2023 SUMMER/FALL HOMESCHOOLERS GUIDE TO FIELD TRIPS, SUMMER CAMPS & FAMILY VACATIONS
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LIST OF SITES IN GUIDE
CONNECTICUT
GIRLS INC. OF WESTERN CONNECTICUT, 35 Park Place, Waterbury, CT 06702, 203-756-4639, info@girlsincswct.org. girlsincswct.org
HUNGERFORD NATURE CENTER AND NEW BRITAIN YOUTH MUSEUM, 191 Farmington Avenue, Kensington, CT 06037, 860-827-9064, marketing@newbritainyouthmuseum.org. For 67 years, the New Britain Youth Museum, a non-profit museum and nature center, has served as an educational resource for children, youth, families and teachers in central Connecticut. The New Britain Youth Museum in downtown New Britain, CT offers school programming, outreach, exhibits and special events that focus on history, art, science and the cultural heritage of the diverse peoples of the region. The New Britain Youth Museum at Hungerford Park, Kensington offers educational programming, exhibits and special events that relate to environmental education, biological and animal sciences, and STEM. The Hungerford Nature Center maintains 27 acres of guided woodland and interpretive gardens that support a variety of native and cultivated plant species. www.newbritainyouthmuseum.org
NEW ENGLAND AIR MUSEUM, 36 Perimeter Road, Windsor Locks, CT 06096, 860-623-3305, camp@neam.org. Explore the history, science, and technology of flight at the New England Air Museum this summer! Aerospace Academy Camp is a state licensed day camp for children ages 9-11 interested in all things aerospace. Campers will participate in a range of hands-on activities focusing on the aviation science and history, aircraft restoration, flight simulators, drones, and much more! Campers will meet retired aerospace engineers and pilots and end their week at camp with a special full day, behind-the-scenes field trip to the Hartford Jet Center at Hartford-Brainard Airport on Friday. https://neam.org/pages/summer-camp.
POST UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL ACADEMY 800 Country Club Road, Waterbury, CT 06723, 203-596-4532. HighSchoolAcademy@Post.edu. Access Higher Education while you are earning your diploma. At Post University High School Academy, high school students are able to take undergraduate courses and earn valuable college credit – while they are still in high school. In these university level courses, students will enhance their academic accomplishments through the experience and rigor of college courses, interact with peers and Post University faculty, and get a head start exploring fields of interest – all at a 90% tuition reduction. Students can take classes online, and their school, or at Post’s campus in Waterbury, CT. Post.edu/hsacademy.
WESTPORT MUSEUM FOR HISTORY & CULTURE, 25 Avery Place. Westport, CT 06880, (203) 222-1424, programs@westporthistory.org. American history comes alive through the fun activities with Westport Museum’s weeklong summer camp sessions. Explore our exhibitions, craft your very own artisan creations and touch artifacts from our collections. Each week explores a different period of the past with activities ranging from cooking, playing games, and doing things that youngsters from days gone by would have done. westporthistory.org/events/summer-camp.
MARYLAND
B&O RAILROAD MUSEUM, 901 W Pratt Street, Baltimore, MD 21223, 410-752-2490, info@borail.org. The B&O Railroad Museum offers engaging educational programming made just for homeschool students! These curated programs are available for all grade levels. Spend the day at the Birthplace of American Railroading with special activities that explore Railroad Technology and Safety, The Civil War, and more. Students will be able to learn about the Underground Railroad and the Legacy of African American Railroading through the Museum’s latest exhibit – ‘The Underground Railroad: Freedom Seekers on the B&O Railroad.’ While you’re at the Museum, take a ride on the first mile of commercial railroad in the nation and enjoy the B&O’s on-site café. The B&O also offers sensory-friendly resources in support of neurodivergent visitors. Free, gated parking is available as well. https://borail.info/homeschool.
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/.
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.
MARYLAND CENTER FOR HISTORY AND CULTURE, 610 Park Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21201, 410-685-3750 ext. 322, aweiss@mdhistory.org. Maryland Center for History and Culture (MCHC) is overjoyed to welcome the traveling show, The Jim Henson Exhibition: Imagination Unlimited! Developed by Museum of the Moving Image (MoMI), this massive, puppet-filled multimedia exhibition is full of hundreds of objects, including puppets, scripts, costumes, and more. Explore the whimsical world of Jim Henson, through puppet-making workshops, live performances, video screenings, virtual programs, and more! Learn more or sign up for exclusive updates at mdhistory.org. Early access to online ticketing for MCHC Members opens April 24. Online ticketing for non-members opens May 15. https://www.mdhistory.org/exhibitions/the-jim-henson-exhibition-imagination-unlimited/
ST. 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.
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.
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.
PLIMOTH PATUXET, 137 Warren Avenue, Plymouth, MA 02360, 508-746-1622, info@plimoth.org. https://plimoth.org/.
