best field trips in st louis

Field Experiences

This page contains a listing of STEM-rich field-trip opportunities–both in-person and virtual–filterable by type of field trip, content area, and grade level. We continue to update our listings as program providers develop new content, so visit us often! Can’t find what you need here? Let us know ! Want your STEM program’s information listed on the site? Submit your information here .

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SOLD OUT 4/17/24 : The Tram Ride to the Top is SOLD OUT for Wednesday, April 17, 2024 . Tram tickets are expected to sell out early and often. We encourage guests to purchase tickets in advance of their desired visit.

Visiting the Gateway Arch: Enter the monument through the Gateway Arch Visitor Center, which faces Fourth Street and the Old Courthouse. The Gateway Arch legs are exits only. Please allow at least 30 minutes to go through security. Tickets sell out early and often, advance reservations are strongly recommended. Pending availability, additional tickets may be available for same-day purchase beginning at 9am each day through our website, call center, and ticket center at the Gateway Arch. Same-day ticket availability is not guaranteed and sells out early and often.

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• Sample Itinerary
• Tram Ride to the Top
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• Old Courthouse
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Educational Opportunities

Sitting at the crossroads between east and west, north and south, Native American and colonial cultures, the Gateway Arch provides a rich environment for students to learn about America’s history, as well as their own.

We’ll help you plan a program to suit your students’ specific needs and interests.

For more information on the education program offerings , please call the Education Department: 314-655-1635 or visit National Park Service website .

Reservations must be made at least 30 days in advance. To make a reservation call 314-923-3048.

Planning Your Visit

Free Education Programs Available In-Person or Virtual All programs are aligned with national, state, and local standards and are designed for groups of all ages. National Park Service rangers facilitate audience-centered programs year round, free of charge. Reservations must be made at least 30 days in advance. To make a reservation call 314-923-3048.

In-Person Programs All programs take place at the Gateway Arch National Park. National Park Service rangers facilitate all programs which may include role-playing, decision making, multiple perspectives, analytical thinking, and activities using replica items and historic clothing. Maximum group size is 30 students (one adult for every 10 students.) Please allow 50 minutes for each program.

Virtual Programs National park rangers will connect with your class via your preferred digital platform. Presentations will take an audience-centered approach using a variety of practices such as period clothing, historic photos, primary sources, show and tell, music and other digital content. Please allow 30-40 minutes for each program.

The $3 National Park entrance fee is waived for bona fide educational groups, for more information f ill out our  Group Inquiry Form and a sales agent will contact you. 

Program topics

The National Park’s Education and Interpretation staff are happy to provide educators with a wide range of resources and workshops. For more information on the resources listed below, please call the Education Department: 314-655-1635 or visit  National Park Service website .

General Museum Tour The general tour of the museum at the Gateway Arch introduces students to the larger themes of westward expansion and the growth of the United States. Students will work with a park ranger that guides them through six different permanent exhibits on the history of westward expansion and the building of the Gateway Arch.

St. Louis from the Beginning French fur traders founded St. Louis at what is now the base of the Gateway Arch in 1764. In this program, students will visit the “Colonial St. Louis” exhibit at the Gateway Arch Museum and learn about the ways St. Louis became a prosperous river town and trading post.

Lewis and Clark In this museum education program, students learn about the Corps of Discovery’s trip to the Pacific Coast from 1803 to 1806, which started and ended in St. Louis. Students will also learn about the lives of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark and the people they interacted with during the voyage.

Heading West? This education program introduces young students (k-2) to the basics of westward expansion using a number of exhibits at the Gateway Arch Museum.

Building the Dream: Constructing the Gateway Arch Step back into the 1960s and learn how the tallest national monument in the United States was conceived, designed, and built.

American Indians of the Great Plains Learn about the customs and lifeways of Plains Indian tribes and the ways westward expansion changed their lives in the 1800s. This program is designed for students in k-2 grades.

What Story is Told in these Paintings In this museum education program, students will study three historic paintings depicting westward expansion in the 19th century and be challenged to consider how these paintings shaped popular perceptions of U.S. history.

Trial Reenactments (The Old Courthouse in Downtown St. Louis is closed for renovations) Gain valuable perspective on history by reenacting one of the historic trials, which took place at the Old Courthouse in downtown St. Louis. You will receive a script when you register. A National Park Ranger will facilitate the trial and at the end involve students in the deliberation process as your class becomes jury.

• Freedom Suit: Dred Scott v Irene Emmerson
• Trial for the Right to Vote: Virginia Minor v Happersett
• Segregation Laws in the 1800s: Williams v Bellefontaine
• Tort Liability: Franke v City of St Louis

Educational Resources

Traveling Trunks Bring “hands on” history into your classroom. Trunks are available for a period of two weeks. A list of trunk topics and information on reserving a trunk is available on-line. The cost is $35 or $45, depending on U.S. location (additional charge for shipping to Alaska or Hawaii).

