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41 Exciting Project-Based Learning Field Trip Ideas

August 14, 2023 //  by  Lauren Du Plessis

Discover a world beyond your classroom with 41 vibrant project-based learning field trip ideas. As teachers, we continually seek new ways to engage and inspire our young learners. For this reason, we’ve curated a list of unique educational destinations- each offering a wealth of hands-on learning experiences for you and your young explorers! From museums to farms, TV stations to local startups, these trips will ignite curiosity and enhance learning, so let’s jump right in to explore more.

Preschool (3-5 years)

1. puppet theater.

Ever wondered what your puppets would say if they could talk? It’s time to unleash creativity and weave magic with a charming puppet theater. The stage is set, the lights dim, and your young puppeteers have a chance to spin enchanting tales for all of their peers to enjoy.

Learn More: Bob Baker Marionette Theater

2. Children’s Museum

This next field trip idea allows your littles to discover something new with every step they take! Children’s Museums are a galaxy of interactive exhibits- with every room designed to pique curiosity and spark fascination.

Learn More: MCM

Let’s swap those classroom walls for sun-drenched fields and wide-open skies. Among the chirping birds and friendly farm animals, your kids can delve into the heart of rural life; discovering a new respect for farmers and all the hard work they complete.

Learn More: YouTube

4. Local Library

Let the local library shelves whisper tales of mystery, adventure, and knowledge into your students’ ears. Watch as their curious minds unearth the joy of reading and embark on countless journeys through the pages of their favorite books.

Learn More: The Colorful Apple

5. Petting Zoo

Ready for a fuzzy, furry adventure? The petting zoo awaits to greet your students with an assortment of friendly wildlife. As your kids pet and care for these adorable animals, they’ll learn important lessons about empathy and responsibility.

Learn More: Seattle’s Child

6. Fruit Picking Farm

Swap the hustle and bustle of the city for a day amidst vibrant orchards. A fruit-picking farm offers an opportunity to pluck, taste, and learn about various fruits. As your students reach out for those ripe apples and juicy strawberries, they are sure to experience the farm-to-table journey firsthand.

Learn More: Smith’s Nursery Inc.

7. Toy Factory

Step into a life-sized playhouse with your students by taking them on an enchanting trip to the toy factory! Watch the wonder evolve as they discover the intriguing process behind how their favorite toys get created.

Learn More: Trip.com

8. Children’s Art Studio

Welcome to the colorful chaos of a children’s art studio! Here, creativity reigns supreme, and messes are masterpieces in the making. Let your little Picassos unveil themselves through their imaginative designs and creations.

Learn More: Art Fun Studio

9. Aquarium

Dive into a magical underwater realm with a trip to the aquarium! As your students marvel at the vibrant marine life, they’ll gain insights into the mysteries and beauty of our oceans.

10. Local Bakery

Tell your students to grab their chefs’ hats as you step into the aromatic world of a local bakery. During this scrumptious adventure, they will discover the science behind baking and might even get to try their hands at decorating cookies!

Learn More: Good Time DIY

11. City Park

There’s more to city parks than meets the eye. These spaces are living classrooms nestled in nature- offering lessons about local wildlife and providing countless outdoor activities for your students to indulge in.

Learn More: City Park Conservancy

12. Dance Studio

Let your students be entranced by the beat of the music and the flow of movement at a local dance studio. This field trip provides a space where your little ones can discover the joy of dancing, paired with the harmony between body and mind. Get their feet tapping and their hearts racing on this rhythmic journey.

Learn More: Jadore Dance

13. Botanical Garden

Envision the botanical garden as a living book of floral wonders just waiting to be explored by your kiddos. As they wander through a stunning array of plants, they’ll uncover the fascinating world of nature’s extraordinary diversity.

Learn More: Naples Garden

Elementary School (6-10 years)

14. planetarium.

Buckle up and prepare your pupils for a cosmic journey as they visit a local planetarium! As they gaze at the starlit dome, the mysteries of the universe are displayed- sparking curiosity and wonder about the cosmos with a quick voyage amongst the stars!

Learn More: HRM

15. Historical Museum

Step back in time with a trip to the historical museum. Each artifact tells a riveting tale; bringing history to life for your young explorers. From stone tools to vintage attire, every exhibit is a time capsule for your elementary learners to enjoy.

Learn More: History Colorado

16. Art Museum

Embark on a kaleidoscopic journey by visiting an art museum. This artistic adventure is sure to awaken your students’ creative side and inspire a deeper appreciation for the arts.

Learn More: The Art of Education

17. Recycling Center

Reduce, reuse, recycle! At the recycling center, your everyday trash gets transformed into treasures! Here, your children can discover the importance of recycling and how it preserves our planet- making this a memorable lesson in waste management.

Learn More: Rethink Waste

18. Science Museum

How about a trip to the science museum to ring home those hard-to-explain concepts? Interactive exhibits morph complex scientific concepts into fun-filled experiences; resulting in a hands-on approach to learning that lets your kids experience the thrills of scientific discovery.

Learn More: EdSurge

19. Historic Houses

Peek into the past with a visit to historic houses. As your students walk through these corridors of history, they’ll develop an appreciation for the heritage and culture of eras gone by.

Learn More: Simple Homeschool

20. Conservatories

Welcome to the conservatory, where every plant holds a lesson in biology, conservation, and ecology. As your children discover the wonder of our green planet, they’ll be encouraged to take better care of our Earthly home.

Learn More: Phipps Conservatory

21. Music Studio

Transport your students to a world of rhythm and rhyme with a trip to the music studio. Here, your learners are sure to strike the right chord in more ways than one- getting an introduction to different instruments and the recording process at large.

Learn More: PBS

Middle School (11-13 years)

22. tech company.

What does the future look like? Let your students discover this answer for themselves at a tech company! In our ever-changing world of technology and innovation, your children will gain insights into the possibilities of tomorrow!

Learn More: The Tech Interactive

23. Archaeological Sites

Give your students the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of their ancient ancestors by visiting an archaeological site. As they explore these open-air museums of human history, they’ll connect with the past and unravel the threads of evolution and civilization.

Learn More: Explore Hampi

24. University Laboratory

Enter the frontier of scientific discovery with a visit to a university laboratory. In this bustling hub of investigation, your student’s experimental ambitions are sure to be sparked; feeding their curiosity and opening their eyes to the wonders of scientific exploration.

Learn More: The Cre8ive Zone

25. Theater

Lights, camera, action! Let your students experience the enchanting world of performing arts with a visit to the theater. From costume design to dramatic performances, they’ll get a glimpse of the magic behind the curtains- igniting a passion for drama and possibly even playwriting!

Learn More: KMS Drama

26. Sports Complex

As your students sprint on the tracks or score goals on the fields, they’ll learn the importance of teamwork, physical fitness, and healthy competition. Taking them to the local sports complex teaches them that not only winning is celebrated, but taking part matters as well.

Learn More: LA Galaxy

A fun-filled adventure to the zoo is a classic field trip idea! Every enclosure will provide your learners insight into the beauty of the animal kingdom; inviting them to discover facts relating to animals from around the world and learn more about the importance of conservation efforts.

Learn More: Lincoln Park Zoo

28. Community Service Centers

At community service centers, kindness isn’t just a virtue; it’s a way of life. Here, your children will learn about the power of empathy and helping others- reinforcing the crucial lesson of giving back to the community. This field trip will allow them to grow, not just as individuals; but as compassionate members of society.

Learn More: Lancaster Edu

29. Local Newspaper

The bustling newsroom of a local newspaper opens a window into the world of journalism. Amid the clattering keyboards and the urgent phone calls, your learners can grasp what goes into the process of news creation, from just a spark of information to a published article.

Learn More: English Classes Cygnaeus Pori

30. Historical Reenactment Sites

Journey back in time by taking your students to historical reenactment sites. Here, history gets brought to life through vibrant performances where your kids can learn about the past in a way that textbooks could never teach them!

Learn More: Student Travel Planning Guide

31. Weather Station

I’m sure all your students have wondered how the forecast predicts if you need an umbrella or sunglasses! Answer their burning questions by taking them to your local weather station. From temperature readings to radar images, they’ll get a firsthand experience of meteorology!

Learn More: CW3E Edu

High School (14-18 years)

32. national park.

In the national park, lessons are etched in the rings of trees and whispered on the wings of butterflies. It’s here that your children can learn about the harmony of nature and the importance of conservation- bonding with the great outdoors and having a well-deserved break from classroom life.

Learn More: Global Travel Alliance

33. TV Station

The TV station pulls back the curtain on the captivating world of television production. From script writing to broadcasting, your learners will get the chance to witness the exciting process of how their favorite shows get created.

34. Biotech Company

Venture into the cutting-edge world of Biotech! Here, your students will get a glimpse into the science that is shaping the future of health and medicine. It’s an awe-inspiring experience that could inspire the next generation of biomedical innovators.

Learn More: Promega Connections

35. Local Government Office

With this field trip your pupils can learn about the inner workings of local governance- getting a practical understanding of civics that no textbook could provide. Bonus: It’s a hands-on lesson in leadership and responsibility.

Learn More: Nations Classroom Tours

36. News Studio

Enterinto the bustling energy of a live broadcast studio. From the anchors’ desks to the control room, your children will get a dynamic view of live journalism to fuel a deeper understanding of the world we live in.

Learn More: Olympic High School

37. Courthouse

Step into the halls of justice with a visit to the courthouse. Given the opportunity to learn about all kinds of legal processes, your learners can gain real-world insight into the judicial system; promoting a better understanding of their rights and responsibilities as citizens.

Learn More: FHN Today

38. Botanical Research Institute

Green thumbs at the ready! Taking your kids to the botanical research institute offers a unique opportunity for them to learn about the importance of plants and their environmental significance. Who knows, this could be the seed that grows into a future career in botany!

Learn More: GITM Edu

39. Architectural Firms

Explore the nitty-gritty blueprints behind society with this field trip! As your learners observe how architects design and build, they’ll gain an appreciation for the relationship between art, science, and community at large.

Learn More: Arch Design

40. Local Startups

Welcome to the ambition playground! On a trip to local startups, your students will witness the journey of how an idea transforms into a thriving business. This trip might inspire them to become the startup heroes of tomorrow

41. Film Studios

Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the big screen! From script to screen, your learners will witness the mesmerizing process of filmmaking. This cinematic adventure might inspire the next generation of filmmakers within your school!

Learn More: NST Group

• Best Destinations for 7th Grade Field Trips

7th Grade...that perfect year where students aren't quite children and aren't quite teenagers yet either...meaning they are interested in a wide variety of educational points and activities. You really can't go wrong with any educationally-based field trip at this stage, but we do have certain suggestions that will spark the most interest out of your 7th-grade group!

Here are our top 5 suggestions for 7th-grade field trip destinations across America!

Be sure to check out these resources from our team during your pre-planning field trip process!

The ultimate field trip checklist for teachers.

• The Educational Benefits of Travel

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

New York City, New York

What better way to let your 7th graders explore American history than with a visit to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, the iconic symbol of freedom and welcoming station to a new nation? Let your students see for themselves the massive American landmark and teach them all about the history of our nation, our ancestors, and our government all at once. Trust us, your students are certainly not going to object to a visit to this Big Apple icon!

SUBJECTS EXPLORED: History, American Government, Architecture, Social Studies

Statue of Liberty Pixabay Public Domain

Fantastic Caverns

Branson, Missouri

Actually located north of Branson a bit in Springfield, Missouri, Fantastic Caverns provides the perfect opportunity for your students to learn about, explore, and admire cavern geology. Fantastic Caverns is the only cave in North America to offer a completely ride-through tour, taking your students on a 55 minute Jeep drawn tram ride along the path of an ancient underground river. Learn all about stalagmites, stalactites, and other various geological formations underground, as well as cave inhabitants such as fish, bats, and insects.

SUBJECTS EXPLORED: Science, Natural Science, Geology, Biology

Courtesy of Fantastic Caverns

Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park

Sacramento, California

This is a truly fun and educational stop to be made in Sacramento, the Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park a spot where the Gold Rush comes back to life. Here you will see a replica of an original sawmill plus 20 more historic buildings within an 'authentic California ghost town'. Pan for gold along the American River, hike in the woodlands along the site and learn all about the history of the Gold Rush and California's part in it overall. We suggest visiting on a Living History Day, these days guided by lively docents in period clothing participating in demos ranging from gold panning to pioneering and woodsman skills.