MICHIGAN
AIR ZOO AEROSPACE AND SCIENCE CENTER, 6151 Portage Road, Portage, MI 49002, 269-382-6555. events@airzoo.org. Homeschool Discovery Days are the perfect addition to any homeschool curriculum. Running from October until May, the Air Zoo’s homeschool programs are designed to fulfill both Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and Michigan Science Standards with dynamic, hands-on lesson plans and interactive demonstrations! For students Ages 5 – 14, each exciting topic will allow students to get hands on with many aspects of science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics (STEAM). https://www.airzoo.org/homeschool-discovery.
BELLE ISLE CONSERVANCY, 300 River Place Drive, Suite 2800, Detroit, MI 48207, 313-331-7760, info@belleisleconservancy.org. https://www.belleisleconservancy.org/
BINDER PARK ZOO, 7400 Division Drive, Battle Creek, MI 49014, (269) 979-1351, info@binderparkzoo.org. One of Michigan’s largest zoos is just east of Kalamazoo in Battle Creek, and open from spring to fall. Binder Park Zoo is home to many animals, including Species Survival Plan animals, a coordinated effort between all zoos accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums to improve genetics and survivability of threatened and endangered species. Explore this natural zoo, feed the giraffes, see a lion face to face, ride the train and carousel, and turn experiences into memories. https://binderparkzoo.org/.
NEW HAMPSHIRE
NEW LONDON BARN PLAYHOUSE EDUCATION, 84 Main Street, New London, NH 03257, 603-526-6710, education@nlbarn.org. The New London Barn Playhouse offers year-round education programs for all ages. Summer youth programs include the Camps program for ages 6–11 and the Junior Intern Program for ages 12–18. The Junior Intern Company produces four shows each summer for youth and families. This summer’s season includes Larger Than Life (a superhero musical revue), Much Ado About Nothing, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and Disney’s Finding Nemo Jr. During the school year, the Barn Playhouse hosts classes for youth and adults, as well as school-year productions. View our website or follow us on Facebook or Instagram (@NLBPEducation) for regular program updates. www.nlbarn.org/education.
NEW JERSEY
EAST JERSEY OLD TOWN VILLAGE, 1050 River Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854, 732-745-3030, history@co.middlesex.nj.us. East Jersey Old Town Village is comprised of reconstructed and replica 18th and 19th century structures that represent architecture typical of farm and merchant communities once found in the Raritan Valley. Buildings include a tavern, blacksmith shop, wheelwright shop, schoolhouse, barracks, church, the homes of early settlers, and other outbuildings. Visitors can explore the site and meet the historical interpreters that bring the Village to life through their trades and crafts. A gateway site for the Crossroads of the American Revolution National Heritage Area, situated along the Washington-Rochambeau National Historic Trail, the Village offers award winning exhibits, living history, and seasonal programs. https://www.middlesexcountynj.gov/history.
NEW JERSEY SEA GRANT CONSORTIUM, 22 Magruder Road, Highlands, NJ 07732, 732-872-1300 ext. 13, 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. Collectively, these programs engage a large and diverse audience of learners. Our K-12 field trip program alone provides instruction to over 20,000 school children annually, taking them out of the classroom and onto the beaches, bays, and estuaries of New Jersey for active learning experiences. https://njseagrant.org/education/.
THE GROWING STAGE – THE CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF NEW JERSEY, Netcong, NJ 07857, 973-347-4946, boxoffice@growingstage.com. The Growing Stage – The Children’s Theatre of New Jersey, located in Netcong, New Jersey is a regional performing arts center for the entire family. Our Mission is to nurture the development of the performing arts through education — and to create, produce and perform works that engage the entire family. Throughout each season, we offer main stage productions, educational programs (Creative Arts Academy and Summer Arts Camp), plus our New Play-Reading Festival and Playwriting Festival for Young Writers. www.growingstage.com
NEW YORK
ALBANY PINE BUSH, 195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY 12205, 518-456-0655, info@AlbanyPineBush.org. https://www.albanypinebush.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/
CAMP LITTLE NOTCH, 744 Sly Pond Road, Fort Ann, NY 12827, (518) 793-9700, mandi.miller@friendsofcln.org. Since 1939, Camp Little Notch (CLN) has been a place where girls feel safe and supported. Their American Camp Association accredited program is located on 443 acres of pristine Adirondack wilderness. CLN develop an intentional community where campers learn, collaborate with others and grow – a sisterhood where they can try new things, be their authentic selves, and make lifelong memories. CLN believes every child should get to experience camp. Full or partial financial assistance is available. Campers participate in group activities and activities they choose independently – like waterfront, games, art, archery, and wilderness skills. Overnights, hiking, fire-building, and more. Not sure about sleepaway camp? Consider CLN family camps instead. https://www.camplittlenotch.org/summercamp.