DVD Loan Program Teachers may borrow DVDs related to westward expansion and the Gateway Arch. Titles and descriptions are available on-line.

Teacher Workshops & In-Services Each year the education department hosts educator workshops through the year. Please watch our website for upcoming events. The education department can also help schools develop and facilitate workshops for their teachers. To learn more, please call 314-655-1635.

Open Out-doors for Kids Fourth Grade Program (formerly known as Every Kid Outdoors) Gateway Arch National Park would like to invite you and your 4th grade class for a FREE visit to the park for the “Open Out-doors for Kids” (OOK) program! Thanks to a grant from the National Park Foundation, transportation costs for your class visit will be paid in full. This is a three-part program, which includes a pre-visit, a field trip to the Gateway Arch National Park (including a FREE trip to the top of the Gateway Arch), and post-visit elements. A virtual OOK program is also available.

For more information on the resources listed above, please call the Education Department at phone: 314-655-1635 or visit   National Park Service website .  

Accessibility

The National Park Service and its partners welcome all visitors and make many efforts to accommodate people with disabilities in the Old Courthouse, the Gateway Arch Visitor Center, and on the park grounds. The park has accessible exhibits and programs and offers various assistive devices. The Museum at the Gateway Arch supports physical and programmatic accessibility including tactile exhibits, audio description, computer simulations, and large text reading cards.

We do not offer access for wheelchairs, scooters, or strollers to the top of the Gateway Arch due to the observation deck’s unique curvature. In consultation with our universal design citizen group, a keystone hub was designed in the lobby to house a live feed to replicate the view to the west and east from the top of the observation deck of the Gateway Arch.

• Cape Girardeau
• Jefferson City
• Kansas City
• Springfield
• Other Field Experience Locations

St. Louis Field Trips and Educational Programs

In this section, field trip guide for schools and organized groups, general information.

• All of our programs are free.
• Groups are responsible for providing their own transportation.
• All program content supports Disciplinary Core Ideas (DCI); see each program description for details.
• Customized programs may be available upon request.

Planning Your Visit

Field trips generally last from 1 1/2 to 3 1/2 hours. Below are the ideal times we recommend, depending on your group size and your availability.

Students should wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes. They may also need:

• Waterproof shoes or a change of socks and shoes for aquatic programs
• Insect repellent
• Water bottle

Most programs include spending at least one hour outside. Please dress for the weather! Programs will be rescheduled only if conditions are hazardous (e.g., heavy rain, lightning, heat advisory).

Snacks/Lunch

Program times do not include time for lunch. You are welcome to bring a snack or lunch to enjoy after your field trip. If you want to include time for lunch, add an extra 30 minutes to your requested time.

Apply 20- to 50-percent DEET insect repellents, if needed. Please have students check themselves for ticks after the program and ask parents to thoroughly check their children when they get home.

Managing Your Visit

Supervision is the responsibility of the teacher and parent chaperones. One chaperone is recommended for every 10 students.

• Remember to be good listeners.
• Have fun! Be involved in discussions and enthusiastic about nature activities.
• Leave rocks, leaves, flowers, etc., where you found them.
• Pick up your trash. Trash cans and recycling are available.
• Be good role models.
• Have fun! If you’re having fun and showing interest in the activities, the students will be more receptive to learning the material.
• Please have lunches collectively gathered in a basket or box for each class.
• Each location varies with accommodations for lunch. Options may include a staging area (with benches), arbor area, and front lawn to groups on a first-come, first-served basis.

Field Trips vs. Field Experiences

All MDC programs incorporate hands-on and inquiry-based learning opportunities in nature.

Our naturalist-led field trips, also referred to as school programs, will enhance your science curriculum while also promoting other interdisciplinary subjects.

Field experiences emphasize student-centered, collaborative investigations of natural phenomena and are led by certified classroom DNS teachers to better facilitate classroom connections to concepts. Field experiences are eligible for transportation funding the Missouri Department of Conservation provides through the Discover Nature Schools (DNS) program.

To Schedule

Request a St. Louis School Program

• Programs start no earlier than 9:30 a.m.
• Only one field trip is available per class per school year.
• Programs are available Tuesday through Friday, except holidays.
• Programs are available at all locations, unless noted.
• All programs will be entered into a lottery system for each site.
• A representative from MDC will follow up with you about your request.

Fall Programs

• Available Sept. 25 through Dec. 22.
• Requests are accepted through Sept. 1. All applications received after the deadlines will be considered as space allows.

Spring Programs

• Available Feb. 26 through May 24.
• Requests are accepted through Jan. 15. All applications received after the deadlines will be considered as space allows.

If you have questions regarding the application or programs, please contact one of our offices.

• Busch Memorial Conservation Area, 636-441-4554
• Powder Valley Nature Center, 314-301-1500
• Rockwoods Reservation, 636-458-2236
• Tower Grove Park, 314-301-1504

Grades Pre-K–2

Wildlife spotlight.

