GUIDE TO FIELD TRIPS, WINTER ACTIVITIES & FAMILY VACATIONS
Are you looking for great field trip ideas for your homeschooled children? Searching for the perfect educational and/or recreational vacation to take with the whole family? Then the Homeschoolers Guide to Field Trips & Family Vacations is for you!
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LIST OF SITES IN GUIDE
CONNECTICUT
HUNGERFORD NATURE CENTER, 191 Farmington Avenue, Kensington, CT 06037, (860) 827-9064. https://www.newbritainyouthmuseum.org/hungerford-program
SKATE NEW HAVEN, 1080 State St, New Haven, CT 06511, (203) 946-8007. skatenewhaven128@gmail.com. www.skatenewhaven.com.
STEPPING STONES MUSEUM FOR CHILDREN, Mathews Park, 303 West Avenue, Norwalk, CT 06850, 203-899-0606, info@steppingstonesmuseum.org. At Stepping Stones Museum for Children, play is serious business. We understand that children learn best by doing. Our children’s museum is dedicated to broadening and enriching the educational opportunities for children ages 10 and under and enhancing their understanding of the world. The museum seeks to create an environment that inspires lifelong learning and supports parents, caregivers and educators as facilitators of children’s explorations. Additionally, our toddler and preschool program offers a variety of activities to get young minds learning. We also welcome you to take advantage of our spaces for birthday party bookings. www.steppingstonesmuseum.org
WONDERLAND OF ICE, Glenwood Ave, Bridgeport, CT 06610, Phone: (203) 576-8118, wonderlandskating@gmail.com. www.wonderlandofice.cm
DELAWARE
DELAWARE HISTORICAL SOCIETY, 504 N Market Street, Wilmington, DE 19801, (302) 295-2392, snesheim@dehistory.org. Take a step into the past with one of the fascinating educational programs offered by the Delaware History Museum and the Mitchell Center for African American Heritage. Our programs will enhance your curriculum and learning experience by engaging students with hands-on, inquiry-based learning. All Delaware Historical Society field trips and virtual programs meet Delaware State and Common Core Standards. https://dehistory.org/
DELAWARE STATE POLICE MUSEUM, 1425 North DuPont Highway, Dover, DE 19904, 302-739-7700, Peggy.L.Anderson@delaware.gov. The Delaware State Police are very proud of their heritage and want to share it with the public through our Museum. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about law enforcement methods, highway safety efforts and a wide variety of other important topics. From viewing patrol cars and motorcycles of the past, to sitting at an actual 911 command and control console, visitors can enjoy a view of policing from both the past and present. Also included, as an integral part of the Museum, is a complete memorial dedicated to the troopers who have made the Ultimate Sacrifice to public safety. https://dspmuseum.com.
NEMOURS ESTATE, 850 Alapocas Drive Wilmington, DE, 19803 (mailing address is 1600 Rockland Road, Wilmington, DE 19803), 302-651-6917, annie.thomas-bubel@nemours.org. Nemours Estate is a historic property featuring an early 20th century mansion and 200 acres of gardens and grounds. We share a campus and a legacy with the Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children located next door. We offer custom educational experiences for small groups on a wide range of topics. Our interpretive strengths are philanthropy, history, art, horticulture, engineering, and well-being. We are happy to create a personalized experience for your group.. Space is limited and will be scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis. www.nemoursestate.org
WINTERTHUR MUSEUM, GARDEN & LIBRARY, 9105 Kennett Pike, Winterthur, DE 19735. https://www.winterthur.org/
MARYLAND
CARROLL ARTS CENTER, 91 W Main Street, Westminster, MD 21157, 410-848-7272, info@CarrollCountyArtsCouncil.org. The Carroll Arts Center is the home of the Carroll County Arts Council, a nonprofit that supports and presents arts and culture opportunities for all of Carroll County. Located in a magnificently renovated art deco building in Downtown Westminster, the Arts Center has a theatre for various performances, two art galleries, and a local artist gift shop. Hosting over 50 events throughout the year, there is something for everyone to enjoy! CarrollCountyArtsCouncil.org.
DELMARVA DISCOVERY CENTER & MUSEUM, 2 Market Street, Pocomoke City, MD, 410-957-9933, contact@delmarvadiscoverycenter.org. The Delmarva Discovery Museum is located in the charming small town of Pocomoke City on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. With interactive exhibits and daily Public Programs, there’s something fun for everyone in the family. Learn about Delmarva’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Step outside and stroll down the Pocomoke River into the cypress swamp to explore it in person! www.delmarvadiscoverycenter.org.