ELMIRA COLLEGE, 1 Park Place, Elmira, NY 14901, (800) 935-6472, admissions@elmira.edu. At Elmira College we celebrate who you are while preparing you for success. Our small class sizes mean one-on-one interactions with faculty who are personally invested in your success. Offering 35+ academic programs, EC brings together a liberal arts education with professional programs that provide you with hands-on learning, career-related internships, and study abroad opportunities that will prepare you to succeed in the professional world. Our unique six-week spring term gives you a chance to do immersive and intensive work in a number of different fields, travel domestically or abroad, complete community service, or take a course outside your normal schedule. Our strong intercollegiate NCAA Division III athletic program and more than 50 extracurricular clubs, provide you with diverse opportunities outside the classroom. Following your four years at EC, you will join an alumni network that boasts an exceptional success rate. And it all comes with one of the lowest undergraduate tuition prices of any four-year private college or university in the region. www.elmira.edu.
FENTON HISTORY CENTER, 67 Washington Street, Jamestown, NY 14701, (716) 640-2089, info@fentonhistorycenter.org. The Fenton History Center in Jamestown, New York is a museum housed in the historic Fenton Mansion, owned by former Governor Reuben E. Fenton. The museum showcases period rooms, exhibits on local history, industrialization, the Underground Railroad, and military history. Homeschoolers of all ages are welcome, and the museum is open Mondays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free for children under 18 and $10 for adults. The exhibits provide a glimpse into the past and can complement homeschooling curriculums, making the museum a desirable destination for homeschool groups. www.FentonHistoryCenter.org.
ST 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 Wednesday, July 5 through Friday, July 28, 2023. The STAC STEAM camps are made possible through the generous support of Orange & Rockland Utilities and offer something for everyone in Science, Technology, Arts, and Mathematics. https://www.stac.edu/academics/steam-camps
THE PHELPS MANSION MUSEUM, 191 Court Street, Binghamton, NY 13901, 607-722-4873, info@phelpsmansion.org. The Phelps Mansion is the last of the homes that once stood on Mansion Row. The house became a museum in 2005. Our Mission Statement is that the Phelps Mansion Museum will utilize and preserve the unique Victorian facility and collections to serve the public through regular tours, exhibits, and programs emphasizing local history, education, literature, art, and music. We are a direct portal to the Golden Age and have lots of new programming for you to check out with your families like live character tours, concerts, flashlight tours, theatrical events and school tours. www.phelpsmansion.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.
THE WILD CENTER, 45 Museum Drive, Tupper Lake, NY 12986, (518) 359-7800, therkalo@wildcenter.org. The Wild Center invites visitors to discover the story of the Adirondacks, and to explore new ways that people and nature can thrive in the same place. We’re not like any other nature museum, science center, zoo, wildlife park, aquarium, convention hall, or classroom you’ve ever seen. But we have the best, most appealing feature of all of those places. Located in Tupper Lake, NY, the Center uses science-based experiences, exhibits, programs and over 800 live animals to open new ways to look into the relationship that people have with nature and to promote environmental best practices. wildcenter.org.
UTICA ZOO, 1 Utica Zoo Way, Utica, NY 13501, 315-738-0472, info@uticazoo.org. The Utica Zoo, located in the heart of New York State, is home to more than 200 animals from around the world. As an AZA-accredited animal care institution, we share a common quest to educate visitors, communities, and students of all ages about the conservation status of species, the challenges which make survival questionable, and what we can do to mitigate threats against the animal kingdom. The Utica Zoo aims to create unique experiences for their visitors and to foster appreciation for all forms of wildlife through education, conservation, and recreation. From the mighty African Lion to the adorable Red Panda, the Utica Zoo offers family fun for visitors of all ages. www.uticazoo.org.
OHIO
ALPINE HILLS HISTORICAL MUSEUM, 106 West Main Street, P.O. Box 293, Sugarcreek, OH 44681, 330-852-4113, alpinehillsc@gmail.com, alpinehillssugarcreek.com. The Alpine Hills Museum moved into its current location in 1977 and opened to the public in 1982. The building was donated by Ranson Andreas who used it as a furniture warehouse. It is equipped with audio/visual sets designed by local citizens. The first curators were able to gather artifacts that include Swiss heritage items, farm tools, cheese making equipment and things used in everyday life in the 1800’s and beyond. The Museum has also received some unique items such as an ice cream bicycle truck, a shoe-shine stand, and a photographers wagon. visitsugarcreek.com.
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
CENTURY VILLAGE MUSEUM – GEAUGA COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY, 14653 E. Park Street, P.O. Box 153, Burton, OH 44021, (440) 834-1492, info@GeaugaHistorical.org. http://www.centuryvillagemuseum.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 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.
