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Five Great Spots for STEM Field Trips in Chicago

• January 23, 2019

Field trips aren’t just for the Senior Class and the band kids anymore! We get tons of inquiries for private tours from science and engineering teachers. To help with your field trip planning, we’re highlighting the best spots for STEM field trips in Chicago. Of course, we’re always happy to lead your charges on one of our private tours , like the Downtown Chicago Bucket List tour.

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#1. Museum of Science and Industry

The Museum of Science and Industry is the perfect starting point for STEM field trips in Chicago. MSI is stuffed to the gills with fascinating scientific displays and exhibits. My particular favorites are the coal mine, the Pioneer Zephyr, and the artificial storm creator. I bet your students will demand to see U-505 , a German WWII submarine preserved after its 1944 capture. Also, don’t forget to tell your students that MSI is the only remaining structure from the famous 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition. They can learn more about the World’s Fair in one of our virtual tours , too.

#2. Adler Planetarium

The smallest of the institutions out on Museum Campus might just be the perfect one for STEM field trips in Chicago. Adler Planetarium is, in fact, the first planetarium in the country, founded all the way back in 1930. These days, the star (hehe) attraction is The Universe: A Walk Through Time and Space . This general admission exhibit will lead your students on a walk to the furthest stretches of astronomy. You may also want to consider all-access passes so you can see one of the planetarium shows .

#3. Argonne National Laboratory

The National Laboratories are a likely career goal for many a STEM student. So why not visit the oldest of them, Argonne National Laboratory , out in suburban Lemont? Argonne dates back to the Manhattan Project, carrying out experiments that led to Chicago Pile-1 and the dawn of the atomic age. Student visitors to Argonne engage in Learning Labs , which are “hands-on experiments designed to educate participants on the major challenges that Argonne scientists and engineers are currently researching.”

#4. Fermilab

Chicago’s history of cutting-edge scientific research means we have two National Laboratories in the hinterlands. Fermilab , named after the Chicago-based physicist Enrico Fermi, is the Department of Energy’s particle accelerator. I won’t pretend to understand exactly what they’re doing out near Batavia. Your STEM students will enjoy visiting the spot where the “ Top Quark ” was discovered. Like Argonne, Fermilab offers Science Adventures for students, making this another great spot for STEM field trips in Chicago.

#5. McCormick Bridgehouse Museum and the Riverwalk

The Field Museum of Natural History is justly a go-to spot for STEM field trips in Chicago, and you may have expected it to round out our list. I want to highlight a smaller institution for your visit: the McCormick Bridgehouse Museum and the adjacent Riverwalk. The Bridgehouse Museum , located in the famous Michigan Avenue Bridge, explores both the natural history and human engineering of the Chicago River. Before or after their museum visit, students can explore the Riverwalk , a beautiful new addition to Chicago’s space.

Enjoy your STEM Field Trips in Chicago!

Any and all of these spots for STEM field trips in Chicago should leave students both entertained and enlightened. Such an experience can be just what budding, tech-savvy kids need to blossom into tomorrow’s great minds.

 – Alex Bean, Content Manager and Tour Guide

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There is no shortage of things to discover in Chicago—I love being an urban explorer and uncovering its hidden places. I have an MA in Public History from Loyola University Chicago, and I have worked as a museum educator and kindergarten teacher. My desire to learn new things fuels my passion for educating others, which I get to experience every day as a Chicago tour guide. I live in the northern neighborhood of Rogers Park.

Whether you are a first-time visitor or a lifelong resident, the vibrant history and modern majesty of Chicago never ceases to amaze. I’m a graduate of Columbia College with an M.A. in Interdisciplinary Art. I’ve worked for many years as an educator at City Colleges of Chicago. As tour guide at Chicago Detours, I integrate my enthusiasm for culture and architecture with my passion as an educator. West Town/Noble Square area is home for me.

With our Chicago neighborhoods, vibrant cultural institutions and nearly two centuries of larger-than-life stories, there’s never a dull moment here! I’m a fifth generation Chicagoan and a graduate of Washington University in St. Louis. In addition to guiding tours, I’m a creative writer and amateur genealogist. I also enjoy the city’s dynamic theater scene. You can also read overlooked stories from 19th-century newspapers on my “Second Glance History” blog. I live in River North.

Chicago is unique as it always evolves into the future while holding on to the past. I’m fascinated by how people latch on to old architecture but happily pave over others. My background is in theater and performance and I’ve been a tour guide here for more than 10 years. Currently I’m finishing my Master’s in Public History at Loyola University because I love to teach the history of this scrappy city. I’m in the Edgewater neighborhood.

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Chicago’s history is so fascinating, you could spend a lifetime uncovering its secrets…I’m willing to give it a try! I have an M.A. in US History from the University of Nevada-Las Vegas and then pursued doctoral studies in Urban History at the University of Illinois at Chicago. I love to learn new aspects of Chicago’s rich history and then share my knowledge as a tour guide with Chicago Detours. I live in Ravenswood.

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Chicago has so many neighborhoods, buildings, and by-ways that it’s hard to go long without seeing something new, or something familiar from a new angle. I studied Cinema History for my M.A. from the University of Chicago. I’ve worked as a culture writer for various publications and as an educator of the humanities at the City Colleges of Chicago. I’m thrilled to share my love of this city’s busy past and unique architectural spaces with Chicago Detours. I live in the Chicago neighborhood of Lincoln Park.

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21 of the Best Chicago Field Trip Ideas

The best yellow bus destinations in the Windy City.

In a city with over three million people, it shouldn’t be a surprise that Chicago is a cultural center that is home to some seriously fun field trip destinations. But in a city so big, how do you choose the best spots? Don’t worry; we’ve done the research for you! Whether you are ready to don your armor and defend a mystical kingdom or take a trip back to the Jurassic era, Chicago has something for your and your students. Here are some of the best Chicago field trip ideas:

1. Are you brave enough to peer over the ledge?

On the Skydeck of the Willis Tower, brave students (and teachers!) can walk on a four-foot-wide glass-bottom balcony—103 stories high! Dubbed The Ledge , this is sure to thrill students of all ages! For students who may not love heights so much, there are plenty of other exhibits in the Skydeck, including games such as I Spy on High and scavenger hunts.

2. From farm to factory: How is ice cream made?

Oberweis is a popular dairy and ice cream shop in the Midwest, so most of your students have probably already tasted this deliciousness, but how many kids get to brag that they saw how their favorite ice cream is made! Visit the Oberweis factory at 951 Ice Cream Dr., Sweet One, North Aurora (cute, right?) and let your students see the behind-the-scenes workings of a real factory.

3. Travel back to the time of King Arthur.

A beautiful princess, daring jousting matches, and a feast fit for a king? Yes, please! A trip to Medieval Times is exciting for any student; there is a little something for everyone! When you book a field trip with a matinee show, your class will get even more: an educational presentation after your 90-minute show and a four-course luncheon. What a fun way to bring history to life!