DRAYDEN AFRICAN AMERICAN SCHOOLHOUSE, 18287 Cherryfield Road, Drayden, MD 20630, 301-994-1471, smmuseumdivision@gmail.com. Visit one of the nation’s best-preserved one-room African American schoolhouses one Saturday of each month. Check out the restored schoolhouse and learn about its rich history and importance to education in St. Mary’s County. www.Facebook.com/DraydenSchool
EVERYMAN THEATRE, 315 W Fayette Street, Baltimore, MD, 2120, 443-776-8580, education@everymantheatre.org. Everyman Theatre is a professional theatre celebrating the actor, with a Resident Company of artists. Our mission is to provide transformative experiences through professional theatre that are welcoming, relevant, and affordable to everyone. Everyman Education and Community Engagement welcomes students of all ages to engage in theatrical experiences that encourage discovery, build confidence, and inspire artistic growth. On-Site Classes utilize skilled teaching artists to engage students of all ages in a variety of subjects from Improvisation to play creation. The High School Matinee Program provides Baltimore City students repeat exposure to theatre experiences, including pre-and-post-show in-class visits and field trips to productions. In-school residency programs and after school enrichment bring the tools of the professional artist into the classroom. https://everymantheatre.org/.
HAMMOND-HARWOOD HOUSE, 19 Maryland Avenue, Annapolis, MD 21401, 410 263 4683, info@hammondharwoodhouse.org. The Hammond-Harwood House, a National Historic Landmark, was built in 1774. It was the final work of architect William Buckland. With its carved doorway entrance, formal rooms, and elegant scale, the building blends the artistry of the finest Anglo-Palladian architecture with American sensibility. The Hammond-Harwood House offers educational programs for public, private and home-schooled children of all ages. Programs can be adapted for other children’s groups, just ask! https://hammondharwoodhouse.org/.
HISTORIC ANNAPOLIS, INC, 99 Main Street, Annapolis, MD 21401, 410-267-7619, info@annapolis.org. Visit Historic Annapolis and Step Into Our Story! Through storytelling, hands-on activities, and exploration, students will journey through more than 400 years of the diverse history of Maryland’s capital city. They’ll learn how to think critically about the past and how history impacts them today. Visit the Museum of Historic Annapolis, the William Paca House and Garden, Hogshead, and the Waterfront Warehouse and explore the rich history of Annapolis. Programs are customizable, can be tailored to all age groups, and range from 45 minutes to a full-day experience. https://www.annapolis.org.
MASONVILLE COVE ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION CENTER, 1000 Frankfurst Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21226, 410-354-7180, info@masonvillecove.org. The Living Classrooms Foundation provides students of all ages and abilities with outstanding opportunities for experiential learning. Living Classrooms Foundation uses hands-on education and a low staff-to-student ratio and to make science come alive for students in our indoor lab spaces and across our waterfront education campus. www.masonvillecove.org.
PINEY POINT LIGHTHOUSE MUSEUM & HISTORIC PARK. 44720 Lighthouse Road, Piney Point, MD 20674, 301-994-1471, smmuseumdivision@gmail.com. Climb the oldest lighthouse on the Potomac, see historic boats and maritime history in the museum, learn about the U1105 Historic Shipwreck Dive Preserve, stroll the beach, paddle about in your kayak & enjoy 6 acres of park, pier & more. www.Facebook.com/1836Light.
- CLEMENT’S ISLAND MUSEUM, 38370 Point Breeze Road, Colton’s Point, MD 20626, 301-769-2222, smmuseumdivision@gmail.com. St. Clement’s Island Museum traces the history of English colonization and the landing on nearby St. Clement’s Island on March 25, 1634. The museum grounds is also home to a 19th century one-room schoolhouse, pier and docking facility. Water taxi service to St. Clement’s Island State Park is available most days April – October, weather permitting. Call before visiting for water taxi operation status. www.Facebook.com/SCIMuseum.
THE OLD JAIL MUSEUM & LEONARDTOWN VISITOR CENTER, 41625 Courthouse Drive, Leonardtown, MD 20650, 240-925-3427, smmuseumdivision@gmail.com. Built in 1876 and in use until 1945 by the oldest sheriff’s office in the nation, this granite block and brick structure retains its original upstairs cells where prisoners were once segregated by gender and race. The jail keeper’s quarters downstairs house related artifacts. This location also serves as the official Leonardtown Visitor Center. Information and literature about Leonardtown and area attractions, activities, dining, events and much more is available. A small museum store is on-site with local products, books, apparel, kids’ items and more for purchase. This location hosts a Civil War Trails marker for Leonardtown and is on the Underground Railroad Network to Freedom trail. www.Facebook.com/TheOldJailMuseum
MASSACHUSETTS
AMERICAN HERITAGE MUSEUM, 568 Main Street, Hudson, MA, (978) 562 -9182, ahm@collingsfoundation.org, Greetings from the American Heritage Museum! We hope the year is filled with rich educational experiences for you and your home-schooled children. To that end, the education staff at American Heritage Museum is ready to serve as a valued History and Social Science resource for you and your student. The Museum opened in May 2019 and features an extraordinary collection of historical artifacts, military vehicles and rare aircraft displayed in chronological order from the Revolutionary War to the present time. Our country’s history is displayed through a series of dioramas and immersive exhibits within our 67,000 square-foot facility. Each exhibit has reader rails and other forms of media designed to engage, educate, and inspire. www.AmericanHeritageMuseum.org.