SUBJECTS EXPLORED: Science, Natural Science, Geology, Geography

Gold Panning Pixabay Public Domain

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

This mountainside aquarium will allow your 7th graders to let loose and explore our aquatic world at their own pace, aquariums the perfect place for larger groups to learn and play at the same time. Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies holds state of the art learning exhibits with over 10,000 exotic sea creatures in 10 themed galleries. That's a lot of learning to be done! There are overnight sleepover options at the aquarium, and plenty to do nearby in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge as well!

SUBJECTS EXPLORED: Science, Biology, Ecology, Conservation

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies Danielle Bopp

Historic Jamestowne

Williamsburg, Virginia

This is a true educational adventure, a living history experience that will make your students actually want to learn more about American history, not be bored by textbooks! Historic Jamestowne was the site of the first successful permanent English settlement in America, first colonized in 1607. Today this place is an archaeological dig and museum, allowing visitors to come and explore the various artifacts found here. All in all, the attraction will show your students the history of New England, of colonial settlements, and the relations between colonists and Native Americans.

SUBJECTS EXPLORED: American History, Government, Social Studies 

Grand Union Flag in Williamsburg, Virginia, USA

We also have great suggestions for  1st ,  2nd ,  3rd , 4th , 6th ,  7th ,  8th , and  9th -grade field trips!

Best destinations for 6th grade field trips.

Written by Danielle

View all posts by: Danielle

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The 22 Ultimate Virtual Field Trips & Tours for Students

Written by Maria Kampen

• Teacher Resources

• What is a virtual tour and how does it work?
• Technology powering virtual field trips for students
• 22 Best virtual field trips for students
• How to incorporate virtual tours into learning activities

Imagine taking your entire class to see one of the seven wonders of the world up close and personal — and then being back at school before the final bell rings. 

The rise of online learning activities during the pandemic accelerated the availability of virtual field trips , tours and experiences for students of all ages. Now there are many interactive virtual tours available to places that would be impossible to reach on a class trip — the pyramids in Egypt, the Louvre museum in Paris or even an African safari.

We put together a list of 22 unforgettable virtual field trips and experiences that will help your students see amazing sights, connect their learning to real-world experiences and expand their horizons.

Virtual tours allow students to explore noteworthy places around the world, from the comfort of their home or the classroom. 

Virtual tours give students the opportunity to stop, explore and guide learning at their own pace. While they’re exploring, they can get up close to nature or artifacts that might not otherwise be easily accessible. 

Virtual tours can be many different things, including:

• A live webcam of a zoo or animal habitat
• A 360 degree view of a location you can manipulate
• Pictures enriched with helpful information and diagrams

Even ten or fifteen years ago, video tours would have been rare or impossible. Advancements in technology and education have combined to help people learn and explore from anywhere!

• National Geographic creates TV series about nature, history and archaeology
• Food shows like Netflix’s Salt Fat Acid Heat take viewers on food journeys across the world
• Planet Earth , a television series, brings far-flung locations to your living room or classroom
• Discovery Education gives educators access to multimedia resources that supplement classroom learning
• Video conferencing technology like Zoom lets you connect with people and learning experiences around the world

We love being able to sit at home or in the classroom and learn about different foods, cultures and geography. Why not introduce that to your students?

1. Take a trip to the zoo

Whether it’s live webcams of adorable pandas or behind-the-scenes tours with zookeepers, zoos all over the world offer ways for animal antics to delight and entertain your students. 

Some of our favorites include:

• Edinburgh Zoo’s Panda Cam
• Georgia Aquarium’s Beluga Whale Livestream
• The Smithsonian National Zoo’s Naked Mole-rat Cam
• A live feed of African river wildlife in Laikipia County, Kenya
• The San Diego Zoo Live Ape Cam , or any of their other live animal feeds
• Home Safari videos from the Cincinnati Zoo, where zookeepers introduce you to the hundreds of animals that make the zoo their home.

2. Visit The Hidden Worlds of National Parks

From Yosemite to Mesa Verde, explore some of the USA’s most beloved and beautiful national parks with The Hidden World of National Parks .  

Supported by Google Arts & Culture , students can use the same technology that powers Street View to explore the national parks at their own pace. 

The program also includes guided tours from park rangers, where they share their expertise as you explore. Follow the on-screen prompts and let them guide your adventure!

3. Watch the Monterey Bay Aquarium Sea Otters

Play with the sea otters as they swim around Monterey Bay Aquarium in California! Tune in throughout the day to see them being fed, learn fun facts about otters and watch them play in the water. 

If you’d like to check out some other aquarium-related channels, Monterey Bay Aquarium also offers Open Sea or Kelp Forest live streams.

4. Swim through Palau coral reefs

Travel to the Pacific Ocean through a virtual adventure and see the Palau coral reefs . Hosted by Nature Lab and the Nature Conservancy, this tour teaches students about the importance of preserving some of the most fragile ecosystems in the world — no wetsuit required. 

Take learning to the next level with the Nature Lab’s Teacher’s Guide , which includes discussion questions and related resources to keep learners engaged. 

5. Visit the surface of Mars

It took the Perseverance rover about seven months to get to Mars. But thanks to this virtual tour , you and your students can go for a visit in just one afternoon. 

Created by Google and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, this virtual tour takes you through the history of Mars explorations and turns what might be a far-flung topic into something right at students’ fingertips. They’ll explore the surface of Mars, learn more about the rovers that have studied its surface and understand how Mars exploration fits into the history of space travel.

6. Power up with renewable energy

Powering the Planet from the Nature Conservancy is an interactive lesson that focuses on renewable energy sources. It explains to students how energy around them is necessary for life, and covers how energy can be sourced in a way that’s not harmful to the environment.

All the Nature Conservancy’s programs come with a Teacher Guide , which offers lesson plans and activities relating to the virtual tour. 

7. Walk the Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is over 13,000 miles long, so be sure to pack your walking shoes for this trip!

This virtual tour lets students explore key points in the Great Wall of China, plus see the history and amazing view up close.

8. Float around the International Space Station

Did you know that astronauts have continuously inhabited the International Space Station for 20 years? Now your class can join them!

With tours of the different parts of the space station, facts about the layout and assembly, and information about the different astronauts who’ve visited from around the world, students can get an out-of-this-world experience from the comfort of their home or classroom. 

Plus, there are plenty of images, videos, graphics and media resources to help you tie topics into your curriculum.

9. Scuba dive in the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is a delicate ecosystem especially vulnerable to the effects of pollution and climate change. 

David Attenborough’s Great Barrier Reef is a tour created in partnership with the Natural History Museum in London that teaches everyone about the beauty and fragility of one of the world’s greatest natural wonders. 

The Great Barrier Reef is also available on Google Street View through Google Maps as one of the first underwater locations to be mapped. 

10. Learn about water and Colombia’s páramo ecosystem

Just outside of Bogotá, Columbia, is one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world. In this virtual lesson, students will learn about how the water cycle plays a vital role in biodiversity, and get an up-close look at the animals that call the area home. 

Use the accompanying Teacher Guide to help students discuss the topic and stay engaged with the lesson. And check out the rest of the Nature Lab's YouTube channel for even more virtual experiences.

11. Tour the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History

The Smithsonian Institute is the world’s largest museum — so there are plenty of things for students to explore. 

With a variety of virtual tours to choose from, the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History is full of ways to get students excited about learning. Students can watch narrated tours of different exhibits ranging from history and geography to the research stations in the museum. 

Whether students want to walk through the museum on their own or let someone else do the talking, there’s something for every lesson.

12. Get caught up in the American Revolution

History meets the present at the Museum of the American Revolution ! 

This virtual tour lets students see artifacts, meet museum staff and hear stories of real people who fought for American independence.

It also comes with a Classroom Ki t for 2nd to 8th grade that supplements learning and makes it even more meaningful. 

13. Trek up Mt. Everest

This 360 degree video from National Geographic lets students explore Mt. Everest along with a group of researchers. Together, they’ll discover what kind of effects climate change has on the mountain, and how we can work to preserve natural landscapes. 

Not up for climbing mountains? Take a virtual ride on Expedition Everest , the tallest rollercoaster in any Disney park! But beware — there’s a monster lurking in the dark.

14. Get the right angle with Explore Geometry

Powered by Nearpod, Explore Geometry ’s lesson plans connect classroom lessons with architecture in the natural world.

Students can explore the gardens of Versailles to learn about the geometry of a French garden before moving on to the next lesson and putting their skills to practical use.

15. Wander through the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City

One of the most well-known museums in the world, students can now explore The Met’s vast collections with the Met 360º Project .

Virtual tours help students get a sense of the space, art and collections inside of the museum. Whether they’re interested in the Met Cloisters or the Arms and Armor gallery, students can go at their own pace, accompanied by a soothing soundtrack. 

You can also book virtual tours with a museum guide to line up with your lesson plan. Tours are free for NYC public schools and all Title I schools, and $200 USD per class for other schools.

16. Explore history in the British Museum

Another world-class museum, students can explore the British Museum in London using Google Street View, read facts about the artifacts and connect what they see to their history lessons. 

Whether it’s the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles, Egyptian sculpture or any other historical treasure, there’s something every student will find interesting!

If you want to let someone else do the exploring, there’s also a 46-minute virtual walking tour , where you can skip to the sections that are most relevant to you and your class. 

17. Visit the White House

In Washington, D.C. the White House is the symbolic heart of America, and now students can walk the halls for themselves. 

Whether they want to take a lap around the Oval Office or wander the building, students can explore this virtual tour from the White House Historical Association . Plus, it comes with class tie-ins like vocabulary lessons and other activities to make the experience even more memorable! 

18. Arrive at Ellis Island

Ever wonder what it was like for new immigrants to see the Statue of Liberty and step foot on American soil for the first time?

Now students can experience it for themselves with this virtual tour , a collaboration between Scholastic and the National Park Service. They’ll learn the importance of immigration in the history of the United States and hear real-life stories about the people who came looking for a better life. 

After students watch the video, they can click through this interactive map with facts and stories about the people who came through Ellis Island. 

19. Explore China's forests

In this online tour, students can explore the natural habitats of pandas in the forests of China . They’ll discover how the panda’s home plays a role in understanding our world, learn about local conservation efforts and see the big-picture view of how these vast forests fit into our understanding of nature and climate change. 

Plus, this program also comes with a handy Teacher Guide for you to use in lesson planning!

20. Bundle up in the Arctic tundra

Take a virtual field trip all the way up north to the tundra! Discovery Education’s tundra programs for elementary, middle and high school students cover the natural habitat of polar bears, plus their activities and migration patterns.

This virtual tour comes with instructional activities and classroom tie-ins, so you can be sure students are getting a productive learning experience.

21. Go spelunking in the world's largest cave

Travel through Vietnam’s Son Doong, the world’s largest cave . First explored by researchers in 2009, this cave is up to 200 meters tall in some areas and even has its own jungle inside. 

It’s estimated that the total length of the cave system is over 200 kilometers, and with this National Geographic tour students can explore to their heart’s content. High definition pictures and helpful facts mean that not only is this an awe-inspiring trip for students, but it’s also educational! 

Because the cave is ecologically sensitive, only a certain number of tourists are allowed to visit each year. This virtual tour is a great way for kids and adults to experience the wonder up close!

22. Browse the Louvre

Take your students on a quick trip to Paris where you can explore the architecture and art of the Louvre without the crowds. 

Plus, the Louvre also offers Louvre Kids , as well as a Mona Lisa Beyond the Glass virtual app experience where users can learn how Leonardo da Vinci created his most well-known masterpiece.

From kindergarten to high school, virtual field trips are a great way to get students excited about learning. And if you’re homeschooling , they’re the perfect way to get real-world experience without leaving the house!

To get the most out of the experience, keep these tips in mind:

• Ask students what they’re interested in exploring 
• Look for virtual experiences that fit into your lesson plan for maximum impact
• Search for supplementary resources like teacher guides and discussion questions
• Try out the virtual tour first to make sure it’s worth it and to avoid any unpleasant technical glitches
• Use virtual field trips at the beginning of a unit to introduce students to new concepts, or at the end as a reward and wrap-up activity

Be sure to follow up with students and see what they liked the most. Then, harness that excitement for your next lesson or activity! 