All animals have unique traits that help them live in their habitats. Students will experience these special characteristics through hands-on discovery and outdoor exploration. Choose one from reptiles, birds, mammals, or insects.

Disciplinary Core Ideas: LS1.A: Structure and Function: External parts; LS1.B: Growth and Development

Growing Up Wild

All living things, big and small, have a life cycle. Discover nature as it grows through an exploration of plants and animals.

Disciplinary Core Ideas: LS1.B: Growth and Development; ESS2.D: Weather and Climate

Marvelous Metamorphosis

Metamorphosis is an impressive natural process to see and study. Learn about the unique life cycles of some of our marvelous Missouri critters.

Disciplinary Core Ideas: LS1.B: Growth and Development

Seeds on the Move

Flowers can’t walk, swim, or fly, so how do they spread to different places? Learn about pollination, seed dispersal, parts of flowers, and types of seeds through games and hands-on exploration. Outside, students will see what is happening in the garden and search for some pollinators in action.

Disciplinary Core Ideas: LS2.A: Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems; 0LS1.A: Structure and Function

Critter Comparisons

Furry, feathered, scaly, or smooth? All animals have special characteristics that help them to thrive in their habitats. Learn all about the role these characteristics play in the survival of mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and birds.

Disciplinary Core Ideas: LS1.A: Structure and Function; LS1.D: Information Processing

Creatures of Habitat

A habitat provides food, water, shelter, and space for the animals living there. Through exploration, students will compare and contrast how animals use their adaptations to survive in different environments.

Disciplinary Core Ideas: LS1.A: Structure and Function; LS4.C: Adaptation

Who’s for Lunch?

Nature weaves an intricate web, connecting the smallest organisms to the largest predators. Removing one link from the food chain can affect the whole web of life. Students will study how energy flows through an ecosystem and investigate a food web through an owl pellet dissection.

Disciplinary Core Ideas: LS2.A: Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems; LS4.D: Biodiversity and Humans

Predator vs. Prey

In nature, survival is the goal! Predators and prey both have unique tools and behaviors that help them survive. Through a study of skulls and predator-prey activities, students will experience wildlife survival.

Disciplinary Core Ideas: LS1.A: Structure and Function; LS2.A: Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems; LS4.C: Adaptation

Aquatic Studies*

We all need clean water to survive! Learn about the importance of water quality and what types of critters might be living in our ponds and streams.

Disciplinary Core Ideas: LS2.C: Ecosystem Dynamics, Functioning, and Resilience; ESS3.C: Human Impacts on Earth Systems

*Program available only at Busch Memorial Conservation Area and Rockwoods Reservation

Super Seeds

Investigate dispersal methods that flowering plants use to spread their seeds. Students will look closely at real seeds, mimic how animals play a major role in dispersal, and examine spinning seeds. Next, they will design their own spinning seeds to test and compare using various measuring variables.

Disciplinary Core Ideas: LS1.A: Structure and Function

Grades 6–12

Surviving the wild.

Leaves of three, let it be! Learn skills needed to survive and thrive in the outdoors including identifying poison ivy and building a fire.

Disciplinary Core Ideas: LS2.A: Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems; ETS1.A: Defining and Delaminating an Engineering Problem

Aquatic Studies

Csi: conservation scene investigation.

A conservation crime has been committed! Uncover the mystery by engaging in scientific investigations to determine what really happened. Discover how conservation agents and biologists use evidence to solve wildlife violations through claims supported by evidence and reasoning.

Disciplinary Core Ideas: ESS3.A: Natural Resources; ESS3.C: Human Impacts on Earth Systems

Mixed-Age Programs

Wild in the city.

Buildings, cars, trucks, … and coyotes? Which plants and animals call the city their home? Using real artifacts, discover how and where many of our furry, scaly, or leafy city residents live.

Disciplinary Core Ideas: LS2.C: Ecosystem Dynamics, Functioning and Resilience; LS4.D: Biodiversity and Humans

Cold-Blooded Critters

Whether basking on a warm rock or cooling off in a stream, cold-blooded critters such as reptiles and amphibians have many adaptations that help them survive through the seasons.

Disciplinary Core Ideas: LS4.C: Adaptation

Whooo’s in Your Neighborhood?

What do the city, the suburbs, and the rural areas of Missouri all have in common? Find out whooo’s in your neighborhood in this program and the unique traits that owls have that help them survive in a variety of habitats.

Disciplinary Core Ideas: LS4.C: Adaptation; LS2.A: Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems

Discovery Hikes

Use all your senses to discover nature through observation and exploration on a guided hike with one of our skilled and knowledgeable naturalists.