CAPE SYMPHONY, 2235 Iyannough Road, West Barnstable, MA 02668, 508.362.2772, sambrosio@capesymphony.org. The Cape Symphony offers a thriving program of private lessons, group classes and music ensembles for age preschool to adult. We believe that, through music, art and dance, we can help people enrich their lives and, in turn, enrich the lives of others. It’s all part of the Cape Symphony’s mission to inspire joy. https://capesymphony.org/education.
METROPOLITAN WATERWORKS MUSEUM, 2450 Beacon Street, Boston, MA, 02467, (617) 277-0065, tracy.lindboe@waterworksmuseum.org. The Metropolitan Waterworks Museum offers interactive, hands-on, curriculum-based programs both virtually and at the museum. All of our programs are engineered to engage curious young minds with STEM concepts, history, and Safe Water Access Issues. With programs from Preschool all the way up to the University Level, there is something for everyone. Choose from one of our existing programs or let us know what themes you would like to explore so we can craft activities to best serve your needs. https://waterworksmuseum.org/education/
NEW ENGLAND AQUARIUM, 1 Central Wharf, Boston, MA 02110, 617-973-5206, groupsales@neaq.org. The New England Aquarium is a global leader in marine science and conservation, working to safeguard ocean animals and habitats. With more than one million visitors a year, and home to over 10,000 marine animals, the Aquarium is one of the premier visitor attractions in Boston and a major public education resource for the region. The Aquarium’s research and rescue efforts build on the institution’s 50-year legacy of protecting the blue planet and advocating for a vital and vibrant ocean. A portion of every ticket sold helps support the Aquarium’s work to protect the blue planet. https://www.neaq.org.
OLD NORTH CHURCH & HISTORIC SITE, 193 Salem Street, Boston MA 02113, 617-523-6676, espence@oldnorth.com. The enduring fame of Old North began on the night of April 18, 1775, when two signal lanterns were held in the steeple of the church as a signal from Paul Revere that British ‘regulars’ were on the march to Lexington and Concord. We welcome students and learners of all ages to our site! We also have several FREE digital video curricula available (History Mystery; Chocolate as a Lens to the Past for 5th graders; Cacao and Colonial Chocolate for high school; and Behind the Scenes). Please visit our website to learn more and to request these programs. www.oldnorth.com.
MICHIGAN
BELLE ISLE CONSERVANCY, 300 River Place Drive, Suite 2800, Detroit, MI 48207, 313-331-7760, info@belleisleconservancy.org. https://www.belleisleconservancy.org
DETROIT HISTORICAL SOCIETY, 5401 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI 48202, 313-833-1805, education@detroithistorical.org. Since its founding in 1921, the Detroit Historical Society has been dedicated to ensuring that the history of our region is preserved so that current and future generations of metro Detroiters can better understand the people, places and events that helped shape our lives. The Detroit Historical Society tells Detroit’s stories and why they matter. DHS museums include the Detroit Historical Museum in Midtown and the Dossin Great Lakes Museum on Belle Isle. We offer tours, programs, events, and affordable memberships. www.detroithistorical.org.
GRAND RAPIDS PUBLIC MUSEUM, 272 Pearl Street NW, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49504, 616-929-1700, info@grpm.org. The Grand Rapids Public Museum is a place of never-ending inspiration and discovery, with a focus on science, history, and culture. We exist to be a living monument of artifacts, ideas, and stories told through exhibitions, events, and educational programming designed to inspire, motivate, and celebrate our human bond. We enrich the life of our community through experience of the wider world in a uniquely Grand Rapids context. We host three full floors of core exhibits, various traveling exhibits through each year, a 1928 Spillman Carousel for visitors to ride, and the newly updated Chaffee Planetarium. https://www.grpm.org.
MARSHALL M. FREDERICKS SCULPTURE MUSEUM, 7400 Bay Road, University Center, MI, 48710, 989-964-7125, mfsm@svsu.edu. https://marshallfredericks.org/.
NEW HAMPSHIRE
CAPITOL CENTER FOR THE ARTS, 44 South Main Street, Concord, NH 03301, 603-225-1111, info@ccanh.com. The Capitol Center for the Arts is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization presenting live music, educational shows, dance, theatre and more in Concord, New Hampshire. https://ccanh.com.
NEW JERSEY
LIBERTY HALL MUSEUM & ARBORETUM, 1003 Morris Avenue, Union, NJ 07083, 908-527-0400, libertyhall@kean.edu. The Museum at Liberty Hall, New Jersey’s premier center for history and nature, offer a diverse array of in-person and virtual school programs and outreach programs designed to enlighten and inform all curious minds. Whether you ar playing with toys over 200 years old, studying the plants in our historic greenhouses, or engaging with a presentation about Liberty Hall’s powerful women, Liberty Hall provides the unique opportunity to see, touch, and re-live history. Our school programs meet a variety of Common Core and New Jersey Curriculum Standards and all of our programs are conducted by museum educators who share a genuine love of this museum. https://libertyhall.kean.edu/.
