educational field trips in houston

• Grades 6-12
• School Leaders

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16 of the Best Field Trip Ideas in Houston, Texas

From the ballet to the farm.

As the fourth largest city in the United States, it isn’t hard to find great field trip opportunities in Houston. Whether you are looking for an in-depth STEM trip or to bring history to life, Houston has you covered. Here are some of teachers’ favorite Houston field trip ideas:

The Texas Renaissance Festival School Days program in November brings history alive for students in every grade. Jousting, theater, music, trade, crafts, and medieval life are all on display with costumed actors. Students may also enter a variety of contests, including poetry, art, costume, and trebuchet. 

2. In and around Hermann Park

A great place for a full-day trip, Hermann Park is a major hub for Houston field trips for students of all ages. Start your day at the world-class Houston Zoo then enjoy your picnic lunch in the park itself. As a bonus, check out the train that goes throughout the park. Miller Outdoor Theater also puts on children’s performances throughout the year.

3. Drama, drama, drama

Alley Theatre , the Houston Symphony , the Houston Ballet , and Main Street Theater all offer student matinee performances throughout the year. These performances are generally reduced price or even free, depending on the venue and program. Post-performance discussions with the cast and crew are also included.

4. Not just dinosaur bones

Science and history come alive at the Houston Museum of Natural Science . The main campus also offers IMAX, a butterfly dome, and planetarium shows. The George Observatory in Brazos Bend State Park features even more student experiences, including astronomy lessons and nature trails.

5. Hands-on learning

Learning comes alive at the Children’s Museum of Houston in all 14 of their hands-on exhibits featuring s cience and technology, history and culture, health and human development, math, literacy, and the arts. Upper elementary classes may also enjoy checking out their problem-solving or maker lab programs.

6. Back to the drawing board

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston offers guided and self-guided tours for student groups of all ages. Plus, it’s free for school groups!

7. It’s alive!

Younger students and older ones alike will have something great to do at the Health Museum , especially at one of the hands-on labs or lab demonstrations.

8. Holocaust Museum

With their mission to fight prejudice, hatred, and apathy while honoring the victims of the Holocaust, the Houston Holocaust Museum is more sober than many but still important in today’s world. Trained docents lead in-depth tours for students in sixth grade and above, and the museum also offers teaching aids and resources for all educators.

9. Houston, we have a field trip

With hundreds of activities, Space Center Houston is a great option for any STEM trip. There are several programs available for schools. In addition, FIRST LEGO League teams (as well as Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops) also have the opportunity for overnight trips.

10. We the People

The Houston Branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas serves south and southeast Texas and offers tours for high school juniors and seniors, while City Hall is the seat of government and welcomes students ages nine and up. It is an opportunity for students to see how the government works up close. Municipal buildings and local city halls in the surrounding areas offer similar opportunities.

11. Once upon a time in Texas

Washington on the Brazos , Sam Houston Park , George Ranch Historical Park , San Jacinto Monument and Battleship Texas .  There are so many great living history and historical sites around Houston that it is hard to choose just one! Each of these sites offers a unique look at what life in Texas has been like throughout the ages, from the pioneer days through World War II.  

12. Tree Days

Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty exploring the natural world at the Houston Arboretum . Students might not be planting trees or gardening all day, but they will learn about environmental science and the natural world.

13. Down on the farm

Old Macdonald Farm , Oil Ranch , Dewberry Farm —y ounger students will love life on the farm. In the fall, all feature seasonal activities, including live animals, pumpkin patches, and plenty of fun.

14. Check out the life aquatic

It may seem like just a restaurant or small amusement park at first, but the Downtown Aquarium also offers a first-class aquatic experience. You might even have time for the Ferris wheel. Moody Gardens , closer to Galveston, also offers close-ups to aquatic and rainforest life as well as overnight adventures.

15. Museums galore

If you are looking for a unique field trip experience off the beaten path, check out one of these lesser-known museums around (or outside of) town:

• The Printing Museum
• Fire Museum of Houston
• Rosenberg Railroad Museum
• Nation Museum of Funeral History
• Buffalo Soldiers Museum
• Menil Collection
• Museum of the American GI

16. Bring the field trip to you

Whether funding, time, or policy keeps you from visiting the great sites around Houston, many of these organizations offer programs where they come to you.

What Houston field trip ideas did we miss? Come and share in our WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.

Plus, Best Field Trip Ideas for Every Age and Interest (Virtual Options Too!)

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

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Houston Field Trips

The FieldTripDirectory.com is a resource for field trips for students, camp groups, homeschool groups and scout troops for day field trips, overnight field trips and youth retreats. Learn about Texas’s museums, zoos and aquariums, botanic gardens, nature centers, historic sites, amusement parks, recreation, performing arts and more in Metro Houston. CLICK on the ACTIVITY FILTER below to learn about these types of field trips.

• Financial Support
• Children's Museums & Indoor Fun
• Historical Railroad Excursions
• History Museums, Exhibits & Sites
• Multicultural & Heritage
• Transportation: Boats, Planes, Trains, & Trollies
• Bowling & Bocce
• Indoor Amusement & Recreation Centers
• Laser Tag/Laser Maze
• Sports/Games/Fitness & Water Wars
• Group-Friendly Restaurants
• Aquariums, Marine Life, Hatcheries
• Birds, Butterflies, Bees
• Botanical Gardens & Arboreta
• Environmental Studies, Outdoor Education, Conservation, Sustainability
• Planetariums & Astronomy
• Science Museums & Exhibits
• STEM/STEAM Enrichment
• Zoos, Wildlife, Safari Tours, Reptiles, Animal Shows, Vertebrates
• Art Museums, Design, Exhibits, Photography & Films
• Theater, Dance, Music, Movies, Shows
• Early Childhood
• Elementary School
• Middle School
• High School

Galveston Railroad Museum

The historic Galveston Railroad Museum is a living history museum that offers interactive activities for all ages. Step inside trains and experience sensory tours. Curriculum materials are available.

Houston Ballet

The Houston Ballet teaches school groups about ballet through its matinee performances, dance classes, studio performances, and outreach programs. Also family friendly performances.

Houston Symphony

The Houston Symphony educates students through student concerts customized to early childhood, elementary, middle school, and high school-level learners. Also family friendly performances.

iT’Z Family Food and Fun

iT’Z Family Food and Fun is the family value indoor fun destination, with locations in Euless and Houston. Arcade, bowling, rock climbing, laser tag, bumper cars and more! Attractions vary by location.

PINSTRIPES HOUSTON

Dine, Play, Celebrate! The best field trips happen at Pinstripes, an esteemed dining and entertainment destination that offers a kids-friendly Italian-American menu and a modern spin on bocce and bowling.

American Cowboy Museum

The American Cowboy Museum preserves and interprets the art, history, and culture of the contributions of African Americans, Hispanic, Native Americans, and Women to the development of the American West.

Children's Museum of Houston

At the Children’s Museum of Houston experience new worlds and make new discoveries about science, the environment, culture, math, and the arts through 14 continuously-changing exhibitions, innovative workshops, and exciting activities.

Downtown Aquarium - Houston

Downtown Aquarium features touch pools, shark tanks, games, rides, and interactive exhibits. Groups can go behind-the-scenes to see how exhibits are maintained and learn about aquarium careers.

Holocaust Museum Houston

The Holocaust Museum Houston educates about the dangers of prejudice and hatred in society. The museum’s exhibit, called “Bearing Witness: A Community Remembers”, focuses on the stories of Holocaust survivors living in the Houston metropolitan area.

