztec Adventure Upton Warren, Droitwich Road, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, B61 7ER
The Wave Coventry
The Wave is one of the best indoor water parks in the Midlands and a brilliant option if the weather isn’t cooperating. Packed with slides, splash zones, rapids and water attractions, it feels like a giant adventure playground.
While younger children enjoy the splash areas, the larger slides are what really appeal to older children and teenagers. If you’ve got a teenager who claims they’re too old for family days out, there’s a good chance they’ll still have a great time here.
Location: The Wave, New Union Street, Coventry, CV1 2PS
Waterworld Stoke
Waterworld has been a favourite family attraction for years and it’s easy to see why. With thrill slides, rapids, wave pools and plenty of opportunities to make a splash, it offers something for all ages.
I haven’t visited recently, but it’s one of those attractions that consistently comes up when parents are looking for ideas for older children and teenagers. If you’re happy to travel a little further, it’s still a popular choice.
Location: Festival Way, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, ST1 5PU
Cliff Lakes Aqua Park
Cliff Lakes is another fantastic option for teenagers who enjoy being active. The inflatable aqua park features climbing obstacles, slides and challenges designed to test balance, strength and coordination.
The atmosphere here feels geared towards older children, teenagers and young adults, making it a great alternative to attractions that younger children tend to dominate.
Location: Cliff Lakes, Tamworth Road, Cliff, Tamworth, Warwickshire, B78 2DL
Droitwich Spa Lido
Droitwich Spa Lido is a little more traditional than some of the other attractions on this list, but it’s still a lovely place to spend a sunny afternoon. The outdoor pool is ideal for cooling off during the summer months and offers a more relaxed experience than the large water parks.
While it tends to attract families, older children and teenagers can still enjoy spending time in the pool, particularly if they’re looking for somewhere to meet friends and make the most of a warm day.
Location: Worcester Road, Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire, WR9 8AA
Indoor Activities for Rainy Days out with teenagers
SnowDome Tamworth
The SnowDome is one of those attractions that can work for almost any age, but it really comes into its own once children get older. Whether they fancy skiing, snowboarding, sledging or simply playing in the snow, there is plenty to keep teenagers entertained.
What I love about the SnowDome is that it feels like a proper day out rather than just a quick activity. There are skiing and snowboarding lessons available, ice skating during parts of the year, climbing activities and even swimming on site. It’s not the cheapest attraction on this list, but it’s one of those places that feels worth it for a birthday, school holiday treat or family celebration.
Location: Leisure Island, River Drive, Tamworth, Staffordshire, B79 7ND
Fun City Dudley
Fun City is one of the newer attractions in the Midlands and feels much more geared towards older children than a traditional indoor play centre. The bright décor, exciting attractions and energetic atmosphere make it a popular choice with tweens and younger teenagers.
There are trampolines, inflatables and plenty of opportunities to burn off some energy, making it a good option when the weather isn’t cooperating. If you’ve got children who have outgrown soft play but still enjoy active days out, this is worth a look.
Location: Castlegate Way, Dudley, West Midlands, DY1 4TA
Gravity Max Birmingham
Located inside Star City, Gravity Max offers far more than just trampolines. Alongside the jumping areas, you’ll find activities including high ropes, arcade games and interactive experiences.
The high ropes course is particularly impressive as it sits high above the Star City atrium, adding an extra challenge for adventurous teenagers. The refillable slush drinks are always a hit with the kids too. Because Star City has restaurants, a cinema and other attractions nearby, it’s easy to turn a visit into a full day out.
Location: Star City, Watson Road, Birmingham, B7 5SA
Inflata Nation Birmingham
Inflata Nation takes the idea of a bouncy castle and turns it into a giant indoor adventure course. Packed with slides, obstacles and inflatable challenges, it’s a fun way for older children to burn off some energy.
Although younger children enjoy it too, I’ve found it particularly popular with older children who still enjoy being active but have started to lose interest in more traditional play centres.
Location: Stevenson Street, Nechells, Birmingham, B7 4RH
Hollywood Bowl Birmingham
Bowling is one of those activities that never seems to go out of fashion. Whether you’re visiting with family or letting teenagers meet up with friends, it’s easy, sociable and doesn’t require any special skills.