Prodigy Math Game is an adaptive math platform where students can explore a world filled with adventure, excitement and rewards — all for practicing math! While they’re having a blast answering questions and completing epic quests, Prodigy’s free teacher tools help you align their learning to your classroom lessons. 

Sign up for your free teacher account today!

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• Homeschool / Travel

25 Budget Friendly Homeschool Field Trips

by Elizabeth Dukart ·

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Trying to figure out some budget-friendly homeschool field trips and need some tips? I can help! Whether you’re looking for low-cost or even free homeschool field trips, I have a bunch of ideas and resources for you to check out! Homeschool field trips certainly don’t need to cost a lot of money to provide a lasting impact!

Ok, so, before we get to all the homeschool field trip suggestions, let me just give you a virtual high-five for even thinking about planning some homeschool field trips! The whole process of planning and then actually DOING the field trips isn’t for the faint of heart and can sometimes be overwhelming. I mean, you have to figure out the timing, the budget, how to relate the field trip to the content area that you and your kids/students are working on. It takes time and effort.

You know what though? All that time and effort spent planning your homeschool travel certainly won’t go to waste. When I was a student in the public school setting, we’d go on one or two field trips a year. I can 100% tell you that the few field trips my classes went on have left a lasting impact on my life. When I think back to my education, I don’t remember all the spelling tests or the math reviews (I do remember that time I got a 26% on an essay in 7th grade, though…holy moly). I remember the field trips.

On of my favorite things about homeschooling is that I get to allow my kids to experience hands-on learning as much as they want. It’s the way I learn the best, it’s the way they learn the best, and I’m willing to bet so many of your children learn best with hands-on activities, too. Homeschool field trips are PERFECT for hands-on learning!

In our home, we tend to do our book learning Monday through Thursday. Every day, the kids will get their lessons done and then they’re free to play outside, play in our toy room, and might even join me in running some errands. Many of their lessons are hands-on activities, but they can be done at home, so, unless there’s a change in schedule, we’re really not doing any homeschool field trips those days. Friday, though? Friday is “Fun Friday!” We’ll try to venture out of the house to do some sort of activity on Friday. It’s a day we all look forward to! Where do we go? On one of our homeschool field trips, of course!

25 Ideas for Budget-Friendly Homeschool Field Trips

Here are some of our favorite field trips that won’t break the bank! Be sure to check out our tips for saving money on these homeschool field trips (and more) at the end of the list!

• You know how I said I remember the field trips from when I was in school? Well, truth be told, I currently live within walking distance of a cemetery I visited on a 4th grade field trip…almost 3o years ago! Find some locations that are important to the your state or town history and visit them! Towns will often have websites with tourism information, so go check yours out and learn about where you live!
• Most state capitals will offer free tours and some will even let you sit in on legislative sessions. What better way to learn about local government than to experience it first hand? Check the website of your State Capital for more information. If you don’t see information about tours or how residents can witness decisions being made, give them a call!
• This, of course, will depend on where you live but chances are that there is a farm within driving distance of your home! Check their social media or website beforehand for hours and any hands-on experiences they may offer. I know our farms are usually more than happy to accommodate a class or homeschool group as long as plans are made in advance. The kids will get to see where their food comes from and might get to see a farm animal or two!
• I promise, this is NOT as lame a field trip as it sounds! You could plan a special meal and then let the kids shop for the ingredients, give them a budget and let them do the weekly family grocery shopping, or even do a scavenger hunt through the grocery store. Some grocery stores offer free or reasonably priced cooking classes, will have a free family movie night, or could offer some sort of behind-the-scenes tour if planned ahead.
• When I was a special education teacher, visiting a restaurant was one of my favorite life and social skills outings to do with my class. Give the kids a budget and let them make their own meal choices at the restaurant. Kids can order their food on their own and be in charge of paying for their meal when they’re done.
• When my kids were tiny and I didn’t feel like making drive into Philadelphia to their zoo, I’d take them to our local pet store. They’d get to see animals of all sorts, would visit the adoption section to see the available cats, and got to interact with the employees at the store. Before we got our first family pet, I took my kids to the pet store so we could do a mock shopping trip for a hamster and a dog. We went through the store and would write down the price of each item we’d need to purchase for “our” pet and, at the end of the trip, we compared the approximate cost of having a hamster versus having a dog. I like to think that doing this helped them to realize what a big financial responsibility it would be to get a pet.
• I’m telling you, my kids would probably be super happy visiting a different factory each week. It’s fun to get to see how some of our favorite products and such are created. Among many, we’ve visited the Turkey Hill Experience in Columbia, PA (the brand that makes my favorite ice cream!) and have learned about the process of making chocolate in Hershey, PA. The Utz Potato Chip Factory and the Jelly Belly Factory are definitely on our list for the future!
• When we need a moment to reconnect with nature, my boys and I hit the trails! As much as I love my flip flops, closed toe shoes are a must! Wear a hat to prevent ticks from moving in their new home (aka: your body) and fill up a water bottle to stay hydrated. You could identify native plants and animals, look for signs of termites or erosion, look for (and stay away from) animal homes and more. I always make sure my phone has a full battery charge so I can Google photos of leaves and, not gonna lie, so I can use the GPS to find my way out of a trail if need be!
• Contact a local bakery ahead of time and see if they might be able to provide any sort of tour for a homeschool field trip! Some bakeries may offer decorating classes, too!
• There are museums of ALL sorts all across the world. Find one that is local to you and check their website for pricing information and specials. Some might offer educational discounts or even have a designated day/time for reduced price entry.
• Ok, this one is probably more fun than educational, but I distinctly remember going to Six Flags in 8th grade for a field trip! You could work in some sort of mathematical equations about the speed or height of roller coasters, do a competition to see who can walk the most steps throughout the park, or even have a photography challenge (photograph representations of certain letters throughout the park for a project?). However you decide to make a visit to a theme park educational, it’s pretty much a given that the kids will have a great time!
• When I was in high school, I participated in the “Adopt a Grandparent” club. Every week, we’d take a bus over to an assisted living location to chat with the residents and play games with them. The residents enjoyed these visits so much! Call ahead to an assisted living home and see if they accept visitors and, if so, ask about their visiting hours. Maybe you could host a game or crafting event?
• Don’t forget about the library! In addition to borrowing books, so many libraries offer free or reasonably priced community events. Some even have recurring classes for kids! Check your library’s website or information desk for details and make some plans!
• Whether you’re in the market for adopting a pet or not, it seems that the shelters near our home can always use some help! Many of them have an age minimum for volunteering, but that doesn’t mean your younger kids can’t crochet blankets for the animals or collect food and supplies from the community. Call the shelter ahead and mention that you’re a homeschooling family – they may be able to provide a tour of the facilities and let you (safely) interact with the animals.
• When the warmer weather arrives in our area, my kids would be completely happy spending their days at the playground. Not only does it provide them with some physical activity, but, when other kids are around, it could result in some problem solving, critical thinking, and more. Plus, a visit to the playground is a great way to get some energy out!
• Take a visit over to your local bank and learn all about money! Of course, call ahead to schedule your visit and make sure that they can accommodate your visit, but how much fun would it to be to see the giant safes in the bank? The kids can learn all about the various ways to save and invest money and, while you’re there, you might even consider opening bank accounts for the kids if they don’t already have them.
• A bit morbid, I know, but death is a part of our lives, and one way to learn is to visit a cemetery. If you’re not familiar with the history of tombstones, there’s a lot to learn! Some tombstones have figures or such that could have a surprising meaning behind them, some caskets are buried underground while some are above ground, etc. You could teach the etiquette of visiting a cemetery, look for the tombstones or monuments of local figures or people of historical significance, and even see the results of erosion over time.
• Garbage and Recycling? Water Treatment? Electricity? All are services we often take for granted, so it’s totally worth it to go to the source and learn about these important services! Of course, call ahead and make sure they can accommodate your homeschool field trip. I have been meaning to contact our local Garbage and Recycling services to schedule a visit because trash pickup day (Friday) is pretty much a weekly holiday over here – my boys LOVE seeing all the vehicles come by.
• It’s a place we we find treasures…for less! You never know what you’re going to find and it’s always a good time! Give everyone a set budget and set off to find a certain something – you could require everyone purchase something to be used for a holiday, something in a certain color, something to be flipped for profit, etc. Try your hand at refinishing furniture to sell or use in your home. Some flea markets even encourage making offers/haggling, so the kids could learn the art of the haggle first hand.
• Make it a day to shop small! Visit those little boutiques on Main Street, eat lunch at a mom & pop shop, enjoy some candy from your local candy shop, and more.
• These are often seasonal, but, as a self-proclaimed foodie, these are the events I look forward to each and every year. When we lived in Florida, we’d enjoy fresh Strawberry Shortcake at the Strawberry Festival each year. In NJ, we can’t wait for the Cranberry Festival and Apple Festivals in the fall. Have a taste test “event” with the kids and try out a few different foods while at the festival. Some festivals will even have cookbooks for sale at the event – consider purchasing one and trying out the recipes with the kids at home.
• One of our local universities (my alma mater!) has a planetarium on site and will host very reasonably priced events. Sometimes the events are your typical “let’s look at the sky” events, but sometimes…sometimes…there are laser light shows set to music. The light shows are my favorite and, bonus, every time we’ve attended, there has been a more “typical” educational aspect at the end of the show when a college student will show us how to find constellations in the night sky and such.
• Of course, your options will certainly vary depending on your location, but we are 100% the family that’ll visit the beach whether it’s sunny, raining, or snowing. It’s one of our happy places, so we try to visit often. Whether you spend the day at the beach or a lake, there’s plenty of native wildlife that could be observed and most likely picturesque scenes that could inspire some artwork or poetry!
• Here in South Jersey, we are within driving distance of so many caves. Make a day trip out of it and explore what’s beneath the ground. So many caves offer reasonably priced educational tours and, since you’d be going underground, it could be a great way to beat the heat of the summer sun.
• Sure, we get our mail delivered daily, but do we really know how a piece of mail gets from one location to another? Contact your local Post Office and see what they can offer for a homeschool field trip.

3 Ways to Save Money on Homeschool Field Trips

Now that you have a ton of ideas for homeschool field trips to take your kids on, I bet you’re wondering how to make these field trips as cost effective as possible, right?

When I’m looking to save money on field trips, these are three things I look for:

• Some locations will offer a homeschool or educators discount on admission. If a website or social media site do not list any discounts, don’t be afraid to call and ask them directly. It never hurts to ask!
• We have enjoyed SO many family-friendly activities and homeschool field trips by purchasing tickets through Groupon. Even better? If you have a Rakuten account you can earn a percent back on Groupon purchases. Gotta love when we can double dip on savings!
• Many places requiring admission will often offer “night hour” pricing or have a certain day of the week where admission is a little less. While planning your homeschool field trips, be sure to check websites for this info. As I mentioned previously, if this information is not available, call them and ask!

I hope you enjoy taking a bunch of homeschool field trips with your kids! If you have some fun suggestions that should be added to this list, as always, send me an email and I’ll add them! I’d love to hear about the homeschool field trips you and your kids have gone on so I can plan for even more adventures with my own kids! Until next time, stay safe and enjoy quality time with your families!

Elizabeth Dukart is a proud Georgia-based born and raised Jersey Girl, wife, and mom of 2 human boys & 1 canine boy.

Created in 2021, Elizabeth owns and publishes  That Homeschool Family : a free resource for homeschooling parents and beyond! A seasoned blogger, Elizabeth previously published a popular location-specific family resource blog, but decided to “Pivot!” her blogging focus after she started homeschooling her two boys in 2020. In addition to this blog, you can follow Elizabeth’s homeschooling and family adventures on Facebook , TikTok , Instagram , YouTube , and Pinterest . She can also be found in her Facebook Group: That Homeschool Family Hangout .

When she’s not busy taking over the world or homeschooling, Elizabeth can be found listening to music (especially The Beatles & Harry Styles!), being silly with her boys, watching movies with family, shopping, or traveling!