ENTERTRAINMENT JUNCTION, 7379 Squire Court, West Chester, Ohio 45069, (513) 898-8000 ext. 203, dwoodward@entertrainmentjunction.com. EnterTrainment Junction is the world’s largest indoor model railroad display. Located in West Chester Township, Ohio. This 25,000 square foot display consists of over 90 g-scale trains encompassing the early era of American railroading, the middle era, and the modern era. The facility also includes the American Railroading Museum, an Expo center, and a fun house. www.Entertrainmentjunction.com.
FORT LAURENS MUSEUM, 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 stepping stone to stage an attack on the British at Fort Detroit during the American Revolution. Visitors learn about the lives of frontier soldiers though video and artifacts excavated onsite. Homeschool groups are welcome for private tours and special events like Archaeology School Day, held each April. Open May-October. Consider a combined trip to our sister site Historic Zoar Village – just 3 miles away and on the National Register of Historic Places! https://www.fortlaurensmuseum.org/.
HISTORIC ZOAR VILLAGE, 198 Main Street, Zoar, OH 44697, 330-874-3011 or 800-262-6195, zoarinfo@historiczoarvillage.com. Historic Zoar Village was founded by German Separatists in 1817 as a communal settlement and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Against the backdrop of historically accurate architecture, homeschool students learn about 19th century life through hands-on activities, demonstrations, and museum tours. Popular programs include Spring into Zoar, Civil War School Day and Zoar and the Presidents, although private tours for homeschool groups are welcome any time during the season, April-October. Consider a combined trip to our sister site Fort Laurens – just 3 miles away and Ohio’s only Revolutionary War-era fort! 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/
MASSILLON MUSEUM, 121 Lincoln Way East, Massillon, Ohio 44646, 330.833.4061, sltoole@massillonmuseum.org. The Massillon Museum is a free public cultural hub where art and history come together. Among twelve galleries, families especially enjoy the100-square-foot miniature Immel Circus surrounded by circus memorabilia, football exhibits in the Paul Brown Museum, the American Indian Gallery, and a 1907 automobile. During summer months, a 1916 traction steam engine is displayed outdoors. The Sensory Room, healthy food cafe, and shop augment a visit. Call 330.833.4061 x104 or email sltoole@massillonmuseum.org for tour information; visit the website to learn about classes and workshops. The Island Party in July—reggae music, Caribbean food, and children’s activities—is free family fun under the stars. Fun Fest in August includes hundreds of free games and crafts; educational, safety, and health information; trucks; performances; face-painting; clowns and characters; inflatables; Bookmobile; and more. www.MassillonMuseum.org.
MCCONNELL ARTS CENTER, 777 Evening Street, Worthington, OH 43085, (614) 431-0329, arts@mcconnellarts.org. Explore the visual, performing, and literary arts in summer camps at the McConnell Arts Center! Your creative kid will get the chance to stretch their artistic muscles and try a variety of styles of art. Campers will work with professional artists and art educators for a week full of exploratory activities in the arts in our full and half-day Camp Creativity options. Your artistic teen will get skill-specific instruction in the medium(s) of their choice during our variety of teen intensive camps, also taught by professional artists. Unleash creativity by enrolling your child in the MAC’s summer camps! www.mcconnellartscenter.org.
THE NATIONAL VETERANS MEMORIAL AND MUSEUM, 300 West Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43215, 614-427-1126, Education@nationalvmm.org. The National Veterans Memorial and Museum (NVMM) is the only museum in American to honor ALL Veterans, from all branches of service, and from all eras of our nation’s proud history. We offer an educational experience unlike anywhere else that brings American history to life by connecting students to the powerful, personal stories of our nation’s heroes through a dynamic, participatory experience with photos, letters and personal effects, multi-media presentations, and interactive exhibits. Together, these elements link our national story to the larger context of world events since our country’s earliest days and demonstrate the importance of individuals in shaping our history. https://nationalvmm.org/education/
NORTHWEST OHIO RAILROAD PRESERVATION NORTHWEST OHIO RAILROAD PRESERVATION TRACKS TO THE PAST ANTIQUE MACHINERY SHOW EDUCATION DAY, 12505 County Road 99, Findlay Ohio 45840, (419) 788-6100, nworrp_98@gmail.com. Tracks to the Past Education Day – This year’s program will include five focus areas. The program is designed for elementary school students in grades 4 and 5, or for middle school students in grades 6, 7, and 8. Learn how a steam locomotive works, the history of tractors used in our area, learn how a steam traction engine works, learn about hit and miss engines, and the history of antique cars and trucks. If you are interested registering an individual student or a school aged group to learn about and experience antique machinery, please contact Jim Gabriel at nworrp.98@gmail.com or (419) 788-6100. Registrations need to be received by Monday, October 3, 2023. http://nworrp.org/education-day.html.
