2022 SUMMER/FALL HOMESCHOOLERS GUIDE TO FIELD TRIPS, SUMMER CAMPS & FAMILY VACATIONS
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ALABAMA
AMERICAN VILLAGE, 3727 Highway 119, Montevallo, AL 35115, (205) 665-3535, www.americanvillage.org. The American Village is located on 188 acres in Montevallo, 30 minutes south of Birmingham, Alabama. Housed here is a nationally pioneering education institution focused on building good citizens through immersive and engaging experiences. In school programs for students in grades K-12, students step back in time to the founding era of our nation, led by a passionate staff of costumed historical interpreters. The newly completed West Wing of Independence Hall offers a multi-sensory experience “Choosing to be an American People.” Students travel from the Boston Massacre to the Boston Tea Party, Paul Revere’s Ride and the Shot Heard ‘Round the World, through the American Revolution and the signing of the Declaration of Independence! The distinctive campus includes more than twenty historically inspired buildings, and although the facilities play a key role in presenting ideas and stories, the American Village is not about its buildings. It is instead about building in the hearts and minds of students — young and old — a sense of stewardship of what George Washington called “the sacred fire of liberty.” www.americanvillage.org.
DAUPHIN ISLAND SEA LAB, 101 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island, AL 36528, 251-861-2141. https://www.disl.edu/
CONNECTICUT
CUSTOM HOUSE MARITIME MUSEUM, 150 Bank Street, New London, CT 06320, 860-447-2501, nlmaritimedirector@gmail.com. New London’s Custom House Maritime Museum tells the stories of the local waterfront. It is an award-winning center for Maritime activities housed in a landmark 1833 custom house. Student programs are based on exhibitions; these include area lighthouses (we own three), the Amistad incident, deep-sea dive gear, whaling, US Customs, and more. We’re on the Connecticut Freedom Trail and NPS Underground Railroad Network to Freedom; our Amistad workshop brings in classes from elementary school to college level. The Custom House is a Blue Star Museum and participates in ‘Museums for All’. Visit us at nlmaritimesociety.org.
MATTATUCK MUSEUM, 144 West Main Street, Waterbury, CT 06702, (203) 753-0381. https://www.mattmuseum.org.
THE SHORE LINE TROLLEY MUSEUM, 17 River Street, East Haven, CT 06512, (203) 467-6927, infos@shorelinetrolley.org. Take a journey back in time and visit The Shore Line Trolley Museum in East Haven, CT. The museum operates a fine collection of restored trolleys on 1.5 miles of track, once connecting the city of New Haven with the Connecticut shoreline. For over 120 years, trolley cars traversed this scenic private right-of-way once connecting the city of New Haven with the CT shoreline. The railway is the oldest continuously operating suburban trolley line in the United States. The museum offers guided and self-guided educational tours for individuals, families, and larger groups. Tour guides and trolley operators consist of trained, knowledgeable, and dedicated volunteers. https://www.shorelinetrolley.org
SHU DISCOVERY SCIENCE CENTER AND PLANETARIUM, 4450 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06604, 203-416-3521, education@shudiscovery.org. We believe in the importance of providing hands-on STEAM learning experiences that resonate with children’s natural curiosity and love of learning. We are active advocates for science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) literacy in Connecticut, and utilize our unique resources and expertise in informal STEAM learning to encourage and provide a pathway for all young learners to become STEAM-empowered and informed decision makers in an increasingly technology-driven world. Our mission is to engage, excite, and educate young learners through experiences and programs that inspire wonder and ignite creativity as the foundation for a lifetime love of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) learning. shudiscovery.org.
DELAWARE
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.