Disciplinary Core Ideas: LS2.A: Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems

August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area

The August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area (CA) was purchased by the Missouri Department of Conservation in 1947. The area is open for recreational use by the public, and fish and wildlife resources are healthy and abundant. Visitors can walk the hiking trails, drive the auto tour, photograph the wildlife, or simply sit under a tree and enjoy the sights and sounds of the outdoors. The area also has 28 fishable lakes and ponds, totaling 550 acres. Hunting for a variety of wildlife species is allowed on the area; please check for special regulations.

Portions of the conservation area were used by the Army in the 1940s for TNT and DNT production and by the Atomic Energy Commission in the 1960s for uranium ore processing. One hundred of the old TNT storage bunkers still exist on the area.

The affected portions of the area were part of a federal environmental cleanup project. The area is now considered safe for all recreational pursuits allowed on the area as well as for wildlife found within the area.

Find out more about the conservation area, including directions, maps, and hours.

Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center

Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center (CNC) is an educational nature oasis in the middle of Kirkwood. The center is nestled within 112 acres of oak-hickory forest in a quiet corner of a busy urban world. The area has three trails, all of them paved, and one that offers interpretive signage and is accessible.

Powder Valley has something for all nature lovers both indoors and out and in all seasons. The nature center, gift shop, and innovative educational exhibits, including an aquarium and beehive, offer year-round learning. MDC naturalists conduct regular programs to help those of every age discover the wonders of nature.

Find out more about the nature center, including directions, maps, and building hours.

Powder Valley CNC

Rockwoods reservation.

Sample the Ozarks right in the middle of the suburbs. Rockwoods Reservation is found right in busy west St. Louis County. The area boasts a rich diversity of plant and animal life as well as springs, caves, and rock formations. Cool, moist, north-facing ravines and lush creek bottoms contrast with the nearby arid, rocky ridge tops and south slopes. The terrain is reminiscent of the Ozark hills, and many plants and animals found in hill country are also found here.

Rockwoods Reservation features about 13 miles of foot trails of varying length and difficulty. The trails take hikers by caves, along Hamilton Creek, which flows during wet weather, up to scenic overlooks, and past a giant historic lime kiln.

Find out more about the nature center, including directions, maps, and hours.

Tower Grove Park

MDC partners with Tower Grove Park in the City of St. Louis to bring more nature and outdoor-based educational programming to urban residents. The iconic park, which was established in 1868, offers a natural tapestry and outdoor oasis amid the urban environment. Tower Grove Park hosts approximately 2.5 million visitors each year. It is the second largest park in the city, covering 289 acres.

Tower Grove Park is a Level II Accredited Arboretum, featuring 7,000 trees of some 300 varieties. The National Audubon Society has designated Tower Grove Park’s Gaddy Wild Bird Garden an Important Bird Area, boasting more than 200 documented species. Park staff strive to create natural habitat by planting and maintaining native species to benefit monarch butterflies and other pollinators.

Find out more about the park, including directions, maps, and hours.

Field Trips

Education is at the heart of The Magic House’s mission! The Museum offers a variety of private hands-on field trip experiences that spark curiosity and encourage students of all ages to become 21 st -century lifelong learners. Each program is adapted to the students’ grade level and aligns with the Grade Level Expectations outlined by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (GLEs); and the Missouri Early Learning Standards (MELs), as noted in program descriptions.

Our content-rich guided field trip programs include private exploration of a designated area of the Museum with the option to stay and enjoy free play throughout The Magic House until noon.  Additional public-hour field trips are available after 12:00 pm.

Field Trip Admission Rate Schools visiting on a reserved field trip will be admitted for a special admission rate, plus teachers are free. A minimum of one adult chaperone is required for every five children.

The Magic House: $7.00 per student and chaperone 

MADE for Kids: $6.00 per student and chaperone 

Scholarships The Magic House wants to ensure every child has a Field Trip memory! Through our Access for All initiative funded by generous donors and the Sugar Creek Donor Advised Fund, The Magic House provides free learning experiences to Title 1 schools, as well as schools with 50 percent or more students that qualify for free and reduced lunch. If your school qualifies, please select ‘Scholarship Funded’ when making your online reservations.

Our scholarships cover admission for all participating students as well as the recommended number of chaperones (1 adult for every 5 students). Additional chaperones will need to pay the $7 field trip admission fee.

For additional information contact the Education Department at [email protected] .

Special Exhibit – Dinosaur Train

Grade: Preschool – Kindergarten Cost: $7.00 per student and chaperone. Teachers are free.  Capacity: Max 40 students. A minimum of one adult chaperone is required for every five children.

Description: Students can travel back to the time of dinosaurs when they visit Dinosaur Train: The Traveling Exhibit. Based on the popular PBS KIDS TV series, the exhibit features a curious Tyrannosaurus Rex named Buddy who travels through time to discover everything there is to know about dinosaurs. This STEM-based exhibit encourages basic scientific learning through playful hands-on activities. After a group story time, early learners will rotate through engaging, age-appropriate activities available in this dino-rrific exhibit! 

Available for booking Jan. 30, 2024 through the end of the school year.

