Birmingham stands out as one of the UK’s most exciting cities for student life. With its diverse mix of modern attractions, green spaces, and cultural landmarks, there is no shortage of experiences for students looking to explore between lectures.

Whether you are new to the city or heading into your final year, discovering the best things to do for students in Birmingham during the day is a great way to balance the academic hustle with some much-needed fun. From indoor sports venues to relaxing parks and creative hubs, this list includes something for every student mood.

1. Sixes Birmingham

For students who enjoy a mix of sport and social interaction, Sixes Birmingham at The Mailbox is the go-to daytime venue. Unlike your average cricket setup, this high-tech indoor space transforms the traditional sport into a vibrant social experience. Think immersive batting nets, upbeat lighting, and touchscreens that make each hit feel like part of a game show.

But it is not just about the sport. The space doubles as a casual dining spot with colorful seating and shareable food and drink options, making it ideal for group bookings, society socials, or just a spontaneous get-together after a morning lecture. The vibe is laid-back and student-friendly, with upbeat playlists and a flexible layout that encourages both movement and mingling.

Students benefit from exclusive discounts, including deals on batting sessions and food combos, especially during off-peak hours. The venue is easily accessible by foot from Birmingham New Street Station or via canal-side strolls from other campus areas, adding to its daytime convenience. Whether you are celebrating coursework submissions or just blowing off steam, Sixes offers something active, affordable, and seriously photogenic.

2. Library of Birmingham Rooftop Garden

Few libraries manage to combine study and scenery like the Library of Birmingham. Located in Centenary Square, this modern architectural gem is more than just a place for revision marathons. Its upper-level rooftop garden provides panoramic views of the Birmingham skyline and offers students a peaceful green escape above the hustle of the city.

The garden’s geometric design, tiered levels, and flowerbeds make it perfect for both solo reflection and quiet catch-ups with classmates. It is also ideal for morning or golden-hour visits when the natural light enhances the structure’s unique lines and shadows.

This space is free to enter and well-connected by tram and bus services from major universities, including Aston and Birmingham City. If you are in need of a break from the library desk without leaving the building, the rooftop garden gives you fresh air, city views, and a welcome change of pace.

3. Cannon Hill Park

If your idea of a good time includes green lawns, paddle boats, and the occasional squirrel encounter, Cannon Hill Park is an essential part of your Birmingham student experience. Located south of the city centre near Edgbaston, this sprawling green space is a top choice for outdoor day plans.

The park has something for everyone. There are lakeside trails for gentle walks or jogs, picnic-friendly lawns for spontaneous lunch breaks, and even pedal boat rentals when the weather plays nice. It is common to see student groups revising on picnic blankets or playing frisbee between trees.

With plenty of seating, shaded areas, and a cozy on-site café, the park also works well for more relaxed daytime meetups. Cannon Hill Park is reachable by bus from the city centre or campus zones in under 15 minutes, making it a no-brainer when the sun’s out and you need a breath of fresh air.

4. Birmingham Botanical Gardens

A tranquil retreat from the city’s buzz, the Birmingham Botanical Gardens offer a quieter, more intimate daytime hangout. The gardens are home to four Victorian glasshouses filled with tropical, subtropical, Mediterranean, and arid environments. Outside, you’ll find landscaped lawns, sculptures, and seasonal plantings that keep the space interesting all year round.

This is the kind of place where you can take a book and spend a few peaceful hours under palm fronds, or meet up with classmates for a calming walk between lectures. It’s a favourite among students looking to recharge, especially during deadlines or after exam weeks.

Student discounts are available with a valid ID, and the gardens are just a short walk or bus ride from the University of Birmingham. Whether you are into photography, quiet reading sessions, or just escaping the crowd, the Botanical Gardens are one of the most rewarding and affordable spots for students in the city.

5. Digbeth Street Art Trails and Custard Factory

When you are craving creativity, Digbeth is the place to go. Known as Birmingham’s unofficial art district, this area is covered in bold street murals, graffiti walls, and ever-changing installations that make every visit feel different. From giant portraits to abstract designs, the walls here serve as backdrops for thousands of student photos, fashion shoots, and reels.