MONTCLAIR STATE ARENA, 1 Arena Drive, Little Falls, NJ 07424, info@montclairstatearena.com. The Montclair State Arena (formerly Floyd Hall Arena) has been a pillar in the community for over 20 years! The facility boasts 2 NHL sized arenas, a performance training and rehab center, a full-service pro shop and a café. The skating academy offers learn to skate and hockey lessons, as well as leagues for all ages. Public Skate and Birthday Parties are offered daily. It’s great to skate at Montclair State! https://montclairstatearena.com/.
NEW JERSEY AUDUBON 600 Route 47 North, Cape May Court House, NJ 08210, 609 400 3832, education@njaudubon.org. New Jersey Audubon is a statewide conservation organization that offers programs to introduce youth to nature and deepen learners’ understanding of New Jersey’s environment. Programs are conducted outdoors or can be adapted to an online learning platform. Our interdisciplinary approach supports core learning in STEM, English and Language Arts. Our programs are ideal for small group learning, afterschool programs, weekend family get-togethers, summer camp and school breaks as well as private programs for homeschool families. Our nature center staff are ready to work with you! Locations include: Lorrimer Sanctuary (Bergen County), Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary (Somerset County) and Nature Center of Cape May (Cape May County). www.njaudubon.org
NEW JERSEY SEA GRANT CONSORTIUM, 22 Magruder Road, Highlands, NJ 07732, 732-872-1300 x13, reservations@njseagrant.org. The Education Program at the New Jersey Sea Grant Consortium conducts a wide variety of programs directed towards advancing greater understanding and stewardship of our state’s marine and coastal resources. To book a program email: reservations@njseagrant.org. njseagrant.org
NEW JERSEY STATE MUSEUM, 205 W. State Street, Trenton, NJ 08608, (609) 292-6464, NJSM.Info@sos.nj.gov. New Jersey State Museum inspires learning through the exploration of science, history, and the arts. View exciting exhibits on a variety of interesting topics—from dinosaurs to the arts. Soar through a galaxy of stars during Planetarium showings and enjoy customized star talks too. Explore amazing Archaeology/Ethnography, Cultural History, Fine Art and Natural History collections. The New Jersey State Museum is the ultimate field trip—filled with discoveries for all. Groups of 15 or more may reserve tours, workshops and Planetarium shows. Visit statemuseum.nj.gov for descriptions and details. https://www.state.nj.us/state/museum/.
NEW JERSEY SYMPHONY, 60 Park Place, Newark, NJ 07102, 800-255-3476 (1-800-ALLEGRO), information@njsymphony.org. Celebrating 100 years of making music this year, the New Jersey Symphony brings adventurous performances, community programming and educational experiences across the state of New Jersey. The centennial season includes film concerts like Harry Potter and Star Wars, family concerts and guest performances from fan-favorites like Hilary Hahn, Daniil Trifonov and Joshua Bell. There are multiple educational offerings for students that help them grow through music: education concerts, youth orchestras for all levels, and masterclasses that build the next generation of listeners and musicians. Experience the power of music and fun with the New Jersey Symphony! https://www.njsymphony.org/
NEW YORK
BETHEL WOODS CENTER FOR THE ARTS, 200 Hurd Road, Bethel, NY 12720, 845-583-2000, Info@BethelWoodsCenter.org. Bethel Woods Center for the Arts is a non-profit cultural organization located at the historic site of the 1969 Woodstock festival, 90 miles from New York City in Bethel, NY. The lush 800-acre campus includes a Pavilion Stage amphitheater with a seating capacity of 16,000; an intimate 422-seat indoor Event Gallery; the award-winning Museum at Bethel Woods (exploring the tumultuous decade of the 1960s and how it culminated in the greatest festival of all time), and a Conservatory for year-long creative learning programs. As a 501(c)3 nonprofit cultural organization, our goal is to provide innovative, program-driven experiences for all ages. https://www.bethelwoodscenter.org/
BUFFALO NIAGARA HERITAGE VILLAGE, 3755 Tonawanda Creek Road, Amherst, NY, 14228, 716-689-1440, info@bnhv.org. BNHV’s mission is to preserve, interpret, and exhibit the agricultural history and rural heritage of the Buffalo Niagara region. BNHV accomplishes this through a synergy of educational and interpretive initiatives throughout our Historic Village, farmstead, exhibits, and collections. BNHV believes in energetic, hands-on, all-senses immersion. A primary interpretive sub-focus under our mission is maker culture: the who, what, why, and how of the things that people make in agricultural and rural spaces. BNHV offers many educational programs. To discuss learning opportunities at BNHV, please contact Sara Miller, Director of Education and Programs, at smiller@bnhv.org. https://bnhv.org/
HOLIDAY VALLEY RESORT, PO Box 370, Ellicottville, NY 14731, 716-699-2345, info@holidayvalley.com. Whether you’re a family, couple, or group of friends looking for a ski and summer resort that’s modern and fun, we’ve got you covered all year round. We’re located less than 4 hours from Clarks Summit, PA in the charming village of Ellicottville, NY. We invite you to come visit us and enjoy all that Holiday Valley has to offer. www.holidayvalley.com.