Houston Arboretum & Nature Center

Reconnect with nature at the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center’s 155-acre sanctuary. Programs allow visitors to explore plants, logs, pond life, and the interactions between different parts of the environment.

Houston Museum of Natural Science (HMNS)

The Houston Museum of Nature Sciences has 3 floors which consists of the Burke Baker Planetarium, Wortham GIANT Screen Theatre, Cockrell Butterfly Center and a fascinating variety of permanent science exhibit areas.

Houston Museum-African American Culture

The Houston Museum-African American Culture explores the culture of Africans and African-Americans in Houston, the state of Texas, the southwest and the African Diaspora.

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

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

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

Houston Groups and Field Trip Opportunities

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Houston Field Trip & Group Tour Opportunities

It’s field trip time! Sometimes you just have to get a group together! Here are some great places to go and things to see with your group, be school, scout, or any other! Check out our Calendar of Events for information related to specific education days and events.

*Always independently verify times and prices

What kind of field trip are you taking?

Nature, outdoors, & animals, theatre & the arts, athletic & just for fun.

Field trips focusing on history, culture, and education.

• Available for groups of 15 or more
• Minimum 12 children and adults, $4.50-9.50 per person
• Self-Guided
• Structured Programs
• Immersive/ Role-Playing:
• $4 per child, $5 per adult chaperone (1 for every 10 students required)
• Tours are for grades 6 and up, maximum 60 people
• Tours last 2 1/2 hours and cannot be scheduled to start after 3 pm
• $5 per person upto 25 people, tours last 1-1.5 hours
• Usually November ; $5 per person
• $7.95 per student, an optional add-on available such as the Aviation Learning Center and specific classes
• Group rates available for a minimum of 25 guests, $8 per person
• Available Wednesday through Friday at 10:30 a.m. or 1 p.m.
• $5-7 per person
• San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site – admission to the site is FREE there are additional fees to access the San Jacinto Museum features : ride the elevator to the top of the monument ($2 each), to access the special exhibits ($2 each) and/or watch Texas Forever!! ($4 each) – a combo ticket for school groups is $4 each
• Battleship Texas : the ship has closed for an extensive repair project. There is no projected reopening date.
• Canceled as of 2021

Pack the sunscreen and bug spray! Fill up your water bottle! These options will take your field trip outside and up close with nature and its inhabitants.

• $5 per student, add-ons available
• Hive Tours, Honey Tasting, & Queen catching demos can be set up along with specialty classes and multiple events throughout the year
• Crocodile Encounter
• Students, Chaperones & Parents $8.00 …Teachers, Teacher Aides and bus drivers FREE.
• Free, but reservations are required for large groups
• Downtown Aquarium – Several tours and classes available for a groups
• Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier : options available for private groups of 25+ and school groups
• Options available September-May for all grades. A minimum of 20 students required for booking, $6-15 per students
• By appointment only, free with recommended donations.
• Appropriate for second grade and higher, 1 adult per six children, max group size is 20.
• M-F, 1 FREE adult chaperone required per 10 students (1 for every 5 Pre-K students)
• Students $12; Adults $15, plus $20 processing fee on all orders
• Minimum 20 people, rates starting at $7.95 per person, meal add-ons available
• Program for Pre-K through 6th, $5-$7 per student. Maximum 40 students or two classes.
• Perfect for groups under 50

The Outdoor Education Center at Camp Olympia

Led by experienced, certified teachers, the Outdoor Education Center at Camp Olympia features a Texas TEKS aligned curriculum and takes a hands-on approach to learning in the beautiful Pineywoods of East Texas. We offer programs for multiple grade levels and serve public, private, and homeschool organizations. Our team of instructors is trained in the best practices for outdoor education.

Explore impactful lesson plans like Forest and Aquatic Ecology, Texas History, and Astronomy designed to increase engagement and retention.

Work with our team to plan your day or overnight experience that’s tailored to the needs of your school. Take learning outdoors!

• Minimum of 15 guests
• Sheldon Lake State Park : For groups of 50 or less (or two classes) with a 1:10 ratio of chaperones to students, programming is offered T-Su, 9 am – 5 pm
• 25 student max, off-site outreach available

From the quirky to the elegant. Her you can find a field trip for all of your artistic whims.

• Tickets $12.50
• This is a small museum there are a few parking spots in front and a few on the street. Call if you will be taking a larger group.
• Reservations should be made at least 3 weeks prior to visit
• Guided programs appropriate for students 9 and up, maximum of 96 students, FREE
• Free for some groups, but reservations required for groups between 10 and 60. Groups must register 10 days prior to visiting
• Downtown Aquarium – Several tours and classes available for a group to set up
• Programs : Ballet Talks, Chance to Dance, Dance to Learn, Guest Speaking, X: Explore, Extend, Excel!, Learning From the Masters, Studio Series, Student Matinees
• You can add a one-hour workshop for $50, plus $5 per participant
• Houston Grand Opera : performances and camps and student matinees
• $20 per seat for groups of 20 or less, $0-10 each for groups of 20 or more, 1 complimentary adult seat for every 10 students
• Self-guided and guided tours available, FREE
• 1-week notice for groups of more than 20 people & one adult chaperone for every 10 students required
• Free tours are available Wednesday, Thursday, and Fridays at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., and 1:30 p.m. for groups of 10-60 persons.
• The tour will be themed toward the age group
• Guided Tours – a free docent-led tour that lasts about 45 minutes.
• School Tours – to coordinate a larger group
• Tu-Th Group tours by appointment only
• Fr & Sa guided tours at 11 am and 2 pm
• Project Row Houses: W-Su 12-5 pm, $0-$12
• Rienzi : Docent-led tours for school groups, FREE, Wed.-Fri. 10 am, 11 am, and 1 pm
• Rothko Chapel: 10 am -5 pm (for groups of 20 or more please a maintain a ratio of 1:10 chaperones to students is preferred), FREE (Donation of $5 per person suggested)
• $9.75 tickets, 1 complimentary chaperone ticket for every 10 student tickets

Science, technology, engineering, and math – there is a field trip for every option and often cross disciplines.

• Amazon Fulfillment Center – Live Virtual Tours & Amazon Future Engineer tours 
• For grades 1-12
• $11-15 per student, up to 50 students.
• Maker Annex Focus Tour : $10/ child (2 chaperones required for every 12 children, FREE)
• Tour separated into five 20-minute segments
• Scouts have two dedicated nights for sleepovers, $50 per scout and $25 per chaperone
• City of Houston WaterWorks Education Center : FREE, by Appointment only – M-F 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.; suggested for groups of 15-50 students
• Can accommodate up to 200 people for Open Lab. Open Lab/ Walk-ins every Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat & Sun: $15-28, Ages 3 and up
• Summer Groups of 15 or more are $9 each in June and $10 thereafter
• Schools or large groups can schedule from Oct-May on a Wednesday to Friday (except first Fridays of the months) from 10:15 a.m. – noon, admission will be $6 per student (minimum group size 15)
• Lab add-ons available from $5-15 per student
• For grades 1-12, and groups 12-44, from 1 hour and starting at $160
• Student Labs – 1-hr. labs, up to 25 students, $165-200
• Kids Robotic Academy – Daytime classes for all age groups
• 1-hour hands-on science labs, minimum of 20 people, starting at $7.25 per participant
• For grades K-4 at your location, minimum 25 kids
• Ocean Star ffshore Energy Center: Various options available for all kinds of groups and field trips. Educational tours start at $4 with activity add-on options
• $5.95-$12.95 advanced purchase (minimum of 20, 1 FREE with every 20)
• Other groups can also receive discounted admission
• The program needs at least 10 participants to open, max. 70
• 3-5 day program intensive program
• No on-site dormitories, double-occupancy hotel accommodations can be added
• Marine-oriented field trips for groups of all ages! 

