Things to do near Villa Park 2026: Seven of the best local attractions for every type of fan

A trip to Villa Park does not have to be all about the football, with Birmingham and the wider West Midlands offering plenty to see and do around an Aston Villa match.

Whether you're travelling with children, looking for something competitive to do with friends or staying in Birmingham for an entire weekend, there are plenty of options within easy reach of the stadium.

From chocolate and shopping to historic castles and unusual museums, there is something to suit almost every type of visitor.

FootballGroundGuide takes a look at seven of the best things to do near Villa Park in 2026.

1. Indulge Your Sweet Tooth at Cadbury World

Located around six miles from Villa Park in Bournville, Cadbury World is one of Birmingham's best-known family attractions and an obvious choice for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Visitors can learn about the history of Cadbury through interactive exhibits and themed experiences, with plenty of opportunities to sample the famous chocolate along the way.

There are also play areas and a 4D cinema, making this a particularly good option for families with children who are staying in Birmingham for a weekend around the football.

Location: Bournville Lane, Bournville, Birmingham, B30 1JR.

2. Go Shopping at the Bullring

If retail therapy is more your thing, the Bullring is an easy addition to a Villa Park weekend.

Around three miles from the stadium in Birmingham city centre, the shopping destination contains more than 160 shops, restaurants and cafes, offering everything from familiar high-street brands to more premium options.

The distinctive Selfridges building is an attraction in its own right, while the surrounding city centre provides plenty of places to eat and drink before or after a match.

Location: Moor Street, Birmingham, B5 4BU.

3. Test Your Teamwork at Escape Live

Looking for something competitive to do before the football? Escape Live offers a chance to put your problem-solving skills to the test.

Groups are locked into themed escape rooms and must work together to solve clues and puzzles before the clock runs out. Sessions typically take around an hour or two, making it easy to fit into a busy matchday schedule.

It is particularly well suited to groups of friends travelling together, especially if you want something more interactive than simply visiting another attraction.

Location: 18-24 Constitution Hill, Birmingham, B19 3LY.

4. Go Karting at Teamworks Karting

Football doesn't provide enough adrenaline? Head to Teamworks Karting in Birmingham for some high-speed competition.

The indoor venue offers fans the opportunity to race against friends around a dedicated karting circuit, making it another excellent group activity for a Villa Park weekend.

It is also a useful rainy-day option, allowing you to get your competitive fix regardless of the famously unpredictable British weather.

Location: 202 Fazeley Street, Birmingham, B5 5SE.

5. Take a Day Trip to Warwick Castle

If you're making a longer trip of your visit to Villa Park, Warwick Castle is well worth the journey outside Birmingham.

The historic castle dates back to 1068 and sits within 64 acres of gardens and grounds, providing plenty to explore beyond the impressive medieval buildings themselves.

It is a particularly strong choice for families, with history, exhibitions and attractions making it possible to spend most of a day exploring the site.

Location: Castle Lane, Bridge End, Warwick, CV34 4QU.

6. Step Back in Time at Wroxeter Roman City

History buffs can travel further afield to Wroxeter Roman City, around an hour from Birmingham by car or accessible via rail connections towards Shrewsbury.

Once the fourth-largest city in Roman Britain, Wroxeter now offers a fascinating glimpse into life almost 2,000 years ago. The archaeological site includes the remains of a Roman bath house, a striking surviving wall and reconstructed buildings demonstrating how people may have lived.

It makes for an excellent day trip if you're staying in Birmingham for longer than just matchday.

Location: B4394, Wroxeter, Shrewsbury.

7. Discover Birmingham's Police History

The West Midlands Police Museum offers something rather different, taking visitors inside a Victorian lock-up in the heart of Birmingham.

Built in 1891, the former police cells remained in operation until 2016 and now provide a fascinating look at more than two centuries of policing history.

Visitors can learn about notorious criminals, including the real Peaky Blinders, explore forensic exhibits and try interactive activities. There are also police vehicles, motorcycles, uniforms and a police box to discover, making it an entertaining option for both adults and younger visitors.

Location: Steelhouse Lane, The Lock-up, Birmingham, B4 6BJ.