THE NATIONAL VETERANS MEMORIAL AND MUSEUM, 300 West Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43215, 614-427-1126, Education@nationalvmm.org. The National Veterans Memorial and Museum (NVMM) is the only museum in American to honor ALL Veterans, from all branches of service, and from all eras of our nation’s proud history. We offer an educational experience unlike anywhere else that brings American history to life by connecting students to the powerful, personal stories of our nation’s heroes through a dynamic, participatory experience with photos, letters and personal effects, multi-media presentations, and interactive exhibits. Together, these elements link our national story to the larger context of world events since our country’s earliest days and demonstrate the importance of individuals in shaping our history. https://nationalvmm.org/education/
STAN HYWET HALL & GARDENS, 714 North Portage Path, Akron OH 44303, 330-836-5533, info@stanhywet.org. Akron’s Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens is the former home of F.A. Seiberling (co-founder of The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.) and his family. Now a museum, this nationally recognized estate features tours and activities and learning experiences for all ages, including many family-friendly activities. The Estate includes a 64,500 square foot, 65-room Tudor revival Manor House, 70 acres of historic gardens and grounds, the Corbin Conservatory, the Gate Lodge and seasonal exhibits and events. The estate also features Molly’s Shop & Café where guests may buy a keepsake or grab a bite to eat. http://www.stanhywet.org.
TOURS OF CLEVELAND, LLC. Cleveland, OH 44111, (216) 318-3865. 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 Square, looking at history, architecture and current day Cleveland. Our Cleveland From the Inside tour explores the interiors of some of Cleveland’s most famous buildings. Our Downtown Public Art tour explores public art and history in downtown Cleveland. https://toursofcleveland.com/
PENNSYLVANIA
1719 MUSEUM, 1849 Hans Herr Drive, Willow Street, PA 17584, 717-464-4438 museum@mennonitelife.org. Students will experience the world of Pennsylvania’s earliest residents by visiting a full-scale reproduction Native American longhouse and the 1719 Herr House—the oldest structure in Lancaster County. Through hands-on encounters with museum objects, students will explore important lessons in history and geography, such as how life has changed from past to present, reasons why people came to Colonial America, and similarities and differences between the cultures of local Native Americans and Mennonite immigrants. https://mennonitelife.org/1719-museum/
AMERICAN HELICOPTER MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER, 1220 American Boulevard, West Chester, PA 19380, 610-436-9600, info@americanhelicopter.museum. The American Helicopter Museum & Education Center is the nation’s premier aviation museum devoted solely to rotary wing aviation. Established in 1996, the unique nonprofit organization houses over 35 civilian and military helicopters, autogyros, and convertiplanes, some of which are vintage copters and early machines developed by industry pioneers. It also boasts an extensive library and countless archives. Programs include free tours, helicopter restoration, educational presentations for almost all ages, Girls in Science and Technology (GIST), an author’s speaker’s series, and magnetics, coding, and electricity workshops. Exhibits entail a variety of media from audio and video to a hands-on simulator. http://americanhelicopter.museum/.
ARMY HERITAGE CENTER950 Soldiers Drive, Carlisle, PA 17013, 717-258-1102, info@armyheritage.org. https://www.armyheritage.org/.
BALLET GUILD OF THE LEHIGH VALLEY, 556 Main Street, Bethlehem, PA 18018, 610-865-0353, pyb@rcn.com. The Ballet Guild’s Summer Dance Program (located at its studios, 556 Main Street, Bethlehem) includes classes for ages three through adult on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Choose one week, two weeks, or more to fit with your schedule! The youngest students begin with an introduction to the basics of ballet. 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. https://www.bglv.org/classes/summer-dance-program/.
BERKS HISTORY CENTER, 940 Centre Ave, Reading, PA 19601, (610) 375-4375, education@berkshistory.org. https://www.berkshistory.org/.
CAMP LEE MAR, Ari Segal, Director, 450 Route 590, Lackawaxen, PA 18435, 215-658-1708, ari@leemar.com. Founded in 1953, Camp Lee Mar has brought many innovations to the field of camping for children with special needs and continues to do so. Camp Lee Mar is a private, residential camp for children ages 7-21. Camp Lee Mar offers unique summer programs for kids with special needs with a full curriculum incorporating a strong Academic and Speech program with traditional camp activities. Our campers flourish at Lee Mar due to the structured environment we provide, which allows our campers to feel comfortable and secure. Some of our campers may be in a mainstream program at school during the year while working on social skills and life skills at our unique camp during the summer. www.leemar.com.
CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF PITTSBURGH, 10 Children’s Way, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, 412-322-5058, camps@pittsburghkids.org, Summer camps at Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh and MuseumLab are where kids can explore art, making, storytelling, nature, game design, metalworking and much more! Camps take full advantage of our award-winning exhibits, art studios, maker spaces and garden, all on the largest children’s campus in the country. Camp programs are developmentally appropriate and fun, and provide enriching experiences that inspire joy, creativity, curiosity and kindness. https://pittsburghkids.org/summer-camps/.