Have a question or want to work with Elizabeth? Send her an email!

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59 Fun and Educational Field Trips

Annette Breedlove Leave a Comment This Post Contains Affiliate Links

One of the things I most looked forward to when we began homeschooling was taking educational field trips. I could literally plan a field trip (or two) every week and be happy.

However, I know that we do need to actually accomplish school work aside from field trips. I mean…looking at historical handwriting doesn’t exactly teach you how to write, ya know? Nevertheless, I have compiled a list of fun and educational field trips that can be added to any homeschool.

While I would love to take field trips every week, its simply not possible with our family schedule. So, I try to plan big field trips that will coincide with our studies and work in shorter, half-day (or less) field trips as we can do them.

So far, this has been a great way to not only add in some additional learning opportunities, but also give us some much needed breaks in our studies.

59 Fun and Educational Field Trips

• Zoo – Who doesn’t love a trip to the zoo! Be sure to print off some scavenger hunts or fun printables to take with you too. Click here to get some tips on making your zoo trip fun and educational (for kids AND teens) .
• Children’s and Science Museum – Science museums are a great way to let kids explore the world of science on their level, as well as do some fun, hands-on learning.
• State and National Parks – State and National parks are a not only a great way to see the country, but to learn more about nature and the history of a state/area.
• Nature Walks – Take a nature walk in your area to collect leaves, study trees or look for animal tracks.
• Aquarium – Aquariums are a wonderful way to explore the world of the ocean. Many aquariums offer hands-on activities for kids to learn and explore different types of aquatic life.
• Planetarium – Want to know what its like to be in space? Take a trip to the planetarium and learn more about the stars and our vast universe. Click here to get more tips on how to make astronomy fun to learn.
• Laboratory Tour – Some local laboratories may offer tours of their facilities where kids can learn about chemical reactions, pharmaceuticals and more.
• Arboretum – This is a great way to learn more about botany and the world of plants.
• Greenhouse – Learn more about how and why a greenhouse works by taking a tour.
• Camp Out – Take a camp out to learn more about building fires, cooking meals over an open fire and all of nature that surrounds you.
• Cave – Tour a cave to learn more about how they are formed and the different parts of a cave.
• Observatory – If you live near an observatory, it is a great way to see stars and planets on a greater scale.
• Lock & Dam – Most lock & dams may not have tours, but they do often have plaques around that tell you how things work and allow you to tour at your own pace.

History and Government

• Historical Site – Visit any historical sites in your area to learn more about your state and local community. Check out our photos of our adventure to Williamsburg .
• State Capitol Tour – Many states have a State Homeschool Day, when you can tour the state capitol and visit with your local representative. Take advantage of that opportunity to show your support for homeschooling and your representatives.
• Old Cemetary – It may seem a little creepy, but visiting an old cemetary can give quite a bit of historical background to your area. Take some grave rubbings to study later!
• Archaelogical sites – There are many archaelogical sites around the United States, most of which are Native American. Plan to visit them on a family vacation or as a day trip if you live close enough.
• Presidential birthplaces – This is one to put on your bucket-list. Visit some of the presidential birthplaces, as part of your U.S. History studies.
• Local Fire Station – A quick phone call to your local fire station will usually get you a tour. Be forewarned, they will leave you if they get a call.
• Local Police Station – Some police stations may offer tours of their facility and city jail, if you just ask.
• Historic Trails – Take a walk in the shoes of history by visiting historical trails.
• Post Office Tour – Learn how the postal system works, mail is sorted and sent out to the correct address by taking a tour of your local post office.
• Historical Reenactment – If you live near where historical reenactments take place, go! If you don’t, plan a trip at some point. Its a great way to make history come to life for your kids.
• Theater – Get group discounts to a local/community or city theater to learn more about plays and acting.
• Museum  – Learn more about past and even upcoming artists at a museum.
• Art Studio – Some art studios will allow you to observe an artist or even take a class.
• Local Festivals – Most states have numerous local festivals that you can visit. They are a great way to hear music, see arts & crafts and learn some local history. Some even have pioneer days, where people dress up in period costumes for the occasion.
• Orchestra or Concert – Many college or community/city orchestras will offer discounts to school groups. This is a great introduction to music for children.
• Photography – Have kids take their own photos to learn about lighting, focus and more.
• Pottery Studio – Learn how a kiln works and possibly make your own small piece of pottery.
• Visit sites famous authors wrote about – Do your kids love to read? Learn more about the places their favorite author(s) wrote about with a fun tour.
• Michael’s  – most stores offer craft classes for adults and children, you just need to enroll
• Lowe’s   or Home Depot – These stores also offer classes for children. Check their schedules to see what you can build!
• Jewelry Store – Kids can learn how gold is soldered, rings are resized, about different metals and possibly even about designing their own jewelry.

• Tour a local factory – This could be a car, toy, bread or any other manufacturing plant that allows tours.
• Railway station/Train Ride – Learn about the railway system or take a train ride to see how people used to (and some still do) travel across the country. This would be great opportunity to learn the history of the train.
• Farm – There are many different types of farms to learn about. Visit a local farmer to learn about planting and/or harvesting, raising animals (dairy farm, chicken farm) or just how a small, local farm works.
• Aviation Museum – If you live near an aviation museum, I highly recommend visiting. Combine it with some studies of pioneer aviators and how the industry has changed.
• Fish hatchery – This is a great way to learn how fish are fed and reproduced to be given to fish farms to continue their growth for the fish industry.
• Bakery/Donut Shop – If you live near a Krispy Kreme, they do offer tours for small groups. Otherwise, check with your local bakery. This is a fun way for kids to learn how cakes and pastries are made. (KK allows kids to decorate their own donuts too!)
• Recycling Plant – This a great trip around Earth Day to teach kids how the recycling process works and why its important.
• Local Orchard or Farm – We used to live near a couple of orchards/farms that allowed families and groups to come and pick pumpkins, apples, pears, etc. Often times you can coordinate tours for larger groups, like a homeschool group or co-op.
• Local Power Plant – Have your kids ever wondered where electricity comes from? This is a great way to teach them first hand.
• Lumber Mill – Lumber mills are a great way to teach kids how the wood industry works. And if you’re lucky like us, they might even have a logging company to show kids how they cut down trees.
• Nursery – Take a tour of your local nursery to find out what plants are native to your area, what plants thrive in your climate and how to care for them.
• Ghost Towns – There are more ghost towns around than you think, especially if you live in an older state and rural area. They are full of history and wonder. It can make for some great exploring and even fantastic creative writing prompts.
• Historic homes tour – Take a tour of historic homes in and around your town. Its a great way to learn more about where you live and how it became what you see today.
• Tour of your town by bike or on foot – This is a great way to see and read all those historical plaques in your town, that you drive by so quickly.
• Local animal shelter – Visit a local animal shelter to find out more about what they do and how you can you help (even if you’re not interested in adopting a pet).
• Visit a local entrepreneur – If your town has someone that has grown a business from the ground up, they may be willing to speak to kids about how to grow a business or give them some tips in starting their own. This is a great activity for older students wanting to start their own business.
• Water Treatment Facility – Learn more about where your water comes from and how its cleaned when you tour your local water treatment facility.
• Local Newspaper – Find out how the journalism world works with a tour of a local newspaper.
• Veterinarian – Children can learn what a vet does and why it is important to have your pets checked regularly with a tour of a veterinarian’s office.
• Library Tour – Most homeschoolers are more familiar with their local library than anything else. However, have they learned how the dewey decimal system works or why its used? Ask for a tour of your local library for them to learn more!
• Bank – Touring a bank is a great way to learn about financing, money and how banks work.
• County Courthouse – Take a tour of your county courthouse to learn more about the offices held there, tour a court room and talk to a judge to find out more about what they do.
• Local TV station – If you live in a large enough city (or even close to one) that has its own television station, coordinate a tour to learn more about how the world of television news works.
• Print shop – Visit a local print shop to see how they print not only small items (copies for offices), but large banners and the different techniques and signage they might use.
• 4-H Fair – Visiting your local 4-H Fair is not only a great way to support local kids, but also a great time to teach your own kids about farm animals and how they are cared for and raised.

What fun and educational Homeschool Field Trips have you taken?

More Homeschooling Tips:

• Summer Stargazing for Families (A fun, free 8 week course)
• 12 Ideas for a Purposeful Summer with the Kids
• 100+ Memory Tools for Homeschoolers
• The Ultimate List of Resources for Memorizing Science Facts
• The Ultimate List of History & Geography Memory Tools

About Annette Breedlove

Annette has been married to her husband and best friend for 10 years. They are raising their four children to follow the Lord’s will, no matter what.

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Field Trip Ideas for Elementary School Students

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Elementary field trips teach kids about science, business, animals and more. Teach children important fundamentals outside of the classroom while staying safe on your field trip and having fun when you visit one of these locations. Plan your next outing with one of these field trip ideas for elementary school students.

Recycling Center

A guided tour through a recycling center shows kids how recyclable materials are sorted but also teaches them about recycling, reusing and waste reduction. They can take this knowledge with them to build a recycling center at home. Contact the recycling center to set up a group tour in advance.

Planetarium

The planetarium is an excellent way to introduce elementary students to the solar system. Students will love the shows and exhibits that will teach them about space and astronomy. Call the planetarium's admission office to schedule a tour.

You may visit the aquarium all the time. But have you ever been behind the closed doors of the aquarium? Many of the larger aquariums have more aquatic life on the premises than they can possibly display and they would be happy to take the kids on a private tour to show you how the aquarium works. Call the aquarium director's office to set up a tour.

See how candy is made, cars, guitars, soda and more. There are factories all over the country that offer tours. Some are even free. Contact the factory directly to schedule a tour.

Taking a group of kids to see zoo animals is always fun. But you can also schedule a tour to see how the zoo's staff works behind the scenes. Educational docents can give your tour group a one-on-one experience with all sorts of animals. Call the zoo's front office to get more information.

Fire Station

Kids will love touring a working fire station. Firefighters can show students the fire engine, turn on the sirens and educate the children on fire safety to keep your family safe. One of the most valuable lessons kids will learn is how a firefighter will look in full uniform, complete with mask, if he or she ever enter a burning house. Seeing firefighters fully dressed teaches kids that they don't have to be scared. Call any local fire station and ask to speak to the station commander to set up a tour.

Police Station

Tour the police station to learn crime prevention tips, how a police department functions, police equipment that's used and how patrol cars work. Contact the station's crime prevention officer.

A farm is a great idea for a field trip because there are so many types of farms to visit. One week you can visit a dairy farm and visit with cows. The next week you can visit a crop farm to see how cotton, fruits, grains or vegetables are grown. Contact the farmers themselves to ask if your group can come out for a tour or call your state's agricultural department to find out more about the types of farms in your city.

Farmer's Market

After you visit the various types of farms, take the lesson to a farmer's market. Kids can see how fruits and vegetables grow at the farm and then turn around to see how farmers try to sell their crops at the farmer's market. You may even run into some farmers you met on a previous tour. Contact the farmer's market for a guided tour or simply take your group during farmer's market hours to mingle with the customers and farmers.

Any kind of museum presents an opportunity for kids to learn and have fun. Take the kids to art, children's, natural history, technology and science museums, to name a few. The museum director can schedule your group for a behind-the-scenes tour.

Sporting Events

Take the kids out to a ball game for a field trip. Baseball can be a great field trip at the end of the school year to celebrate great academic efforts from the kids. Football is a good first field trip when the kids are getting restless as the school year seems to drag on right before the holiday break.

Veterinary Hospital

Veterinarians are usually happy to show off their hospitals. Kids can see the operating rooms, equipment used, recovering patients and learn all about the field of veterinary medicine. Contact any veterinary hospital to set up a tour.

What goes into producing a newscast? Take the kids to a TV station to find out. Children can get a firsthand look at the sets, meet the TV personalities and see the many types of equipment used to get a newscast on the air. Many stations will even put the kids on the news just for dropping by. Call the program director to set up a tour.

Radio Station

It's easy to think a radio station and TV station would be too similar to tour. But you'll notice a lot of differences when you visit both. You may even get to watch as the radio personalities play music or host a local call-in show. Contact the radio station's program director and tell him you're interested in a tour.