4. Learn and play at the Chicago Children’s Museum.

Children’s museums are a popular field trip destination, and there are few better than the Chicago Children’s Museum . Students will love the hands-on nature of this museum, particularly the chance to dig for dino bones! Another favorite: the opportunity to explore a three-story boat—without any of the seasickness! If you’re planning a day at Navy Pier, this must be a stop on your adventure.

5. Watch the Bard come alive at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater.

If you’re an English teacher and plan to teach Shakespeare this year, be sure to plan a trip to the Chicago Shakespeare Theater . We know that Shakespeare isn’t always easy for students to understand, but seeing one of the Bard’s plays come to life allows students to experience a play as it was intended—live.

6. Take an architecture boat tour.

Part of what makes Chicago such a wonderful city is the unique tapestry of architecture.  Chicago Architecture Foundation river tours explore the city’s architecture from the vantage point of the river. Because this excursion boards from the River Walk, it allows you to explore the sights and sounds of the recently renovated walkway—complete with a gelato stand. This would be ideal for older students.

7. Go wild at the zoo.

When it comes to zoos in Chicago, you’ve got choices. There is the Lincoln Park Zoo, but if you’re planning a field trip, opt for Brookfield Zoo. This zoo offers awesome experiences that will thrill your students. Tropic World allows you to walk through the monkey exhibit, while the Bird Encounter allows students to hand-feed parakeets.

8. Reach for the stars at Adler Planetarium.

Studying the planets in science class? Take a trip to Adler Planetarium . From exhibits suitable for preschoolers (a giant space-themed play place) to exhibits and movies suitable for high schoolers, this destination has something for all learners.

9. Discover farm life at Fair Oaks.

Granted, this field trip destination is outside of the city (it’s actually in Indiana), but it’s the perfect opportunity for city slickers and suburbanites to experience a real working farm. Take a bus tour to watch how milk travels from cow to carton. Students can also see calves being born, watch baby pigs play, and play in the several areas. Fair Oaks plans three-hour adventures plus a 30-minute lunch. (P.S. Bring extra spending money if you’re a cheese lover.)

10. Time travel to the Jurassic period.

General, Fieldtrip, Evolving Planet

Do your students love dinos? Take a visit to the Field Museum where your students can see a variety of dinosaur skeletons, including the world famous Sue! The museum experts can even create a tour customized to the age of your students. Chicago and Illinois residents are free, but even an out-of-state ticket is reasonable at $17.75 per person.

11. There’s nothing fishy about the Learning Labs.

A visit to the Shedd Aquarium is more than just watching fish swim in giant aquariums. A visit to the Shedd is as hands on as an aquarium can be! From touching the sting rays (a seasonal offering) to petting a real-life starfish, students can interact with several types of marine life. There is also a play area for young students (across from the penguins) and several learning labs for high school students.

12. Extract your own DNA at the DNA Learning Lab.

The University of Notre Dame offers some seriously cool field trips. In the DNA lab , students can extract their own DNA or learn about forensics by solving a pretend crime (a kidnapped leprechaun, to be precise!). Although this field trip is in South Bend, Indiana, it is a feasible day-long field trip for any school in the greater Chicago area. Ideal for high school biology classes.

13. Become an Iron Chef.

What’s more fun than getting your hands dirty in the kitchen? Learning the science behind what makes your favorite recipes so yummy! With multiple menu options available, your students will love this cooking lesson at  The Chopping Block.

14. Take flight at iFly.

Who doesn’t dream of flying? At iFly , you can! This STEM-enriched program first teaches students about the physics of skydiving. Students then undergo “flight training” before they get to experience their own skydive in a giant wind tunnel. BRB as I go get ready.

15. Let the field trip come to you.

The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum boasts something unusual: They can bring the field trip to you! When you book a classroom-based field trip, curators from the museum bring science-based, hands-on activities to your students. All of the fun without any of the travel!

16. Design your own house with the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust.

Venture to nearby Oak Park to visit the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust . Students will not only learn about the vision and design behind the Wright house but they will get the chance to doing a little designing of their own. The Trust even offers lessons plans so you can prep your students before the field trip. If you can’t make it to Oak Park, you can rent equipment and host a design workshop in your own classroom!

17. Channel your inner Bill Nye at the Museum of Science and Industry.

The Museum of Science and Industry , located in Hyde Park, is a tried-and-true field trip destination. Where else can you venture deep into the heart of a coal mine, explore the depths of the ocean on a U-505 submarine, or learn about genes through the world’s cutest farm animal (baby chicks)?

18. Learn about art through making art.

The National Museum of Mexican Art offers hands-on learning! The work of art your students make will be influenced by upcoming Mexican holidays, so your students will learn a lesson in both art and history. Grab your painting smock and head over to Pilsen.

19. See history from a beautiful perspective.

Interested in a trip to the  DuSable Museum of African American History  but not sure where to start? As a Smithsonian affiliate, the DuSable has you covered. Grab your lessons plans  and guide your students through the amazing history of African Americans, from the brave heroines of the Civil War to the number-crunching African Americans who changed the world of mathematics. Did we mention there’s also a “mobile museum” that can bring the history to your school?

20. Make a stand for peace at the Hull House Museum.

Did you know the Hull House was once Jane Addams’ home? It was also a safe haven for immigrants, a nursery school, a hub for the Women’s Peace Party, and a school for ESL and cooking. Visit the Hull House Museum and see first hand how Jane Addams’ work led to her Nobel Peace Prize.

21. Write your own story at The American Writers Museum.

A trip to The American Writers Museum is part museum (see and touch real typewriters), part writing lab, and part write0in. This is great for English teachers who want to help foster of love of writing in their students!

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

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

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Chicago STEM Field Trip Ideas

Chicago stem field trip ideas.

Chicago is the third most populous city in America. It offers an excellent opportunity for students to explore and enrich their minds with these Chicago STEM field trip ideas. To help navigate your field trip planning; here are some to-do’s while taking in Chicago’s rich history. Here are the top fives STEM related places to visit while in Chicago . 

Museum of Science & Industry 

Adler planetarium  , argonne national laboratory , fermilab , mccormick bridge museum & riverwalk .

The Museum of Science & Industry is a great way to start any STEM field trip to Chicago. They have a giant dome theater so students can watch the most fascinating educational films related to everything scientific. What may be of particular interest to students is the German WWII submarine that has been perfectly preserved and is the only German submarine in the United States. 

Adler Planetarium 

The smallest of the institutions suggested, Adler Planetarium still offers a great STEM field trip opportunity in Chicago. The Adler Planetarium connects people to the universe. The Adler is home to one of the largest and most significant collections of historic scientific instruments in the world. The Adler’s collections also include rare books, manuscripts, archival materials, models, and photographs.

Argonne National Laboratory

Argonne can trace its beginning  from Enrico Fermi’s secret charge — the Manhattan Project — to create the world’s first self-sustaining nuclear reaction. Students will have the chance to learn all about the Chicago Pile-1. Deemed too dangerous to experiment in a major city, the entire operation was moved to nearby Panos Hills. 