DESTINATION GETTYSBURG, 1195 Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg, 717-334-6274 or 1-800-337-5015, info@destinationgettysburg.com. https://destinationgettysburg.com/.
ERIE PHILHARMONIC, 23 West 10th Street, Suite 3, Erie, PA 16501, 814.455.1375, info@eriephil.org. https://eriephil.org/.
FORT LIGONIER, Intersection of U.S. 30 and PA Route 711, 200 South Market Street, Ligonier, Pennsylvania 15658, 724-238-9701. office@fortligonier.org. https://www.fortligonier.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.
GOODELL GARDENS & HOMESTEAD, 221 Waterford St. (Route 6N), Edinboro, PA 16412, (814) 734-6699, info@goodellgardens.org. Goodell Gardens & Homestead is a public garden, accredited arboretum, and community gathering space in Edinboro. Offering opportunities for pre-K through adults to learn in their outdoor classrooms or inside their Victorian-era barn, there is something for everyone! Goodell Gardens & Homestead boasts a large collection of rhododendron and azaleas, Pennsylvania’s Champion Paper Birch Tree, and rare and extirpated specimen trees. Be sure to schedule extra time to visit the Gardens and enjoy the trails on the rest of the property. Check out their full schedule of events that includes live music, live theatre, festivals, and more! https://goodellgardens.org.
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.
HERSHEY HISTORY CENTER, 40 Northeast Drive, Hershey, Pennsylvania 17033, 717-520-0748, info@hersheyhistory.org. https://www.hersheyhistory.org/.
HISTORIC HANNA’S TOWN, 809 Forbes Trail, Road, Greensburg, PA 15601, 724-836-1800, history@westmorelandhistory.org. Established in1773, Hanna’s Town was the site of the first seat of government for Westmoreland County and hosted the first English Courts west of the Allegheny Mountains, signaling settlers foothold on the Pennsylvania frontier and the push to move west. Historic Hann’s Town consists of the reconstructed Hanna’s Tavern, three re-located log houses, a reconstructed Revolutionary War era fort, and a wagon shed that houses an authentic late 18th century Conestoga Wagon. westmorelandhistory.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.
JOHN JAMES AUDUBON CENTER, 1201 Pawlings Road, Audubon, PA 10403, 610-666-5594, marcy.engleman@audubon.org. The mission of the John James Audubon Center is to educate and inspire people to cherish and protect the natural world, by preserving Audubon’s artistic, scientific, and historic legacy and celebrating the conservation movement he inspired while serving the mission of the National Audubon Society (NAS), “to conserve and restore natural ecosystems, focusing on birds, other wildlife, and their habitats for the benefit of humanity and the earth’s biological diversity.” https://johnjames.audubon.org/.
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/
MID-AIR MUSEUM, 11 Museum Drive, Reading, PA 19605, (610) 372-7333, maam@maam.org. https://www.maam.org/.
MILLBROOK MARSH NATURE CENTER, 548 Puddintown Road, State College, PA 16801, 814-235-7819, mmnc@crcog.net. Millbrook Marsh Nature Center offers nature-based and environmental programs for people and groups of all ages. We also host a summer day camps, family special events, naturalist-led birthday parties and event and party. Our nature-themed group programs are also perfect for homeschool families and groups! Millbrook Marsh has over 50 acres of wetland habitat, great for short hikes and wildlife viewing. https://www.crpr.org/millbrook-marsh-nature-center.
MILLERSVILLE UNIVERSITY SUMMER SCIENCE TRAINING PROGRAM (SSTP), Millersville University, 50 East Frederick Street, Millersville, PA 17551, 717-871-4292, sstp@millersville.edu. The annual Summer Science Training Program (SSTP), sponsored by the Millersville University College of Science and Technology, offers two distinct five-day sessions of science and math workshops, with each session consisting of 10 stimulating topics under the STEM umbrella. SSTP provides students with learning opportunities typically not available at the pre-college level through a wide range of academic disciplines and a focus on intensive student-teacher interaction, advanced-level learning, research, and problem-solving experiences. The University encourages all students interested in STEM fields and entering 8th through 12th grades in the fall of 2023 to include this engaging and enriching program in their summer schedule. https://www.millersville.edu/sstp/index.php.
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF INDUSTRIAL HISTORY, 602 East Second Street, Bethlehem, PA 18015, 610-694-6644, info@nmih.org. Housed in the former Electric Repair Shop of the Bethlehem Steel plant site on the vibrant SteelStacks arts & culture campus, the National Museum of Industrial History interprets industry past, present and future through dynamic exhibits, hands-on interactives and engaging programs. Visitors of all ages can enjoy the stories of the people, machines and ideas that transformed our nation through a rich collection of rare artifacts. Bring your family to the Smithsonian Affiliate in your neighborhood and explore lively South Bethlehem including the iconic Bethlehem Steel Blast Furnaces, Hoover Mason Trestle, unique retail shops, restaurants and more. https://www.nmih.org/.