HOMESCHOOL CLASSES, Elmira, NY 14904, hoot751@stny.rr.com. I offer private, foreign language and music lessons. In person preferred, but I can teach remotely.
HUDSON RIVER MARITIME MUSEUM AND WOODEN BOAT SCHOOL, 50 Rondout Landing, Kingston, NY 12401, 845-338-0583 ext. 16, education@hrmm.org. The Hudson River Maritime Museum is located on the Rondout Creek waterfront in Kingston, NY. We are the only museum that preserves and presents the maritime history of the Hudson River. From March – October we offer tours in our solar powered boat to the Rondout Lighthouse where we can explore this 1915 historical site. This museum offers programs about the Hudson River, its tributaries, industrial past, NY canals, ecological issues, and communities. We also have many programs in our Wooden Boat School that teach woodworking skills, boat building, and other wood craft related topics. Please contact the museum’s education department for further details. https://www.hrmm.org/school-programs.html.
I SKI NY SKI & RIDE PASSPORT PROGRAM, PO Box 375, Jamesville, NY 13078, 315-696-6550, passport@iskiny.com. The SKI NY Passport Program-Kids Ski Free* is back for the 2022-23 Season! This year the pass the pass returns with more ski areas accepting it during holiday periods including Belleayre, Gore, Greek Peak, Holiday Valley, Snow Ridge, Swain and Whiteface Ski Areas. For details and to apply online head to: https://www.iskiny.com/ski-ride/ski-ny-ski-ride-passport-program.
PEEK ‘N PEAK, 1405 Olde Road, Clymer, NY 14724, 716.355.4141. https://www.pknpk.com/
RYE HISTORICAL SOCIETY, 1 Purchase Street, Rye, NY 10580, (914) 967-7588, info@ryehistory.org. The Rye Historical Society was founded in 1964 by a group of citizens who preserved and restored the Square House, an 18th century inn located on the Village Green in Rye. The Society has maintained the Square House as a museum. In 1980, Rye History received accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums. The Society acquired the Timothy Knapp House, Westchester County’s oldest surviving house, in 1992, opening it to the public in 2001 as an archival and research center. The Society serves the community through school programs, summer camp, lectures, exhibits, walking tours and events throughout the year. https://www.ryehistory.org.
SYRACUSE STAGE, 820 E. Genesee Street, Syracuse, NY 13210, 315-443-9844, boxoffice@syracusestage.org. Syracuse Stage is the premiere professional theatre in Syracuse, New York. It offers a variety of mainstage productions and educational programs. Student matinees and group rates available. https://www.syracusestage.org/.
THE WALT WHITMAN BIRTHPLACE STATE HISTORIC SITE, 246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station, NY 11746, 631-427-5240, educator@waltwhitman.org. Come visit a 200-year-old farmhouse and the room where Walt Whitman was born in 1819. Learn how butter churns, candles mold and bedwarmers were essential to the 19th-century home. Our modern Visitors Center displays Whitman’s writing desk, a copy of his Leaves of Grass, and a printing press signifying his journalistic career. Hear Walt’s voice and view videos showcasing Whitman-era toys, hearth cooking, and domestic farm life. Classroom, gift-shop, grand lawn, and picnic tables are also available for your enjoyment. Commemorate the day by taking a selfie with our 8-foot bronze statue of Walt Whitman. www.waltwhitman.org.