Fermilab is committed to developing the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) workforce and stimulating science literacy. It is a staple of Chicago’s dedication to research and development. Like Argonne, Fermilab offers Science Adventures for students, making this another great spot for STEM field trips in Chicago. 

The McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum celebrates the Chicago River and its world-famous movable bridges. This is an absolute must for STEM field trips, which may not have been expected. 

Students will be entertained and enriched with information after exploring these five STEM institutions in Chicago. Click our link below to plan a Chicago STEM field trip with GO Educational Tours! 

Topics: educational travel , School trips , Chicago , field trips , STEM

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Field Trips

Give students a fresh spin on science and social studies lessons with a day outside the classroom.

Pre-Registered Illinois field trips are FREE everyday of the week! 

The Field Museum’s field trip experiences offer exciting, up-close exposure to science and social studies in a historic Chicago setting. Schools and community groups in Illinois serving Pre-K–12th grade students can register for a FREE field trip by completing this form at least 14 days before your desired visit date. There is no charge for additional chaperones for Illinois schools.

School groups can enjoy a deep dive into Ancient American cultures or watch groundbreaking DNA research happen before their eyes. Students learn about evolution through fossils and dinosaur skeletons and discover what centuries-old specimens and artifacts can teach us about how we live today.

A journey through the Field Museum’s diverse range of exhibitions is easily tailored to curricula for groups of all ages, including pre-K, elementary school, middle school, and high school students. All school groups are welcome, including home school students. 

We also offer engaging and hands-on classes for students on field trips!  Field trip classes are available for grades Pre-K-12th and focus on a range of topics.  For a list of class offerings and more information please check out our Class Catalog. 

To begin planning a field trip, please fill out the online registration form 14 days before your desired visit date.

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Chicago-Metro Field Trips

The FieldTripDirectory.com is a resource of field trips in Chicago, Illinois for elementary school students thru high school students, camp groups, homeschool groups and scout troops for day field trips, overnight field trips and youth retreats. Learn about Chicago’s museums, zoos and aquariums, botanic gardens, nature centers, historic sites, amusement parks, recreation, performing arts and more, CLICK on the ACTIVITY FILTER below for further field trip information. For those unable to travel to these locations, check out our  Virtual Field Trips  section or  Outreach Field Trips & School Assembly Programs  section.

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Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the world’s great art museums, with a collection that spans centuries and the globe. View some of  the museum’s collection virtually. 

Astro Fun World

Indoor Glow in the Dark Fun for all ages from GoKarts to Laser Tag and Arcade Games PLUS much more at Astro Fun World.

Ball Factory Playground | Party | Café

Ball Factory is an indoor playground with a café and private party rooms, designed in a unique style!  The mega-sized playground brings a modern approach to children’s fitness through active play.

Chasers Laser Tag & Mobile Activities

We have it all! Come for a field trip to our location at Chaser Laser Tag, or we can come to your location with our Mobile Laser Tag, Game Truck and Knockerball.

Chicago Botanic Garden

The Garden’s 31 different natural areas offer a wide variety of types of plants, environments, and even architecture for groups to explore.

ClimbZone Chicago

Children of all ages will be mesmerized by our 25ft tall artistically themed climbing walls, high ropes course, zipline, laser tag arena, spinning bumper cars, arcades and soft play zone. Our field trip/camp options are tailored to different age groups and budgets…. guaranteeing smiling faces for all!

Dave & Buster’s Addison

Groups will have a blast at Dave & Buster’s Addison! Start out with a delicious meal in the group-friendly restaurant and then move on to some games in the Million Dollar Midway Arcade.

Dave & Buster’s Orland Park

Groups will have a blast at Dave & Buster’s Orland Park! Start out with a delicious meal in the group-friendly restaurant and then move on to some games in the Million Dollar Midway Arcade.

Dave & Buster’s Rosemont

Groups will have a blast at Dave & Buster’s Rosemont! Start out with a delicious meal in the group-friendly restaurant and then move on to some games in the Million Dollar Midway Arcade.

Dave & Buster’s Vernon Hills

Groups will have a blast at Dave & Buster’s Vernon Hills! Start out with a delicious meal in the group-friendly restaurant and then move on to some games in the Million Dollar Midway Arcade.

Drury Lane Theatre

A pillar of the Chicagoland theatre community for over 50 years, Drury Lane Theatre offers groups an unforgettable experience through Broadway classics, musicals, new works, comedies, and concerts.

Elmhurst Sky Zone

Visit Elmhurst Sky Zone park to jump, spin, flip, play and a whole lot more. We have basketball, volleyball, soccer, rock climbing & more!

FieldTripDirectory.com offers field trip ideas for class trips, scout group trips, camp group field trips, and homeschool group field trips in Chicago—for early childhood through college. Search for class trips in Chicago 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:

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Overnight field trips & 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.

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Ideas for a Math Field Trip

How to Teach Mathematics in the Primary School

Field trips offer opportunites for teachers to show students how the subjects they are teaching are used outside the classroom. Students are motivated as they learn to connect the subjects with real-world situations. Math is often seen as an abstract subject and can benefit from field trips. The number 5, for example, can be written down and thought about, but seeing five apples lined up on a teacher’s desk gives perspective to the topic. Field trips that focus on math can help students become engaged in the subject.

Visit a tall landmark such as a nearby building. Ask students to calculate the height of the building by using trigonometry. Make sure students bring their calculators.

Sporting Event

A field trip to a sporting event can become a fun way to teach math. Students can record statistics at the event. For example, the number of hits and at-bats can be recorded during a baseball game. Batting averages can be calculated as part of classroom activities on the next school day.

A tour of a factory can turn into a fun math field trip. Ask the tour guide about how math is used in the design and manufacture of the product. Ask students in ensuing classes about why the math that was mentioned during the tour matters. Ask about how mistakes made in the math could affect the final product.

Take a field trip to a farm and use math to calculate the farm’s yield. The students could make initial guesses. The size of the plots on the farm could be given to the students, then a small section of the plot could be counted by hand, multiplying the count to calculate the farm’s total yield.

Visit a city or state park. Ask students to calculate the total size of the park. Students can be given maps, or at a smaller park, make the measurements themselves. The calculations can be complicated by a park that has irregular borders.

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Doug Hewitt has been writing for over 20 years and has a Master of Arts from University of North Carolina-Greensboro. He authored the book "The Practical Guide to Weekend Parenting," which includes health and fitness hints for parents. He and his wife, Robin, are coauthors of the "Free College Resource Book."

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Math Field Trips: Learning Beyond the Classroom 

by Deepthi | Sep 13, 2023 | Fun Math | 0 comments

Have you ever considered taking your students or children on a math field trip?  

If the idea of combining the words “math” and “field trip” seems unusual to you, it’s time to think again. In this article, we will explore the exciting world of math field trips and why they can be a fun and enriching way to enhance math learning. So, if you’re looking for a unique and engaging approach to teach math concepts, keep reading! 