The inner workings of the newspaper industry are something every child should see. Meet the reporters who write the stories, learn about the history of newspapers, see how newspapers are laid out and watch the newspaper roll off the printing presses. Call the city editor to let him know you're interested in a private tour.

Fish Hatchery

Kids can learn all about the life cycle of fish, fish anatomy, water quality and more at a fish hatchery. Most hatcheries require advance reservations because of their popularity with educational tour groups.

Hospital administrators have worked hard to arrange tours that introduce kids to the hospital environment without giving them a scary experience. This helps prepare them for what to expect should they ever need to visit a relative or become a patient themselves.

It's also an educational experience because children can see how the doctors and nurses work together and use high-tech medical equipment to treat their patients. Contact the hospital's main number to request a tour. If your local hospital doesn't allow in-person tours, type "hospital tours for kids" in your favorite search engine to take the children on a virtual field trip from home.

The system that keeps the library up and running is worthy of a field trip visit for kids. Kids not only develop a deeper appreciation for books, but they also get to learn about the catalog system, how a book is entered into the system so it can start getting checked out and how the staff operates the library. Contact the head librarian at your local library branch to schedule a tour.

Pumpkin Patch

Visiting a pumpkin patch is the perfect way to celebrate fall. Most pumpkin patches also have fun activities planned for the kids, including horseback rides, inflatables, corn mazes, hayrides and more. If you would like a private tour or you're taking a large group, contact the pumpkin patch directly. Otherwise, just show up during regular business hours.

Movie Theater

Kids love the movies so take them behind the scenes to see how a movie theater operates. They can visit the projection room, see how the concession stand operates and they may even get to sample a movie and popcorn. Call the movie theater manager to arrange a tour.

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30+ Awesome Homeschool Field Trip Ideas Kids Will Love

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Homeschoolers get to take the best field trips.  We are not limited to only places that can accommodate massive groups of children and we can usually work more than 1 or 2 into the annual budget . . . especially because many of these field trip spots are FREE!

I can recommend these homeschool field trip ideas because I have personally taken my kids to many of these places. Many of these homeschool field trip ideas can even accommodate babies, toddlers, and preschoolers.

Field trips are great because there is almost always something for every grade level. Homeschool students of all ages love to go on field trips!

Gather your homeschool group or a few friends and make a day of it!

If you can’t get out on a field trip, a virtual field trip is a great idea! You can actually see more in one day because you are not limited by location.

30+ Homeschool Field Trip Ideas

Zoos are a favorite spot for many children, making them one of the top homeschool field trip ideas.  Kids can observe animals they might not otherwise see in the wild.  Kids can learn map reading skills, animal facts, and even a bit of geography as they read the descriptive plaques.  

Bring along one of these zoo scavenger hunts to keep everyone focused.

Can’t get to a local zoo? Try a virtual zoo field trip instead!

Check out our field trips to the National Zoo and the Woodland Park Zoo .

2. Aquarium

Aquariums let kids observe aquatic animals that they couldn’t see otherwise.  After all, it is difficult for humans to view aquatic animals in their natural habitats. Kids learn to care about protecting our planet when they see the wide range of animals impacted by their choices.  

Check out these aquariums that are all offering free aquarium webcams .

Working farms are amazing places for kids to visit.  Some local farmers have farm animals and others focus on growing produce. Our summer with a CSA taught my children so much about life on a farm and where our food comes from. They were able to pick fresh produce right when it was ripe!

They learned that things grow in seasons and that sometimes hard work is involved in getting food to our table.   Find a nearby farm here .  

4. Nature Center

Nature centers frequently host kid-friendly educational opportunities.  The employees are an excellent resource for learning about your environment. Outdoor field trips are a great way to get some fresh air while also learning about your local environment. I love adding in related books, either before or after, our nature center visits.

5. Historical Site

I highly recommend checking out the historic sites near your home.  My kids love history and I think that is in part due to all of our field trips.  We have moved around the country a bit and every time we move I search for more historic homeschool field trip ideas. There are field trip spots that focus on American history all around the United States.

Field trips to historic spots allow your children to really get a feel for what people of the past struggled with in their daily lives. Every historic site is a little different, but my family always enjoys seeing historic houses.

Check out our field trip to Williamsburg .

Factories are excellent places to learn about manufacturing and assembly lines.   Touring the Seattle Chocolates factory was one of our favorite field trips last year.  

You can even tour an Amazon fulfillment center !  Tours are offered virtually or in person at a select few locations.

7. Planetarium

A planetarium is an excellent spot for a homeschool field trip if you are studying the solar system or constellations. The light displays are amazing. This is one of the best homeschool field trip ideas if you are studying astronomy!

It does get dark right before the show starts, so it might not be the best field trip idea if your child is afraid of the dark.    

Be sure to ask around your community though.  You might find smaller planetariums in specialty high schools.

8. Recycling Center

If you have a child who is fascinated with trash trucks, I highly recommend a visit to a recycling center.  You can even take a virtual field trip tour of a recycling center online.

9. Great Wolf Lodge

A water park might not be at the top of your homeschool field trip ideas list, but P.E. totally counts! This is a great place to burn off some extra energy during the months spent inside due to the weather.  

Some locations even host homeschool weeks.

10. Fire Station

You know how important I think it is to teach fire safety to kids .  Taking a field trip to visit a fire station is an important part of that lesson.  

Kids can tour the station, but most importantly, they can see a firefighter wearing all of the gear.  That can look kind of scary and kids have been known to hide from firefighters during rescue attempts.  

Seeing a fully dressed firefighter in a safe setting helps prepare them.  Here is a great field trip response worksheet to help kids process everything they learned.

This is one of those homeschool field trip ideas that I can really make a difference in terms of safety.

11. Police Station

Police stations are a natural fit for any child learning about community helpers or the criminal justice system.  I recommend setting up a field trip with your local police station AND the helicopter unit.  

My kids thought the police station was interesting, but they really gained useful information from the helicopter unit tour.  These are the officers who respond to situations such as lost children and catastrophic injuries, so they reinforce safety tips, like always wearing a bike helmet when riding on wheels.

12. Grocery Store

Grocery stores provide another piece of the ‘where does my food come from’ puzzle.  Kids also learn about point of sale, bakeries, and delis.  Some grocery stores even offer nutrition lessons.  

Print out this grocery scavenger hunt and kids can find items and compare prices.

13. Pet Store

Pet stores are one of the easiest homeschool field trip ideas if your child loves animals. Many pet stores sell a very limited variety of animals, but they do sell everything needed to care for a pet.  

Use this pet scavenger hunt at the pet store to lead a discussion about proper pet care.

14. Art Museum

Even young kids can enjoy art museums if they have the right preparation and their parents have the right expectations.  

Plan to keep the visit fairly short if your kids are young or high-energy.  We found it worked well to focus on one exhibit each visit until Hannah and Ben were older and had longer attention spans.  

Choose 1 or 2 pieces to analyze with this handy guide.

Check out our field trip to the Portland Art Museum .

15. History Museum

History museums make the list of homeschool field trip ideas because they can tie in with history curriculum lessons.  These museums come in a range of sizes and cover a plethora of topics.  

You might even find small local history museums located in little old towns.

16. Science Museum

Science museums usually contain a wide range of science topics so you are almost guaranteed to find something that correlates with a lesson.  These museums are usually full of hands-on exhibits and experiments to keep little learners interested and engaged.  

Be sure to check out the online exhibit guide before you go, so you can see everything you want to see. Here is a list of science centers in the US .  Sort it by state to search it a little easier. Hopefully, you can find an interesting exhibit near you to add to your homeschool field trip ideas list.

17. Children’s Museum

Children’s museums are a great place for the 3-8 crowd to burn off a little energy while learning a bit too. Typical exhibits include building with large blocks, water play, light tables, and make-believe. Interactive exhibits are always a hit with kids.

Many children’s museums offer discount nights every so often.

18. Fish Hatchery

Fish hatcheries are perfect if your kids have any interest in fish.  

We toured our local fish hatchery as the salmon were returning to spawn and were able to see gorgeous salmon in all stages of life.  

My kids care a little more about keeping our streams healthy because they have seen salmon fighting their way back to the hatchery.

19. Pumpkin Patch

Pumpkin patches feel like one of the iconic homeschool field trip ideas. I am partial to pumpkin patches that actually grow pumpkins instead of the fall entertainment centers that seem to be common.

Some pumpkin patches host a homeschool day each year with discounted entrance and educational classes.  

20. State Parks

State parks frequently host seminars led by park rangers.  Some of these seminars are open to the public and some are special requests.  Check out the state park website for your state and see what is available.

21. National Parks

National parks tend to either have gorgeous scenery or historical sites.  Kids can even take part in the junior ranger program.  Be sure to check out the visitor center.  

Many National Park Service visitor centers display exhibits that explain what the children will see in the park.   Find a national park near you here.

Check out our field trip to Fort Clatsop .

22. Post Office

Post offices are busy places with lots of moving parts.  Schedule a behind-the-scenes tour and see how mail gets from one part of the country to another.  

Print out this copy of Post Office I Spy and keep toddlers entertained while their older siblings learn all about the mail process.

23. Military Base Museum

Military bases can be tricky places to visit, so I hesitated to add them to this list of homeschool field trip ideas, but if you have access to a military base museum I recommend you arrange a visit. The exhibits will be specific to the base.  When we were in Barksdale, LA, we saw old bomber planes.  The base in Quantico, VA featured marine involvement in various wars.

24. State Capitol

Touring your state capitol building is a great way to garner interest in state politics.  

Every state capitol follows a different protocol for setting up field trips, so you will need to check with your state officials to find out how to set up a tour.

25. Botanical Garden

Botanical gardens are beautiful enchanting places.  We like to just walk around and enjoy all of the gorgeous plant life.  If you have an artist on your hands, be sure to bring a sketchbook.

Check out these reasons why visiting a botanical garden is important .

26. Symphony

Attending a symphony or concert is a great way to foster a love for music . Many symphonies perform special concerts for children.  They are shorter in length and play more recognizable tunes.  

Some even host instrument petting zoos so the kids can get up close and personal with the instruments.

27. Restaurant

A restaurant might seem like a weird addition to a list of homeschool field trip ideas, but they can be great! Gather a few friends and call up a local restaurant to schedule a homeschool field trip.  

Restaurant field trips often include a behind-the-scenes tour of the kitchen. You might even be able to get a little snack.  Here is a list of restaurants that offer field trips.

28. Movie Theater

My family is a big fan of heading to the movie theater after we finish reading a book.  

Read the book, watch the movie, and compare which you liked better.  My kids start looking forward to this as soon as they start seeing the new movie trailers.

29. Performing Arts Center

Live performance homeschool field trip ideas include puppetry arts shows, plays, and dances, just to name a few.  Kids seem to love watching live performances.

Follow all of the coupon and local mom blog/Facebook pages for your area because they usually have the inside scoop on performance dates and reduced-price tickets.

30. Storytime

Story times are often hosted by libraries or bookstores and they are perfect for young children.  Many times the story times have themes.  It is great when you can coordinate the theme with a lesson or unit study, but listening to stories is always educational in its own right.

31. Civil War Battlefields

Civil War battlefields are scattered all throughout the Southeast portion of the United States. Visiting these fields can be a great addition to a United States history curriculum. Check out Battlefields.org to see if there are any sites near you. If not, try their virtual tours.

32. Governor’s Mansion

Many states allow visitors to the Governor’s Mansion, however, this is definitely a field trip that requires advance planning. The website for each state’s executive mansion typically explains the field trip procedure.

If you live near DC, or will be in town, consider planning a field trip to the White House !

Frequently Asked Questions About Homeschool Field Trips

How do homeschool field trips work?

Every homeschool field trip is different, but generally, they work the same way any family trip works. Choose when you want to go and make reservations if necessary.

You can go on the field trip alone or with multiple families. Sometimes there are discounts available for large groups, so it might be worth a little extra planning work to coordinate.

What are good field trip ideas?

Good field trips are anything that keeps your kids interested and learning. I think the homeschool field trip ideas listed above are great educational experiences.

What is the best homeschool field trip?

The best homeschool field trip is one that:

• Is interesting to your family
• Is affordable for your family
• Is in your area

Every family will have a different opinion about the best field trip and that is okay. My personal favorites have been Colonial Williamsburg and the Seattle Chocolate Company.