ATHLETIC & JUST FOR FUN

• Funplex Amusement Park: Passes from $19.99 per person, food add-ons available.
• Educational Tours – available M-F, with a group minimum of 25 guests, contact 713.259.8996 or email [email protected] $6-$20
• NRG Stadium Tour: $5-6, 2 & under FREE. Parking is free in the Blue Lots, via Gate #9. Select Tuesdays & Thursdays at 10:15 a.m., noon, & 2 p.m. please email [email protected] to confirm.
• $2/ child, maximum 15. Cookie and gelato included!

STEM FIELD TRIPS PLACE- HOUSTON, TX

FIELD TRIP ATTRACTIONS

Discover hands-on fun with Funtastik Labs field trips in Houston, where STEM and art collide! Dive into interactive adventures in science, art, slime, and engineering, making each fun yet educational school outing unforgettable. Choose from five dynamic, hands-on attractions for the ultimate field trip experience in Houston.

SCIENCE LAB

Come play scientist! Each student gets to perform 3-4 hands-on science experiments. Experiments are fun and engaging and focus kids on a specific scientific theme and explore multiple scientific phenomena.

CANVAS PAINTING

Put on a smock, grab a paintbrush, and pick your fun stencil! It’s time to explore how acrylic paints mix and blend to create your abstract masterpieces on canvas. Don’t forget to take it home to hang on the wall! 

MAGICAL STEAM

Bring the magic of science and art to life as each kid creates their own magic wand and use it to cast a magic science spell or two. Kids get to take their magic wands. 

ROBOT CHALLENGE

Build & code cool robots that drive, dance, or dominate the competition using LEGO Kits! Along the way kids learn teamwork, building, coding, and debugging issues and till they succeed.  Ages 7+.

CHOOSE PACKAGE

#attraction

Price per kid

*Lunch time option

All options include 2 teachers or chaperone per 10 kids.  $10 per additional adult.

FIELD TRIP BOOKING OPTIONS

BOOK ONLINE

• Instantly confirm your booking
• $100 deposit required (towards final balance)
• Invoice sent by email (within 2-3 days)
• Balance due by day of field trip

Sugar Land  bookings available starting Summer 2024.  Summer field trips will be offered at Sugar Land location.

BUILD A QUOTE

• PDF quote sent within a few hours
• Best for schools using purchase orders
• Invoice sent by email (2-3 days)
• Pay balance online or by check

STEM FIELD TRIP REVIEWS

SCIENCE FIELD TRIP

Stem field trip, robotics field trip, conveniently located field trip location near you in houston.

5 Mins from I-10 & 99! Looking for fun educational hands-on steam field trips ideas for your elementary or preschool students? Come to Funtastik Labs where we entertain and engage kids in the field of science, arts and technology. Come play scientist in our Science Lab equipped with fun hands-on experiments, lab-coats and googles. Put on a smock and let your group unleash their creativity in our art lab loaded with designs and inspirations. Challenge the kids with our engineering activities designed to bring out their innovation skills. Our friendly instructors will guide your group through the labs and activities that will create inspiring memories.

To learn more about our STEM field trips and about Funtastik Labs visit our   Picture Gallery

Plan Your Next Adventure:

• Elementary School Field Trips
• Preschool Field Trip
• Daycare Field Trip
• Title One School Field Trip
• Middle School Field Trip
• Scouts Meet
• Home School Meets
• Team Building Events
• Corporate Events

Field Trip Offered:

• Mondays through Fridays
• 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

IN-SCHOOL FIELD TRIP OPTIONS FOR SUMMER & SCHOOL YEAR

Houston Locations

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Houston Area Field Trips... Educational Things to Do around Houston!

Modified: Mar 30, 2021 by Jill Jarvis · This post may contain affiliate links · This blog generates income via ads · #sponsoredpost · 2 Comments

Since school is a little different this year… we’re posting an idea for a Houston area  field trip  each week. All are socially distanced and parent led... and in each post, we have some resources to read before your trip, details on each stop and parking/driving instructions.

If you have ideas for field trips and things to do in Houston, let us know!

Field Trips about Houston:

• Houston History : Learn about Houston History as you visit Allen’s Landing, Houston’s First City Hall, Houston’s First Library and Houston’s First Park.
• Texas City Field Trip : See the 9th largest port in the country and learn about one of the largest non-nuclear explosions ever… in Texas City.
• Houston Ship Channel : Here’s where to see the Houston Ship Channel… and how to see which ships are in the water! Use all the resources provided by the Houston Maritime Museum and then go see it for yourself!

Field Trips about War History:

• World War II History in Galveston : Tour old war ships and find an old fort.
• The Battle of San Jacinto : Go to where Texas won its independence. Go to the San Jacinto Battleground, the spot where Santa Anna was captured, the San Jacinto Monument and the San Jacinto Museum!
• Roadtrip to the National WWII Museum : Take a trip to a giant, immersive, engaging museum about the war that changed the world.

Field Trips about Science:

• DeBakey Cell Lab : Get Up Close with Cellular Biology!
• Energy : The Energy Industry Comes to Life at the Wiess Energy Hall!
• Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig : Learn all about the oil and gas industry while being aboard a retired jack-up drilling rig at the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig Museum.
• Lone Star Flight Museum : Learn about aviation, fly the simulator and explore hangars full of planes at the Lone Star Flight Museum!

Field Trips about Nature and Animals:

• Galveston Island State Park : Study Nature, Geocache, Fish & Hike at Galveston Island State Park!
• Butterflies : Explore the Butterfly Center and Plant Your Own Garden
• Mexican Free-Tail Bats : See 250,000 bats emerge from the Waugh Bridge Bat Colony!
• Crocodile Encounter : Get Up-Close to Alligators, Crocodiles and Tortoises… at Crocodile Encounter!
• BeeWeaver : Learn basic biology of honey bees & important steps in working a hive!

Virtual Field Trips:

• Virtual Field Trips in Houston : In most of our Houston field trips, we head out to parks, landmarks and museums… but in this post, we’re learning from home. Here are some ideas for virtual field trips in Houston!

Field Trips Especially for Little Kids:

• Fairy Trail : Little kids can search for fairies along a Fairy Trail… and learn about recycling, volunteerism, community, healthy eating, waste prevention, native plants and wildlife and care for our environment.

Field Trip Map:

More Houston Field Trips

About Jill Jarvis

Jill Jarvis is the owner of JillBJarvis.com, a BigKidSmallCity.com and Things to Do in Houston, with Kids, blog!

She is the mom of five and started the website years ago... when she was tired of constantly cleaning up the same mess in the family room.

Another mom showed her that you could just go do fun things in Houston, without hours of planning.

This inspired the blog and changed everything about how she enjoyed life in Houston, with kids!