Hollywood Bowl at Broadway Plaza is particularly handy if you’re combining it with a meal, cinema trip or day out in Birmingham city centre.
Location: Broadway Plaza, 220 Ladywood Middleway, Birmingham, B16 8LP
Lane7 Birmingham
Lane7 takes bowling and gives it a much more modern feel. Alongside the bowling lanes you’ll find arcade games, karaoke and a range of other activities that appeal to older children and teenagers.
It feels a little more grown up than a traditional bowling alley, which is often exactly what teenagers are looking for.
Location: Link Bridge, Bullring, Birmingham, B5 4BU
Everyman Cinema Birmingham
If you’re looking for a rainy-day activity that feels a bit special, Everyman Cinema is a great option. Located in The Mailbox, it offers comfortable seating, food and drinks delivered to your seat and a much more luxurious experience than a standard cinema trip.
It’s ideal for older teenagers, especially if you’re combining it with shopping or a meal in Birmingham city centre.
Location: The Mailbox, 80 Wharfside Street, Birmingham, B1 1RE
Mr Mulligans Birmingham
Crazy golf remains surprisingly popular with teenagers, especially when it has a fun theme and a competitive edge. Mr Mulligans offers indoor crazy golf courses that work well for families, friendship groups and birthday celebrations.
It’s easy to get everyone involved regardless of age, making it a useful option if you’re trying to entertain a mixed group.
Location: 29A Grand Central, Birmingham, B2 4BF
Outdoor Adventures and Days Out for Teenagers
Ackers Adventure
You don’t have to travel out into the countryside to find adventure. Ackers Adventure is right in Birmingham and offers everything from dry ski slopes and tobogganing to climbing, kayaking and high ropes.
What I love about Ackers is that it gives teenagers the chance to try activities they might not normally have access to. Even if they’ve never skied before, there are beginner sessions available, and the toboggan run is always a hit. It’s a great option if you’ve got an adventurous teenager who likes trying new things.
Location: Ackers Adventure, Golden Hillock Road, Birmingham, B11 2PY
Go Ape Cannock Chase
If your teenager enjoys climbing, zip wires and challenging themselves, Go Ape is hard to beat. Set amongst the trees at Cannock Chase, the course features rope bridges, treetop obstacles and zip lines that are guaranteed to get the adrenaline flowing.
One of the reasons it works so well for older children is that it gives them a bit of independence while still being in a safe environment. It’s active, outdoors and a world away from sitting in front of a screen.
Location: Birches Valley Forest Centre, Rugeley, Staffordshire, WS15 2UQ
Habberley Trail
Habberley Trail has quickly become one of the Midlands’ most talked-about outdoor attractions. Created by the same team behind the popular Crackley Trail, it transforms an old golf course into a giant outdoor adventure.
It’s difficult to describe because there are so many different things to discover. Expect interactive trails, climbing opportunities, play features and hidden surprises along the way. It feels like one giant outdoor playground and children seem to absolutely love it.
Location: Habberley Road, Kidderminster, Worcestershire, DY11 5RJ
Conkers
Conkers is one of those attractions that many people assume is just for younger children, but there’s actually far more to it than that. Alongside the indoor and outdoor play areas, you’ll find high ropes, woodland trails, boating activities and plenty of opportunities to explore.
It’s particularly good for families with children of different ages because there is enough space and variety to keep everyone occupied. If your teenager enjoys being outdoors and active, it’s definitely worth considering.
Location: Rawdon Road, Moira, Swadlincote, Derbyshire, DE12 6GA
Hawkstone Park Follies
Hawkstone Park Follies feels like stepping into another world. Spread across hundreds of acres of woodland, you’ll find caves, tunnels, bridges, towers and winding pathways waiting to be explored.
I visited with Arlo and we actually hired the Land Rover tour, but most visitors explore on foot. The views are incredible and the famous monument tower offers some spectacular scenery if you’re brave enough to make the climb. It feels much more like an adventure than a traditional country park.