The Custard Factory, a refurbished industrial space turned creative campus, is a hotspot for events, indie stores, and coffee shops. On any given afternoon, you might stumble across a vintage market, street performer, or open studio.

Digbeth is especially popular with students in media, design, and performance studies, but it welcomes anyone looking to explore Birmingham’s artistic side. Most of the art trails are free, and the area is easily walkable from city centre campuses or reachable by a quick ride on the number 6 or 97 bus lines.

6. Brindleyplace Canalside

For a slower-paced day, head to Brindleyplace, one of Birmingham’s most photogenic and relaxing urban areas. Situated along the city’s canal network, it offers a mix of walkways, bridges, waterside cafés, and public art installations. It is a top pick for students looking to unwind between lectures or catch up with friends somewhere quieter than a city center café.

The area shines during daylight hours, especially in the spring and summer when trees line the canals and sunlight bounces off the water. It’s great for casual study sessions over coffee, relaxed solo walks, or small group chats while perched on a bench by the towpath.

Brindleyplace is just a 15-minute walk from Birmingham New Street Station and even closer to the University College Birmingham campus. If you cycle, the canal paths provide a peaceful ride, and the space has several bike racks nearby. Best of all, it’s free to explore and packed with pockets of inspiration for creative students.

7. Thinktank Science Museum

Rainy days don’t have to mean boring afternoons, especially with Thinktank, Birmingham’s award-winning science museum. Located at Millennium Point, this interactive space offers hands-on exhibits that range from robotics and anatomy to space exploration and engineering.

It’s ideal for STEM students looking to geek out, or for anyone who enjoys immersive displays and curious content. Thinktank even hosts workshops and events that are geared toward university-age audiences, so it’s not just for kids.

Student discounts are available with ID, and group bookings often come with additional perks. The museum is easy to reach by bus or tram, and it’s located near student accommodation hubs like Aston Student Village. Whether you’re into biology or just want a fun indoor spot with something to learn, Thinktank adds variety to your daytime options.

8. The Grand Union Workspace and Café (Kings Heath)

For students looking to escape the distractions of home or crowded libraries, The Grand Union in Kings Heath is a welcoming alternative. This co-working space blends industrial style with student-friendly perks like fast Wi-Fi, affordable coffee, and a quiet, creative vibe.

It’s especially useful for group projects or focused solo study. The café area is open throughout the day, with plenty of plug sockets, soft music, and tables made for collaboration. There’s often a mix of freelancers, artists, and students here, which adds to the low-pressure but productive atmosphere.

Day passes are budget-friendly, and student deals occasionally pop up through local partnerships or campus boards. Kings Heath is accessible by bus from central Birmingham in under 25 minutes, and the area has additional cafés and food spots to make your study day feel more like a retreat.

9. Sutton Park Visitor Centre and Trails

For students who love the outdoors, Sutton Park is a full-day experience worth making time for. Located to the north of the city, it’s one of Europe’s largest urban parks and covers more than 2,400 acres of woodland, lakes, open heathland, and trails.

Start your day at the Visitor Centre, where you can grab a map, rent a bike, or learn about local wildlife. Then head off on one of the many walking or cycling trails. The park is large enough to feel like you’ve completely escaped the city, and it’s popular with students looking to clear their heads after exam season or just burn some energy in nature.

It’s accessible by bus or train (Sutton Coldfield Station), and the park is free to enter year-round. Bring a packed lunch and make a day of it, or drop into one of the nearby cafés. Whether you’re going solo, with friends, or even as a society outing, Sutton Park offers fresh air, freedom, and photo-worthy scenery.

Conclusion: Things to Do for Students in Birmingham

Birmingham isn’t just about lectures and late nights. By day, the city is full of creative, relaxing, and inspiring places perfect for students looking to make the most of their time here. From interactive hubs like Sixes and Thinktank to tranquil escapes like Cannon Hill Park and Sutton Park, there are endless things to do for students in Birmingham that fit every interest, budget, and schedule.

Whether you’re after a productive workspace, a cultural excursion, or a green retreat, each of these ten venues offers more than just a break from studying—they offer a way to connect with your surroundings, your peers, and your own student rhythm. So grab your calendar, check the bus times, and start exploring the city beyond the lecture hall.