20 fun and unique things to do in Liverpool

As a city, Liverpool is famous for its fun-loving nature. The city buzzes with energy, and there's no shortage of fun things to do. Whether you're a sports fan or a history buff, looking for romantic dates, or seeking fun family-friendly activities, you'll find plenty to enjoy. Walk through the famous players' tunnel at Anfield Stadium, take a hair-raising ghost tour through the Georgian Quarter, or taste the best food in Liverpool. As one of the UK's most unique cities, its rich history as a port has meant a huge influx of global influences, and its inhabitants are known for their friendliness.

Fun things to do in Liverpool as a couple

1. Take a ride on Liverpool's spectacular Dazzle Ferry

Take an unforgettable boat ride on Liverpool's famous Dazzle Ferry. This colorful ship was designed by Sir Peter Blake, who created the famous Beatle's Sgt Pepper album cover, and makes for a wonderful photo opportunity and a very enjoyable boat ride.

Highlights:

For an authentic sound of Liverpool, the ferry plays Gerry and the Pacemakers singing 'Ferry 'Cross the Mersey' as you do just that.

Location & meeting point:

Liverpool Waterfront, L3 1DP. Start times vary.

2. Explore the Royal Albert Dock

There's no better place for an afternoon of shopping and dining than Liverpool's Royal Albert Dock. It has been a staple of the city's harborfront since 1846, and was the first structure in the United Kingdom to be built of cast iron, brick, and stone without any wood. Today, it's the beating heart of Liverpool, home to museums, galleries, restaurants, bars and shops.

Highlights:

The complex features many Liverpool's best museums, including the Maritime Museum, the powerful International Slavery Museum, and the the award-winning Beatles Story, which charts the rise of the world's most famous band.

Location & opening times:

Waterfront Pier Head Promenade Liverpool. Open 24 hours.

3. Day trip to the Lake District

If you're looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of Liverpool, head into the stunning surroundings of the Lake District. The Lake District boasts some of England's most picturesque scenery and has been home and inspiration for writers and poets over the centuries. Enjoy hiking, biking, and exploring this stunning landscape with your loved one.

Highlights:

Head to the Lake District in spring to see the daffodils that inspired Wordsworth's most famous poem, 'I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud.'

4. Take a pilgrimage to the Cavern Club

One of the things that makes Liverpool so famous is its contribution to musical royalty. The city is the birthplace of the Beatles, arguably the most famous band in the world. Exploring the city's most important musical locations is by far one of the most fun things to do in Liverpool. The infamous Cavern Club is the venue where the Beatles began their rise to stardom.

Highlights:

The club often has musical performances and events, but it is also a great place to visit for a drink or two.

Location & opening times:

10 Mathew St, Liverpool L2 6RE, United Kingdom. Open Sunday to Wednesday: 11 AM – Midnight. Thursday: 11 AM to 1 AM. Friday & Saturday: 11 AM to 2 AM.

5. Visit the Royal Liver Building city's best views

Get the best views of the city when you visit the top of the Royal Liver Building. Gaze out from 15 floors up and pose for a photo with a panorama of the whole city spread out beneath you.

Highlights:

Visit this Grade I listed building for the view and to see the West Clock Tower.

Location & opening hours:

Royal Liver Building, George's Dock Gates, Liverpool L3 1HU.

Fun things to do in Liverpool with kids

6. See the sculptures at Crosby Beach

Just 40 minutes by public transport from Liverpool (and 30 minutes by car), Crosby Beach is a 2.5 mile stretch of golden sand that beckons families to the Merseyside coastline all year round. Keep in mind: Crosby Beach isn't a bathing beach, but it's still a fun place to visit with kids.

Highlights:

The beach is most well-loved and widely recognized for its public artworks. Antony Gormley’s Another Place is a series of 100 cast iron sculptures made from molds of the sculptor's own body. They are dotted all along the beach.

Location & Opening times:

Crosby Beach. Open 27/7.

7. Discover your inner rock star at the British Music Experience

Liverpool is most famous as the birthplace of the Beatles, but that's not the only connection the city has to British music legends. The British Music Experience celebrates their legacy and that of other famous British musicians. Learn all about the country's most beloved rock stars, from David Bowie to Freddie Mercury.