Table of Contents

1. what is a math field trip and why is it worth it .

M ath field trip s are educational excursions that take students outside of the classroom to explore mathematical concepts in real-world settings. This unconventional approach to learning math can be an exciting and enriching experience for students of all ages, from middle school to high school. But why is it worth considering? 

Math field trips offer several advantages:  

• Hands-On Learning:  Unlike traditional classroom learning, math field trips provide hands-on experiences where students can touch, see, and interact with math concepts and problems. 
• Making Math Fun :  Field trips are inherently fun, and when you combine them with math, learning becomes an adventure. It helps students see that math can be enjoyable and engaging. 
• Connecting Subjects:  Field trips show students how math is used in various fields, helping them connect math concepts to real-world applications. 
• Motivated Learning:  Students are often more motivated as they learn in a new and exciting environment. It breaks the monotony of a typical school day. 

2. Where to Go: Choosing the Perfect Math Museum 

When planning a math field trip, one of the key decisions is selecting the right destination. Luckily, there are museums across the world that focus on mathematics and provide an ideal setting for learning. Here are some points to consider when choosing a math museum: 

• National Museum of Mathematics:  Located in New York City, this museum offers a wide range of interactive exhibits and activities that cater to various age groups. 
• Planetariums:  Some planetariums incorporate math-themed shows that explore topics like geometry and fractals. 
• Local Science Centers:  Many science centers have math exhibits that are both educational and entertaining. 
• Online Math Exhibits:  In today’s digital age, some museums offer online math exhibits, allowing students to explore mathematical concepts virtually. 

3. Exploring the Math Exhibits: Hands-On Learning at Its Best 

Once you’ve chosen the destination, it’s time to dive into the math exhibits. These exhibits are designed to take abstract math concepts and make them tangible. Students can manipulate objects, engage with interactive displays, and solve puzzles, all while learning math in a fun and immersive way. 

For instance, a museum might have an exhibit that demonstrates fractals, where students can see how these complex geometric patterns are created. This hands-on experience makes concepts like fractals much more accessible and memorable. 

4. Calculating the Benefits of Free Math Field Trips 

Financial constraints can sometimes be a concern when planning field trips, but there are options for free math field trips. Some museums offer free admission on certain days or have programs designed for schools. Additionally, you can explore opportunities for funding through grants or local organizations. 

Don’t let cost be a barrier to providing your students with this enriching experience. The benefits of a math field trip far outweigh the expenses, as they offer a unique learning environment that can’t be replicated in the classroom. 

5. Math Field Trips for Homeschooling: Taking Learning Beyond the Books 

Math field trips are not limited to traditional school settings. Homeschooling families can also benefit from this approach to learning. In fact, field trips can be a fantastic way to break up the routine of homeschooling and provide real-world context for math concepts. 

Homeschoolers can plan their math field trips to align with their curriculum. It’s an opportunity to show children that math isn’t confined to textbooks; it’s a part of everyday life. 

6. Making Math Fun: Turning a School Day into an Adventure 

For educators, organizing a math field trip can be a memorable way to start the school year. Instead of beginning with traditional classroom lessons, consider taking your students on a math adventure. It’s a great way to build enthusiasm for math from day one. 

The anticipation of a field trip adds an element of excitement to the back-to-school experience, and students are likely to remember it for a long time. 

7. Bringing Math Concepts to Life: The Magic of Math Exhibits 

Mathematics can sometimes seem abstract and disconnected from the real world. However, a well-structured math field trip can bridge this gap by demonstrating how math concepts are applied in practical settings. 

Whether it’s exploring the geometry of architectural designs or understanding the mathematics behind the height of a building, students can witness firsthand how math is an integral part of our daily lives. 

8. From Geometry to Fractals: Discovering the Mathematical World 

Math field trips often cover a broad spectrum of mathematical topics. From the simplicity of basic geometry to the complexity of fractals, students get a taste of the diverse world of mathematics. 

These experiences can ignite curiosity and inspire students to explore mathematical concepts further, both inside and outside of the classroom. 

9. Chaperoning a Math Field Trip: A Guide for Parents and Teachers 

Chaperoning a math field trip can be a rewarding experience for parents and teachers alike. It allows you to engage with students in a different setting and offer support and guidance as they explore math concepts. 

Remember to be prepared, stay organized, and encourage active participation. Chaperones play a crucial role in ensuring that the trip is both educational and enjoyable. 

10. The Impact of Math Field Trips: Real-World Math Skills 

In the end, the impact of a math field trip goes beyond just a day of fun and exploration. It helps students develop real-world math skills that are essential for their future. 

By witnessing how math is used in various industries and settings, students gain a deeper appreciation for the subject and are more likely to excel in their studies. They learn to connect the subjects they learn in school to the real world, making their education more meaningful and relevant. 

Conclusion 

Incorporating math field trips into your educational strategy can have a profound impact on how students perceive and engage with mathematics. These excursions offer a unique learning environment where math becomes more than just numbers and equations; it becomes a tangible, real-world experience. 

So, if you’re looking to bring math to life, spark curiosity, and help students see the beauty and practicality of mathematics, consider planning a math field trip. It’s an investment in their education that will yield lifelong benefits. 

What is a math field trip?

A math field trip is an educational excursion that takes students outside the classroom to explore mathematical concepts.

Why are math field trips important?

Math field trips offer hands-on learning experiences, make math more engaging, help students connect theoretical concepts to real-world applications, and enhance motivation for learning. 

What are some suitable destinations for math field trips?

Suitable destinations include math-focused museums like the National Museum of Mathematics , planetariums with math-themed shows, local science centers, and even online math exhibits. 

How do math exhibits make learning hands-on?

Math exhibits allow students to interact with physical objects, engage with interactive displays, solve puzzles, and manipulate objects, turning abstract math concepts into tangible learning experiences. 

Are there benefits to free math field trips?

Absolutely. Free math field trips offer an affordable option to expose students to unique learning environments, helping them see the practical and enjoyable aspects of math. 

Can homeschooling families benefit from math field trips?

Definitely. Math field trips provide homeschooling families with a chance to break away from traditional learning methods and show children that math is part of everyday life.

How can math field trips make the start of the school year exciting?

Organizing a math field trip at the beginning of the school year adds an element of excitement and adventure, setting a positive tone for learning math. 

How do math field trips bridge the gap between theoretical math and real life?

Math field trips demonstrate how math concepts are applied in practical settings, like architectural designs and building heights, helping students understand the real-world relevance of math.

What mathematical topics are covered in math field trips?

Math field trips cover a wide range of topics, from basic geometry to intricate concepts like fractals, giving students a taste of the diverse world of mathematics. 

How can parents and teachers effectively chaperone a math field trip?

Chaperones should be prepared, organized, and engaged. Encourage students’ active participation, offer support in understanding exhibits, and ensure a safe and educational experience. 