WILMINGTON CHILDREN’S CHORUS, 1101 N. Market Street, Wilmington, DE 19801, (302) 762-3637, wilmingtonchildrenschorus@gmail.com. Join the Wilmington Children’s Chorus for a week of music, friendship, and fun! WCC’s summer camp, for children in grades 2-8, is the perfect way for your child to kick off their summer. Our campers enjoy daily choral rehearsals, musicianship classes, and percussion instruction. Our afternoons are reserved for a different type of fun – with swimming, bowling, and our 2nd annual “WCC Olympics” event keeping our campers active and engaged all day long! https://www.wilmingtonchildrenschorus.org/
MASSACHUSETTS
CAPE SYMPHONY, 2235 Iyannough Road, Barnstable, MA 02668, (508)362-2772, education@capesymphony.org. At the Cape Symphony, our mission is to inspire joy. Plain and simple. We believe in having fun, sharing beauty and making people feel wonderful. We engage the Cape community with enriching music and dance programs and world-class professional orchestra concerts. With campuses in Falmouth and Barnstable, we offer students of all ages the opportunity to discover – or rediscover – their passion for the arts. We invite you to experience the Cape Symphony for yourself! www.capesymphony.org.
CLARK ART INSTITUTE, 225 South Street, Williamstown, MA 01267, 413-458-0563, lmcgartland@clarkart.edu. The Clark Art Institute offers a variety of educational experiences designed to encourage a wide range of audiences to enjoy the Clark’s collections and the visual arts. The Education Department engages students with the Clark’s collections, exhibitions and grounds through programs that create valuable, meaningful, and even transformative experiences. The Clark offers a variety of free educational programs for all grade levels. Engaging with art encourages close observation, critical and creative thinking, and careful and sensitive conversational skills. Our programs can be tailored to support many different subjects and curriculum areas. In-person and digital experiences are available. https://www.clarkart.edu/museum/education.
HISTORIC NEWTON, Durant-Kenrick House and Grounds, 286 Waverley Avenue, Newton 02458, 617-796-1463, education@historicnewton.org.
MATTATUCK MUSEUM, 144 West Main Street, Waterbury, CT 06702, (203) 753-0381, jason@mattmuseum.org. Come to the Mattatuck Museum this summer for a variety of kids summer programs! Summer Youth Adventures includes week-long adventures in art and history for ages 6-12 and takes place from June 27 through July 22, 2022. Home Away from Homeschool presents a mini art workshop series for ages 5-18 and takes place once a week between August 2 through August 23, 2022. Visit mattmuseum.org or call (203) 753-0381 x114 for more information. https://www.mattmuseum.org/calendar/
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/
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.
REVOLUTIONARY SPACES, 310 Washington Street, Boston, MA 02108, 617-720-1713, info@revolutionaryspaces.org. https://www.revolutionaryspaces.org/
THE ZOO IN FOREST PARK & EDUCATION CENTER, 293 Sumner Avenue, Springfield, MA 01108, 413-733-2251, tickets@forestparkzoo.com. The Zoo in Forest Park & Education Center is a non-profit organization governed by the Forest Park Zoological Society. The Zoo is dedicated to wildlife education, conservation and rehabilitation and is home to over 225 native and non-native animal residents. The Zoo works with wildlife rehabilitators across the country to provide homes to animals deemed non-releasable for factors such as injury, illness, or permanent disability. Through our various education programs, we aim to teach both children and adults about different species in order to foster a greater respect for wildlife and develop a deeper understanding of the role each species has within its ecosystem. www.forestparkzoo.org.
USS CONSTITUTION MUSEUM, Charlestown Navy Yard, Building 22, Charlestown, MA 02129, (617) 426 1812, rcrawford@ussconstitutionmuseum.org. USS Constitution’s past comes to life through objects, stories, and hands-on experiences with a visit to the USS Constitution Museum! From self-guided exploration in our award-winning exhibits to fun interdisciplinary programs with our talented staff, we have something for every type of homeschool family! Visit http://www.ussconstitutionmuseum.org/ to plan your visit with us today.