WALTER ELWOOD MUSEUM, 100 Church Street, Amsterdam, NY 12010, 518-843-5151, director@walterelwoodmuseum.org. www.walterelwoodmuseum.org
OHIO
AULLWOOD AUDUBON, 1000 Aullwood Road, Dayton, OH 45414, (937) 890-7360, education@aullwood.org. Aullwood Audubon is a 200-acre nature sanctuary and educational farm in Dayton, Ohio. Part of the National Audubon Society, it is nationally recognized for environmental programming that focuses on connecting children of all ages with the wonders of birds, nature, wildlife, and bird-friendly farming. Aullwood’s sanctuary includes wetlands, woodlands, meadows, prairies, ponds, marshes and farmland (and farm animals!) with eight miles of walking trails. Aullwood’s new exhibit, “The Troll That Hatched an Egg by Thomas Dambo” is combining art and science as the trolls teach us about conservation, protecting our earth and learning what birds need to survive and thrive. Contact us today to schedule your educational field trip to Aullwood! https://aullwood.audubon.org/programs/education-programs
ERNEST WARTHER MUSEUM, 331 Karl Avenue, Dover, Ohio 44622, 330-505-6003, info@thewarthermuseum.com. It all started when Ernest Warther lost his father at the age of three, in 1888, forcing him to take his first job at the age of five, where he found a pocket knife. In 82 years, he would hand-sculpt over sixty works focusing on the steam-engine. The result earned him the title of the World’s Master Carver. Ernest Warther Museum and Gardens is built around the original location of Ernest and his wife’s home, his original workshop, and the first museum which opened on May 10, 1936, in their backyard. Come and experience the inspirational life-story and hand-sculpted works by Ernest “Mooney” Warther, the World’s Master Carver. http://www.warthermuseum.com
FORT LAURENS, 11067 Fort Laurens Rd NW, Bolivar OH 44612, (330) 874-3011, fortlaurens@gmail.com. Fort Laurens is Ohio’s only Revolutionary War fort and features a museum, memorial, Tomb of the Unknown Patriot, and visible outline of the original fort. The site was considered a steppingstone across the West to stage an attack on the British at Fort Detroit during the American Revolution. Along with Historic Zoar Village, Fort Laurens is managed by the Zoar Community Association. https://www.fortlaurensmuseum.org/
HISTORIC ZOAR VILLAGE, The Zoar Store & Visitor’s Center, 198 Main Street. Zoar, Ohio 44697, 330-874-3011 or toll free at 800-262-6195, zoarinfo@historiczoarvillage.com. Historic Zoar Village was founded by German Separatists in 1817 and thrived as a communal settlement for more than 80 years. Zoar’s historical district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and was recently named a National Historic Landmark District. Dozens of village structures have been painstakingly preserved through the collaborative efforts of the Zoar Community Association, private residents. and the Ohio Historical Society. https://historiczoarvillage.com/
MAPS AIR MUSEUM, 2260 International Parkway, North Canton, Ohio, 44720, 330-896-6332, kimball.reed@mapsairmuseum.org. We offer history tours with our trained tour guides to enhance the children’s understanding of history and aviation. We have 58 aircraft here at the museum. Some of which the children may sit in. In our two galleries we have many displays that serve as learning opportunities. Among the Displays we have a piece of the Battleship Arizona which makes us a War Memorial. Come for the Aircraft – Stay for the History! https://mapsairmuseum.org/
NATIONAL MCKINLEY BIRTHPLACE MUSEUM, 40 N. Main Street, Niles, Ohio 44446, (330)- 652- 4273. director@mckinleybirthplacemuseum.org. mckinleybirthplacemuseum.org
PENNSYLVANIA
GALACTIC ICE RINK, 750 Park Avenue, Altoona PA 16602, 814-942-7500, karengalactic@gmail.com. Galactic Ice is a community-based ice rink that offers Public Skating, Learn to Skate, Figure Skating, Hockey Development, Birthday Parties, Private Ice Rental and Group Functions. We are home to several ice hockey organizations and a figure skating organization. We are a year-round rink that offers ice throughout the calendar year. www.galacticicerink.org.
GETTYSBURG NATIONAL MILITARY PARK MUSEUM & VISITOR CENTER, 1195 Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg, PA 17325, 877-874-2478, reservations@gettysburgfoundation.org. Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center – the official start to your visit. Begin with A New Birth of Freedom film. Experience the Gettysburg Cyclorama 360-degree painting depicting Pickett’s Charge. Explore the Gettysburg Museum of the American Civil War. Tour the battlefield with a Licensed Battlefield Guide. Connect to the battlefield through National Park Service programs. Include our historic sites and experiences in your itinerary for a memorable visit. Gettysburg Foundation offers engaging, interactive experiences for your homeschooler and family in Gettysburg, popular for homeschool field trips and year-round vacations. Explore Gettysburg with us, share lessons with your homeschooler and make lasting memories. www. gettysburgfoundation.org.
GLENCAIRN MUSEUM, 1001 Cathedral Road, P.O. Box 757, Bryn Athyn, PA 19009, 267-502-2600, info@glencairnmuseum.org. Glencairn Museum is a museum of religion, art, and history, dedicated to using art and artifacts—as inspirational expressions of human faith—to foster empathy and help students and visitors better understand the history of religion. Our programs are designed for a diverse range of ages and learning styles, including both in-person and virtual learning. They invite discussion and discovery of art, objects, and other cultural expressions of faith, guiding students to discover how people are more alike than different, and creating a space for self-reflection and empathy. Our hope, whether you visit the Museum in person or online, is that these programs bring the people represented in Glencairn’s collections to life. https://glencairnmuseum.org
GOGGLEWORKS CENTER, 201 Washington Street, Reading, PA 19601, 610.374.4600, marketing@goggleworks.org. GoggleWorks Center for the Arts is a community-based art center that seeks to transform lives through unique interactions with art. Open from Sunday-Saturday 9am-9pm GoggleWorks’ doors are always open for people of all ages and backgrounds, curious visitors, first time creators and experienced artists alike. Now is the perfect time to learn something new and find an art form that you love. https://goggleworks.or
HAWK MOUNTAIN SANCTUARY, 1700 Hawk Mountain Road, Kempton, PA 19529, 610-756-6961, info@hawkmountain.org. Founded in 1934, Hawk Mountain Sanctuary is recognized internationally as the world’s first refuge for birds of prey and a global leader in raptor conservation. The Sanctuary features 8+ miles of hiking trails and several lookouts, where visitors can witness impressive autumn bird migration and attend various programs, lectures, and workshops. Each visit, membership, or donation directly supports Hawk Mountain’s local-to-global raptor conservation research and education. www.hawkmountain.org.
