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:
1. Huzzah!
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.Â
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 science 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. Â
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—younger 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:
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!)