MICHIGAN
ANN ARBOR HANDS-ON MUSEUM, 220 E. Ann Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, 734.995.5439. https://www.aahom.org/
BELLE ISLE CONSERVANCY, 300 River Place Drive, Suite 2800, Detroit, MI 48207, 313-331-7760, info@belleisleconservancy.org. https://www.belleisleconservancy.org/
FRANKENMUTH HISTORICAL MUSEUM, 613 S. Main Street, Frankenmuth, MI 48734, 989-652-9701 ext. 4, fhaedu@gmail.com. The Frankenmuth Historical Museum features affordable family and group programming for you! Come on out to beautiful Frankenmuth and hop in one of our guided tours of our museum, experience “Pioneer Living” at our authentic 1850s log house and customize a program of your own! Frankenmuth is a great destination year-round. Contact us today to book your program! FrankenmuthMuseum.com
https://www.frankenmuthmuseum.org/
NEW HAMPSHIRE
CANTERBURY SHAKER VILLAGE, 288 Shaker Road, Canterbury, NH 03224, 603-783-9511 x 202 (CSV) or (603) 303-3863 (NHAS), jlessard@shakers.org or Karyn.Yeatman@nhacadsci.org. Registration is open for Introduction to Scientific Research, a program presented by Canterbury Shaker Village (CSV) in partnership with the New Hampshire Academy of Science (NHAS). Participating in one of two sessions, held July 18-22 and July 25- 29 from 8:30 AM-4:30 PM at the Village, students in grades 8, 9, and 10 will immerse themselves in project-based, hands-on lab work, and experiential learning. Tuition is $750, financial aid available. A brand-new STEM Lab has been created especially for this foundational program, designed for students interested in gaining research skills and lab experience. For more information, call Karyn Yeatman at NHAS (603) 303-3863. https://www.shakers.org/introduction-to-scientific-research-program
NEW JERSEY
APPEL FARM ARTS CAMP, 457 Shirley Road, Elmer, NJ 08318, 856-358-2472, camp@appelfarm.org. Appel Farm Arts & Music Center, located about 45 minutes south of Philadelphia in Elmer, NJ, is a multifaceted non-profit regional arts center founded by musicians and art educators, Albert & Clare Rostan Appel. Appel Farm Arts Camp was founded in 1960 as a co-ed music camp, and has since expanded to feature overnight, gender-inclusive visual and preforming arts programming for ages 7-17. Make art, discover community, and explore your creativity at a place where you are truly free to be you! www.appelfarmartcamp.org.
DRAKE HOUSE MUSEUM/HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF PLAINFIELD, 602 West Front Street, Plainfield, NJ 07060-1004, 908-755-5831, drakehousemuseumplainfieldnj@gmail.com. It was at the Drake House that George Washington consulted with his officers during and after the Battle of Short Hills fought over the entire Plainfield area on June 25-27, 1777. On permanent display are three Colonial era rooms, kitchen, Queen Anne dining room, and Washington bedroom. The parlor and Harberger Library are interpreted as period Victorian rooms. The Drake House Museum displays two large paintings by noted Civil War painter Julian Scott, a former Plainfield resident and Medal of Honor recipient. A National and New Jersey Historic Site, the Drake House Museum is an exciting link to Plainfield’s Revolutionary War history. www.drakehouseplainfield.org.
MAINSTAGE CENTER FOR THE ARTS, 27 S Black Horse Pike, Blackwood, NJ, 08012, 855-936-2467, thestudio@mainstage.org. Mainstage Center for the Arts provides a creative, vibrant, and nurturing environment for youth and adults. Using the performing arts as a catalyst for individual expression and growth, Mainstage enriches the quality of life for its South Jersey community. https://mainstage.org/
NEW JERSEY STATE MUSEUM, 205 West State Street, Trenton, NJ, (609) 292-6464, NJSM.Info@sos.nj.gov. https://www.state.nj.us/state/museum
YOGI BERRA MUSEUM & LEARNING CENTER, 8 Yogi Berra Drive, Little Falls, NJ 07424, 973-655-2378, pollackj@monticlair.edu. The extraordinary life of Yogi Berra is rich with educational opportunities for young people. The Museum’s educational focus is to promote the values that made Yogi a national treasure – respect, excellence, perseverance, and teamwork – through interdisciplinary programs that weave together such content area as: STEM Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math; Language Arts: Poetry & Spoken Word; and History: Sports, Race & Social Justice. For more information or to book a field trip, call Jenny Pollack, education director at 718-974-3984 or email pollackj@montclair.edu. Visit us at yogiberrymuseum.org.
NEW YORK
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/
CAMP CEDARBROOK IN THE ADIRONDACKS, 59 Davignon Road, Corinth, NY 12822, (518) 608-6800, office@campcedarbrook.org. An overnight wilderness camp for girls that inspires them to live Christ-centered lives. Girls experience Christian community, take part in daily Bible study, fun and challenging activities, evening campfires and more! Throughout their time at Cedarbrook, campers learn to follow Jesus in every aspect of their lives. www.campcedarbrook.org.