Should field trips be educational or fun?

Ideally, a homeschool field trip will be educational and fun. They are a unique learning experience. If a child isn’t having fun, they are likely tuning out anything educational.

What if I don’t live near many field trip locations?

Virtual field trips are a great option if you don’t live near many traditional field trip opportunities. Taking a virtual tour can be even better sometimes because you don’t have to stand in any lines.

Need field trip inspiration? Check out these posts:

• 8 Homeschool Field Trip Planning Tips
• Favorite Seattle Field Trips
• 20+ Free Virtual Field Trips
• Field Trip Scavenger Hunt Bundle
• 15 Fun Virtual Zoo Field Trip Options
• Tips for Williamsburg Homeschool Days
• Homeschool Field Trips That Are Perfect for Winter

What are your favorite homeschool field trip ideas?

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Welcome! My name is Jennifer. I am a teacher at heart. Before my children were born I was a public school teacher. Now, I am a homeschooling mom of two.

We took a behind-the-scenes your of a local racing speedway and drag strip for a homeschool field trip. It was so much fun!

That sounds like a great field trip!

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PENNSYLVANIA Field Trips

To help plan SEPTEMBER curriculum focused classroom activities, field trips and school assembly programs, these September themed celebrations might be a helpful focus. MONTHLY : Classical Music Month. Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15-Oct. 15). Library Card Sign-Up Month. National Courtesy Month. DAILY : Sept. 6: National Read a Book. Sept. 7: International Day of Clean Air. Sept. 12: National Day of Encouragement. Sept. 15: Greenpeace Day. Sept. 16: National Collect Rocks Day. Sept. 17: Constitution Day and Citizenship Day. Sept. 18: National Respect Day. Sept. 22: Autumnal Equinox Day. Sept. 24 :  National Punctuation Day. CLICK on the ACTIVITY FILTER below for activity type of field trips to learn about. For those unable to travel to these locations, have the fun come to you. Check out the Outreach Field Trips & School Assembly Programs  section.    

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Acrisure Stadium

Tour Acrisure Stadium for the ultimate football experience! Customized tours for youth groups explore behind-the-scenes areas of Acrisure Stadium—a destination for excellence and world-class performances—both on the stage and on the field!

Awbury Arboretum

Awbury Arboretum combines nature and history through preservation of its historic landscape. Groups will have opportunities to explore environmental education, see animals, and more.

Carnegie Science Center

Carnegie Science Center connects people and science through interactive exhibits, fostering curiosity, ideal for enriching field trips with hands-on learning experiences.

Crystal Cave

Visit Crystal Cave—Pennsylvania’s greatest natural wonder! Discovered by William Merkel and John Gehret in 1871, the cave features flowstone, stalactites, stalagmites, aragonite crystals, and more.

Dave and Buster’s Philadelphia

Groups will have a blast at Dave & Buster’s Philadelphia! Start out with a delicious meal in the group-friendly restaurant and then move on to some games—billiards, shuffleboard, air hockey, and more—in Dave’s Arcade.

Gettysburg Ghost Tours

Gettysburg Ghost Tours has been providing fun and informative ghost tours that are family friendly, less walking and more talking along one of the most haunted areas of Gettysburg.

Go ‘N Bananas Family Fun Center

Go ‘N Bananas Family Fun Center is Lancaster’s premier indoor, climate-controlled Family amusement center! Perfect for Summer Camps, Sports Teams, Team Bonding, Day Care Groups, Clubs, Girl and Boy Scout Groups.

Great Wolf Lodge – Pocono Mountains

There is no place better than Great Wolf Lodge – Pocono Mountains, the Northeast’s largest indoor waterpark resort for fun, educational school, scout, and homeschool trips.

Hershey’s Chocolate World

Unwrap your chocolate adventure at Hershey’s Chocolate World in Hershey, PA or Times Square, NY. Sweet & educational experiences will make your trip for your youth group and family – one to remember!

Lahey Family Fun Park

Lahey Family Fun Park offers a complete range of fun for any group. Super Go-Cart Track with fifteen single and 5 double cars, 9 state-of-the-art batting cages, 36 holes of the finest Mini-Golf on 2.5 acres, Bumper Boats on a natural pond and an indoor Arcade.

Laserdome is a Family Fun Center located in Lancaster County, PA. With non-stop all ages fun, we’re the perfect place for your next celebration!

Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum

At the Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum, with over 13,000 square feet of exhibits, visitors will learn about different aspects of Lehigh Valley history such as war, music, industry, early settlers, Native Americans, and other topics.

FieldTripdirectory.com offers enriching experiences for Pennsylvania school groups, scout groups, homeschool groups, camp groups and families at Pennsylvania Museums.

Pennsylvania Museums offer field trips that offer hands-on exhibits, guided tours and guided activities for early childhood through high school grades. Pennsylvania Art Museums , Science Museums , History Museums , Multicultural Museums and Children’s Museums offers educational experiences that support classroom curriculum and scout badge achievement. Beside museums, you can search for other learning experiences at Botanical Gardens, Planetariums, Living History Programs, STEM & STEAM, Planetariums, Farms, Zoos and Aquariums, Theaters and Concerts, Service Learning and more.

Can’t go on a field trip to a museum, your students, scouts, and families can still experience these fun enriching experience by scheduling a  Museum Virtual Field Trip  anywhere and at anytime.

Want the fun to come to you- book a  School Assembly Programs, Outreach Field Trips or Residency  at your school, homeschool association or scout council. They support and enhance a school’s curriculum, offers opportunities for scout badge achievement and enriches a camp program. There are mobile museum exhibits, traveling planetariums and classroom and grade level workshops and residencies.

To help fund field trips, virtual programs and school assembly programs visit our section on  Grants  and  Fundraising Programs .

FieldTripDirectory.com (formerly ClassTrips.com and CampDirectorsResources.com) offers field trip ideas for class trips, scout group trips, camp group field trips, and homeschool group field trips in Pennsylvania—early childhood through college. Search for class trips in Pennsylvania by by group type, cost, activity/curriculum type, grade level, distance, and venue name or keyword. Day class trips are divided by curriculum and subject area:

• ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Find Pennsylvania art museums, theater, dance, and music concert field trips.
• EARLY CHILDHOOD Find Pennsylvania class trips to children’s museums, petting zoos, and kids’ shows.
• HISTORY/SOCIAL STUDIES View Pennsylvania history museums, government & civics, historic sites, living history museums, and multicultural field trip ideas.
• LIFE SKILLS Find Pennsylvania team building field trips, health & safety exhibits, and character education experiences.
• SCIENCE & NATURE Find Pennsylvania aquariums, botanical gardens, environmental studies & nature centers, farms & mazes, planetariums, science museums, STEAM & STEM field trips, dinosaur exhibits, and zoos.
• RECREATION Find Pennsylvania field trip ideas for adventure parks, ropes courses, ziplines, boat excursions, amusement parks, waterparks, kayaking, rafting, tubing, laser tag paintball, roller skating rinks, ice-skating rinks, mini-golf attractions, indoor amusement & recreation centers, and outdoor amusement & recreation centers.

Overnight field trips include trips to NYC, trips to Boston, trips to Philadelphia, trips to Washington, DC, trips to Chicago, trips to Atlanta, trips to Austin, and other historic cities throughout the US. Retreats are available for environmental education, team building, and recreation. We created field trip lesson plans to help teachers, scout leaders, camp counselors, and homeschool parents provide an enriching experience for their groups. We know funds for class trips are limited, so we’ve included grants for field trips that cover admission, transportation, and more. It’s important that students and youth explore new environments, learn about other cultures, and develop an understanding of inclusivity as part of the educational process. People learn in different ways—through hearing, seeing, touching, talking, or doing. Class trips can provide a multi-dimensional learning experience. FieldTripDirectory.com can help you find the right trip for your group. A world of experiences is just a click away at FieldTripDirectory.com.

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The Best Fifth Grade Field Trips (In Person and Virtual)

Head count!

Being the oldest student on campus affords some privileges, not the least of which is a minimum of one awesome field trip. No baby field trips here. Take advantage of having more mature learners, and try one of these engaging field trips that you can only really do in fifth grade.

Not all of these trips will be possible everywhere, but keep in mind any local treasures that are unique to your area. And when you can’t manage a trip—for whatever reason—try our virtual fifth grade field trips below.

In-Person Fifth Grade Field Trips

1. tv station.

Current events are important in fifth grade, so take your students to learn what it really takes to put on a newscast. They’ll get to see the sets up close, meet the anchors, and maybe even be featured on the evening news (and what fifth grader doesn’t want to see themselves on television?).

2. Art Museum

Fifth graders can perhaps appreciate fine art in a way that younger students cannot. I remember being captivated by the impressionists at that age. I’m not saying a 10-year-old won’t laugh at a nude statue or painting, but they just might learn to appreciate it. And they should.

3. College or University

As they approach middle school, now is an ideal time to get fifth graders thinking about higher education. Take a tour, observe a class, meet college students, and visit a sports complex, bookstore, or library to get a feel for college life.

4. Community Theater

Children’s theaters often have options for older students, but for fifth graders, a local community theater is also a possibility. Lots of musicals are fifth-grade friendly. They might also enjoy an adaptation of a classic like The Secret Garden or Peter Pan , which local theaters frequently put on.

5. History Museum

Fifth grade social studies focuses on all 50 states. If they already went to the state history museum in fourth grade, you might try something with more national relevance, like a manuscript museum (I saw Richard Nixon’s actual resignation letter in Tacoma, Washington!).

6. State Capitol

Bring your government and civics unit to life with a visit to your state capitol. Try to time your visit for when Congress is in session so kids can get a peek at representative democracy in action. If they can meet some elected officials, even better!

7. Local Creek, Pond, or Lake

Plan to spend some time outside with your fifth graders. This might include a clean-up event to get students involved in community service. It could also be an opportunity to observe plant and animal life or take water samples for testing.

8. National Historic Site

There are plenty of sites that are significant to your state, but what about those that played a role in U.S. history? For example, Pearl Harbor in Hawaii or the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Alabama. Check out the full list of U.S. National Historic Landmarks by state .

9. Botanical Garden

Most botanical gardens offer a self-guided tour option, which is a great way for students to take in the diversity of plant life. Bring notebooks and let them sketch! And consider adding on a hands-on plant science workshop (like a flower dissection!) if that’s available.

10. Ropes Course

You might consider this a “just for fun” field trip, but students will learn teamwork, cooperation, and strategy through the obstacles. Ropes courses are self-esteem boosters, and fifth graders moving on to middle school could use a good dose of confidence.

11. Planetarium

If you’re looking for an out-of-this-world experience for your STEM-loving fifth graders, take them on a trip to a planetarium. They’ll get a chance to stargaze while learning all about the wonders of space.

12. Concert Hall

If you’re within driving distance, consider a trip to a philharmonic or symphony concert hall. Some venues offer special programs to schools, and others allow schools to attend rehearsals for an upcoming show. Local concert halls are another great option to foster music appreciation through choral groups, jazz bands, and more musically talented community members.

13. National, State, or Local Park

Depending on the location, there may be options for a guided tour by a park ranger or a self-guided tour. Either way, your students will enjoy learning about wildlife and plants while getting some exercise and fresh air. Many parks even waive admission fees for educational groups.

Virtual Fifth Grade Field Trips

1. amazon robotics fulfillment center tour.

Ever wonder how Amazon delivers packages at lightning speed? Take your fifth graders on a 45-minute behind-the-scenes tour of an Amazon fulfillment center  to see how computer science, engineering, and real people work together to make the magic happen. During this interactive virtual field trip, students meet Amazon engineers who explain concepts like algorithms and machine learning. It’s aligned to NGSS, CSTA, and ISTE standards, and there’s also a Teacher Toolkit that includes a facilitation guide plus student worksheets, certificates, and extension learning opportunities. (Hint: If you like this virtual field trip, look for the release of more Amazon Future Engineer Tech Tours. The next one, Space Tour, will be available in October 2022.)

2. Slime in Space

Nickelodeon teamed up with two astronauts on the International Space Station to demonstrate how slime reacts to microgravity and had kids reproduce those same demonstrations back here on Earth. It makes for an amazing 15-minute virtual field trip!