Highlights:

See original costumes worn by your favorite musicians and have a go at playing an instrument yourself in the interactive section.

Address and opening hours:

Cunard Building, Pier Head, Liverpool L3 1DS. Open daily 10 AM - 5 PM.

8. Get to know the Beatles' Story

Learn about the rise of the world's most famous band, the Beatles, at Liverpool's dedicated museum. At the Beatles Story you will embark on a journey through time to discover how John, Paul, Ringo, and George turned from unknown Scousers to the most well-known names in rock n' roll.

Highlights:

You will see fascinating pieces of original authentic memorabilia from George Harrison’s first guitar to John Lennon’s last piano and more.

Location & opening times:

Liverpool, Britannia Vaults, Royal Albert Dock, Liverpool L3 4AD. Open daily 9 AM - 4 PM.

9. Get interactive at the Little Liverpool Gallery

For children under 6, the Little Liverpool Gallery at the Museum of Liverpool is a fun, hands-on introduction to the city. This interactive exhibit is sure to engage and delight, with sessions based on art, sensory play, and games.

Highlights:

Entry is free, but you need to book a time slot at the museum desk.

Address and opening hours:

Pier Head, Mann Island, L3 1DG. Open Tuesday-Sunday 10:00 AM-5:00 PM.

10. Explore the home of Liverpool FC

One of the obligatory things to do in Liverpool for any sports fan is a trip to the legendary Anfield Stadium. You can enjoy a stadium tour with an audio guide or organize a private tour where you can participate in a Q&A with a former Liverpool player.

Highlights:

Walk the pitch and see inside your favorite players' changing room.

Address & opening times:

Anfield Stadium, Walton Breck Rd, Liverpool L4 0TH.

Fun things to do in Liverpool on your own

11. Step into an authentic WWII bunker

If you're looking for unique things to do on your trip to Liverpool, visit the Western Approaches Museum. This museum is located underground in a former WWII bunker, where much of the war effort in Liverpool was coordinated. You'll see wartime artifacts and well-curated exhibits. This one-of-a-kind museum is a must-visit.

Highlights:

See a recreated war-torn street, and learn what life was like for ordinary British citizens during the Blitz.

Address and opening hours:

1-3 Rumford St, Liverpool L2 8SZ. Open daily 10 AM - 6 PM.

12. Wander down Bold Street

Take a walk down the historic Bold Street, one of the most popular streets in Liverpool. The road is lined with independent boutiques, cafés, and restaurants, including the famous News From Nowhere bookshop and the bombed-out Church of St Luke.

Highlights:

Some visitors have reported experiencing inexplicable time shifts while walking along Bold Street, claiming to have been transported to a different era!

Location & opening hours:

Bold Street, Liverpool, UK. Open 24/7.

13. Enjoy the city's largest art collection at the Walker Art Gallery

Take a trip to the Walker Art Gallery for one of the most extensive collections of art in the UK outside London. The gallery is home to works of art dating from the 12th century to the present day, and it's one of the best things to do in Liverpool for art lovers. Entry to the permanent collection is free.

Highlights:

The Walker's permanent collection includes works by Rubens, Rembrandt, Rossetti, and Millais.

Address and opening hours:

William Brown St, L3 8EL. Open Tuesday - Sunday 10 AM - 5 PM.

14. Wander around the hippest spots in the Baltic Triangle

If you're looking for cool things to do in Liverpool, head to the trendy and creative Baltic Triangle district. There you'll find an ex-industrial complex, Cains Brewery Village, which is home to a range of quirky bars, restaurants, and attractions including a vintage market, artisanal coffee, and a Yellow Submarine-themed bar.

Highlights:

You'll find the Baltic Food Market here, offering a wide range of delicious, high-quality street food.

Location:

Stanhope Street, Liverpool L8 5XJ.

15. Enjoy a pint in the Philharmonic Dining Rooms

Self-described as 'Britain's most ornate bar,' the Philharmonic Dining Rooms deserve this title. The interior is decorated in a sumptuous and intricate Art Nouveau style, and the location has the added claim to fame of being the Beatles' favorite bar. A true Liverpool institution.