CAMP LITTLE NOTCH, 744 Sly Pond Road, Fort Ann NY 12827, (518) 793-9700, Mandi.Miller@friendsofcln.org. https://www.camplittlenotch.org.
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.
THOMAS AQUINAS COLLEGE, Summer STEAM Camps, 125 Route 340, Sparkill, NY 10976, 845-398-4150, phughes@stac.edu. Looking for the perfect summer camp for your child? St. Thomas Aquinas College (STAC) Summer STEAM program aims to develop in students, the 21st century version of problem-solving, teamwork, collaboration, and communication by making classroom work in Science, Technology, Art, and Mathematics stimulating, timely, and engaging. STAC’s Summer STEAM Camps are particularly suited for middle school students entering grades 5-9. They will be held in person starting Tuesday, July 5 through Friday, July 29, 2022. https://www.stac.edu/academics/steam-camps
WALT WHITMAN BIRTHPLACE, 246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station, NY 11746, educator@waltwhitman.org. In our modern Interpretive Center, students can delve deeply into Whitman’s life and poetry through a series of engaging exhibits. The exhibits incorporate over 130 portraits of Walt Whitman, a copy of Leaves of Grass, the writing desk Whitman used as a schoolteacher and a printing press–a replica of one used during his journalism career. Also offered is a video about Whitman, a recording of the poet reading his poem America, in addition to a museum shop and large classroom. for information: www.waltwhitman.org; E-mail educator@waltwhitman.org; 631-427-5240, ext. 113. http://waltwhitman.org/.
OHIO
AULLWOOD AUDUBON, 1000 Aullwood Road, Dayton, OH 45414, 937-890-7360, education@aullwood.org. Keep Calm and Carrion! What does H2O, Mad Science, Bio-Blitz, Trolls, Outdoor Survival and Nature Engineering have to do with creek walking, sweeping for insects, building shelters, painting, and walking under the stars? They are all a part of Summer Earth Adventures 2022 at Aullwood Audubon! Join us at Aullwood beginning June 6 for our all new, week-long Summer Earth Adventures nature camps. Summer Earth Adventures will look a little different this summer, but our full day camps for kids from kindergarten through 6th grade will as always feature a variety of exciting nature themes and tons of fun! https://aullwood.audubon.org/special-event/summer-earth-adventures-2022.
BRADFORD OHIO RAILROAD MUSEUM, 200 N Miami Avenue, Bradford, Ohio 45308, 937-552-2196, bradfordohiorrmuseum@gmail.com. 2-Site Museum complex to preserve the railroad heritage of railroading at Bradford, Ohio. Spans a period of 130 years of railroad history with interactive exhibits at the main headquarters and the BF switching tower. Exhibits take on a trade approach for the positions on the railroad from Pennsylvania, Penn Central and Conrail lines. www.bradfordrrmuseum.org.
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 around 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://fortlaurens.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.
KENT STATE UNIVERSITY MUSEUM, 515 Hilltop Drive, Kent, Ohio 44242-0001330-672-3450, museum@kent.edu. The Kent State University Museum is a top global museum for fashion, historic dress, and textiles. Founded in 1982, the Museum offers invaluable, first-hand experiences for all students, faculty, and staff at Kent State and serves scholarly researchers, global audiences, and the communities of Ohio and beyond. Home to more than 29,000 objects it its collection, the KSU Museum has eight galleries hosting changing exhibitions of work from innovative designers and artists of historic dress and contemporary fashion. Objects in the collection represent the world’s cultures and include examples of American glass, fine furniture, textiles, paintings, and other decorative arts. www.kent.edu/museum.