Reader Interactions

Heather says

September 10, 2020 at 10:56 am

We took a great Texas History field trip in April during distance learning lockdown. We drove through Washburn tunnel, the largest vehicular tunnel in the southern US traveling under the ship channel. Less than 5 mins from the tunnel is the site of Santa Anna’s capture at a park that overlooks the ship channel. Less than10 mins from there is a historic cemetery named Crown Hill Cemetery that is also the site of a mass grave for Santa Anna’s Mexican army. Down the road from the cemetery is where Vince’s bridge was (there is a marker) which was critical in winning the battle of San Jacinto. We would have ended this day at the San Jacinto monument but it was closed at the time. It was a great little adventure for us! Enjoy your homeschool days, I am sure they will be full of fun and learning!

Jill Jarvis says

September 10, 2020 at 11:30 am

Wow! Thanks for the field trip idea. We will try this out!

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Exhibitions

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Expedition Center

Transforming Students into Space Explorers

Mission options.

Special Characteristics Participants act only as astronauts, one adult required per 2 children to help with reading. Mars landing. Number of Participants Maximum of 22 students, 1 adult per 2 astronauts required; Ages 6-8 Length 1.5 hours Fee $255

Special Characteristics Participants act only as astronauts. Moon landing. Number of Participants Maximum of 22 astronauts; Ages 9-13 Length 1 hour Fee $230

Special Characteristics Participants act only as astronauts. Mars landing. Number of Participants Maximum of 22 astronauts: Ages 9-13 Length 1 hour Fee $230

Special Characteristics Participants act as astronauts and Mission Control specialists, landing on the Moon and on Mars. Number of Participants Maximum of 44 astronauts; Ages 9-13 Length 2 hours Fee $350

Special Characteristics Harder tasks. Participants act only as astronauts. Mars landing. Number of Participants 12-22 students Length 1 hour Fee $230

Special Characteristics Harder tasks. Participants act as astronauts and Mission Control specialists. Landings on Moon and Mars. Number of Participants 24-44 students Length 2 hour Fee $350

Special Characteristics Harder tasks. Adult participants act only as astronauts. Mars landing. Number of Participants Maximum of 22 astronauts Length 1.5 hours Fee $300

Special Characteristics Harder tasks. Participants act as astronauts and Mission Control specialists. Landings on Moon and Mars. Number of Participants Maximum of 44 astronauts Length 2.5 hours Fee $500

Additional Resources

Expedition center program reservations.

Select between the Expedition Center at HMNS or at the George Observatory The Expedition Center Program at the Museum includes admission to the Permanent Exhibit Halls and all the other venues are available at discounted school rates. HMNS is located near Hermann Park, central to everyone in the Houston area.

The Expedition Center at the George Observatory is located in Brazos Bend State Park, rated one of the top 10 state parks in the nation. Other activities can be added to a mission at the Observatory, such as astronomy classes and a visit to the large telescope. A day in Brazos Bend Park can be very educational in a relaxing atmosphere.

Select a mission option that fits your group Options are available at both centers. Full, Mini, Jr., Advanced Mini, Advanced Full have been developed to fit different age groups. At the George Observatory, astronomy classes can be added on to your mission to make Mega Expeditions.

Select 3 days that best suits your field trip schedule Some months are busier than others, therefore the amount of time you should register in advance will vary. For fall field trips, book as soon as school starts. Due to state testing and spring break, March and early April are ideal for home school groups and private schools to book and only a few weeks advanced registration is required. Late April and May are the busiest time of the year so registration should be made several months in advance. Generally there is higher demand for Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.

Submit the Expedition Center Program Expedition Form 1. Fill out the Field Trip Booking form 2. A Reservations Coordinator will be in contact to finalize your booking.

Teacher Resources

We recommend incorporating the expedition preparation materials into your daily curriculum taking advantage of this unique experience’s potential. Some activities go beyond science, such as team applications and designing an expedition patch. At a minimum, when students arrive, they should know: team they are on and their duties . A free curriculum is offered to prepare everyone for an exciting expedition to outer space in the Expedition Center!

Expedition Preparation Manuals: After booking an expedition, you’ll receive expedition preparation materials, containing a teacher packet, activity book, and confirmation letter. You can download the teacher packet here:

• Full Expedition, Regular or Advanced
• Mini Expedition, Moon or Mars, Regular or Advanced
• Junior Expedition

If you do not receive preparation materials with a confirmation letter in the mail within 2 weeks of registration, contact the number below .

Expedition Center History

After the 1986 Space Shuttle Challenger accident, the families of the astronauts wanted to continue the educational aspect of the Challenger mission. During a meeting of top educators from around the country, the idea of a space simulation was born.

The Nation’s first Expedition Center opened August 25, 1988 as the Challenger Learning Center at the Houston Museum of Natural Science. It was the first of an international network of over 45 Challenger Learning Centers. HMNS opened a second Expedition Center at the George Observatory in Brazos Bend State Park in 1992. The network serves to keep the spirit of the crew alive, not as a memorial carved out of stone, but as a memorial etched in the lives of the students from around the world who discover the thrill of learning every day.

The idea for the first mission, Rendezvous with Haley’s Comet, is based on the training the Challenger Shuttle astronauts received at the Houston Museum of Natural Science just one month before the Challenger accident. The Museum staff had been training the astronauts to find Haley’s Comet in the Burke Baker Planetarium at HMNS and felt that a voyage to study the comet was an appropriate way to “continue the mission.” HMNS premiered the Haley’s Comet mission and has since helped to develop the missions Return the Moon, Voyage to Mars, and Operation: LEAPFROG, a hybrid mission.

In 2002, the Expedition Center at HMNS was completely remodeled and renovated. Mission Control was given a new streamlined, high tech look while the flight simulator kept its classic style, unique among the network of 45 Challenger Learning Centers. The most up-to-date technology was incorporated throughout, including flat screen plasma monitors, video projection, and the latest in computer technology.

Today, the Expedition Center offers missions to groups of all kinds including school field trips, scout groups, and birthday parties. This unique experience uses space exploration to fuel the imagination and get participants excited about doing science in the classroom and as a career. The Expedition Center is a tool for teachers to help them work on teamwork, problem-solving, critical thinking, and processing information with their students. The program creates a motivation for learning science after the field trip and fosters a sense of accomplishment in students.

• Field Trips to Take in Houston

Houston is one of the most educationally diverse cities in Texas, offering guests of all ages something interesting and insightful to do during their visit. From the spacious Museum District to a multitude of different University experiences, there is certainly plenty to do to learn during your visit, which makes this one of our favorite cities for student field trips!

Below we have given the best options for field trips based on student age, allowing your group to make the most of your visit, educationally!

Field Trip Stockfresh

Kindergarten and Younger

• This is the PERFECT spot to bring your kindergarteners and kiddos, this zoo offering some of the cities best events, educational programs, and animal exhibits. With over 6,000 resident animals, you can be sure your students will see and learn all they can handle and have a lot of fun while doing it!
• This is always a great option for young students, the museum serving as a true 'playground for your mind'. The museum offers 14 different galleries, such as the Challenge Course, Coding Hangout, and Tot Spot.

Elementary School

• There are half-day guided field trip experiences offered at this gorgeous nature center, as well as several different hands-on activities that teach about life cycles, habitats, and food chains. Earth Science, Weather Phenomena, Wildlife Viewing, and several other topics can be discussed as well!
• Aquatic education and discovery galore, the Houston Downtown Aquarium offers interactive touch pools, exciting shark tanks, and amazing ecosystem displays! Elementary students will love exploring the over 500,000 gallons of aquatic display!!
• This museum is good for many aged students, and we highly suggest elementary AND kindergarten aged groups consider it!
• During the hot summer nights, you can head to Waugh Drive Bridge and see over 250,000 Mexican Free-Tail bats emerge from the caverns. This is a really cool way to teach your elementary students about bats, caverns, food chains, and local ecosystems. The general suggestion is to get to the bridge 15-30 minutes before sunset for the best viewing chances.