3. U.S. Census Bureau

Kids can learn about the 2020 Census and how census data is collected and used. This virtual field trip also features interviews with subject matter experts and an interactive challenge.

4. Ellis Island

Want to enhance a unit on immigration at the turn of the century? Look no further than this virtual field trip to Ellis Island , the former immigration inspection station in New York Harbor that is also home to the Statue of Liberty.

5. Metropolitan Museum of Art

Bring the iconic New York museum into your classroom or home! Experience the Met online with any of the 26 online galleries , including Christian Dior: Ball Gowns and The Art of Music Through Time.

6. Google Arts & Culture

A collaboration with more than 1,200 leading museums and archives, Google Arts & Culture is an incredible source for learning about monumental works of art. We recommend the Street View virtual tours as well as Art Zoom guided tours.

7. National Constitution Center

The National Constitution Center serves as a “headquarters for civic education.” Their main exhibit, Story of We The People, guides visitors through milestones in America’s history while revealing how the U.S. Constitution is as important today as it was in 1787. Check out the Interactive Constitution section , and be sure to watch the virtual tour .

8. Colonial Williamsburg

This living-history museum provides a look into life in an early American community. The website offers eight different webcams , featuring areas such as the tavern, the armory, and the market house.

9. National Park

If you can’t take an in-person trip to a national park, there are plenty of virtual field trip options for fifth graders. For example, you can learn about glaciers, fjords, and volcanoes during this virtual field trip to Alaska and Hawaii national parks . There are also virtual field trips available to Wyoming and Utah national parks , California and Nevada national parks , as well as Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, and Colorado national parks .

What are your favorite fifth grade field trips? Come and share in our WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.

Plus, check out best field trip ideas for every age and interest (virtual options too).

You Might Also Like

260+ Field Trip Ideas for Grades Pre-K Through 12 (In-Person and Virtual)

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Idaho Field Trips

Field trips are a great way to reboot a bad homeschooling week, get out of the house when everyone has cabin fever, and learn about your local area. Before heading out, check out Jeanne's tips for improving homeschool field trips .

Our listing of Idaho field trips for homeschoolers is ordered alphabetically by city. If you would like to submit a Idaho field trip destination, you may do so using the red button above.

This unique geologic area became a landmark in 1843 for California-bound emigrants. They left wagon ruts across the landscape and their signatures in axle grease on Register Rock, Camp Rock and many others. A few granite pinnacles and monoliths are in excess of sixty stories tall and 2.5 billion years old. The smooth granite faces offer exceptional rock climbing. Today, over 500 climbing routes have been identified.

City of Rocks National Reserve website

( Update this listing )

Castle Rocks State Park is Idaho's newest state park. Activities include rock climbing,photography, picnicking,wildflower viewing, hiking, horseback riding, snowshoeing, mountain biking, and birdwatching.

Castle Rocks State Park website

Oregon Trail emigrants referred to the Massacre Rocks area as "Gate of Death" and "Devil's Gate", but modern day travelers use terms like beautiful, serene, and restful to describe the park. The park is rich in Oregon Trail, geological, and natural histories.

Massacre Rocks State Park website

A vast ocean of lava flows with scattered islands of cinder cones and sagebrush. We invite you to explore this "weird and scenic landscape" where yesterday's volcanic events are likely to continue tomorrow...

Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve website

Once a World War II-era naval training station, this 4,000-acre park now provides camping opportunities with 223 individual sites, 10 camping cabins, and 7 group camps. Located on the southern tip of Lake Pend Oreille in the Coeur d’Alene Mountains of northern Idaho, Farragut State Park offers unique scenery, history, and an abundance of recreational opportunities, including disc golf, a radio-controlled airplane field, fishing, hiking, biking, equestrian facilities, and World War II history — don’t miss the Museum at the Brig during your visit. Museum opens Memorial Day and closes Labor Day each year.

Farragut State Park website

Bear Lake State Park offers a wide variety of both summer and winter recreation opportunities. Bear Lake itself is 20 miles long and 8 miles wide with half of the lake in Idaho and half in Utah. The lake offers water sports attracting boaters, water skiers, and beach lovers.

Bear Lake State Park website

The Idaho Potato Museum is a unique museum which appropriately showcases Idaho's Famous Potatoes®. The rich graphics showcasing the history of the potato will lead you through the revolution of the potato industry. From the original potato planted in Idaho, to the largest potato chip made by the Pringle's Company in Jackson, TN. You'll be intrigued as you stroll through the Museum which was built in 1912. Once a bustling flurry of activity, the stone depot represents significant ties between the railroad and the potato industry.Potato Museum The Potato Museum provides information on potato history, the growing and harvesting process, nutrition, trivia and educational potato facts. Watch a short video presentation on how the potato industry has developed.

Idaho Potato Museum website

BAM is the only nationally accredited, collecting art museum in the State of Idaho--accredited through the American Association of museum (AAM). For over 70 years, Boise Art Museum has been providing access to the visual arts for people of all ages, incomes, and abilities.

Boise Art Museum website

The Discovery Center of Idaho's mission is to provide experiences and educational opportunities that inspire lifelong learning and interest in science, math and technology, and that supplement and enrich formal science education through interactive exhibits, educational programs and teacher resources.

Discovery Center of Idaho website

The Idaho State Historical Museum, founded in 1907, is Idaho's largest and most visited museum. It has evolved from a simple collection of curios and relics sitting on shelves to the first museum in Idaho to be accredited by the American Association of museum. Objects from the Museum's collection tell the story of Idaho from prehistoric times through the fur trade, the gold rush, and pioneer settlement to the present. Richly detailed interiors show how Idahoans in the late 19th and 20th centuries lived and conducted business.

Idaho State Museum website

Our interpreters will share stories of notorious prisoners, escapes, and prison life. Your students will hear how inmates quarried the stone and built the prison themselves, and they will gain an understanding of the Penitentiary's place in Idaho history.

Old Idaho Penitentiary website

The Basque Museum & Cultural Center provides a look into the heritage of the Basque communities of Idaho and surrounding areas. Boise, Idaho has long been a central location where Basque immigrants first congregated after coming to the United States from the Spanish Basque Region. As immigrants established their lives here, Basques became well known for their hard work and perseverance. The Basque Museum & Cultural Center provides a look into the Basque heritage by exhibits, collections, and tours. As a cultural center, it's a gathering place for events and educational opportunities - in which people of all backgrounds can participate in Basque activities.

The Basque Museum & Cultural Center website

The Garden is a living museum, dedicated to the advancement and appreciation of gardening, horticulture and conservation, through plant collections and education programs within an aesthetic landscape.

Idaho Botanical Garden website

The Zoo Boise features giraffe encounters, a butterfly house, a Wallaby walkabout, sloth encounters, and a zoo farm for visitors.

Zoo Boise website

Eagle Island is a popular swimming beach, a grassy picnic area, and waterslide.

Eagle Island State Park website

Five distinct units can be found at this state park, three of which are located near Lucky Peak reservoir just 8 miles east of Boise. Discovery Park is a popular roadside park for picnics, walking your pet or fishing in the Boise River. Sandy Point, at the base of Lucky Peak Dam is most popular for its sandy beach and clear, cool water. Spring Shores offers lakeside access for water enthusiasts by providing two boat ramps, parking, a full-service marina, on-site watercraft rentals and convenience store. The backcountry yurts offer solitude, cozy accommodations, spectacular sunrises and sunsets with access to over 50 miles of multi-purpose trails. May and June is the time to tune-up your mountain bikes and get ready to ride the trails people ski on in the winter. For additional yurt information, click here. Enjoy Nordic skiing? The Idaho City park n ski area has great cross country ski areas. You can even ski to a yurt to extended your outdoor adventure.

Lucky Peak State Park website

The Peregrine Fund sponsors the Velma Morrison Interpretive Center at the World Center for Birds of Prey. The center's goal is to enhance the health, reproduction, and reintroduction efforts of endangered species and to collect information about raptors.

The Peregrine Fund website

The tallest single-structured sand dune in North America. The state park includes desert, dune, prairie, lake and marsh habitat with opportunities to observe nocturnal species. Activities include fishing, birdwatching, camping, hiking, swimming and viewing the stars at one of only two public observatory's in Idaho.

Bruneau Dunes State Park website

Lake Cascade State Park is nestled in the majestic mountains of central Idaho approximately 75 miles north of Boise on State Highway 55. This large park provides diverse and exciting recreational opportunities throughout all four seasons.

Lake Cascade State Park website

The Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes is a 73-mile paved trail spanning the Idaho panhandle between Mullan and Plummer. It was created through a unique partnership between the Coeur d'Alene Tribe, Union Pacific Railroad, the U. S. Government and the State of Idaho. The trail begins in the historic Silver Valley, continues along the Coeur d'Alene River, past scenic Lake Coeur d'Alene and through rolling farmland to Plummer. Twenty developed trailheads provide entry points and there are seventeen scenic waysides along the route for picnicking.

Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes website

The Land of the Yankee Fork State Park brings to life Idaho's frontier mining history. This state park is part of the larger Land of the Yankee Fork Historic Area located in scenic central Idaho. Managed by the Idaho Department of park and Recreation, the Salmon-Challis National Forest and Bureau of Land Management this historic area provides unique historical interpretation and numerous recreational opportunities. At the Interpretive Center in Challis there are museum exhibits, a gold panning station, audiovisual programs, and friendly personnel to provide information on local mining history and area attractions. Also of interest are the ghost towns of Bonanza and Custer, the Yankee Fork Gold Dredge, the Custer Motorway and the Challis Bison Jump.

Land of the Yankee Fork State Park website

The Museum of North Idaho collects, preserves and interprets the history of the Coeur d'Alene Region. to foster appreciation of the area's heritage.

Museum of North Idaho website

Walkers, hikers, and cyclists of all ages love Coeur d’Alene Lake Parkway State Park. Spend the day on foot, on a bike or on the half-mile long beach. The paved parkway lies along the north shore of Lake Coeur d’Alene and has 5.7 miles of non-motorized fun. The parkway is part of the nationally famous North Idaho Centennial Trail, a multi-use recreational trail system that meanders for 24 miles from the Idaho/Washington state line. The parkway also includes an exercise course, roadside picnic tables, restroom facilities, and benches for those who wish to stop and just enjoy views of the lake and the soaring Veterans Memorial Bridge. During the winter, spectators watch as Bald Eagles visit the park during the southern migration.

Coeur d’Alene Lake Parkway State Park website

Preserving the rich heritage of the Monastery of St. Gertrude, Camas Prairie, Snake River, Salmon River, and surrounding areas. View special exhibits, including the stories of the Benedictine sisters, the Nez Perce people, and fascinating local characters such as Polly Bemis and Buckskin Bill. Visit a replica of the original attic museum begun by Sister Alfreda Elsensohn, celebrated Idaho historian and foundress of the Historical Museum at St. Gertrude.

Historical Museum at St. Gertrude website

Offers a variety of exhibits in a multi-building Museum complex. A Victorian residence is furnished with many of the belongings of Governor Frank W. Hunt (Idaho's 5th Governor, 1901-1903). Other structures include a blacksmith shop, one-room schoolhouse, bunkhouse, and natural history display. The main museum houses two floors of exhibits. The McNeely Historical Library is also housed here. It provides research opportunities and preservation for books, documents, maps and photos. The Museum Complex provides an educational focus on history for the 4th grade classes of Carberry Elementary, students from Black Canyon Alternative High School, and home-schooled children. They are given an insight into the daily lives of past Gem County residents starting with Native Americans and continuing into the 1960s. One of the most popular exhibits is the one-room school which portrays the education of yesterday for consideration by the youth of today.

Gem County Historical Society and Museum website

This 5300-acre ridgeline park is dedicated to pioneer women. McCroskey State Park's highlight is an 18-mile skyline drive through the park on unimproved roads provides spectacular views of the rolling Palouse country and access to 32 miles of multi-purpose trails. Facilities include a group day use shelter, primitive camping areas and picnic areas along the road. The road is not recommended for RVs and may be too rough for your family car.