School groups in all field trip programs are invited to enjoy free play in the rest of the Museum following their program from 10:30 a.m – 12 p.m.

World Traveler Gallery – Ciao Bambini

Grade: Kindergarten – Grade 5 Cost: $7.00 per student and chaperone. Teachers are free.  Capacity: Max 50 students. A minimum of one adult chaperone is required for every five children.

Description: Invite your students on an educational journey to study abroad, no passport required! The Magic House’s World Traveler Gallery takes students on a 90-minute guided tour to build global awareness and nurture cultural appreciation and understanding. Students will experience immersive environments and explore the daily lives of children from another culture.

Ciao Bambini ( September 2023 – May 2024) In Italy students begin their school day when teachers welcome them with “ciao bambini” which means “hello children”. This school year The Magic House welcomes students to our newest World Traveler Gallery exhibit, where they will be transported to the country of Italy to learn what life is like for children in Italy today. From pizza, pasta and gelato to history, art and architecture, students will explore this timeless country where they will become an archeologist, make an Italian flag, create a mosaic masterpiece, learn some Italian language, and find out why the city of Rome is like lasagna

GLEs: Social Studies K-5: 5.A-F, 6.A-D

School groups in all field trip programs are invited to enjoy free play in the rest of the Museum following their program from 10:30 am – 12:00 pm.

Classic Magic House – Booked

Grade:  Grades 1 – 5 Cost: $7.00 per student and chaperone. Teachers are free.  Capacity:  Max 75 students. A minimum of one adult chaperone is required for every five children.

Description: Classic Magic House takes students on a path of discovery with dozens of exciting and challenging hands-on exhibits including magnetism, light and shadows, the five senses, force and motion and more. As an added bonus, students can check out the new St. Louis City Soccer Exhibit where students can explore the four key components of fitness. Every 90-minute program features exclusive exploration of the Museum’s original three floors of interactive exhibits and a classroom-based educational program.

Featuring the Electrostatic Generator, Bubble Room, Pulleys, three-story Super Slide and more, the Classic Magic House field trip concludes with s a classroom investigation of magnetism, static electricity, forces and more that will cultivate students’ creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

GLEs: Science 2-6: Matter and Energy 2A, Force and Motion 2D, Scientific Inquiry 1A

STEAM Center Design Challenge – Booked

Grade: Kindergarten – Grade 5 Cost: $7.00 per student and chaperone. Teachers are free.  Capacity: Max 75 students. A minimum of one adult chaperone is required for every five children.

Description: Where can students use a microscope, play with Oobleck, see butterflies in their growth cycle and observe a life size skeleton- in the Science Lab of The Magic House STEAM Center!  And that is just the beginning of a field trip that has something for everyone including our Future Tech experience, Art Studio, Makers Space and LEGO- based Math area. Following free exploration, students collaborate on exciting design challenges that meet GLE’s.

Straw Rockets – Kindergarten

Create and launch a rocket that can shoot over a wall.

GLE’s: Science K-5: Motion and Stability: Forces of Interaction; K.PS2.A.1 & 2, Science K-5: Engineering Design B-CNGSS: K-PS2-1, K-PS2-2, K-2-ETS1-1-3

Turn Up the Volume – Grade 1

Design and build a device that makes sound in two different ways.

GLE’s: Science K-5: Wave Properties 1.PS4.A, Science K-5: Information Technologies and Instrumentation

1.PS4.C, Science K-5: Engineering Design 1.ETS1.A-CNGSS: 1-PS4-1, 1-PS4-4, K-2-ETS1-1, K-2-ETS1-2, K-2-ETS1-3

Roll With It – Grade 2

Design and build a device that can move a car 6 inches without touching it.

GLE’s: Science K-5: Engineering Design 2.ETS1.A-CNGSS: 3-PS2-3,K-2-ETS1-1, K-2-ETS1-2, K-2-ETS1-3                         

Tower of Strength – Grade 3

Build a skyscraper using a variety of non-traditional building supplies strong enough to withstand the wind.

GLEs: Science K-5: Engineering Design 3-5A, B&C, Science K-5: Earth and Human Activity 4A & 3B, Science K-5: Energy 4B.2
NGSS: 3-5.ETS1-1, 3-5.ETS1-2, 3-5.ETS1-3, ETS1.A, ETC1.C, ESS3.B, S1, S2, S3, S6, S7  

No-Wire Circuit – Grade 4

Create a circuit using household objects, anything but wire, to light an LED bulb.

GLEs: Science K-5: Engineering Design 3-5A, B&C, Science K-5: Earth and Human Activity 4A & 3B, Science K-5: Energy 4B.2

NGSS: 3-5.ETS1-1, 3-5.ETS1-2, 3-5.ETS1-3,ETS1.A, ETS1.B, ETS1.C, 4-PS3-2, 4PS3-4, PS3.B, S1, S2, S3, S6, S7

Hole in One – Grade 5

Build a machine that can hit a ball into a stationary cup.

