Maryland offers many fun-filled attractions for field trips. It has a rich history, and its parks and museums offer educational programs that give students an immersive experience. If you’re looking for educational field trip inspiration, explore our single-day field trip ideas in Maryland. Then, learn how to plan the excursion, from collecting fees to booking your transportation.
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College Park Aviation Museum
Students of all ages can learn the history and development of aviation at the College Park Aviation Museum. The museum is the world’s oldest operating airport and features many planes, artifacts and paintings. Educational activities include learning about plane innovation and the Wright Brothers. You can contact the museum for field trip rates.
The Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park
There’s something for every grade level at The Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park. Students can engage in outdoor challenges that promote learning — like building a boat — or learn about nature, the climate and sea animals at the museum. Admission rates depend on the time you spend at the museum and park.
Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center
Take your students on a field trip where they’ll learn about the courageous social activist Harriet Tubman. The Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center offers activities such as taking guided tours at the park, watching films, exploring walking trails and discovering the history of the Underground Railroad through exhibits at the visitor center. There is no admission fee, and school groups do not need to make reservations.
River Valley Ranch
Give your students an educational, adventurous and challenging experience at River Valley Ranch. From taking hikes to climbing trees, kids can enjoy nature and take part in outdoor activities that allow team building. There is a fee, and school groups must book their field trip in advance.
National Aquarium
At the National Aquarium, students can learn about aquatic animals, habitats and rescue through presentations and engaging activities. You need to make a reservation before heading to the aquarium, and there is a fee. However, students in Maryland get free entry from September to February.
The Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center
Encourage creativity at the Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center. Here, kids can engage in classroom-related subjects like art and math and take part in indoor and outdoor activities for hands-on learning and engagement. Field trips can last up to four hours and require a fee. Students can end their fun day with a keepsake!
Maryland Science Center
At the Maryland Science Center, teachers can lead students on a self-guided tour and teach them about science, physics, the human body and dinosaurs. Out-of-state students must pay an admission fee, but Maryland students on a school trip can enter the science center for free. However, there is an additional fee to enjoy attractions and programs such as the planetarium. Ensure that you make a reservation before taking your field trip.
The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring
The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring is a fun outdoor experience ideal for students over the age of 5. Students can climb through the Labyrinth, walk over rope bridges and get a view of the park when they get to the top. The park also provides climbing gear and a lawn for students who want to play games. Ensure that you make a reservation, and also remember to explore the available discounts.
Destination Education by Watermark
The Destination Education by Watermark is a fantastic field trip focusing on history and social studies. One highlight is a cruise that offers exciting learning and sightseeing opportunities. Plus, Watermark will cater to your school group’s needs by providing accessible activities and lunches. Book in advance and pay the fee for walking guided tours and activities. This is also a great field trip idea for homeschoolers.
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
If you want to teach your students about the history of the United States, take a day trip to the Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine, the site that inspired “The Star-Spangled Banner.” The site is suitable for students of all grades, and they can learn about the U.S. military, the Civil War and the Battle of Fort McHenry. Access to the park and visitor center is free for students, but some additional programs and activities require a fee. Fourth-grade students get free admission all year round to participate in educational activities.
How to Plan a Field Trip
Planning your trip prevents delays and increases student safety. It also ensures that your trip provides learning in an engaging environment. Take a look at how to plan your next field trip in Maryland:
- Get approval: You must get permission from the school administrator for all trips outside the school grounds. As part of this process, you’ll likely have to send permission slips to parents.
- Choose age-specific activities: Check each program before taking any field trip. Some programs cater to little ones in pre-K, whereas others provide learning experiences catered to high schoolers. Choosing an appropriate field trip ensures that learners participate in activities suitable to their curriculum.
- Check the requirements: For parks and outdoor activities, kids might need sun hats and water. Museums and facilities might have a no-food or bag policy. Find out what the guidelines are to ensure you meet their policies. You can also find out about the amenities and chaperone requirements.
- Identify costs: Locations may charge for admissions or only for specific activities. There are also often discounted fees for groups and children under a particular age.
- Plan your day: Create a schedule for the day or work with the venue to create a field trip. Make sure to remember lunchtime!
- Plan your transportation: Book reliable bus services that accommodate your students.
- Get reliable chaperones: Chaperones supervise large groups throughout the day, so they must be reliable and able to manage students of all ages.
- Provide a travel packing list: Essential items depend on the venue and may include water, hats, swimsuits, medication, snacks and lunch. Avoid bringing items prohibited by the site you’re visiting.
- Set goals: Determine what you want to achieve during your day trip. What do you want students to take away from the experience?
Book Executive Coach for Your Next Scenic Field Trip
Take learning beyond the classroom using bus services from Executive Coach. We provide outstanding services to educators and students on single-day school trips in Maryland. Our qualified drivers will enhance the experience of your journey, keeping students safe while they enjoy their educational school outings.
We provide various fleet options and excellent customer service to all our clients. You can contact us by calling 844-924-8755 or requesting an online quote. We will get back to you shortly!