Middle School

• Considered to be one of the country's great urban green spaces, Buffalo Bayou Park is the perfect place for Middle School students to come get some fresh air, have a picnic lunch, or take part in some outdoor recreation. There are places to walk, run, cycle, relax, and even skateboard!
• Space Center Houston highlights all eras of American space travel through over 400 space artifacts, exhibits, attractions, and theaters. You will find the world's largest collection of moon rocks within the Starship Gallery (as well as the very cool Skylab Trainer Module), several spacecraft within Boeing's Independence Plaza, amazing shows within the 5-story Space Center Theater, and exclusive behind the scenes look at the Johnson Space Center with the NASA Tram Tour.
• Always free for guests, the Miller Outdoor Theater is one of the best options for large groups of students during the evening. You will see  'artistically excellent and culturally diverse' performances, the company showing classical, contemporary and world music and dance, Shakespeare, musical theater, films and much more.
• This non-collecting, always free, American Alliance of Museums facility presents the 'best and most exciting international, national, and regional art of our time'. Student Groups will enjoy participating in a guided tour or curriculum-based workshop, all workshops meant to enhance ideas and perspectives and allow students to make the connection between art and everyday life.
• Immerse your students in the subjects of astronomy, space, Native American culture, paleontology, energy, gems, chemistry, minerals, Texas wildlife, and so much more at the Houston Museum of Natural Science, one of the nations most visited science museums and one of our favorite educational choices for middle school students.

High School

High School Field Trip Stockfresh

• Also known as the Geral D. Hines Waterfall Park, this is one of the most interesting landmarks you can visit here. This multi-story sculptural fountain serves as the cornerstone of Uptown Houston, sitting at 64 feet high and recirculates 11,000 gallons of water per minute. This is a great, FREE, place to enjoy the art and culture of Houston.
• Follow the black granite band around the park and tour the artwork,  get a bit of exercise, relax, have a picnic lunch, shop the open-air market, eat at Niko Niko's sidewalk cafe, or spend some time meditating in Lauren's Garden...this is a great spot for high schoolers to get some time to explore on their own!
• Often times referred to as 'Garage Mahal', this museum features artists who strive to show fundamental changes in our consciousness and an indication of independence we crave, all through the art of the autos. You will see art cars, low riders, and other interesting mobile contraptions, as well as various rotating art displays in all mediums.
• One of the most cutting-edge art facilities in all of Houston, this museum considers itself to be the 'Gateway' between the university and city of Houston. Student groups of 10 or more can set up special guided tours, custom created to fit your particular topic or curriculum. After your visit, you may want to hang around the University of Houston for a campus visit, or just to grab some lunch! There's always time for a little college prep!!
• Of course, one of the best field trips your high school students can take is to any of the many local colleges. Visit this page for more university info!

Written by Danielle

View all posts by: Danielle

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Youth Field Trips

We offer field trips to Edith L. Moore Nature Sanctuary in West Houston.

• Edith L. Moore Nature Sanctuary

Immerse your students in the world of birds, nature and history at Houston Audubon’s Edith L. Moore Nature Sanctuary.  Group sizes are limited to 25 or fewer (depending on age). Please email for more information and to schedule: Vicki Stittleburg at vstittleburg@houstonaudubon.org  and Amber Leung at aleung@houstonaudubon.org .

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Field Trips

Educational Field Trips

Taking a field trip to Magical Winter Lights is a fun opportunity for students to engage in a culturally unique experience and learn about the world without ever leaving Texas. Discounted group rate tickets are available to educational organizations with groups of more than 20 students. Magical Winter Lights is pleased to offer students and teachers exclusive, self-guided tour opportunities to explore the event grounds on school days from 9 AM to 1 PM when the gates are normally closed to the public. Please note: Lanterns will not be on during your field trip.

To help guide your visit to Magical Winter Lights, a teacher information packet with worksheets for students and general information for teachers is available for download. This fun opportunity to preview the incredible lantern sets during daytime hours is accompanied by the chance to also explore the Dinosaur Activity Tent , a unique area in the festival grounds. In the Activity Tent, students can see life size and amazingly life-like models of dinosaurs, make fun memories while posing in the 3D-interactive gallery for pictures, and more. Don’t miss your chance to learn and play at Magical Winter Lights!

If you have any questions, please Contact Us .

Steps for reserving your school trip:

• Please email us directly to [email protected]
• Magical Winter Light’s Coordinator will reach out and provide necessary instructions to complete a form and application.
• Once the application has been completed and approved, payment will be due two (2) weeks prior to the assigned field trip date.

2022 Field Trip information coming soon!

School trips are self-guided through the event grounds. A Magical Winter Lights representative will greet you at the event entrance to admit your group and answer any initial questions you may have, then you will be able to explore the event grounds with your group as desired.

Please email us directly. 

Group rates will be offered starting for groups of 20 students or more. All groups must be accompanied by 1 adult chaperone for every 10 students.

No, groups will need to provide for transit for themselves to and from the event. However, free parking for buses is provided on site at the event.

Yes, space for students to sit and eat is available at the event. However, food is not provided for field trips at MWL. Students are permitted to bring a packed lunch to have at the event site.

Magical Winter Lights does not assume responsibility for attendees while on the field trip. On-site medical assistance is not offered during field trip hours. Please notify MWL staff if emergency medical attention is required and call 911.

Please contact us directly if interested. 

You will need about 2 hours to complete a daytime walkthrough of the Magical Winter Lights festival grounds.

Field trips are offered during the daylight between 9AM-1PM and the lanterns will not be visible. The lanterns will not be turned on but are just as beautiful during the daylight. 

School Trips can be rescheduled for another time up to 24 hours in advance of the scheduled arrival time. After that, trips can not be changed. No refunds are made for any reason once trips have been scheduled, however we do welcome you to reschedule your visit 24 hours in advance should something come up. Field trips are non-refundable.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding field trips, please send an email us and use the subject line “Field Trip Inquiry”.

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Field Trips

Learn in our living laboratory.

Houston Arboretum & Nature Center offers a variety of field trip programs that provide students and teachers with engaging nature education activities designed with a focus on TEKS objectives. Learn more about the programs we offer below! 

School Year Field Trips

Take your science lessons outdoors when you visit our 155-acre nature sanctuary with your students.

Half-Day Guided Field Experience

Full-Day Field Adventures

Special Programs

Water Quality Monitoring

Self-Guided Experience

For groups with fewer than 15 students, please look into our Private Group Tours .

Naturalist in Your Classroom

Book one of our Naturalists as a virtual or in-person speaker for your class.

Summer Discovery Program

Schedule a half day of hands-on science for your summer group.

Support the Houston Arboretum

The Houston Arboretum & Nature Center is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization which depends on donations to support nature education and conservation programs for Houstonians of all ages.

Budding Mama

Homeschool Resources for Early Education

February 25, 2022 by Kierra

25 Educational Ideas for Homeschoolers in Houston

Growing up one of my favorite things about school was spending the day out on a field trip.