Wonder Works – Booked

Grade: Preschool – Kindergarten Cost: $7.00 per student and chaperone. Teachers are free.  Capacity: Max 40 students. A minimum of one adult chaperone is required for every five children.

Early childhood groups will enjoy a 75-minute Wonder Works field trip program. Young children will engage in a developmentally appropriate and discovery-based approach to learning within the STEAM-focused play space designed to support and nurture children’s natural curiosity in their world.

Children will get hands-on with simple machines, explore the science of sand, and interact with the power of air. Children will also have multiple gross motor opportunities featuring a one-of-a-kind climbing structure, spiral slide and an elevated balance beam.  

Following exploration of the Wonder Works exhibit space, groups will participate in a classroom-based program where children’s literature is presented with accompanying hands-on learning activities.

MELs: Physical Science 1.a, 1.b, 1.c, 2.b, 3.b, 4.a, 4.c, 4.d; Life Science 1.b, 2.a, 2.b, 4.a; Earth and Space 1.a, 1.b, 1.c, 2.b, 4.a; Measurement 2.a; Physical Development 2.c, 3.a, 3.c; Health 1.c; Speaking/Expressive Language 1.a, 1.b,

Listening/Receptive Language 1.b, 1.d; Reading 1.a, 1.d

MADE for Kids Satellite – Booked

Grade: Kindergarten – Grade 8 Cost: $6.00 per student and chaperone. Teachers are free.  Capacity: Max 75 students. A minimum of one adult chaperone is required for every five children. Location : 5127 Delmar Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63108

Description: Schedule your visit to The Magic House’s satellite location in the City of St. Louis, MADE for Kids! Students are invited to explore this STEAM-infused makerspace, featuring 7,000-square-feet of interactive learning experiences including four areas: a Makers Workshop, an Artist Studio, a Designer Lab, and an Entrepreneurs Marketplace. Following private exploration of MADE for Kids, students will sharpen their problem-solving skills and engage their creativity as they participate in a grade-level specific design challenge, created to align with Missouri GLEs and support the design-thinking process.

MADE for Kids Design Challenge

No Wire Circuit – Grade 4

Middle school challenges available upon request

Spring Monday Field Trips – Booked

Grade: Kindergarten – Grade 5 Dates: April 22, 29 and May 6 Cost: $7.00 per student and chaperone. Teachers are free.  Capacity: Max 75 students. A minimum of one adult chaperone is required for every five children.

Description: Celebrate the end of the school year with a culminating field trip experience at The Magic House! Select Mondays in the spring are reserved exclusively for school field trips from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Groups take a self-directed field trip through the entire 60,000-square-foot Museum exploring hundreds of hands-on exhibits including the Children’s Village , the World Traveler Gallery , the STEAM Center , Bubble Room , the Electrostatic Generator and more. Schools decide on arrival and departure times that fit their schedules. Our Museum Shop will be open limited hours during the day.

The Children’s Village – Booked

Grade: Kindergarten – Grade 5 Cost: $7.00 per student and chaperone. Teachers are free.  Capacity: Max 75 students. A minimum of one adult chaperone is required for every five children.

Description: In the Children’s Village, an immersive learning environment sparks the imagination of students as they explore a child-sized community that provides a world of 21st-century learning opportunities in math, science, social studies and more. Each 90-minute program includes an exclusive exploration of the exhibit space and concludes with a classroom-based educational program.

Community Workers ( Kindergarten – Grade 2)

Students explore the concept of community as they take on the roles of engineers, mechanics, doctors, veterinarians and other community members. The Community Workers program features private exploration of the Children’s Village followed by a classroom-based program designed to guide students in creating a model community of their own; determining what roles and institutions are necessary for it to function. Students will also sharpen their map skills as they become city planners and create a map of their brand new community. 

GLEs: Social Studies K-2: Geography 5A; Tools and Social Science 7B

Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees ( Grades 3 – 5)

Students earn paychecks, make consumer choices, use teamwork and learn how members of a community depend upon each other during this hands-on financial literacy educational program. Following private exploration of the Children’s Village , students will participate in a guided classroom-based program where they form a “family” and work together to make appropriate personal budget decisions about their wants and needs.

In advance of your Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees field trip, teachers will receive supporting materials necessary to prepare for the fun-filled experience.

GLEs: Social Studies 2-3: Economic Principles 4A; Math 2-3: Data and Statistics A

How many chaperones are required for a field trip? One adult chaperone is required for every five children.

Where can buses drop-off and pick-up my group? Buses may pull to the Emerson Education Center entrance for drop-off and pick-up, a staff member will provide direction upon arrival when arriving for a reserved field trip program. 

Busses are required to park off-site. 

Can our group explore The Magic House after our field trip? School Groups are invited to explore The Magic House following their guided field trip until 12:00 pm. If your field is planning to stay after 12:00 p.m. you will need to book a public hours field trip at an additional cost. 