TOURS OF CLEVELAND, LLC, Cleveland, OH 44111, (216) 318-3865, toursofcleveland@gmail.com. Tours of Cleveland, LLC offers year round exciting and educational walking tours of beautiful and historic downtown Cleveland. Our walking tours are great for middle school and up. Our Downtown Highlights tour covers everything from Public Square to Playhouse, looking at history, architecture, and many famous residents of Cleveland. From May to September, we also offer our Downtown Public Art Walking tour exploring the art, the subject matter, the artist and their connections to Cleveland. https://toursofcleveland.com
UNDERGROUND RAILROAD MUSEUM, 121 High Street. Flushing OH 43977, 740-968-2080, info@ugrr.org. With 8,000 items and three stories, the Underground Railroad Museum is sure to amaze. The museum covers slavery, abolitionism, the Civil War, and the transatlantic slave trade. Knowledgeable staff can answer any questions you may have in regard to the museum’s content. Take a step back in time to gather a unique perspective of the untold stories of slavery in this nation and how we overcame the horrible institution of slavery. Learn about the secretive underground railroad routes and how runaway slaves sought and acquired freedom. Hours of operation are Tuesday through Friday 11-3 and Saturdays 12-3. We are accepting large groups, please call or email to schedule. Our last tours of the day are accepted at 2pm. Recommended donation amount of $5 per person or $10 per family. We hope to see you soon! www.ugrrf.org.
PENNSYLVANIA
1718 MUSEUM, 1849 Hans Herr Drive, Willow Street, PA 17584, 717-464-4438, museum@mennonitelife.org. Step back into history at the 1719 Museum, you’ll experience a full-sized reproduction of a Native longhouse, and you’ll encounter buildings and exhibits tracing the formation of Lancaster County. The 11-acre campus hosts three historic farmhouses, barns, a blacksmith shop, a smokehouse, and an outdoor bake oven, among other things. The 1719 Herr House is the oldest building in Lancaster County and the oldest Mennonite meetinghouse in the Americas. www.1719museum.org.
BALLET GUILD OF THE LEHIGH VALLEY, INC, 556 Main Street, Bethlehem, PA 18018, 610-865-0353, pyb@rcn.com. The Six-Week Summer Dance Program will begin the week of Monday, June 27, 2022. Classes are offered for ages three through adult. The youngest students begin with an introduction to the basics of ballet; these include rhythm, dynamics, and terminology. Youth level classes are available for the student who wishes to learn ballet or improve his/her technique. The Pre-Professional Day Intensive is designed for the serious student, age 9 & up and includes Progressing Ballet Technique in addition to ballet, tap, jazz, and musical theater. Throughout the Summer Dance Program, guest master teachers are invited to instruct the Pre-Professional day intensive students. https://www.bglv.org/classes/summer-dance-program/
BOWMAN’S HILL WILDFLOWER PRESERVE, 1535 River Road, New Hope, PA 18938, 215-862-2924, bhwp@bhwp.org. Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve is the perfect place for family fun! Join us at the end of each month for a seasonal offering geared towards our budding naturalists. Offered on the fourth Friday of each month, these programs will include a story and an outdoor walk, take-home craft, or other theme-appropriate activity. Appropriate for ages 3 to 8. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Walks are weather dependent, please dress for the weather. https://bhwp.org/.
CAMP LEE MAR, 450 Route 590, Lackawaxen, PA 18435, (570) 685-7188, ari@leemar.com. A SPECIAL CAMP FOR SPECIAL KIDS. While Lee Mar takes pride in our academic-related programs, we also want to make sure our campers are enjoying traditional camp activities and all the adapted special needs summer programs we have to offer. Days at Lee Mar are filled with smiles, laughs, and fun. Our goal is to give the campers an amazing summer experience while working on all areas of independent living skills. https://www.leemar.com/
CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF PITTSBURGH, 10 Children’s Way, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, 412-322-5058, hi@pittsburghkids.org. Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh provides innovative and inclusive museum experiences that inspire kindness, joy, creativity, and curiosity for all learners. The museum offers a wide variety of exhibits and interactive experiences that are accessible, meaningful, sustainable, and most of all…fun! Visitors can paint in the Art Studio, try sewing in MAKESHOP, splash in Waterplay and so much more. The museum frequently updates or adds new components to exhibits to keep them fresh and engaging for visitors of all ages and abilities. Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh is open daily from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm. www.pittsburghkids.org.