ISETT HERITAGE MUSEUM, 11941 Stone Creek Ridge Road, Huntingdon, PA 16652, 814-643-9600, isetthmuseum@gmail.com. Located in Huntingdon, PA, Isett Heritage Museum is a non-profit foundation dedicated to preserving and sharing history. With three buildings that cover hundreds of years of history, it’s easy to find something that everyone will enjoy. Adults will enjoy a walk down memory lane while students will enjoy learning about local, American, and world history. The museum is open all year and staffed with knowledgeable guides, it’s the ideal location for a field trip that is both entertaining and educational. For more information follow us on Facebook, visit our website at http://isettacres.com/ or contact us at 814-643-9600.
JULIUS STURGIS PRETZEL BAKERY, 219 East Main Street, Lititz, PA 17543, 717-626-4354. info@juliussturgis.com. The Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery is located in historic Lititz, PA, in the middle of beautiful Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Visitors can tour the original pretzel bakery, get a hands-on lesson in pretzel twisting using a flour and water mixture, observe our bakers twisting old-fashioned soft pretzels by hand, and shop for delicious treats and souvenirs in our bakery story. To reserve a tour, go to https://juliussturgis.com/
PITTSBURGH BOTANIC GARDEN, 799 Pinkerton Run Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15071, (412) 444-4464, info@pittsburghbotanicgarden.org. https://pittsburghbotanicgarden.org/.
QUIET VALLEY LIVING HISTORICAL FARM, 347 Quiet Valley Road, Stroudsburg PA 18360, 570-992-6161, farm@quietvalley.org. Quiet Valley was the homestead of the Depper family, who came here in the 1760’s from Germany. Visitors can learn about life on small family farms of the 1800s. See guides going about typical tasks such as animal husbandry, spinning, hearth cooking and more. Quiet Valley is open to the public for historic tours in the summer from the 3rd Saturday in June to Labor Day, plus there are several major and minor events. During the rest of the year, the farm is open by reservation for a variety of educational programs, field trips and workshops. Check the website https://quietvalley.org/.
READING PUBLIC MUSEUM, 500 Museum Road, Reading, PA 19611, 610-371-5850, info@readingpublicmseum.org. Homeschool Days at the Reading Public Museum. Join educators from The Museum for an exciting morning filled with special tours and hands-on projects that the whole family can enjoy! Programs are designed for elementary school age students (younger and older siblings are welcome to participate). Reservations Required. Contact Rebeka at 610-371-5850 x227 or email rebeka.birch@readingpublicmuseum.org. Deadline to register is 24 hours prior to the event. www.readingpublicmuseum.org.
SORDONI ART GALLERY AT WILKES UNIVERSITY, 141 S Main St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701, (570) 408-4325, melissa.carestia@wilkes.edu. https://www.wilkes.edu/about-wilkes/arts/sordoni-art-gallery.
THE CHRISTIAN C. SANDERSON MUSEUM, 1755 Creek Road, Chadds Ford, PA 19317, 610-388-6545, info@sandersonmuseum.org. The Christian C. Sanderson Museum is a private, non-profit enterprise located in the historic village of Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania. The museum exhibits the eclectic collection of historical relics, artifacts, and memorabilia acquired by Christian Sanderson over a period of more than 75 years. The museum was founded in 1967 and is operated almost entirely by volunteers. The Museum contains thousands of artifacts pertaining not only to local Chadds Ford history, but to American history as well. This juxtaposition of local artifacts and those of countrywide significance puts a small-town man’s life into national context. sandersonmuseum.org.
THE NATIONAL CIVIL WAR MUSEUM, 1 Lincoln Circle at Reservoir Park, Harrisburg, PA 17103, 717-260-1861, info@nationalcivilwarmuseum.org. The National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg, PA portrays the entire story of the American Civil War, with over 24,000 sq. feet of exhibit space. It presents the history of the war from military and civilian perspectives without bias to either Union or Confederate causes. The galleries include: an interactive Lincoln display, life-sized mannequins, engaging audio programs, and high-quality video presentations that bring visitors into an up-close and personal experience of the American Civil War. The NCWM offers educational presentations to students that are hands-on based and utilize high-quality historical reproductions. All presentations align with Pennsylvania (SAS) and Common Core Standards, and every presentation can be customized to suit students of all ages and ability levels. www.nationalcivilwarmuseum.org
The Nutcracker Ballet, at Baker Hall, Zoellner Arts Center, 420 E. Packer Avenue, Bethlehem, PA 18015, 610-838-2257, School Performance Tickets, markjen@ptd.net. SPECIAL DISCOUNTED RATE FOR SCHOOL STUDENTS! 610-838-2257; markjen@ptd.net. This 54th production of “The Nutcracker,” presented by Ballet Guild of the Lehigh Valley, Inc. and Pennsylvania Youth Ballet, features approximately one hundred cast members composed of dancers from Pennsylvania Youth Ballet and adult community volunteers, in addition to professional guest artists. A School Performance Guide is available by emailing pyb@rcn.com or calling 610-865-0353. https://www.bglv.org.