As a homeschooler, you get to maximize both the fun and educational experiences for your little ones. You can incorporate as many field trips as you want that can benefit your current lessons without worrying about time restraints, permission slips, or school-limiting budgets.

So now the only questions that remain– are you a Houston-area homeschooler? And are you looking to explore more avenues of teaching that are out of your home?

If you answered yes to both of these questions then these 25 educational field trip ideas are just what you have been looking for.

But if you answered yes to the second question , but just aren’t in Houston or its surrounding areas then this post is the one for you. There you will find field trip ideas that work for any homeschooler nationwide.

Best Educational Field Trip Ideas:

• There are so many types of museums that you can take your family to. Art, history,contemporary, and so much more.
• You can honestly spend a better part of your homeschool year just visiting the different types of museums in the area.
• You will find over 6 different field trip ideas that are centered at kid-friendly museums. Think BEYOND your normal everyday walk and explore museums. Your little ones will love them.
• Similar to museums there are so many different types of theaters you can incorporate them on all levels.
• You can see plays/movies, visit musical theaters, or even check out puppet theaters.
• While, there are many options you will find 2 different ideas listed in the download plus tips on how to find many others.

Local Attractions:

• This types of field trip ideas are what make this FREEBIE so special.
• While, you can find some of these educational places anywhere you go there are just places that are unique to Houston (and the surrounding areas).
• You can find a zoo or an aquarium anywhere you go, but it’s not too many places you can check out a space station. Gems like those can only be found here so those 8 ideas are ones you want to take full advantage of.

Play-Related Activities:

• Taking time to get active and still learn is definitely the most entertaining for kids.
• As children grow much of their learning is done unknowningly just through play so these ideas are perfect to build on those skills.
• These 9 activities will have your little participating in interactive exercise classes, daytime camps, and hands-on group science experiments.

What makes this free printable so great is that you will find ideas that you may have thought of before, but also so many ideas that you may not have known were there for the choosing.

You’re Almost Ready…

Before you start planning your next trip don’t forget there are a few things you want to do first.

Plan Out Your Field Trips –be sure to check their hours, prices, and look for any days that they may have special events or pricing for homeschoolers.

Remember you can usually take advantage of most homeschool discounts by having your homeschool ID. If you haven’t already created yours get all the details in the article at the end of this post.

Map Out The Locations –Everyone from Houston knows Houston is a huge area. Some places are right in the center of Houston while others are in surrounding cities. You want to be sure you are aware of where you are going especially if any of the locations are further than you usually travel.

Make the Most of It –Of course, these are all educational ideas that are meant to make the most of the lessons you are currently teaching but remember this is the time for fun. These activities are educational, but they also make for a great time sometimes for the whole family. Take lots of photos and make the most of this special time with your little ones.

The list of things to do with your little ones is almost limitless. So get started TODAY and plan some super exciting activities with your family. Don’t forget to grab the curriculum planner where you can keep track of all your field trip details.

Exclusive to you: As a Houston-area homeschooler you not only get access to these 25 educational field trips, but you get to also take advantage of the general field trip list for homeschoolers across the nation.

While some of the ideas are duplicated such as visiting certain museums or places you will also find over 15 NEW ideas that you plan out for future field trips.

Check out the nationwide field trips list here…

Get the Houston field trips list using the button below:

Homeschool planning essentials for your field trips:.

Maximizing Your Discounts as a Homeschooler- While some of the field trip locations have set days where you can receive special discounts and others you may need to show your homeschool ID. Get everything you need to create your homeschool ID and homeschool letter. Plus, get access to a GIANT list of discounts exclusive to educators.

The Ultimate Homeschool Planner -Grab the editable homeschool curriculum planner with 15 pages of essential pages you need to get organized . The field trip planner will help you make the most of your plans, plus you will other resources like a lesson planner, book list, printables worksheet, and so much more.

Privacy Overview

• George Observatory
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Field Trips

Educational & entertaining, field trip curriculum.

To help your students get the most out of their field trip to the Museum, we offer supplementary information tailored for each grade level or high school course. Additional selection is coming soon.

Field Trip FAQs and Guidelines

To qualify as a school group, you must belong to an educational organization (K – 12), make advance reservations, and visit the Museum Thursday & Friday from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and Monday – Wednesday for groups of 60+ 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. The field trip rate also extends to home schools with at least 10 students.

Groups of fewer than 10 students may still book a field trip; however, they will be charged for 10 students plus any chaperones if they wish to receive the field trip rate. Our representatives are available to help determine the most cost-efficient method for your group to visit the Museum.For an established field trip, the person who booked the trip should call (713) 639-4659 at any time prior to the day of arrival to add or subtract people from the reservation. Groups that fall below 10 students will be charged for 10 students plus any chaperones in order to receive the field trip rate.

We require one chaperone for every ten students (groups should not exceed 10 students). Chaperones must remain with their students at all times. Chaperones must be at least 21 years of age and must wear their chaperone sticker. All teachers and chaperones included in the official count will pay the field trip rate; those not included in the chaperone count will need to purchase their own tickets at the full rate, if available, upon arrival.

Before the trip, reservation numbers can be updated by calling (713) 639-4659. On the day of the trip, the final count of students, parents, teachers, and chaperones must be written on the Required Teacher Admission Sheet found on page 2 of the Field Trip Preparation Planner.

Adding or removing venues from a reservation requires a four-day notice, if available. After tickets have been printed, the reservation may not be changed.

Lunches may be brought in and stored inside the Sugar Land Museum until your designated lunch time. For easy storage and retrieval, it is best to put lunches in a labeled ice chest, plastic tote, or box for transit.

The Museum offers customized TEKS-based curriculum, available at hmns.org/curriculum to accompany your field trip. These free units are designed to make the field trip experience educationally sound and fun and include a TEKS-aligned knowledge hunt and extension activities for grades K-8. High school curriculum is available, with a two-week notice, upon request. For questions, email [email protected].

Absolutely! Visit Special Attractions for more information about what is currently on display.

Yes! Docents are available to lead tours throughout the Museum. They are great for larger school groups and can accommodate up to 10 people (including chaperones) per docent. Tours are approximately 30-45 minutes long. A two-week notice is required. Cost: $15.00 per docent. Docents are available between 10 a.m.–1 p.m.

Explore science, nature, and history in our Science Labs which feature specimens, artifacts, and laboratory equipment. Each lab lasts one hour and accommodates up to 25 students. If your group is interested in scheduling a Lab, please visit hmns.org/sciencelab or contact [email protected] .

To drop off students, buses will enter the Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land property from the entrance on New Territory Blvd. Buses may park at the south end of the front parking lot.

It may also be possible to book one of our Outreach programs for your group during your visit to the Museum. These include Chevron Earth Science on Wheels, ConocoPhillips Science on Stage, El Paso Corporation Wildlife on Wheels, Docents to Go, Bugs on Wheels, and the Discovery Dome. The costs vary per program and per request. Please book your presentation at least one month in advance to avoid scheduling conflicts.

Field Trips

The School Field Trip season for 2023-2024 is sold out!

2023-24 Season is Sold Out

The School Field Trip season for 2023-24 are SOLD OUT. We’ll see you next season!

Field Trips Information

Welcome to our Field Trips Reservations system where you can take care of everything in one place! Book your spot, pay online, and your tickets will be mailed out the following Tuesday.

Schools with Title I accreditation and schools within Houston City Limits qualify for free admission . View the Texas Education Agency, Federal Program Compliance to see if you qualify.