Location: Hawkstone Park Follies, Weston-under-Redcastle, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, SY4 5JY
Cannock Chase
Cannock Chase is one of our favourite places for an outdoor day out. Whether you’re cycling, walking or tackling the trails, there’s plenty of space to explore.
What makes it particularly useful for families is that everyone can do their own thing. Younger children can enjoy the Gruffalo trail and play areas, while older children and teenagers head off on longer cycling routes or tackle activities like Go Ape. It’s one of those places that grows with your family as children get older.
Location: Birches Valley Visitor Centre, Rugeley, Staffordshire, WS15 2UQ
Carding Mill Valley
Carding Mill Valley is one of those classic Midlands days out that many families return to year after year. I first visited as a teenager myself during Duke of Edinburgh expeditions and still enjoy it now.
There are walking routes for all abilities, streams to paddle in and some beautiful scenery. It’s ideal for teenagers who enjoy the outdoors, photography, hiking or simply escaping the crowds for a few hours.
Location: Carding Mill Valley, Church Stretton, Shropshire, SY6 6JG
Lickey Hills Country Park
Just a short drive from Birmingham city centre, Lickey Hills is a fantastic free day out. There are walking trails, cycling routes and some lovely views across the surrounding countryside.
It’s not the sort of attraction that every teenager will be desperate to visit, but for those who enjoy being outdoors, walking the dog, riding bikes or taking photographs, it’s a great local option. There’s also a new play area opening which will make it even more appealing for families with children of different ages.
Location: Warren Lane, Rednal, Birmingham, B45 8ER
Museums, Culture and Educational Days Out for Teenagers
RAF Museum Cosford
Don’t let the word “museum” put you off. RAF Cosford is one of the most impressive museums in the Midlands and even teenagers who normally claim to hate museums are often surprised by how much they enjoy it.
The enormous aircraft hangars are packed with everything from fighter jets and military aircraft to interactive exhibits and engineering displays. Best of all, entry is free, making it one of the best-value days out on this list.
It’s particularly good for teenagers interested in aviation, history, engineering or photography, but the sheer scale of the exhibits is impressive regardless of your interests.
Location: RAF Museum Cosford, Lysander Avenue, Cosford, Shifnal, Shropshire, TF11 8UP
Black Country Living Museum
Black Country Living Museum has become hugely popular in recent years and it’s easy to see why. The open-air museum recreates life through different periods of history, with historic buildings, traditional shops, transport and costumed characters bringing everything to life. Of course also a filming location for the Peaky Blinders makes Charlie’s Yard instantly recognisable too.
It’s one of those attractions where teenagers can wander at their own pace, stop for traditional fish and chips, browse the sweet shop and take plenty of photos along the way. If you’ve got a teenager who enjoys social media, they’ll probably recognise some of the locations from Peaky Blinders and TikTok videos.
Location: Tipton Road, Dudley, West Midlands, DY1 4SQ
Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
Thinktank does a great job of making science feel hands-on and engaging rather than something you’d find in a classroom. The interactive exhibits cover everything from engineering and technology to space exploration and transport.
While younger children enjoy many of the exhibits, there is plenty here to keep older children and teenagers interested too. It’s also conveniently located in Birmingham city centre, making it easy to combine with shopping, food or other attractions.
Location: Millennium Point, Curzon Street, Birmingham, B4 7XG
Coventry Transport Museum
Home to the world’s largest collection of British road transport, Coventry Transport Museum is much more interesting than the name might suggest. Alongside historic cars, motorbikes and buses, you’ll find record-breaking vehicles and interactive displays.
It’s a great option for teenagers interested in motorsport, engineering or design, and another attraction that offers excellent value for money.
Location: Millennium Place, Hales Street, Coventry, CV1 1JD
Shopping, Food and Social Media Hotspots for Teenagers
Bullring and Grand Central
For many teenagers, a day out doesn’t need to involve climbing walls or water slides. Sometimes they simply want to spend time with friends, browse the shops and grab something to eat.
Bullring and Grand Central remains one of the most popular destinations for older children and teenagers in Birmingham. With hundreds of shops, food outlets and easy transport links, it’s often one of the first places teenagers start visiting independently with friends.