May memberships, passes or coupons be used toward admission for a field trip? Memberships, passes and coupons are for public hour use only and cannot be used during a reserved field trip program.

• Field Trips

In person field trips can be made for groups with more than 10 kids. Field trip reservations are available on Tuesdays-Saturdays. To book a field trip, please contact us by email at least two weeks in advance.

[email protected]

What's Included

• Two hour time slot
• A health educator led show of your choice
• A showing of our Mouth Movie
• Playtime on the exhibit floor

$5 per person ages 3 and up. Admission is free for each chaperone supervising 10 kids. Each additional chaperone is $5

Travel Shows are available at $175 for up to 50 kids. A health educator will come to your school to perform one of our learning theatre shows. (Contact us if you need info on pricing for multiple shows)

Virtual Field Trips are available at $150 for up to 100 kids. We will provide a live show for your class(es) via your preferred video call service.

Limited Scholarships Available Upon Request

Supervision.

Chaperones (parents and teachers) are required at a 10:1 ratio.

Reservation Requirements

Reservations must be made at least two weeks in advance.

• Request a reservation by completing the form below or emailing us
• Your request will be approved by a member of HealthWorks! staff by email
• You will be asked to submit a signed contract and pay a $25 deposit to confirm your reservation

If your group has less than 10 people or you are requesting a date less than 2 weeks from today, please contact us before placing a request.

Choose Your Show

• Hours & Admission
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Pre and Post Tests
• Public Parking
• Bus Parking
• Memberships & Gift Cards

© 2024 · Delta Dental Health Theatre ·

• Outreach Performances & Programs
• Fundraising
• Field trip lesson plans
• Field Trips Grants
• Service Learning
• Hot Springs
• Little Rock
• Los Angeles
• San Francisco
• Statewide / Region
• Daytona Beach
• Fort Lauderdale
• Gainesville
• Jacksonville
• Orlando-Metro
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• Space Coast
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• St Petersburg-Clearwater
• Atlanta-Metro
• Chicago-Metro
• Springfield
• Central Region
• East Region
• Indianapolis
• North Region
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• Bowling Green
• Baton Rouge
• New Orleans
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• The Berkshires
• Boston-Metro
• Cape Cod/Plymouth
• Greater Lowell
• Greater Springfield
• Capital-River Region
• Delta Region
• Gulf Coast Region
• Hills Region
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• Jefferson City
• Kansas City
• Springfield-MO
• Delaware River Region
• Gateway Region NJ
• Greater Atlantic City
• Shore Region
• Skylands Region
• Southern Shore Region
• Capital District Region
• Central New York Region
• Finger Lakes Region
• Hudson Valley Region
• Long Island
• Mohawk Valley Region
• New York City
• North Country Region
• Southern Tier Region
• Western New York Region
• Canton Ohio
• Cincinnati Ohio
• Cleveland Ohio
• Columbus Ohio
• Oklahoma City
• Allegheny Mts. & Valleys
• Gettysburg/York
• Harrisburg-Metro
• Lakes & Erie Regions
• Lancaster-Metro
• Lehigh Valley
• Philadelphia Metro
• Pittsburgh & Laurel Highlands
• The Poconos
• Scranton/Wilkes-Barre
• Chattanooga
• East Tennessee
• Middle Tennessee
• The Smokies
• West Tennessee
• Bryan - College Station
• Corpus Christi
• Dallas/Fort Worth
• Panhandle Plains Region
• San Antonio
• Central Virginia
• Chesapeake Bay Region
• Coastal Virginia -Eastern Shore
• Coastal Virginia-Hampton Roads
• Northern Virginia
• Shenandoah Valley
• Southern Virginia
• Southwest Virginia-Blue Ridge Highlands
• Southwest Virginia-Heart of the Appalachia
• Virginia Mountains
• Martinsburg
• Madison Wisconsin

MISSOURI Field Trips

To help plan APRIL curriculum focused classroom activities, field trips and school assembly programs, these April themed celebrations might be a helpful focus. MONTHLY : Keep America Beautiful. National Gardens. National Humor. National Poetry. Stress Awareness. DAILY : Apr. 2: International Children’s Book Day. Apr. 3: National Geologists Day. Apr. 4: School Librarians’ Day. Apr. 5: Read a Road May Day. Apr. 7: World Health Day. Apr. 8: Draw a Picture of a Bird Day. Zoo Lovers Day. Apr. 10: National Farm Animals Day. Apr. 18: National Scrabble Day. Apr. 15: World Art Day. Apr. 22: Earth Day. Apr. 25: World Penguin Day. CLICK on the ACTIVITY FILTER below for activity type of field trips to learn about. For those unable to travel to these locations, have the fun come to you. Check out the Outreach Field Trips & School Assembly Programs  section.    