• Students: $15
• Adult chaperones: $17
• Processing fees: $25 (payable by credit card only)
• Wildlife Carousel rides: $3 per ticket

Payment is due at the time of your booking. Once payment is finalized, your booking cannot be modified. You will automatically receive a detailed receipt by email. Tickets will be mailed every Tuesday. All tickets and processing fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.

Booking stops automatically for each day when capacity is reached. No exception will be made. 

For any field-trip related questions, please read the FAQ below.

Booking Your Field Trip

To book your field trip, you will need :

• A credit card (only form of payment available)
• Name, address, and district of your school
• Name, phone number, and email of an official contact booking the field trip
• Total number of students
• Number of chaperons (automatically calculated based on ratio described below)
• Number of extra adults (not covered by the free chaperon program) and extra children visiting with your group
• Number of buses
• Name and phone number for an emergency contact while on Zoo grounds the day of the field trip

Chaperone Program

Chaperone calculations are as follows:

• One free adult chaperone for every ten students grades K-12
• One free adult chaperone for every five Pre-K students
• One free adult chaperone for every one Person with Special Needs (PSN)

Chaperones must accompany their groups for the duration of the visit. Free chaperon tickets will be added automatically to your cart according to the ratio above. Teachers, staff, and bus driver are considered part of this ratio. Purchase additional adult discounted tickets for any adults not part of that ratio. Tickets are not available to purchase at the gate.

Buses and Parking

All bus drivers must unload students at Hermann Park Drive curbside, between Gates 4 and 7. A Zoo Ranger/Security Officer will assist teachers and students during unloading. This area is designated as bus parking so buses may remain there once the children have been unloaded. A security officer will patrol this area for the duration of the field trip. At the end of your students’ visit, you will load students, chaperones and teachers back at the curb at Hermann Park Drive where originally dropped off. Zoo Rangers will assist with making sure all students load buses safely.

We appreciate your patience and understanding as we continue to grow in support of our mission to connect communities with animals, inspiring action to save wildlife.

View map online .

Adopt An Animal for Your Classroom

Find your school’s mascot, or choose one of your favorite animals from our collection. Your included Adopt            E-newsletter is a great way to teach students about wildlife conservation and learn about the Zoo’s efforts on saving these beautiful animals.

ADOPT AN ANIMAL

Frequently Asked Questions

Who qualifies for field trips.

Only educational institutions accredited by the Texas Education Agency or the Texas Private School Accreditation Commission qualify for school field trips. Requests made by affiliate programs will be denied.

Which schools qualify for free field trips?

Public and private schools located within the Houston city limits and Title 1 schools in outlying cities qualify for free field trips. Processing fees apply and are not refundable.

Who is considered a chaperone?

Any adult accompanying your group is required to have an adult ticket (either a complementary chaperon ticket or a paid adult ticket). If a chaperone has a Houston Zoo Membership, they are able to use the membership for entry. (Please note that all students must have a field trip ticket and cannot enter with a membership.)

What is your cancellation policy?

All tickets and processing fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. Houston Zoo reserves the right to cancel any program due to inclement weather, or unforeseen circumstances, in which case tickets will be refunded. For more questions, email us at [email protected] .

How do I schedule a field trip in the summer?

Our field trip program runs from September through May, please schedule accordingly. If you plan a visit to visit Houston Zoo this summer (June through August), discounted admission is available for groups of 20 people or more. Please visit our Group Admission Discounts page for details.

What if it rains on the day of our visit?

The Zoo is open rain or shine. We have many indoor facilities, and if you dress for the weather, you can still thoroughly enjoy your visit!

Where do buses park?

All bus drivers must unload students at Hermann Park Drive, curbside between gates 4 and 7. A Zoo Ranger/Security Officer will assist teachers and students during unloading. This area is designated as bus parking so buses may remain there once the children have been unloaded. A security officer will patrol this area for the duration of the field trip. At the end of your students’ visit, you will load students, chaperones and teachers back at the curb at Hermann Park Drive where originally dropped off. Zoo Rangers will assist with making sure all students load buses safely.

How does my group enter the Zoo?

We ask that you distribute all tickets to your students before approaching the main entrance. You will be directed by a member of our staff to line up before proceeding through the gate.

What if a student or chaperone in my group is arriving late?

Tickets for late arrivals may be left at Guest Services for pick up. Upon checking in and retrieving their ticket, they will then be granted entry separate from your group.

What if I do not have enough tickets or a chaperon needs to buy a ticket?

Any extra adult tickets not already booked for your field trip will need to be purchased, in advance, on the website like other general admission tickets.

If you need more tickets, you are welcome to book through the field trip page for additional tickets if capacity allows (enter zero for bus quantity), or purchase regular tickets online as regular guests, either through discounted group tickets or daytime admission tickets .

No tickets are sold onsite.

What if I have extra tickets?

We ask that any extra tickets be returned to Guest Services before your departure. As a reminder, unused tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. Please note that tickets are only valid for individuals in your group.

Where can we store our lunches?

You are welcome to bring outside food and drink, however, there is no storage area available for these items. We have several picnic and shady areas around the Zoo where you may enjoy your lunch. We suggest choosing a place ahead of time and communicating that location to your group. We appreciate you reminding students to pick up after themselves before departing.

What must I do if an emergency occurs while we are at the Zoo?

If you are in need of assistance while on Zoo grounds, look for a Zoo Ranger wearing a red polo shirt. If you are unable to locate a Ranger, call 713-533-6500.

What rules should we follow during our visit?

Before you arrive, please visit the Guest Services page to review all rules regarding food and drink and which items you can and cannot bring into the Zoo. There is also a list of reminders to “Mind Your Zoo Manners” on our Zoo maps. An adult chaperone should accompany your students at all times.

How do I find information about the train in Hermann Park?

The train is owned and operated by the Hermann Park Conservancy. For more information about hours and tickets, visit their website at www.hermannpark.org/visit/train-pedal-boats/

For questions, please contact the Field Trip Reservation Team at 713-533-6500 or [email protected] .

We serve as a connector...

The Hobby Center serves as a connector for all Houston audiences, artmakers and arts organizations.

We serve as a convenor...

We serve as an incubator....

We serve as an incubator for all Houston audiences, artmakers and arts organizations.

Educational Events at the Hobby Center

The Hobby Center is the central hub for artists and audiences in Houston and is the driving force in the performing arts ecosystem. Building on a legacy of presenting the best of Broadway, the Hobby Center reflects the diversity of our city through a wide range of exceptional artistic and educational programming on and off stage. Compelling artists from Houston and around the globe engage audiences through dynamic and innovative artmaking and story telling.

The ExxonMobil Discovery Series

The ExxonMobil Discovery Series is the Hobby Center’s cornerstone educational program bringing students and teachers to the Hobby Center from the greater Houston area to experience performances by Houston-based artists and organizations. This program impacts thousands of children who otherwise may never walk into a world-class performing arts venue and experience the power of live theater. Performances are completely free to schools, including bus transportation, and includes learning materials and Q&A with artists to create cross-curricular connections and integrate the learning experience into the classroom.

Future Programming

The Hobby Center is committed to providing educational opportunities for learners of all ages, backgrounds and abilities and believes arts education plays a critical role in fostering empathy, creativity and a more connected community. We hope you will join us as we broaden our programs and reach to better serve students, educators, artmakers and the Houston community.