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The Ultimate Field Trip!

At LEGOLAND ® Discovery Center students can enjoy 10 LEGO ® play zones, an interactive ride, a 4D Cinema and more! Schools can add-on a 30-45 minute age-appropriate workshop, which incorporates LEGO ® Education lessons to create a unique curriculum-linked STEAM learning experience in a hands-on environment that increases student engagement.

School Field Trips

Inspire your students' imaginations with educational play that harnesses the limitless creative possibilities of LEGO ® bricks! Discount rates are available for organized, local school groups serving children K-5 grade and must submit tax exempt form with booking or show proof of school ID at check in.

• Tickets from $7 (+tax) per child
• Minimum of 10 child tickets required to receive group rates
• Available Monday - Friday, excluding select holidays
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• Advanced pre-paid reservations are required a minimum of 14 days in advance
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If your organized school group is tax-exempt, please book your tickets here . Tax-exempt schools must submit proper documentation. Please email [email protected] your tax-exempt form and order number after your purchase.

Our workshops incorporate the LEGO ® Education BricQ Motion Essential set to engage students in the exploration of physical science and help foster an understanding of forces, motion, and interactions by providing easy hands-on learning experiences.

• Grades: K - 5th
• Workshop Length: 30-45 minutes
• Subjects Covered: STEAM
• Educational Standards: Common Core Curriculum & Next Generation Science Standards

Workshops can be booked in our Online Booking Portal. For questions, please email [email protected].

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How to reserve your trip:.

• All trips being paid for with a credit card can be completed online.
• If you are paying by check, please fill out our School Check Request Form and our team will reach out to you to secure your booking.
• Payment in full by check must be received two weeks before visit once quantity of tickets has been finalized. Checks should be made out to LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago and sent to: 

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• For refund and cancellation policies, please refer to the School Preparation Guide prior to booking. 

Important Field Trip Information

• Reservations are required a minimum of 14 days in advance.
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• Group tickets are timed & dated and expire on the date and time they are purchased for.
• If additional tickets are required upon arrival, the higher walk up group rate may apply.
• Groups that arrive without a reservation are not guaranteed entry and will be charged the walk-up admission rate.
• Outside food or bagged lunches cannot be consumed inside the attraction. 

Planning Your Visit:

• Plan for 2-3 hours of playtime inside the attraction. 
• For every 5 paying children, 1 adult receives free admission. Additional adult tickets can be purchased at the time of booking or upon arrival on the day of your visit.
• For larger groups, please separate children into smaller groups of 20 to minimize wait times on attractions.
• Children should not bring more than their outerwear coats. There is no storage facility, and we are not responsible for any lost items.
• We do not allow outside food into the center.
• Re-entry is permitted if you wish to take a break from your visit for lunch. Please see one of our team members before exiting.

Additional Costs:

All of the attractions of the LEGOLAND® Discovery Center are included in the price of the admission with the exception of The Great LEGO Race Virtual Reality experience. Guests may wish to bring a credit card/gift card to purchase food from our café, Souvenir photos, virtual reality or LEGO® products from our retail shop.   Please note, we are cashless and do not accept cash anywhere inside the attraction.     

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Buses may drop off students at the main entrance where you will see the LEGOLAND Discovery Center sign and giant LEGO giraffe. Afterwards, all buses must park at the Dick’s Sporting Goods parking lot.

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A New Take on Field Trips In Chicago!

We have seen education adapt and evolve like never before over the past year in the wake of stay-at-home and social distancing orders. Schools were one of the first institutions to shut down and go partially or fully virtual. Students and teachers were met with new challenges and overcame many obstacles, showing us just how resilient and adaptable the bedrock of education is. Although many sacrifices must continue to be made in order to keep our students safe and healthy this year, a well-rounded and dynamic education is not one of them. There are so many new ways to experience education outside of the classroom in safe and affordable ways, such as virtual field trips. Students may not be able to go on traditional school field trips to museums and zoos, but there are still options for giving them an exciting break from their school day.

1. Virtual Museum Tours

You and your students have access to countless parks, museums, zoos, and more€¦all at the safety and convenience of your fingertips. These days, the options are endless for virtual educational enrichment. Your students can visit world wonders like the Pyramids of Giza or the Great Wall of China. Take an afternoon break in space and see what it would look like to walk on Mars ! Check out the famous San Diego Zoo or walk the Louvre . Go on an American National Park tour and see the great geysers of Yellowstone National Park or the osprey nests of Glacier National Park.

2. Virtual Escape Rooms

If you’re looking for a more social and interactive field trip alternative in Chicago, look no further than a virtual escape room. In these virtual escape room experiences, students work together solving clues while trying to beat the clock to ultimately unlock the virtual door or solve the puzzle. In Snapology Virtual Escape Experiences, small groups of students read and work their way through a themed story while solving theme-specific puzzles which lead them on their journey towards a final goal that they must complete together. Puzzles promote critical thinking and teamwork through decoding messages, pattern recognition, and mathematical reasoning. These virtual experiences are geared toward fun, excitement, and education.

3. Virtual Field Trips from Snapology

Interactive virtual field trips with Snapology are a safe and fun way to break up the everyday school routine for students ages 5 to 14. Field trip topics range from the Science of Superpowers to STEM Lab and SuperStructures to Art History. Students will learn about science, technology, engineering, art, and math in new and exciting ways from the safety and comfort of their homes or classrooms. Educators will get to take a deep breath and catch up on other work while Snapology instructors lead the virtual field trip and discuss their field trip’s theme or topic with students in the class.

4. Scavenger Hunt

Create a unique challenge for your students with pick-up scavenger hunt kits. Leave a bag with a list outside of school and arrange for students to pick them up at a certain time. The list could include things like a photo of a neighborhood statue or monument, a local business card, a piece of nature, or something that is blue. They can use the provided bag to collect items and return the completed tasks. You don’t have to stop there though. Ask students to photograph what they found  and learn a few things about it. They can then put together a slideshow detailing what they found and why it is significant. Students can share their slideshow with the class and learn from everyone’s different experiences.

Do you have any fantastic field trip ideas? Share them in the comments below.

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Field Trips at MOI Chicago

Standards-based Education Program

Our program offers an immersive, educational experience for grades 3-12, combining museum visits with a standards-based curriculum. Students explore illusions, perception, and optical phenomena through STEM, ELA, and Visual Arts lessons. It ensures engagement before, during, and after the museum visit for a meaningful educational journey.

Learning as an adventure

Embark on an exciting learning adventure where students explore new concepts, make fascinating discoveries, and expand their understanding. With the Museum of Illusions educational program, this captivating journey combines engaging museum visits and comprehensive lessons, inspiring young minds along the way.

Standards-based

The incorporation of a standards-based curriculum ensures that the educational content aligns with established learning objectives and educational guidelines.

Grades 3-12

The program targets students in grades 3 to 12, catering to a wide range of ages and academic levels. This inclusivity allows students to explore concepts that are appropriately challenging and relevant to their grade level.