Location: Bullring & Grand Central, Birmingham, B5 4BU
Red Brick Market
If your teenager loves TikTok trends, vintage fashion, collectables, artwork or quirky independent businesses, Red Brick Market is worth a visit.
The huge indoor marketplace is packed with stalls selling everything from handmade gifts and retro clothing to gaming merchandise, records and unusual snacks. Every visit feels slightly different and it’s easy to lose an hour or two browsing.
Location: 119 Floodgate Street, Digbeth, Birmingham, B5 5SU
Digbeth
Digbeth has become one of Birmingham’s coolest areas and is particularly popular with older teenagers. Known for its street art, independent businesses and creative atmosphere, it’s somewhere that feels very different from the city’s shopping centres.
Even if you’re not planning to spend lots of money, it’s a great area to wander around, take photos and discover somewhere new.
Location: Digbeth, Birmingham City Centre
The Custard Factory
The Custard Factory sits at the heart of Digbeth and is home to a mixture of independent shops, cafés, creative businesses and event spaces.
It’s one of those places where teenagers can explore at their own pace, whether they’re looking for vintage clothing, unusual gifts or simply somewhere different from the high street.
Location: Gibb Street, Digbeth, Birmingham, B9 4AA
Lucky Claw
Lucky Claw combines the excitement of an arcade with the appeal of collectable prizes and social media trends. Filled with claw machines, anime-inspired merchandise, plush toys and imported snacks, it’s easy to see why teenagers enjoy spending time here.
It can be an expensive hobby if you’re determined to win prizes, but it’s a fun addition to a day out in Birmingham city centre.
Location: Bromsgrove Street, Birmingham, B5 6RG
Birmingham Chinatown
Chinatown has become increasingly popular with teenagers thanks to its food scene, bubble tea shops, dessert cafés and Asian supermarkets.
Whether they’re trying viral food trends, picking up unusual snacks or simply meeting friends for lunch, it’s a great area to explore. It also works well combined with a visit to Bullring, Grand Central or Lucky Claw.
Location: Hurst Street and surrounding area, Birmingham, B5 4TD
Selfridges Birmingham
The iconic Selfridges building is one of Birmingham’s most recognisable landmarks. While younger children might not appreciate it, many teenagers enjoy browsing the beauty counters, fashion departments and food hall.
It’s also one of the most photographed buildings in the city and often features in social media content.
Location: Bullring, Birmingham, B5 4BP
The Mailbox
The Mailbox offers a slightly more grown-up shopping experience, making it particularly appealing to older teenagers. Alongside restaurants and cafés, you’ll find independent stores, waterside walks and the luxury Everyman Cinema.
It’s a good option if your teenager wants a day out that feels a little more sophisticated than a trip to the local shopping centre.
Location: Wharfside Street, Birmingham, B1 1RF
Resorts World Birmingham
Located next to the NEC, Resorts World combines shopping, restaurants, entertainment and leisure activities all under one roof.
It’s a useful option if you’re looking for somewhere that appeals to different ages and interests. Teenagers can shop, eat, play games and enjoy a bit of independence while parents relax nearby.
Also easily accessible via train from Birmingham New Street.
Location: Pendigo Way, Birmingham, B40 1PU
Bubble Tea and Dessert Cafés
One thing I’ve noticed about teenagers is that food has become part of the attraction. Whether it’s bubble tea, loaded desserts, Korean corn dogs, matcha drinks or the latest viral food trend, they’re often just as excited about where they’re eating as what they’re doing.
Birmingham city centre has no shortage of places to try, particularly around Chinatown, Bullring and Digbeth, making it easy to build a day out around food, shopping and spending time with friends.
Location: Various locations across Birmingham city centre
Not every teenager is the same. Some want adrenaline-fuelled adventures, some would happily spend all day gaming, while others just want somewhere to shop, eat and hang out with friends. I’ve tried to include a mix of attractions to suit all kinds of interests, budgets and age groups. I have lots of guides and reviews on the blog including affordable family days out, local waterparks and rainy day activities so hopefully there’s something here for everyone.
Last Updated on Sunday, May 31, 2026 by Lavania Oluban