ERIE PHILHARMONIC: ERIE JUNIOR PHILHARMONIC SUMMER CAMP, 23 West 10th Street, Erie PA 16501, 814-455-1375, julia@eriephil.org. The Erie Junior Philharmonic has the perfect summer camp opportunities for your budding musician! Our summer camp is back and better than ever this summer now welcoming strings, wind, brass and percussion students! This exciting week-long program provides students of all levels, and with at least one year of playing experience of more, the opportunity to refine their skills with peers at a similar level in a fun, relaxed setting. Dates: August 1-5, 2022. Times: 8am-12pm (Monday-Thursday) and 8am-2pm (Friday). Location: Strong Vincent Middle School (1330 W 8th St, Erie, PA 16502). Sign up before June 1st and receive $10 off your registration! We offer a sibling discount of 10% off the price of each students’ tuition. Visit https://eriephil.org/summercamp for tuition information and to register for camp.
ERIE PHILHARMONIC: ERIE PHILHARMONIC CHORUS SUMMER CAMP, 23 West 10th Street, Erie PA 16501, 814-455-1375, julia@eriephil.org. The Erie Philharmonic Chorus has the perfect summer camp opportunities for your budding musician! Our Brand-New Vocal Academy Summer Camp is available to students in grades 2-12. This thrilling four-day program provides students of all levels high-quality vocal education to help students grow as musicians and leaders, theory/voice/performance and Piano instruction and workshops. Dates: August 8-11, 2022. Times: 8:30am-4pm. Location: Cathedral of St. Paul (134 West 7th Street • Erie, Pennsylvania). Close of camp concert! (Thursday @ 4pm). Sign up before June 1st and receive $10 off your registration! We offer a sibling discount of 10% off the price of each students’ tuition. Visit https://eriephil.org/summercamp for tuition information and to register for camp.
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 summer vacations. Explore Gettysburg with us, share lessons with your homeschooler and make lasting memories.
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
GOODELL GARDENS & HOMESTEAD, 221 Waterford Street, Edinboro, PA 16412, (814) 734-6699, info@goodellgardens.org. Goodell Gardens & Homestead is a public garden, accredited arboretum, and community gathering space located in beautiful Edinboro, Erie County, Pennsylvania. Offering age-appropriate educational programs for pre-K – adults, guided tours, special events, trails, and more, Goodell Gardens & Homestead has something for everyone! https://www.goodellgardens.org
GREEN VALLEYS WATERSHED ASSOCIATION (GVWA), 1368 Prizer Road, Pottstown, PA 19465, 610-469-4900, camp@greenvalleys.org. Green Valleys Watershed Association (GVWA) is hosting their Summer Nature Day Camp every week from June 20th to August 12th. Registration is open to children ages 4 to 15. Each week features a different nature-based theme, which may take campers to different parts of GVWA’s 224 acres of forests, meadows, wetlands, and stream areas. Each week also features two specialized presenters, and for campers ages 10+, a field trip. GVWA is also actively hiring camp counselors and has a Counselor-in-Training program for younger high school students looking to gain leadership experience (and set them up for paid counselor positions in the future). Greenvalleys.org/summer-nature-day-camp.
HARRISBURG UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY’S ENRICHMENT, Harrisburg University, 326 Market Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101, 717-901-5100 ext. 164, agibson1@harrisburgu.edu. STEM Exploration helps high school students, and some middle school students, find their passion in what Harrisburg University has to offer them. Through summer programming, Harrisburg University of Science and Technology engages students around the Harrisburg Area at HU, at our Philadelphia Location, and Online Abroad. These exploration courses run one week or more and offer a quick look at a specific STEM learning topic to enhance or reinforce that student’s interest in the topic. HU offers high school summer programs in aquaponics, biotech, game design, forensics, cybersecurity and more. Home – HU Enrichment (harrisburgu.edu)
HANDS-ON HOUSE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM, 721 Landis Valley Road, Lancaster, PA 17601, (717) 569-5437. https://www.handsonhouse.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/
LAKE TOBIAS WILDLIFE PARK, 760 Tobias Road, Halifax, PA 17032, 717-362-9126. https://www.laketobias.com.