By incorporating lessons from STEM subjects, English Language Arts, and Visual Arts, the program fosters a holistic learning experience. This approach enables students to connect knowledge across disciplines and understand the interdisciplinary nature of many real-world phenomena.

Fun Learning

Throughout the museum visit and the accompanying curriculum, interactive exhibits and hands-on activities take center stage. These experiences allow students to actively participate, experiment, and discover the principles of illusions and perception. By engaging their senses and physically interacting with the content, students become active learners, making the learning process exciting and memorable.

Before, During & After

Ensuring engagement before, during, and after the museum visit is crucial for a comprehensive learning journey. Pre-visit engagement can pique students’ curiosity and build anticipation, while post-visit activities allow them to reflect on their experiences and reinforce what they’ve learned.

Immersive Experience

Integrating the excitement of a museum visit into the program adds a sense of adventure and exploration, making learning more memorable and impactful.

Pre-designed Materials

To support educators in delivering the program effectively and to enhance the students’ learning experience, our program provides comprehensive predesigned materials. These materials serve as valuable resources that save time and effort for both teachers and students while ensuring a coherent and standardized educational journey.

What’s in it for the Teachers?

The program offers a wealth of perks for teachers: – Ready-made curriculum materials

– Educator guides

– Presentation slides

– Guided inquiry questions

– List of suggested exhibits

– Field trip guides

– Museum orientation materials These materials are designed to save you time and effort, allowing you to seamlessly integrate the program into your curriculum. By participating in our program, teachers can enhance their instruction and provide students with an unforgettable learning experience that goes beyond the traditional classroom setting. And we have even MORE perks for Teachers! Visit Museum of Illusions on any Tuesday for FREE! That’s right, just bring in your valid school or district ID and receive free admission any Tuesday of the year. Whether you’re previewing the museum for an upcoming field trip or want to bring your friends and family for a fun outing, this is an opportunity you don’t want to miss! *Offer only valid on Tuesdays, walk-in only. Must show current school or district ID and provide school email address for free entry. Free entry is subject to availability/capacity and not available for special ticketed events.

What about the Students?

Students will have the opportunity to: – Explore mind-bending illusions

– Engage in critical and creative thinking

– Discover the science behind optical phenomena

– Be captivated by our exhibits

– Be guided by inquiry-based questions

– Be  encouraged to reflect on their learning Our program fosters curiosity, ignites imagination, and encourages students to think outside the box. Get ready for a journey of discovery, where the impossible becomes possible and learning becomes an adventure!

Looking for a fun new field trip idea for your students? Look no further than Museum of Illusions Chicago! Students will explore STEM-related concepts while experiencing firsthand how our vision can trick our minds. Fill out the form to get in contact and start organizing your field trip!

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Our visitors said this:

“A mind-boggling, fantastic place! Out of the ordinary and sooo interesting!”

“The perfect blend of fun and learning! We were thoroughly entertained while gaining a deeper understanding of how our minds interpret the world.”

“Museum of Illusions is must-visit for all ages! It's a fantastic place to learn about illusions and perception while having a blast with friends and family.”

“A fabulous afternoon spent here. Well worth a visit!”

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School Field Trips in Chicago

The city’s best Guest Relations staff is here to make Skydeck one of the most fun school field trips in Chicago for elementary, middle, or high school students. Our world-class, friendly staff will make your trip as carefree and enjoyable as possible. We want your visit to run smoothly from the time you pull up to our entrance to the time you depart. Your group package will include:

• Designated bus loading area on S. Wacker Drive , steps from the Skydeck entrance.
• Free Bus Parking . With a group reservation, bus parking is available at 1200 South Canal (Roosevelt and Canal) while your guests enjoy the Skydeck. As required by the City of Chicago, your bus driver will need to remain with the bus.

Want to add lunch onto your schedule? Take a look at our Food & Beverage Options .

Why not make that group outing a memorable one by getting a picture of your group at Willis Tower or arranging to pick up unique souvenirs while you are here? Group Photos. Discounted group packages are available if arranged and prepaid two weeks before the group’s arrival. Call (312) 875-9447 for details.

Call (312) 875-9447 to make a reservation or schedule your school visit online .

• Group Reservations
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STEM Field Trips

Education and fun, all rolled into one.

Introduce your students to a unique educational STEM field trip in Chicago, IL at MLK Skating that gets them excited about learning! Students will learn how the concepts of science, technology, engineering, and math can be found in everyday experiences, even fun experiences like roller skating!

Our professional STEM Educators teach students about how STEM principles exist in just about every part of life.

The STEM lessons focus on hands-on activities that are both educational and fun! The STEM lesson plans follow Next Generation and state-level curriculum standards that relate back to classroom learning making this STEM program completely unique! Following the completion of the one-hour STEM lesson, the students roller skate for physical fitness. While roller skating, the concepts students learned are continually reinforced.

Elementary & Middle School

Stem lessons.

We offer 11 unique activity-based STEM Lessons that match what you are teaching in the class curriculum! This 3-hour field trip will include a 1-hour hands on STEM experience lead by our professional educator, followed by the enjoyment of physical fitness through roller skating. We offer a variety of lesson topics that align with the most up to date curriculum guided by the Next Generation Science Standards and more. With so many lessons available meeting your classroom standards, we are certain you will join us time and time again!

The Science of Roller Skating

Students will learn about the parts of a roller skate/inline skate and how each part functions to make the skate. They will discuss how surfaces in the rink are made of different materials and how that affects the skate in motion. Students will have a chance to showcase their creativity and design a new feature for a skate.

Topics Like: Geometry, Friction, Reverse Engineering, Design 

Motion & Skate Design

Students will get an introduction into the physics of roller skating by discussing the four parameters of motion. Students will become problem solvers and answer an open-ended question by inventing their own skate design.

Topics Like: Motion, Physics, Design 

Music, Math & Roller Skating

Students will learn how to count using the beats of the music played in a roller rink and will learn how the type of music affects the speed of the skater. Fourth and fifth graders will also learn how to control the speed of skaters using the beat of the music.

Topics Like: Sound Waves, Beats per Minute, Frequency

Super Sound! Acoustics & Rink Design

Students will explore how sound waves look and how they travel through different mediums. They will discuss sounds that relate to the roller skating rink including the differentiation In speaker pitch and tones. 

Topics Like: Sound Waves, Doppler Effect, Sound System Design 

Science of Lighting

Students will learn about the speed of light and how light travels. Students will learn the exciting affects of light with the use of reflection and refraction.

Topics Like: Electromagnetic Spectrum, The Speed of Light, Light Waves

Heart, Health, & Fitness

Students will learn about the functions of the cardiovascular system and about leading a healthy lifestyle. They will make predictions and then calculate their average heart rate through physical activity. 