NED SMITH CENTER FOR NATURE & ART, 176 Water Company Road, Millersburg PA, 17061, 717-692-3699, info@nedsmithcenter.org. “Seeing is more than merely looking, it involves noticing things” – Ned Smith. Rooted in the scenic Susquehanna Valley of Central Pennsylvania, we strive to be the leading institution for the collection and dissemination of art and natural history knowledge, particularly when the two intersect and reinforce one another. We are the repository for the art, writings and other work of the late Ned Smith, from whose life the center takes its original inspiration. The center seeks to appeal to all ages, races and genders across Pennsylvania and beyond. The mission of the Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art is to honor the legacy of Ned Smith by merging the arts and natural world through education, exhibition, and experiences. nedsmithcenter.org.
OLD ECONOMY VILLAGE, 270 16th Street, Ambridge, PA 15003, (724) 266-4500, RA-PHOldEconomy@pa.gov. Old Economy Village preserves, presents, and proclaims the exemplary history of the Harmony Society and inspires people to strive for a better future. Old Economy Village is administered by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission and is actively supported by the Friends of Old Economy Village which is a non-profit community-based organization. Old Economy Village has tours, camps, and a variety of events throughout the year. Check our website for more information. www.oldeconomyvillage.org.
OLD HANNA’S TOWN, 809 Forbes Trail Road, Greensburg, PA 15601, (724) 836-1800, history@westmorelandhistory.org. https://westmorelandhistory.org/hannas-town/.
PENN STATE FAYETTE SUMMER CAMPS, 2201 University Drive, Lemont Furnace, Pennsylvania 15456, 724-430-4211, mrb370@psu.edu. https://fayette.psu.edu/ce
PENN STATE SCRANTON – NITTANY CUB CAMPS, 120 Ridge View Drive, Dunmore PA 18512, 570-963-2600, scrantonoutreach@psu.edu. Penn State Scranton has a wide variety of fun-filled summer camps for youth and teens to attend during the summer months. Youth campers explore interests while engaging in projects, crafts and events that provide subtle education in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. Camps run on Penn State Scranton’s campus July 10-August 4, 2023. https://scranton.psu.edu/cubcamps.
PENNSYLVANIA LUMBER MUSEUM, 5660 US Route 6, Ulysses TWP, PA 16948, 814-435-2652, palumbermuseum@gmail.com. The Pennsylvania Lumber Museum is a fun and educational experience for the entire family. Visitors will discover the courageous yet reckless spirit of Pennsylvania’s lumbering past and learn to care for present and future forests. Hands-on exhibits simulate activities like swinging an ax and sawing a tree. Outside, see a 70-ton Shay geared–locomotive, a Barnhart log loader, and two historic log cabins- one built by the C.C.C. and the other by outdoor enthusiasts Bob & Dotty Webber. Our steam-powered sawmill is run three times a year at our Spring Show, Bark Peelers’ Festival, and Fall Show events. http://lumbermuseum.org/.
PEOPLE’S LIGHT SUMMER BLAST, 39 Conestoga Road, Malvern, PA 19355, 610.647.1900, gray@peopleslight.org. https://www.peopleslight.org/education/summerblast/.
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, th farm is open by reservation for a variety of educational. programs, field trips and workshops. Check the website at https://quietvalley.org.
RAILROAD MUSEUM OF PENNSYLVANIA, P. O. Box 125, 300 Gap Road, PA Route 741, Strasburg, PA 17579, (717) 687-8628, info@rrmuseumpa.org. The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania preserves and showcases the awe-inspiring power of trains in a world-class collection of 100 historic locomotives and railroad cars, spanning the mid-19th through the late 20th century. You’ll discover first-hand the captivating personal stories and the thousands of fascinating artifacts that demonstrate the role railroads have played, past and present, in building our nation and shaping our daily lives. Established by an act of state legislature and opened to the public in 1975, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania is the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s official railroad museum and ranks among the world’s finest railroad museums. https://www.rrmuseumpa.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, 141 S. Main Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701, 570-408-4325, melissa.carestia@wilkes.edu. The Sordoni Art Gallery is a different kind of classroom. With a mission to encourage an appreciation of the arts within Wilkes-Barre and the surrounding community, we offer a wide variety of free educational events throughout the year. Free group tours and K-12 activities are available by emailing melissa.carestia@wilkes.edu. Or visit our website for more information. https://www.wilkes.edu/about-wilkes/arts/sordoni-art-gallery/kids-at-sag.aspx.