LEWISBURG CHILDREN’S MUSEUM, 815 Market Street, Lewisburg, PA 17837, 570-768-4914, lewisburgchildrensmuseum@gmail.com. Lewisburg Children’s Museum was founded in 2016 with a vision to provide interactive educational experience that foster learning through play. The Museum occupies 9,000 square feet of space on the second floor of the GreenSpace Center. The museum offers educational programming, as well as field trip opportunities and birthday party rentals. https://www.lewisburgchildrensmuseum.org.
LONGWOOD GARDENS, 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square, PA 19348, 610-388-1000, k12@longwoodgardens.org. Longwood Gardens offers learning beyond the classroom walls with curriculum-based hands-on programs. Led by Longwood educators, on-site school group programs offer inquiry-based learning in the beauty of the Gardens while virtual offerings bring the Gardens directly to you. Extend learning through the summer months with seasonal Discovery Boxes delivered right to your door or learn alongside expert instructors with onsite Summer Workshops. From in-person to online, Longwood provides nature-inspired learning for all ages. www.longwoodgardens.org.
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF INDUSTRIAL HISTORY, 602 E. 2nd Street, Bethlehem, PA 18015, (610) 694-6644, education@nmih.org. The National Museum of Industrial History in Bethlehem, PA, is dedicated to preserving America’s rich industrial heritage. The Museum is home to exciting exhibits, engaging programs, and amazing history. Our mission, in affiliation with the Smithsonian Institution, is to forge a connection between America’s industrial past and the innovations of today by educating the public and inspiring the visionaries of tomorrow. We offer both in-person field trips and distance learning educational opportunities. Field trips are available for grades K-12. Students are guided through a curated, interactive, and hands-on experience in the Museum galleries with trained Museum Educators. these experiences enable students to connect with history in a deeper way and practice the 4 “C’s” of 21st century skills: Critical Thinking, Communication, Creativity, and Collaboration. Field trips are easily adjusted to fit the learning needs of your group! Let NMIH come to you (virtually) with our Distance Learning programs. Our Distance Learning programs are designed for you learning in a variety of settings. We offer both Digital Resources and Interactive Distance Learning programs to expand access to our programming and fit each learner’s needs. Check out our website to learn more about our programs! https://www.nmih.org/
PENNSBURY MANOR, 400 Pennsbury Memorial Road, Morrisville, PA 19067, 215-946-0400 x 110, c-ebarth@pa.gov. At Pennsbury Manor, we offer two exciting weeks of summer camp that are sure to intrigue, delight and educate your child. Our programs are designed by education specialists, ensuring that all campers receive the most rewarding and immersive experience for their age group. From Manor House to Kitchen House, and from Kitchen Garden to Stables, campers will explore and learn from the entire site and our talented team of living history experts! Visit our website to learn about all of our programs. http://www.pennsburymanor.org/
PENN STATE SCRANTON’S CENTER FOR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT & COMMUNITY OUTREACH, 120 Ridge View Drive, Dunmore PA 18512, 570-963-2600, scrantonoutreach@psu.edu. Our Nittany Cub Camp Program offers a variety of camps for youth ages 6 to 16. Campers explore their interests while engaging in projects, crafts and events that provide subtle education in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. Generations of families return for engaging and fun activities in many of our weeklong half-day camps in the mornings and/or afternoons. If you are planning to have your child stay for a full day of camps, there will be a location provided so your child can enjoy their lunch they bring from home. Camps run from July 11 through August 5, 2022, and camps change weekly. https://scranton.psu.edu/cubcamps
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/.
SOUTHERN ALLEGHENIES MUSEUM OF ART (SAMA), 112 Franciscan Way, Loretto, PA 15940, (814) 472-3920, loretto@sama-art.org. The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art makes art accessible to rural Pennsylvania by providing a gathering space for artists, teachers, community members and more. As the nation’s longest-running museum satellite system, there are five museum facilities in the cities of Altoona, Bedford, Johnstown, Ligonier and Loretto. Each serves their distinct community by displaying everchanging exhibitions from over 7,500 works of American art from the permanent collection and by hosting award-winning educational programs and special events. At SAMA, see works by internally known artists like Andy Warhol and discuss fine art with local aspiring artists and legends from your community. sama-art.org.