Topics Like: Cardiovascular System, Heart Health, Importance of Exercise

Formulas, Fractions, & Fun

Students will learn how math concepts can be found all over the skating rink. Students will measure, compare, and average the speed of several skaters, discover how engineers use geometry in the rink, and how statistics relates to roller skating.

Topics Like: Averages, Geometry, Statistics

Newton on Roller Skates

Students will learn that each one of Newton’s Three Laws of Motion are present in the skating rink. They will experiment with force and mass and discuss the importance of physics and roller skating. 

Topics Like: Physics, Laws of Motion, Inertia

The Science Behind Roller & Ice Hockey

Students will learn how STEM plays a very large part in sports, specifically roller and ice hockey. They will learn how three different kinds of motion can make a difference In the outcome of the game. Students will also talk probability and construct a catapult.

Topics Like: Physics, Probability, Angular, Projectile and Linear Motion

Arcade STEM

Students will learn about reaction time, what it has to do with arcade games and how to Improve it. Students will also learn about probability through discussion of arcade games In our facility. 

Topics Like: Reaction Time, Probability and Engineering Through Game Design

Physics of Artistic Roller Skating

(for middle school only).

Students will learn how science, math, and the arts blend together in artistic roller skating. They will study the physics behind jumps and spins, and how the skater uses music, dance, and precision to create art. Students will participate In an interactive lab  on projectile motion. 

BSA, Girl Scouts, & Cub Scouts

Check out these scout-specific activities that your troop can do together while earning their award or badge!

Cub Scouts & BSA

What makes a roller skate wheel rotate or how far can you get your catapult to launch an object? Cub Scouts and Scouts BSA will come to our roller skate facility and work towards their Nova Award. Once their creations are completed, Scouts will have the opportunity to roller skate with their Den!

Girl Scouts

Mechanical engineering badge.

Earn your Mechanical Engineering Badge at the roller rink! Learn how force and gravity affect speed through roller skating. With this knowledge, you will think like an engineer and create a car design to test on the roller rink! Once your creation is complete, you will enjoy roller skating with your Girl Scout Troop !

Craft and Tinker Badge

Earn your Craft and Tinker Badge at the roller rink while using your problem-solving skills to explore tinkering while taking a part a roller skate!  Become a maker while using your imaginations, tools, and materials to create exciting designs. Lastly, you become the user and enjoy roller skating with your Girl Scout Troop!

Experience the MLK Skating STEM programs in this quick 3-minute video!

STEM Field Trip Packages

One hour of STEM Education on your chosen lesson followed by two hours of roller skating!

$18.00 per student

• STEM Lesson
• Skating OR Unlimited Bowling 
• Skate OR Shoe Rental
• Slice of Cheese Pizza & Small Soft Drink

$15.00 per student

• Skating OR Bowling

STEM Program FAQs

We don’t just provide an experience for math field trips or science field trips, we focus on STEM activities showcasing real-world applications in our roller rink covering. For more check out our full lesson plan above to see all of the fun.

Currently, we do not offer virtual STEM field trips. Our STEM experience is in-person inside of our roller rink. This is the best way for our STEM educators to guide students through different concepts that they would come across in real-world scenarios.

You will choose one (1)  of our 11 lessons to be the focus of the STEM education hour of your field trip. This way you can choose a different lesson each time you book your field trip, keeping the whole experience new and fresh even if the same students are returning.

We want all students to have an enjoyable and educational time with our STEM professionals, and to do that we use our predetermined lessons. This way your students will learn about all of the STEM concepts that come from skating, the rink, and music. We do have several topics for you to choose from, making it easy to align with what you are currently learning.

We are able to host an elementary STEM field trip or a middle school STEM field trip. The programs topics and themes are the same but are adjusted in complexity for those age groups. You can review our full list of lessons above.

Yes there is! After the 1-hour lesson, your students will be able to skate for 2-hours. This way they get to critically think about what they just learned as they skate around the rink.

You can give us a call or fill out our online form below. We will be more than happy to help schedule your STEM field trip today!

Book a STEM field trip today!

Simply fill out the form below or call us at 312-747-2602 and we’ll get back to you by the next business day.

Schedule a 15 Minute One-on-One with our team to get more information on planning your STEM field trip!

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Field Trips to the MCA

Students from Talcott Elementary discuss Panorama Catatumbo, by Noemí Pérez (2012-2016).

The Museum of Contemporary Art proudly offers free guided field trips with free transportation to Chicago Public Schools. Registration is open for summer 2023 tours; please use the form on this page to request and email [email protected] with questions.

About Our Guided Field Trips

Learning in the galleries at the MCA happens through inquiry, dialog, play, experimentation, and collective meaning-making. Our educators facilitate conversation around art, ideas, and contemporary issues. They use contemporary art as a vehicle for developing skills in critical observation, interpretation, and inquiry. We build these learning experiences around four key principles:

• Give students agency. Prioritize the wisdom and experiences of young people.
• Make meaning together. Encourage students to understand art on the own terms and in community with one another.
• Explore new modes of learning. Create new, unexpected experiences outside of simple lecture and discussion.
• Prioritize reflection. Offer content, social context, facts, and historical information as opportunities for students to connect the art to their own lives.

If you would like to reserve a guided field trip, please use the guided field trip calendar . To book a self-guided field trip, use the self-guided field trip calendar . Select the date and time that works for you. You will receive a confirmation in your email. Please visit our Visit page for accessibility information, guidelines for your visit, and directions. Please organize your transportation to arrive as close to 10 am as possible.

The MCA covers the cost of bus transportation for all participating Chicago Public Schools. While we do cover the costs, we do not currently contact, schedule, or organize buses for schools. There are two options for taking advantage of this opportunity:

• One, your school may invoice the MCA for reimbursement. To receive reimbursement, submit an invoice for the cost of your bus to [email protected] with a current W9 for your school.
• Two, the bus company may invoice the MCA directly by sending their invoice and payment information to [email protected] . However, if the bus company needs to have a check in hand when they arrive at the MCA, we need at least 3 weeks to process payment.

We ask that your school make reservations two weeks in advance to avoid overcrowding the galleries, preserve the artwork, and secure your chosen date and time. To reserve a guided field trip, please use the guided field trip calendar . To book a self-guided field trip, use the self-guided field trip calendar . Select the date and time that works for you.

Your group can enter the museum at the main staircase located on Mies van der Rohe Drive. Buses can park temporarily at the side of the museum at 220 E. Chicago Ave.

At the end of each MCA email about your field trip, you will find “Make Changes to this event.” Hit the Cancel link or button, then Confirm, to cancel your field trip.

Yes! At the end of each email you receive confirming your field trip, you will find a link labeled “Need to make changes to this event? Reschedule.” You can click the Reschedule link or button to change the date and time of your field trip.

You will receive emails confirming your field trip’s date and time via the email address you entered for the field trip form.

Yes! Your students are welcome to stay in the museum to explore on their own with their chaperones.

All students are free of charge. Illinois teachers and chaperones are also free. Out-of-state chaperones and teachers pay $8 each to enter the museum the day of their visit. To receive a rate of $7 per chaperone and/or teacher, contact [email protected] at least 2 weeks before your field trip.