Highlights:

The men's restrooms in this Grade I listed building are historic in their own right, having retained their original Victorian design.

Address and opening hours:

36 Hope St, Liverpool L1 9BX. Open 11 AM - 11 PM Monday - Thursday, 11 AM-12 AM Friday - Saturday, 11 AM-10:30 PM Sunday.

Fun things to do in Liverpool if you like food and drink

16. Try Liverpool's most famous dish

Scouse is a hearty variant of Irish stew that is so beloved in Liverpool that the city's inhabitants are nicknamed scousers. Enjoy a bowl in the restaurant attached to the Cavern Club, or in multiple other locations around the city.

Highlights:

Other popular Liverpudlian dishes include wet nelly, fish & chips, and a good old roast dinner.

17. Sip cocktails in Liverpool's hottest bars

Liverpool is renowned for its nightlife, and in recent years, several chic cocktail bars have sprung up all over the city center. Matthew Street is one of the best streets for nightlife in Liverpool, and especially live music. Another popular area to enjoy the nightlife is Seel Street, where you'll find plenty of pubs and restaurants for a great evening out.

Highlights:

LGBTQ+ visitors to Liverpool will find the best queer-friendly bars in Britain's first and only official gay quarter. Liverpool is a safe and popular destination for LGBTQ+ people.

18. Become an expert in craft beers

Beer has come a long way since the days of tasteless, watery lagers; craft beer breweries are booming in Liverpool. Expand your list of unique things to do in Liverpool with a craft beer crawl around the city.

Highlights:

Try IPAs, APAs, pilsners, stouts, and more! Just don't forget to line your stomach before you head off!

19. Tuck into a chippy tea on the Waterfront

Fish and chips is one of Britain's most popular dishes, and the best spot to eat it in Liverpool is down on the docks. Enjoy a stroll on the iconic Liverpool Waterfront to work up an appetite, then head to the world-famous Docklands chippy.

Highlights:

Docklands' specialties are haddock, cod, and scampi. All the fish are freshly caught in the Irish Sea.

Address and opening hours:

Unit 15 The Colonnades, Liverpool L3 4AA. Open daily 11 AM - 8 PM.

20. Explore Liverpool's Chinatown

Liverpool's Chinatown is the oldest of its kind in Europe, and it's a wonderland for food lovers. From its extensive collection of Asian supermarkets to some of the best restaurants in the city, this area should be top of your list of things to do in Liverpool, especially if you've got a hankering for noodles.

Highlights:

ChinaCity is a restaurant and karaoke bar that serves delicious Chinese and Szechuan food.

Address and opening hours:

Lord Nelson St, Liverpool L1 5EW. Open 24/7.

FAQs

What are some fun things to do in Liverpool at night?

There's something for everyone with Liverpool's vibrant nightlife. Dance the night away in a converted warehouse in the Baltic Triangle, eat in a chic tapas bar on Royal Albert Dock, or gaze down at the city's lights on the Liverpool Wheel.

Are there any fun day trips from Liverpool that I should consider?

Liverpool is surrounded by areas of great natural beauty. The Lake District, the Peak District, and North Wales are all accessible on a day trip. You can also visit the neighboring historic cities of Manchester and Chester, both an hour away by train. If you're looking for a beach trip, there are many stunning beaches near the city, including Formby Beach.

What are some popular festivals or events in Liverpool?

Liverpool has festivals year-round. The Food and Drink Festival takes place in mid-September, and the Africa Oye Festival in June is the UK's biggest celebration of African culture and music.

What are some family-friendly fun activities to do in Liverpool?

There are plenty of fun and interactive museums that kids will love in Liverpool. Head to the Maritime Museum, the World Museum, or the Museum of Liverpool. A working farm at Croxteth Hall is a firm favorite with families. Liverpool is an excellent destination to visit with the family.

What are some fun outdoor activities to do in Liverpool?

If you're an adventurous soul, try the Anfield Abseil, a 100-ft descent from the top of Liverpool FC's stadium. If you're looking for something a little calmer, Liverpool has plenty of beautiful parks. Pack a picnic and head to Sefton Park, a local favorite.