Sensory Friendly Performances

• Pick Me Last, The Ensemble Theatre, Sunday, February 4 at 1 p.m.
• Disney’s The Lion King, Saturday, July 27 at 2 p.m. MORE INFO TO COME

The ExxonMobil Discovery Educational Series

In the 2023-2024 school year, the Hobby Center is excited to present a diverse range of free educational field trips to Hobby Center’s Zilkha Hall with the goal of serving 5th grade students in Houston. Through this TEKS-aligned series, 5th grade students are introduced to dance, music and/or theater in ways that are engaging, fun and further their learning and belonging.

Quick Links

Hobby center a to z.

Everything you need to know for your visit to the Hobby Center.

Health & Safety

Updates on our health and safety measures.

Parking & Directions

Important info for a seamless arrival to the theater.

Stay Connected

Follow the Hobby Center on social media.

A Special Thank You to Our Generous Sponsors

A Special Thank You to Performance Partners

Education Events Inquiry

Questions about the Discovery Series or how your school could participate in the future? We would love to hear from you!

Stay Updated on the ExxonMobil Discovery Series

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Can Your Mind Come Out to Play?™

Let’s work together and introduce students of all ages to fun and learning in new ways.

Children’s Museum Houston has designed programs to support the critical educational work that teachers (and parents!) do daily with students both in person and virtually. We provide tangible, highly engaging ways for children to apply what they learn in school and for them to be inspired to learn more. All-Time Access is your digital connection to our educators from wherever you are! You can take a 3D Virtual Field Trip of our galleries or checkout our Playground Playlist featuring an array of fun and challenging activities to engage, inspire and educate your children. To stay up to date on All-Time Access, subscribe for e-news or follow us on Facebook , Instagram and Twitter !

What School Leaders Should Know

Our exhibits and programs are designed by teams of former classroom teachers, disciplinary experts, and exhibit fabricators. Each exhibit is aligned with TEKS by grade. Those alignments are provided here so teachers can plan their experiences based on their classroom objectives.

Field Experiences

Now accepting reservations join us for action-packed programs that are sure to inspire., download curriculum, view activities by subject and by grade..

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Featuring your favorite activities and educators with mycmh., teks-aligned experiences, each exhibit is aligned to the texas essential knowledge and skills (teks) school standards for six school subject areas. we believe that children learn best when they have opportunities to explore concepts in various ways., english and reading, chevron maker annex.

Chevron Maker Annex workshops introduce various engineering concepts including everything from electricity to structural integrity. After an interactive lesson, students are challenged to create products based on a prompt, which encourages learning through self-exploration. Maker Annex offers a variety of flexible opportunities for Focus Tours. Find out more and schedule your group for a Chevron Maker Annex Focus Tour.

EcoStation is all about how everything in the ecosystem is connected. It features primarily native plants and animals that thrive together in a living ecosystem. EcoStation is designed to develop an understanding of the environment, to foster a commitment to behaviors that support it through hands-on opportunities and learn how their decisions influence its welfare.

Flint Hills Resources Genius Station

Genius Station features a team of incredibly diverse backgrounds, special interests, and unique experiences in both formal and informal education. Contact us for advice on creative ways to introduce a particular concept in your classroom, or help in creating extension opportunities that give your students access to science beyond the classroom.

How Does It Work?

How Does it Work? provides excellent opportunities to explore TEKS-related content such as forces and motion, properties and transfer of energy, and Earth and space science. In addition, the exhibit offers access to a team of science content experts, the Geeks, through Genius Station. Contact us for advice on creative ways to introduce a particular concept in your classroom, or help in creating extension opportunities that give your students access to science beyond the classroom.

Invention Convention

Invention Convention exercises kids’ problem solving and creativity as they engineer their way through design challenges like building airplanes and cars. The exhibit also provides opportunities to learn about coding and computer programming. Through creative problem solving, students develop and utilize their knowledge and skills in science, math, and social studies. Content includes properties of matter, force, motion, energy, electricity, geometry, measurement, and science and society.

Kidtropolis

Kidtropolis encourages kids to role-play jobs that highlight the work of city leaders, business owners, employees and citizens; earn income by working; use money in a way that models real life; and engage in trial and error to discover the importance of money management and financial planning. By taking on these roles, kids keep the city running as they participate in a sophisticated, simulated economy where they can earn and spend money on items and experiences throughout the “city.”

Matter Factory

Matter Factory is a fantastic place for students to learn about classification of elements, chemical and physical properties of matter, and application of this knowledge to the development of tools and products that affect our every-day lives. From exploring nano-science concepts in Super Small Matter Lab, to learning the elemental composition of our bodies, Matter Factory provides many opportunities to learn something new about the chemistry of the world in which we live.

Power Science Lab

This lab focuses on the roles biology and chemistry play in our own anatomy and physiology. These 15-minute experiments follow the 5E model allowing children hands on experience in a lab. They form hypotheses, complete experiments and develop conclusions. Allowing children to play the role of a scientist gives them the ability to see themselves in that role as a profession and actively engages their curiosity; allowing them to see the science within their world every day.

Mathematics

Constructioneering.

Constructioneering encourages kids to practice science and math skills while exploring an exhibit filled with hands-on experiments and demonstrations like building geodesic domes, calculating breaker box ratings, and using 3D CAD design. Some science topics include properties of matter, force, electricity, and earthquakes. Merged with them are mathematical topics focused on geometry, measurement, operations and algebraic reasoning.

Physical Education

Challenge course.

The Challenge Course is a low ropes obstacle course made specifically for kids. It provides them with physical challenges that work on balance, strength, and endurance. It also affords an opportunity for them to push themselves to take on new challenges and risks while remaining safe in a harness.

Challenge Course utilizes heart rate monitors at each activity station to show students that human body has a physiological response to exercise. Regular exercise helps the cardiovascular system work more efficiently and has many health benefits.

FlowWorks is an interactive exhibit all about the flow, pressure, and power of water. FlowWorks is more than hands-on—it’s “hands-in,” as it requires you to dip your hands in to make it work! Dive in, develop and explore your own questions as you control and change the flow of water, test how objects respond to water, and observe the impact of water’s force and energy!

Newton Know-How

Newton Know-How provides hands-on opportunities to explore concepts related to Newton’s Laws of Motion. Kids can experiment with motion, projectile motion, force, friction, gravity, momentum, angular momentum, transfer of momentum, potential energy, kinetic energy, transformation of energy, and more.

Social Studies

Seasons of sharing.

Seasons of Sharing invites our visitors to have the unique opportunity to learn about other cultures’ celebrations, traditions, and practices while still celebrating their own. The exhibit highlights the contribution each culture makes to our community and allows guests to realize just how much more alike we are than different.

Yalálag: A Mountain Village in Mexico

Yalálag: A Mountain Village in Mexico represents one of the many cultural heritages of the visitors of the museum and serves to engender cultural understanding among diverse cultures as it facilitates children’s development. As a temporary exhibit in our How Are We Alike? gallery, this hands-on space allows children and families to compare and contrast Yalálag, Mexico and Houston in terms of culture, art, history, geography, economics, government, citizenship, and the technology of daily life.

Outreach Programs

We bring the museum to your neighborhood by partnering with a variety of community organizations including libraries and schools., afterschool, family engagement, conocophillips family math adventures, related events, april 15, 2024, sensory friendly day.

Mark Your Calendar

Mr. leo puppet and magic show, mindfest challenge 1, lego® city tour.

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A playground for your mind™.