SOUTHERN ALLEGHENIES MUSEUM OF ART (SAMA), 137 E. Pitt Street, Bedford, PA 15522, 814-589-3020, bedford@sama-art.org. The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art makes art accessible to rural Pennsylvania by providing a gathering space for artists, teachers, students, and more. As the nation’s longest-running museum satellite system, there are five museum facilities each serving their distinct community by displaying everchanging exhibitions of American art from the permanent collection and by presenting award-winning educational programs and special projects. At Bedford, enjoy creativity stations that support versatile learning styles to experience art in a hands-on approach in the Children’s Discovery Gallery. Explore seven galleries with artworks by internally known artists like Andy Warhol and local legends from your community. https://www.sama-art.org/bedford.
THE AMISH VILLAGE, 199 Hartman Bridge Road, Ronks, PA 17572, 717-687-8511, Groups@AmishVillage.com. The Amish Village offers homeschool groups an exciting and authentic look at the Amish culture. Your experience begins inside an 1840 Amish Farmhouse as a guided tour gives your group an up close and personal view of Amish home life, customs, and traditions. During this 25-minute tour, students can see how the Amish live and ask questions about the Amish lifestyle. After the farmhouse tour, the students can explore the 12-acre property: Barn animals to pet and feed; One-room Amish schoolhouse; Blacksmith Shop; A covered bridge, windmill, & water wheel; A variety of Amish buggies to explore; and a Picnic Area. \ https://www.amishvillage.com/.
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.
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, 101 Visitor Center Drive, Williamsburg, VA 23185, 1-800-228-8878, groupsales@cwf.org. At Colonial Williamsburg, 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 our new interpretive stations. For smaller homeschool groups, we offer Homeschool Days with discounted tickets at special times in the spring and fall of each year. Colonialwilliamsburg.org/grouptours.
JAMESTOWN SETTLEMENT & AMERICAN REVOLUTION MUSEUM AT YORKTOWN, Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation, PO Box 1607, Williamsburg, VA 23187-1607, (757) 253-4939, 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 roll learning about history at both museums September 2 through 17 during “Homeschool Program Days” with special admission. https://www.jyfmuseums.org/learn/homeschool-youth-programs.
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.
RESTON CAMPS, 12001 Sunrise Valley Drive, Reston, VA 20191, (703) 435-6544, kcaffrey@reston.org. Celebrating our 49th summer, Reston camps is the longest-operating camp program in our community. At Reston Camps, we explore nature, find new talents, try new activities, play games and make lasting friendships. We hire experienced staff with a passion for providing children with a rewarding and memorable experience. All staff receive extensive training in positive behavior support, child development, and child abuse training, as well as mandatory certification in CPR/First Aid/AED, and a criminal background and a Central Registry check. We pride ourselves in small group sizes and our safety and supervision exceed the minimum standards for child day centers, as required by the Virginia Department of Social Services. For more information, contact us at camp@reston.org.
VIRGINIA MUSEUM OF TRANSPORTATION, INC., 303 Norfolk Avenue, Roanoke, VA 24016, 540.342.5670 ext 108, Mflynn@vmt.org. Bring your group to the VMT for a fun-filled field trip. We offer interactive programs that teach STEAM components in an engaging manner. Group rates offered for 10 or more people. www.vmt.org.
VIRGINIA MUSICAL MUSEUM, 6316 Richmond Road, Williamsburg, VA 23090, 757-303-5907, info@virginiamusicalmuseum.com. In our museum, you will see one of the largest collections of music artifacts and memorabilia in the country. We have Marvin Gaye/Wayne Newton’s 1978 roadster, a 1790 harpsichord, performing dresses from Patsy Cline and Ella Fitzgerald and so much more. A guide will play nickelodeons, music boxes, phonographs, band organ and a self-playing pipe organ with a brief history about our instruments and famous Virginians. We have a five-star rating on TripAdvisor and Yelp. Our guided tour takes about one hour and 16 minutes and costs $12 per person. For more information visit: virginiamusicalmuseum.com.
VIRGINIA REP’S SUMMER CAMPS, 4204 Hermitage Road, Richmond, VA 23237, (804)282-2620 for Box Office; (804)783-1688 x1151 for Education Department, ikuykendall@virginiarep.org. Sign up for Virginia Rep’s Summer Camps! Virginia Rep’s fun-filled camps are full of creative exploration and imaginative play. Our unique theatre camps provide exciting performance opportunities for students Pre-K – 12. These programs are designed with the novice and seasoned performer in mind. With instruction by some of Virginia’s finest theatre artists and educators, your dramatic student will have a theatrical experience like no other! Camps will take place at the new Virginia Rep Center for Arts and Education, located off of Hermitage Road. We are ecstatic to welcome the community to our new home, named with our commitment to arts and education, in mind. We can’t wait to see you there! https://va-rep.org/camps.html.
VIRGINIA WAR MEMORIAL, 621 S. Belvidere Street, Richmond, VA 23220, 804-786-2060, info@vawarmemorial.org. https://vawarmemorial.org/.