Field Trip Destinations

Revolutionary New York City, New York

Experience the story of America’s beginnings on a captivating walking tour of New York City! Explore historic Lower Manhattan, including Federal Hall National Memorial, learning about Alexander Hamilton’s life before, during, and after the American Revolution. As you traverse the streets of Lower Manhattan, you’ll walk in Hamilton’s footsteps and uncover exciting stories about his vital contributions to the founding of our nation and the significant events that shaped our history. That evening, watch some of the stories you heard on the tour come to life on stage and meet the company of the hit musical HAMILTON on Broadway!

Revolutionary History, Boston, Massachusetts

Step into the past and experience Boston’s pivotal role in the American Revolution. Start in the North End with an exploration of the Old North Church and the Paul Revere House. Then travel by ferry to Charlestown and visit the Bunker Hill Monument, 250 years after its famed battle. Don’t miss this unforgettable adventure in Boston, where the actions of Patriots of all kinds sparked the American Revolution. (Elementary school only)

Space, Science, and a Sleepover in Washington, DC

Go behind the scenes at the National Air and Space Museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. Visit the Center’s conservation lab and restoration hangar on a private staff-led tour, seeing large and small artifacts before they’re ready for public display. Experience a flight simulator and learn about the history of flight.

Then, explore the Smithsonian Natural History Museum after it closes for the night, participating in hands-on learning activities and games in this iconic museum on the National Mall. When the games are over, roll out your sleeping bag to doze with the dinosaurs! (Elementary and middle school only)

Animals and Artifacts in Washington, DC

Go behind the scenes at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo on a private tour led by an education expert. You’ll meet animal care professionals and learn about some of the animals under the Zoo’s care! You’ll also receive a VIP tour of the National Archives Museum, and see the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution of the United States, and the Bill of Rights. Your tour includes a special visit to the vaults –  almost never opened to the public – where you will get an up-close view of historic treasures like General George Washington’s Oath Card, the check that purchased Alaska, and more. (Elementary school only)

Hands-On History in Virginia and Washington, DC

Explore “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” on an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of Monticello, UNESCO World Heritage Site and home of Thomas Jefferson. Join archaeologists to investigate how artifacts hidden underground reveal the lives of the free and enslaved people who lived and labored there. Then head to the nation’s capital for a unique tour of the Library of Congress, the world’s largest library. See Jefferson’s book collection that he sold to Congress and get a behind-the-scenes tour led by expert staff through underground tunnels to labs, hidden stacks, and the Librarian of Congress’ ceremonial office. (Middle and high school only)

Mount Rushmore National Memorial, South Dakota

Take an evening walk on the Presidential trail, featuring special talks from park rangers and interactive lessons with American Indian artists. Participate in a meaningful ceremony honoring our nation’s veterans and enjoy stargazing after the park closes to the public.

Charleston, South Carolina

Explore history and science in South Carolina! Start your day at Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum with a private Captain’s tour of the WWII aircraft carrier USS Yorktown before catching a boat to look for dolphins as you cross the Charleston Harbor. Learn about genealogy and history with a private, introductory tour at the International African American Museum. Experience a behind the scenes tour at the South Carolina Aquarium, feed stingrays and see first-hand how sick and injured sea turtles are rescued and rehabilitated.

San Antonio and Austin, Texas

Experience American history first hand, deep in the heart of Texas. Explore the 300-year history of the Alamo in San Antonio with a private guided tour and living history demonstrations. Then go behind the scenes at the LBJ Presidential Library in Austin and view spectacular items from Library collections that are not normally on display to the public.

Rock & Roll in Cleveland, Ohio

Go backstage at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on the shores of Lake Erie in Cleveland, Ohio, and experience the ultimate music destination. Explore the Museum and dive into American culture and music from the sounds of early rock and roll to today’s biggest artists. You’ll take a behind-the-scenes tour, visit the Library & Archives, and have a chance to see artifacts that are not on public display. End the day by checking out a live concert on the Museum’s Plaza!

Independence National Historical Park, Pennsylvania

Go beyond the ropes for an exclusive tour of the historic places at the center of America’s birthplace.  See the room where the Declaration of Independence and US Constitution were both signed, and get an up-close look at the crack in the Liberty Bell. This experience includes an opportunity to uncover history’s mysteries in the Second Bank Portrait Gallery and a rare behind-the-scenes tour of collection storage with a park curator.