Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum

Interactive science and technology museum featuring a planetarium, vintage cars, steam engines, and hands-on galleries covering everything from human biology to space exploration. The museum occupies a former railway warehouse in the Eastside district. It sits below the headline sights but earns its place on a longer visit to Birmingham. Tickets cost £15.95 adult, £11.95 child, planetarium extra £3 and 3-4 hours is enough to see everything without rushing.

Priority: Medium - include with 2+ days Time needed: 3-4 hours Best for: birmingham's best family attraction with genuine Skip if: Your kids are under 4 (limited toddler-friendly exhibits) or you prefer outdoor activities Cost: £15.95 adult, £11.95 child, planetarium extra £3

Test your reflexes on interactive displays, walk through a giant human heart model, and watch steam engines operate. The planetarium offers immersive space shows, while the transport gallery lets kids climb into historic vehicles.

Accessibility: Full wheelchair access via lifts, accessible toilets on all levels, audio guides available

Birmingham's best family attraction with genuine scientific artifacts and engaging displays. It is not the first thing you should see in Birmingham, but with two or more days it fills a gap the major sights leave. Mornings are quieter if you want to take your time.

Skip if: Your kids are under 4 (limited toddler-friendly exhibits) or you prefer outdoor activities

• Download the museum app for interactive trail maps.
• Planetarium shows book up quickly on weekends.
• The café on Level 1 has reasonable prices and good coffee.

Insider tip: The vintage car collection includes rare Birmingham-made vehicles like the Austin Seven prototype

Flash photography allowed in most areas, great lighting for family photos