Bars and things to do aren't hard to come by, but how about ones that dazzle, impress and break the rules? We've got plenty of those too. From destinations touting their own bowling lanes and places pushing cocktail boundaries, to South Pacific lairs and entertainment by the bucket load, this city's wonderland of unique hangouts is waiting for you. Read on to check out our recommendations for something a little different in Manchester.
Last updated on 18th May 2023
One of the best bars in Manchester for something a little different, Impossible is the three-floor beauty bringing immersive night life and plenty of surprises to the city. From the hidden gin palace serving over 60 different bottles of the stuff to the basement theatre and catwalk area, there's always something fun.
From boy band-themed brunches to bottomless afternoon tea and gazing boards washed down by unlimited booze, Cherry Jam is the ideal place for fun activities. Not only that, but there's musical bingo included after each too.
@ Alcotraz Penitentiary: Manchester on Various dates from Thursday 1st June 2023
Head over to Watson Street where this cocktail experience is bringing you one of Manchester's most fun activities. An immersive prison-themed speakeasy, Alcotraz will have you smuggling booze past the wardens and mingling with mixology-savvy inmates.
Fronting immersive gaming experiences where you try to become spies, befriend aliens and take on Squid Game, this unique experience isn't to be missed. From family outings to date nights and work dos, Immersive Gamebox is a sure fire way to do something unforgettable in the city.
If you're looking for something with a few extra thrills, TeamSport is giving you the chance to zoom through 550 metres of multilevel tracks, all in effort to win a coveted place on the winners' podium. It's sure to be one adrenaline-fuelled day out.
Find your next quirky pick using our brand new search engine, where thousands of venues from across the UK are waiting to be discovered. Plus, with every booking you make, you'll earn reward points to spend on events and experiences.
Project Halcyon Distillery is the bar that's hidden beneath Old Granada Studios, bringing modern jazz-hop, cutting edge cocktail techniques and a whole absinthe lounge to the historic warehouse building. Aside from the usual drinking excursions, expect masterclasses and tastings at the on-site distillery.
One of the top themed bars in Manchester, Albert's Schloss is bringing Bavaria to you. From sloshing steins and homemade schnapps for drinking, to schnitzel and cinnamon knots for grub, refreshments aren't hard to come by. Topping it off? The cabaret and other entertainment here is pretty damn crazy.
When on the hunt for something a little different in Manchester, check out GRUB's events. From drinks masterclasses to whole beer festivals and sultry burlesque, this award-winning venue will keep you entertained.
Specialising in bottomless brunches fronting drag queens, bingo, Gaga, waiters in the buff and more, these events offer up the best day drinking sessions. Taking over venues across the city with all kinds of naughtiness, Bougie Drag & Boy Toy have unique happenings all wrapped up.
Take to Sixes Cricket's high-tech batting nets and it'll feel like you've stepped out on the crease at Old Trafford. Test your skills against the world's best bowlers, before tucking into food and drink once you've worked up an appetite at this top pick of activity bars in Manchester.
Combining a pub, fairground-inspired decor and darts, Flight Club is offering up something pretty unique for your night out. Go for the bullseye against all your mates, as you sip on slushie cocktails and munch on pizza in your private oche.
When only unique bars in Manchester will do, Bingo Balls is coming in hot with its pink decor, adult-sized ball pit and DJs playing all your favourite tunes. From guaranteeing yourself free entry to booking a booth or cocktail masterclass, there's something for everyone here.
@ LOVE FACTORY on Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th August 2023
Two whole days dedicated to this sumptuous snack? Manchester Wing Fest 2023 is just what you're looking for this summer. Not only will there be traders delving out plenty of bird and the chance to vote for your fav dish, but also entertainment - think axe throwing, arcade games and live music.
From beer pong in Manchester to cocktails inspired by our city, Moxy offers something fun on all levels. The hotel bar not only has activities and unique drinks, but also 24/7 pizza once hunger pangs strike.
Known for their frothing, popping and fizzing tipples, The Alchemist have some of the kookiest drinks around. For a theatrical night out, accompanied by swish interiors, there's no better place than these New York Street, Spinningfields and MediaCity hangouts.
If unique outdoor bars in Manchester are what you're searching for, The Lawn Club has you covered with bookable private pods and greenhouses surrounded by fairy lights and greenery. Offering the best of alfresco drinking and dining, this spot delivers on all fronts.
If even the most quirky bars in Manchester on dry land just aren't different enough for you, Cocktails Ahoy is making a splash. You'll enjoy themed party cruises, including rum-laced pirate nights or 80s editions, three hours of tunes from the DJ, and plenty of tipples throughout your trip.
From cocktail dens hidden behind porn shops to subterranean immersive prisons and 70s-inspired lairs, we've rounded up the secret bars in Manchester (and how to find them). You'll be taking your nightlife up a gear; but shhhh, we don't want everyone to find out.
While being one of the best rooftop bars in Manchester, YES is equally blessed with unique things to do. There's a regular roster of live DJs and bands in the pink gig space, pop-up kitchens fronting a choice of pizza or vegan kebabs, and a huge beer garden too.
When you're looking to improve your skills in the kitchen, YO! Manchester Arndale have just the event for you. Nab tickets and venture here for gyozas on arrival, followed by a masterclass that sees you whip up four different delish sushi items.
When you're in need of trying something new next time you head out, Point Blank Shooting is just the place. Tucked away on Deansgate, this speakeasy-style choice of activity bars in Manchester is not only harbouring bespoke cocktails and mouthwatering bites, but also a simulation shooting range to boot.
Sometimes we fancy spicing up things a little, so be sure to check out Pong & Puck in Deansgate. This party location is the perfect place to unwind with its range of games, from the likes of shuffleboard and table tennis. Thirsty? They have a cocktail bar for that.
When The Reggae Brunch comes to town, you know they're kicking things up a notch. With bottomless rum punch, Caribbean dishes and a full reggae, soca and bashment party to boot, this is brunchin' with a difference.
These guys need to be on your unique food list for one reason: the pizzas. Only offering the weirdest and most wonderful toppings, including chicken 'n' waffles, your taste buds will go on the strangest adventure of its life. Meanwhile, you can enjoy their fun atmosphere and late night partying.
Hunting for game bars in Manchester with a healthy dose of entertainment to boot? Look no further than the ping pong wonderland that is Twenty Twenty Two. Not only an urban art space, the watering hole promises darts, beer pong and DJ sessions, all accompanied by cocktails or pints.
Manchester may well be known for its gloomy weather, but step downstairs into The Liars Club and you'll be transported to a tropical tiki world. This brilliantly designed paradise of flames, rum-heavy drinks and bangin' tunes boasts a strong party game.
Fancy being transported to another world? Then head on over to DNA VR Manchester. Perfect for group activities or unique date nights, this city centre arcade offers a number of exciting experiences to choose from, including zombie fights, racing on boats and more.