YORK COUNTY HISTORY CENTER, 250 E. Market Street, York, PA 17403, 717-848-1587, schools@yorkhistorycenter.org. Each Homeschool Day at the York County History Center features a different student-centered workshop led by our museum staff and free time to explore our museum and interactive exhibits. Programs are designed for elementary school-age students but younger and older siblings are welcome to participate. Your family will be encouraged to work together, ask questions, and engage with our museum’s STEAM content! Participants are invited to explore the museum following the workshop when held at the Agricultural and Industrial Museum or the Historical Society Museum. www.yorkhistorycenter.org/event/homeschool-days.
VERMONT
BIRDS OF VERMONT, 900 Sherman Hollow Road, Huntington, Vermont 05462, +1 802 434-2167, museum@birdsofvermont.org. https://birdsofvermont.org
VIRGINIA
AMERICAN SHAKESPEARE CENTER, 10 South Market Street, Staunton, Virginia 24401, 877-MUCH-ADO (1-877-682-4236), info@americanshakespearecenter.com. Located in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley, the American Shakespeare Center is at once intimate in scale and epic in imagination—creating vital, sophisticated, and accessible theatre at the Blackfriars Playhouse, the world’s only re-creation of Shakespeare’s indoor theatre. ASC will complete 2022 with tales of magic, courage, and redemption, including two Shakespeare classics tossed by stormy seas, The Tempest and Pericles, and Aimé Césaire’s satire Une Tempête—all playing in rep through November 20. From December 1-30, join us for A Christmas Carol, a beloved audience favorite. For a more in-depth experience, check out ASC’s educational programming led by world-class theatre professionals and teaching artists. www.americanshakespearecenter.com.
CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF RICHMOND, 2626 W. Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23220, (804) 474-7000, info@cmorva.org. The Children’s Museum of Richmond is much more than a space for children to play — it’s a community resource of programs and activities, all built around learning through play and providing access for all children and their caregivers. As a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, our mission is to inspire growth in all children by engaging families in learning through play. We offer educational programs in three formats: museum-based field trips, Children’s Museum to Go (we come to you), and virtual field trips (using Zoom platform unless another is required). All three formats have programs designed for preschools, elementary schools, daycares, and homeschool groups. cmorva.org.
COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG FOUNDATION, Williamsburg, VA 23185, 1-800-228-8878, groupsales@cwf.org. At The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, homeschoolers and their families can discover history brought to life through experiential learning. Join us to visit the historic sites where Revolutionary ideas were shaped, meet the tradespeople whose craftsmanship supported the War for Independence, and much more. We offer exclusive pricing year-round for homeschool groups of all sizes in addition to a wide variety of teaching resources. Choose from single- or multi-day tickets, self-guided or premium guided tours, or interpretive stationing (coming in 2023). For smaller homeschool groups, we offer Homeschool Days with discounted tickets at special times in the spring and fall of each year. For more information visit colonialwilliamsburg.org/grouptours, call 1-800-228-8878 or email groupsales@cwf.org.
NEWPORT NEWS VISITOR CENTER, 13560 Jefferson Ave., Newport News, VA, 23603, 757-886-7777, tourism-mailing@nnva.gov <mailto:tourism-mailing@nnva.gov> www.newport-news.org <http://www.newport-news.org> Where can you walk the deck of an iconic Civil War ironclad, enjoy one of the largest municipal parks in the country, connect to Virginia’s natural heritage, and catch a touring Broadway show? In Newport News, of course! The city’s attractions, architectural and historical landmarks, and 30+ parks are exceptional enough to attract experts, but they’re available for everyone to enjoy! For a free Visitor Guide, go to www.newport-news.org <http://www.newport-news.org> or call 888-493-7386.
PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY OFFICE OF HISTORIC PRESERVATION, 17674 Main Street, Dumfries, VA 22026, 703-792-4754, historicpreservation@pwcgov.org. The Historic Preservation Division hosts a variety of events to introduce the community to Prince William County’s rich historic and cultural past. Events are held at several historic properties including: Rippon Lodge, Ben Lomond Historic Site, Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre, Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park, Lucasville School, Old Manassas Courthouse. These events allow visitors to explore and discover the families’ , homes, events and the everyday life of Prince William County’s past. We hope you will join us for a step back in time! www.pwcgov.org/history.