• Financial Support
• Children's Museums & Indoor Fun
• Petting Zoos/Barnyard Fun
• Fundraising Products
• Archaeology/Paleontology
• Business & Economics
• Government, Civics & Presidents
• Historic Places
• Historical Railroad Excursions
• History Behind-the-Scenes Tours
• History Museums, Exhibits & Sites
• Living History
• Multicultural & Heritage
• Music, Dance, Comedy & Theater History
• Sports History
• The American West
• Transportation: Boats, Planes, Trains, & Trollies
• Nutrition, Health & Safety
• Team Building
• Adventure Parks, Climbing, Ninja & Ropes Course, Ziplines
• Agricultural Education
• Aquariums, Marine Life, Hatcheries
• Birds, Butterflies, Bees
• Botanical Gardens & Arboreta
• Caves, Canyons, Mines & Gorges
• Environmental Studies, Outdoor Education, Conservation, Sustainability
• Farms, Mazes, Pick-Your-Own
• Marine Science
• Mineral & Gemstone Panning
• Planetariums & Astronomy
• Science Behind-the-Scenes Tours
• Science Museums & Exhibits
• STEM/STEAM Enrichment
• Zoos, Wildlife, Safari Tours, Reptiles, Animal Shows, Vertebrates
• Art Museums, Design, Exhibits, Photography & Films
• Arts & Crafts
• Theater, Dance, Music, Movies, Shows
• Early Childhood
• Elementary School
• Middle School
• High School

Wild Animal Safari-Missouri

At Wild Animal Safari you can meet some of nature’s most fascinating creatures–up close and personal. Our park offers many ways to discover the beauty of nature.

WonderWorks Branson

WonderWorks Branson is an amusement park for the mind. It combines education and entertainment with 100+ hands-on exhibits that challenge the mind and spark the imagination.

Alpine Tower and Team Challenge Course

Alpine Tower and Team Challenge Course is a series of constructed of logs, cables, ropes, and trees. Facilitators guide groups thru icebreakers, games, and problem solving activities.

Boone County History & Culture Center

Boone County History & Culture Center includes the Walters History Galleries, the Montminy Art Gallery, the Village at Boone Junction, The River-Horse Pavilion and the historic Maplewood House.

Branson Centennial Museum

Branson Centennial Museum is a small museum with changing exhibits about the history of local life & culture. The mission of the White River Valley Historical Society preserves, protects and promotes the cultural history of the upper White River Valley. 

Branson Scenic Railway

Branson Scenic Railway© aboard a collection of unique passenger cars that travel through the foothills of the Ozark Mountains. This one hour 45 minute trip takes passengers through tunnels and over trestles.

Carolyn's Country Cousins Pumpkin Patch

Carolyn’s Country Cousins Pumpkin Patch includes pumpkin picking, spookley, the square pumpkin activities, corn maze, petting zoo, gem mining, tours and other farm fun.

Chatillon-DeMenil Mansion

At the Chatillon-DeMenil , hear stories of old French St. Louis, the fur trade & everyday life in Victorian St. Louis. Learn the history of the French founding families of St. Louis.

City Museum

The City Museum is housed in the 10-story, 600,000 square-ft warehouse is a mixture of children’s playground, surrealistic pavilion, and architectural marvel made out of repurposed objects.

Colonel Alvin R. Lubker Memorial Safety & Education Center

The Colonel Alvin R. Lubker Memorial Safety & Education Center exhibits information concerning traffic safety, law enforcement, drug abuse and many items relating to the history of the Missouri Highway Patrol.

Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis

Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis connects visitors with the art and artists of our time, and engage in fun and meaningful activities in the galleries and art-making activities.

Coterie Theatre

The Coterie Theatre offers classic & contemporary theater to appeal to audiences of all grades and curriculum areas with school time and outreach performances.

FieldTripdirectory.com offers enriching experiences for Missouri school groups, scout groups, homeschool groups, camp groups and families at Missouri Museums.

Missouri Museums offer field trips that offer hands-on exhibits, guided tours and guided activities for early childhood through high school grades. Missouri Art Museums , Science Museums , History Museums , Multicultural Museums and Children’s Museums offers educational experiences that support classroom curriculum and scout badge achievement. Beside museums, you can search for other learning experiences at Botanical Gardens, Planetariums, Living History Programs, STEM & STEAM, Planetariums, Farms, Zoos and Aquariums, Theaters and Concerts, Service Learning and more.

Can’t go on a field trip to a museum, your students, scouts, and families can still experience these fun enriching experience by scheduling a  Museum Virtual Field Trip  anywhere and at anytime.

Want the fun to come to you- book a  School Assembly Programs, Outreach Field Trips or Residency  at your school, homeschool association or scout council. They support and enhance a school’s curriculum, offers opportunities for scout badge achievement and enriches a camp program. There are mobile museum exhibits, traveling planetariums and classroom and grade level workshops and residencies.

To help fund field trips, virtual programs and school assembly programs visit our section on  Grants  and  Fundraising Programs .

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