McCroskey State Park website

Step into the past with a visit to the Shoshone-Bannock Tribal Museum located near the Tribal Enterprise businesses at exit 80, I-15. See the collection of old photographs dating back to from 1895, and artifacts from the site of the olf Fort Hall.

Tribal Museum website

Westy's is a 40 lane bowling center, Westy's is willing to offer a bowling rate for field's trips to our facility @ $2.00 a game plus tax (includes shoe rental).

Westy's Garden Lanes website

The museum tells the history if this area in Idaho with artifacts housed in a 1908 schoolhouse.

Glenns Ferry Historical Museum website

Three Island Crossing State Park is located on the Snake River at Glenns Ferry. It is home to The Oregon Trail History and Education Center where visitors can learn about pioneer emigrants and Native American history.

Three Island Crossing State Park website

A National Historic Site that commemorates the WWII Minidoka War Relocation Center in Idaho. The website offers historical information about the relocation center for those who cannot visit in person.

Minidoka National Monument website

Largest concentration of Hagerman Horse (Equus simplicidens) fossils in North America - 30 complete horse fossils and portions of 200 individual horses. Internationally significant Monument protects world's richest late Pliocene epoch (3 - 4 mya) fossil deposits: over 220 species of plants and animals! Glimpse life before the last Ice Age and view earliest appearance of modern flora and fauna.

Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument website

Thousand Springs State Park, with its nine beautiful units, is a testament to why the area is called the Magic Valley. Visitors can view wagon ruts and bridge abutments at Kelton Trail, explore the magnificent Malad Gorge, access the riding arena at Billingsley Creek, get writing inspiration at Vardis Fisher, step back in time and tour historic structures at Ritter Island and Bonnieview, take in the scenery at Earl M. Hardy Box Canyon Springs Nature Preserve, view Niagara Springs, fish at Crystal Lake. Day use opportunities abound within the units of Thousand Springs State Park.

Thousand Springs State Park website

At the Blaine County Historical Museum visitors can explore the Wood River Valley's pioneer past, research family histories, and view vignettes of mines, schools, ranches, famous literary personalities, period fashions, and political memorabilia. Each display shows aspects of the life that early inhabitants and pioneers experienced.

Blaine County Historical Museum website

Watch the flock of threatened African Penguins, experience a wallaby mob on the move, discover the gibbons aerobatic abilities or surround yourself with sights and sounds of South American birds in the walk-through aviary. Stop by the Children's Zoo and pat a donkey, feed a lamb or just relax on a bench and enjoy the beautifully landscaped grounds. Over 400 animals, the largest collection in Idaho, call Tautphaus Park Zoo home.

Tautphaus Park Zoo website

Harriman State Parkoffers over 20 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and cross county skiing.

Harriman State Park website

Located 15 miles from Yellowstone National Park and surrounded on three sides by the Continental Divide, Henrys Lake State Park campsites are situated on the shoreline of the 6,000-acre lake. The park also offers beautiful nature trails for hiking and biking, and wildlife and wildflower viewing. After a long day of fishing and hiking, take a swing on the porch of one of three park cabins. The state park opens the Thursday before Memorial Day and closes October 31st, weather permitting. The park offers campfire programs and a Junior Ranger program.

Henrys Lake State Park website

The museum's displays tell the story of the development of the North Side Irrigation project, one of the most successful Carey Irrigation Act projects in the nation, and its towns and people. A display of materials from the Minidoka Relocation Center at Hunt is also featured. A large research library is available that includes over one hundred bound volumes of newspapers and a large collection of detailed indexes.

Jerome County Historical Museum website

Where the mountains meet the mining history.

Shoshone County Mining and Smelting Museum website

Since time immemorial, the Nimiipuu or Nez Perce have lived among the rivers, canyons and prairies of the inland northwest. Despite the cataclysmic change of the past two centuries, the Nez Perce are still here. Join us in exploring the park's thirty-eight sites and experiencing the story of a people who are still part of this landscape.

Nez Perce National Historical Park website

The South Bannock County Historical Museum, in operation for nearly 30 years, offers both permanent and rotating exhibits about the history of the Lava Hot Springs area and development of the surrounding rural communities of Arimo, Inkom, Downey, McCammon, Virginia and Swan Lake.

South Bannock County Historical Center Museum website

Nez Perce County Historical Society works to preserve the unique history of Nez Perce County and its environs and to share it with residents and visitors to the museum. Join us for a look at our history and heritage from the Nez Perce Indians and Lewis and Clark to the modern day.

Nez Perce County Historical Society and Museum website

Hells Gate State Park is the gateway to both Idaho's Lewis and Clark country and to Hells Canyon, the deepest river gorge in North America.

Hells Gate State Park website

The Oneida County Museum is housed in the former R.B. Davis Drug Store and Boarding House, built in 1914. The original safe and pressed-tin ceiling are still intact. The Museum displays a variety of local treasures, including furniture, photographs, quilts, toys, farm implements, musical instruments, clothing, hats, military uniforms, medical instruments, and books.

Oneida County Pioneer Museum website

Hike and bike on your own or with a guide, listen to a park naturalist in the evening at the amphitheater, or walk with them on one of the trails. Children can participate in the Junior Ranger Program in the summer months. Visitors can meander the North Fork of the Payette River in a canoe or kayak (rentals available), Nordic ski on groomed trails, snowshoe on designated trails, or simply sit on the front porch of a park cabin and enjoy the spectacular view.

Ponderosa State Park website

Located in Moscow's historic Fort Russell neighborhood, the McConnell Mansion (at 110 South Adams Street) is an architectural and historic landmark. William J. McConnell, leading merchant, prominent Republican, and Idaho Governor from 1887 to 1893, built the house in 1886. On the main floor of the house are historic rooms interpreted in different time periods from 1900 to the 1930s. The second floor contains the restored master bedroom and exhibits, including hands-on activities for young visitors. During warm weather, visitors are invited to relax and enjoy refreshments in the backyard garden. The Museum Store carries books on local history, notecards from area artists, and more. Staffed by a corps of volunteers, the mansion is open Tuesday through Friday, and some Saturdays dependent on volunteer availability, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated.

Latah County Historical Society website

Established in 1872, Yellowstone National Park is America's first national park. Located in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, it is home to a large variety of wildlife including grizzly bears, wolves, bison, and elk. Preserved within Yellowstone National Park are Old Faithful and a collection of the world's most extraordinary geysers and hot springs, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. The website offers historical information about the park for those who cannot visit in person.

Yellowstone National Park website

More than 250,000 gold-seekers & farmers crossed into to the gold fields & rich farmlands of California during the 1840's and 1850's. 1,000 miles of trail ruts and traces can still be seen to remind us of early American travelers and settlers.

California National Historic Trail website

The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail winds nearly 4,900 miles through the homelands of more than 60 Tribal nations. It follows the historic outbound and inbound routes of the Lewis and Clark Expedition of 1803-1806 from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to the Pacific Ocean.

Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail website

The Oregon Trail was for fur traders, gold seekers, missionaries, and others, the pathway to the Pacific. Wagon ruts and landscape scars can still be seen from that time.

Oregon National Historic Trail website

The Nez Perce (Nimiipuu or Nee-Me-Poo) National Historic Trail stretches from Wallowa Lake, Oregon, to the Bear Paw Battlefield near Chinook, Montana. It was added to the National Trails System by Congress as a National Historic Trail in 1986. The 1877 flight of the Nez Perce from their homelands while pursued by U.S. Army Generals Howard, Sturgis, and Miles, is one of the most fascinating and sorrowful events in Western U.S. history. Chief Joseph, Chief Looking Glass, Chief White Bird, Chief Ollokot, Chief Lean Elk, and others led nearly 750 Nez Perce men, women, and children and twice that many horses over 1,170 miles through the mountains, on a trip that lasted from June to October of 1877.

Nez Perce National Historic Trail website

The Owyhee County Museum provides a multi-station tour where kids will learn about the fascinating history of ranching, farming, and mining. Your students will be able to see how a 1915 Model T works, pan for gold, brand their initials into a piece of wood, see how school was taught 124 years ago and so much more. If you are teaching Idaho history or western history this is the place to come to immerse yourself and your students in that history.

Owyhee County Historical Society website

The CCHS has two museums: The Nampa Train Depot Museum & Our Memories Museum in Caldwell.

Canyon County Historical Society website

The mission of the museum is to teach and preserve World War II history from the home front to the war front and aviation history from the advent of flight through the space age. The Warhawk Air Museum encourages an educational experience about the technology, culture, and social changes that have occurred in North America since World War II. Tours are available for group, club and educational purposes and must be arranged at least two weeks in advance of visit date.

Warhawk Air Museum website

Clearwater Historical Museum invites folks to come see our collections that focus on the people and history of Clearwater River Country and its environs including Clearwater County and parts of Lewis, Nez Perce, Idaho and Shoshone counties. Our goal is to share the Clearwater River drainage rich legacy that started long before history was recorded. Our museum features artifacts relating to the Nez Perce People, the Lewis and Clark Expedition, gold mining, early homesteading, farming, logging and much more.

Clearwater Historical Museum website

Dworshak State Park is located among trees and meadows on the western shore of Dworshak Reservoir. Camping, boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, waterskiing, and disc golf are just some of the many activities that await park visitors. A boat ramp and handling dock provide easy launching most of the year.

Dworshak State Park website

Heyburn State Park is the oldest park in the Pacific Northwest. Comprised of about 5,744 acres of land and 2,332 acres of water, Heyburn State Park is a paddler and pedaler paradise. Miles of trails await you whether you are a hiker, cyclist, or horse rider. Bring your own boat or rent a kayak, canoe, or standup paddleboard and enjoy three lakes — Chatcolet, Benewah and Hidden Lakes, or the shadowy St. Joe River, which meanders along the eastern boundary of the park. The Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes, one of the most popular biking trails in the western United States, runs directly through the park.

Heyburn State Park website

Actively nurtures an understanding of and delight in Idaho's natural and cultural heritage. As the official state museum of natural history, it acquires, preserves, studies, interprets and displays natural and cultural objects for Idaho residents, visitors and the world's community of students and scholars. The Museum also supports and encourages Idaho's other natural history museum through mentoring and training in sound museological practices.

Idaho Museum of Natural History website

Priest Lake State Park lies just 30 miles from the Canadian Border, nestled deep below the crest of the Selkirk Mountains. Visitors to the park will enjoy the dense forests of cedar, fir and tamarack and will be able to observe the park’s year-round inhabitants such as the whitetail deer, black bear, moose, and bald eagles. Noted for its extremely clear water, fed by streams cascading from the high Selkirk peaks, the main body of Priest Lake extends north-south for 19 miles. A two-mile thoroughfare connects the main lake to the remote Upper Priest Lake that is accessible only by foot, mountain bike, or boat.

Priest Lake State Park website

Round Lake State Park is situated in 142 acres of forest surrounding a 58-acre lake at an elevation of 2,122 feet. The lake is the product of glacial activity dating back to the Pleistocene Epoch.

Round Lake State Park website

Welcome to the birthplace of Sacajawea, Lemhi County, Idaho. Here you will find  archives filled with interpretations and stories of the journeys of Lewis and Clark, specifically, they are devoted to historically correct information concerning Sacajawea and the valley she was born in, Lemhi County, Idaho. There are two buildings side by side: 204 Main is the River of History Exhibit and Research Center and 210 Main is the primary Lemhi County Museum.

Lemhi County Historical Museum website

The Herrett Center is a non-profit support service of the College of Southern Idaho. Its purpose is primarily educational, offering programs to elementary and secondary school students, CSI students, and the adult community of south-central Idaho. The Center collects, preserves, interprets, and exhibits artifacts and natural history specimens with an emphasis on the prehistoric American continent.

Herrett Center for Arts and Science website

Winchester Lake State Park surrounds a 103-acre lake, nestled in a forested area at the foot of the Craig Mountains, just off US 95 adjoining the town of Winchester. Winters at the park are long and cold with ample snowfall. Summers are short with warm days and cool, refreshing evenings. Ponderosa pine and Douglas fir are the predominant vegetation. Wildlife often seen in the park includes white-tailed deer, Canada geese, muskrats, Steller's jay, osprey, and Columbian ground squirrels. The Wolf Education and Research Center is located one mile from the entrance to the park.

Winchester Lake State Park website

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