WHITAKER CENTER FOR SCIENCE AND THE ARTS, 222 Market Street, Harrisburg, PA 17101, 717-214-2787, education@whitakercenter.org. A visit to Harsco Science Center gives your group access to STEM-based science exhibits that provide hands-on learning. The interaction and fun doesn’t stop there! Our STEM Design Studios provide children and adults a drop-in experience to complete to the day’s inquiry-based challenges. Small groups will have time to design, test, and refine their projects to fulfill the posed requirements. The Science Center provides hours of educational enrichment and exploration. Also, during your trip, a documentary film can be viewed inside Select Medical Digital Cinema. The documentary gives your class the experience of seeing an educational film in a completely immersive, large format movie theater. To view pricing and book your trip, visit https://www.whitakercenter.org/field-trips. Questions? Please contact education@whitakercenter.org or visit https://www.whitakercenter.org/
WOODVILLE, 1375 Washington Pike, Bridgeville, PA 15017, 412/221-0348, woodvillesitedirector@gmail.com. Woodville, the Neville House, is a National Historic Landmark just outside of downtown Pittsburgh in Bridgeville, PA. Come visit Southwestern Pennsylvania’s oldest house museum and learn about the Whiskey Rebellion and life from 1780-1825. Guided tours available Sundays, 1-4pm April through June or by private booking. Check our website and social media for programs and events! Self-guided tours available year-round. www.woodville-experience.org
VERMONT
VINS NATURE CENTER (vinsweb.org), 149 Natures Way, Quechee, VT 05059, (802)359-5000, info@vinsweb.org. The VINS Nature Center in Quechee, VT brings exciting nature-based education to homeschooled children in grades PreK – Grade 5. Designed by our highly qualified Science Educators, these programs, both virtual and in-person, will enhance your homeschoolers’ learning experience throughout the year. Your homeschoolers will be immersed in science and place-based education during our dynamic, fun-filled lessons! Registration for Fall Programs opens in July 2022. https://vinsweb.org/homeschool-program/.
VIRGINIA
GIRL SCOUTS OF THE COLONIAL COAST, 912 Cedar Road, Chesapeake, VA 23322, 757-547-4405, customercare@gsccc.org. Participating in Girl Scouts is a way to make meaningful connections in the community while taking advantage of the flexibility and excitement of the Girl Scout Leadership Experience, no matter a girls’ schedule. The content of all Girl Scout national proficiency badges and journeys have been correlated by grade level to the Commonwealth’s Standards of Learning. You can “mix and match” Girl Scout badges with the curriculum you are using! Girl Scouts builds girls of courage, confidence, and character – all skills that can benefit a girl as she grows into adulthood by giving her a foundation for leadership. Girl Scouts offers quality programs in the outdoors, STEM, environmental education, financial literacy, life skills and more! https://www.gsccc.org/en/about/our-program/ways-to-participate/homeschool.html
JAMESTOWN SETTLEMENT & AMERICAN REVOLUTION MUSEUM AT YORKTOWN, Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation, PO Box 1607, Williamsburg, VA 23187-1607, (757) 253-4939; toll-free (888) 868-7593, group.reservations@jyf.virginia.gov. Real History. Right Now for Homeschool students at Jamestown Settlement and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown. Homeschoolers will love discovering the sights and sounds of the 17th and 18th centuries while learning about their nation’s history. Parents will love the variety of curriculum-based education programs offered for a range of grade levels – all taught by trained museum educators. The entire family can take an active role learning about history at both museums September 3 through 18 during “Homeschool Program Days” with special admission. https://jyfmuseums.org/learn/homeschool-scouts/homeschool-program/homeschool-tours-and-programs/
NEWPORT NEWS VISITOR CENTER, 13560 Jefferson Ave., Newport News, VA, 23603, 757-886-7777, tourism-mailing@nnva.gov. 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 or call 888-493-7386.
STRATFORD HALL, 483 Great House, Stratford, VA, 22558, 804-493-8038, contact@stratfordhall.org. Stratford Hall preserves the legacy of the Lee family and its plantation community, inspires an appreciation of America’s past, and encourages commitment to the ideals of leadership, honor, independent thought, and civic responsibility. For operating hours and information regarding Great House Tours, grounds, lodging, and events, please visit our website at https://www.stratfordhall.org/.