Yes. Each group of 10 students must be accompanied by at least one (1) adult chaperone or teacher.

Yes! You can arrange a self-guided field trip for your class. Visit the self-guided field trip calendar and select the date and time that works for you. Our Visit page has accessibility information, guidelines for your visit, and directions.

Thank you for bringing your school group to the museum! Please participate within reason, feel free to answer a couple of questions, and encourage participation from your class without singling students out. Our main ask is that you help MCA educators with classroom management. You know your class best, so please share with MCA educators any tips you have for getting students' attention, drawing answers out, and creating a brave and comfortable space. We ask that you stay engaged and avoid leaving the group or being on your phone.

We know it’s difficult to take time out of your schedule and curriculum to spend time with us and we understand that, as chaperones and teachers, you are incredibly busy after planning and leading the trip. Thank you.

Yes! Our Learning staff offer bilingual field trips in English and Spanish on guided field trips. Visit the guided field trip calendar and select the date and time that works for you, then fill in the information requested in the section on bilingual guides.

If you’ve registered for a guided field trip, you may remain in our Learning Studios after your experience to eat lunch. Otherwise, there are no lunch facilities on-site. There are a number of parks in the immediate area where bagged lunches may be eaten in the case of good weather as well as dining options in Water Tower Place.

Yes! No pens, water botles, or backpacks are allowed in the galleries. For this and other tips, check out our Visit page for accessibility information, guidelines for your visit, and directions.

Please contact MCA Field Trips at [email protected] or 312-397-3812 .

Field Trips (9-12 grade)

We’re so glad you are considering bringing your high school or college student group to the Chicago Architecture Center for an educational experience.

If you are looking to book a workshop or tour for K-8 students, please visit our Field Trips (K-8 grade)  page.

We ask that you make your request for a reservation at least four weeks in advance. You can make your request by contacting our group sales department at [email protected] . Once we've received your reservation request, we’ll send a confirmation agreement specifying the date and time of your field trip (workshop or tour).

Experience CAC

Book a field trip.

Talk to our group sales department about booking your student group today. [email protected]

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Focus on the M in STEM

"Where there's History, Invention, Chance, Curiosity and Purpose... and there's a compelling Math Connection."

The details that follow describe some trips and include links to the Program Guides.

M athHappens has created field trips! We develop the topic, content and logistics  to ensure that students have rich mathematical content to accompany their field experience. We have three trips to describe in detail. One to the Texas State History Museum for high school students can be adapted for middle school math students, another to Ransom Center Archive for high school students, and one to the Austin Nature and Science Center customizable for elementary, middle or high school students.

Texas State History Museum La Belle Exhibit

Ransom Center Field Trip

The Ransom Center is a document and collection archive on the UT Campus. They recently mounted an exhibit of Lewis Carroll papers to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Alice in Wonderland. MathHappens helped create activities for a math alcove for this exhibit and we were able to page some of these materials for a special viewing for this group of high school students. The Lewis Carroll collection offers a wonderful variety of math concepts to explore.

Challenge: With the archive rules in force we could only give the students yellow lined paper and only pencils for writing. We were able to page original materials to display in glass cases, and we had a chalk board and chalk. Otherwise we could read text (from yellow paper). The center made some special allowances and were were allowed to bring in some iPads, and some leather and wood models to accompany the different elements of the program. The program took place in a beautiful conference room.

The Program Guide is here . Students arrived at the center ground floor for an orientation on the mission and function of the archive and then proceeded to the second floor conference room. After viewing the materials we proceeded through the program. At the end students took time to view the permanent exhibits on the first floor including a Gutenberg Bible and the very first photograph.

Austin Science and Nature Center Field Trip Outline

The Austin Science and Nature Center is free and open to the public. Since 1960, the Austin Nature & Science Center (ANSC) has provided hands-on nature exhibits, educational programs and recreational activities for countless visitors, teachers, and children of all ages that increases awareness and appreciation of the natural environment.

In working at and designing math activities for the Austin Nature and Science Center, the MathHappens team visited over several months through the summer and fall of 2016. We explored the current exhibits and gained an understanding of the visitor population. Informed by these visits we decided to focus on Fibonacci Numbers, the Golden Ratio and Fractals. We created prototypes and tried them out with visitors. These included golden ratio calipers, an adjustable forearm, wrist, fingertip measure arm measurement, a hurricane Sandy/Golden Spiral puzzle, a Fibonacci Rabbit Problem model, a golden ratio grid mirror and a Sierpinski fractal puzzle.

The PROGRAM GUIDES for the Field Trip

The Measurement Activities (Mr. Morales/ Mr. Ahrens). In the planetarium we had the giant calipers, the arm - wrist - hand proportional measurement tool, some pictures of various animals, the Hurricane Sandy Puzzle with its golden spiral, the Golden Ratio Hand Mirrors, and the calipers to give to each student. Students also visited the specimen room in the next building to explore, use their calipers and chat with Mr. Ahrens about some of the specimens in the collection.

There are two proofs to think about in this packet. The first is to do with the design of the calipers and the second is the appearance of the golden ratio in a 5 pointed star. Students may not have time to tackle the proofs, but they can provide opportunities to extend this experience after the field trip, or can be considered if there is extra time.

Link to the Guide for Measuring Proportions (includes caliper proof):

Link to the Pentagon Proof Challenge:

Comparing Sequences (Mrs. Siegel). In the breezeway, we had a very non-traditional outdoor environment for working on a mathematical calculation. This is intentional and it was very successful. One photograph of students leaning on walls, sitting on benches or standing arms crossed faces focused on the patterns and calculations is particularly encouraging. With groups passing by the the visitor center, a cold breeze and some noisy wind we were very well out of a normal math learning environment. We compared two sequences and derived the Golden Ratio. We looked at “sequences” a little differently by setting up our stepping stone mats and playing the Fibonacci Stepping Stone Game.

Guide for Comparing Sequences- we are using the quadratic formula!

Stepping Stone Game - Fibonacci numbers manifested a different way.

Fibonacci Trees, Blocks and Bunnies (Mrs Lay)

Mrs. Lay, a teacher of both art and math was in the small room in the visitors center opposite the cave.

She guided the students in drawing some trees based on human and bee ancestry. With these models constructed students can compare the two and see the Fibonacci pattern in the Bee Ancestry. We will have the Fibonacci block puzzle and the Fibonacci Bunny Rabbit Problem models in this room as well. You can access the Program Guides for those components here:

Family Trees

Fibonacci Building Blocks:

Bunny Problem

The Fibonacci Trees, Hurricane Sandy, the Nautilus shell, and the Human and Bee Ancestry, all share characteristics with fractal forms. The fractal sheet guides a pair of students - one to read the other to do through a couple of patterns and asks them to consider what is a fractal. There will be some Fractal puzzles available in the Planetarium Room.

Fractal Sheet