Field trips are a great way to reboot a bad homeschooling week, get out of the house when everyone has cabin fever, and learn about your local area. Before heading out, check out Jeanne's tips for improving homeschool field trips.
Our listing of North Carolina field trips for homeschoolers is ordered alphabetically by city. If you would like to submit a North Carolina field trip destination, you may do so using the red button above.
Fogleman FarmsAlamance County
Fogleman Farms is a third-generation farm located in Alamance County. Fogleman Farms is a North Carolina tobacco and produce farm turned small grain farm in the early 1980’s. Since then they have expanded back into produce and the fall ornamental business. In 2023 they opened the farm to the public for a true "you pick" pumpkin experience offering hayrides, a corn maze, a flower maze, a farm-themed playground and a nature walk.
City of Asheville Water Treatment PlantsAsheville
Put on your hiking boots, pack a picnic lunch, and spend a great day at the beautiful source of Asheville's water, the North Fork or the Mills River Water Treatment Plants. We give a tour of the treatment plant, describe the water treatment process, water distribution, and the causes and treatment of water pollution. There is so much to learn that your students may want to participate in the tour multiple times.
Asheville Art MuseumAsheville
The Asheville Art Museum annually presents an exciting, inviting and active schedule of exhibitions and public programs based on its permanent collection of 20th and 21st century American art. Any visit will also include experiences with works of significance to Western North Carolina's cultural heritage including Studio Craft, Black Mountain College and Cherokee artists. Special exhibitions feature renowned regional and national artists and explore issues of enduring interest. The Museum also offers a wide array of innovative, inspiring and entertaining educational programs for people of all ages.
Blue Ridge ParkwayAsheville
The Blue Ridge Parkway was designed as a recreational motor road, connecting Great Smoky Mountains and Shenandoah National park. It is also a cross-section of Appalachian mountain history. It encompasses some of the oldest settlements of both pre-historic and early European settlement.
High Touch High TechAsheville
Science Made Fun specializes in providing engaging, curriculum-based science programs and offers affordable, onsite field trips designed to enrich students' learning experiences.
Fort Macon State ParkAtlantic Beach
Fort Macon offers public access to the surf, sun, and sand of the Crystal Coast—as well as the fort itself, a historic landmark. Located at the eastern end of Bogue Banks, one of a series of barrier islands along the North Carolina coast, the park is surrounded on three sides by water—the Atlantic Ocean, Beaufort Inlet and Bogue Sound. This area of undisturbed natural beauty is the perfect place to explore salt marches and estuaries vital to the coastal ecosystem.
Island Express Ferry ServiceBeaufort
Island Express Ferry Service is the only ferry service out of Beaufort and Harkers Island, NC authorized by the National Park Service to drop passengers off at Shackleford Banks and Cape Lookout. Shackleford Banks, famous for the wild banker horses that roam its shores, is a pristine island with one of the best shelling beaches in North Carolina. Enjoy the beauty and tranquility of Cape Lookout, which is famous for its Cape Lookout Lighthouse Station. While you are there, take time to bird watch, swim in the ocean, climb the lighthouse, or ride the Beach Shuttle to the point.
Crystal Coast Lady CruisesBeaufort
The M/V Crystal Coast Lady is a 100' all-aluminum motor yacht that is USCG Certified and inspected for up to 265 Passengers! The Lady has a galley on each deck and four restrooms on board. Tours run 7 days a week and include:
- 1/2 Day Family Fishing
- Shackleford Banks Wild Pony and Dolphin Scenic Tours
- Historic Beaufort Waterfront Cruises
- Brunch, Lunch, and Sunset Dinner Buffets
- and Dolphin Watches!
Blowing Rock Art & History MuseumBlowing Rock
BRAHM provides cultural enrichment to the High Country communities by promoting the Arts and Southern Appalachian heritage & history through educational programs, exhibitions, activities, and permanent collections. Rotating exhibitions change three times a year, so there's always something new to discover. You can visit your favorite artworks and artifacts from the permanent collection. Free admission, open Tuesdays - Saturdays 11:00 am - 4:00 pm.
High Gravity AdventuresBlowing Rock
High Gravity Adventures is an exhilarating field trip combining outdoor adventure and hands-on learning in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. Ages 7+ can experience the High Altitude Zip Line Tour, our 4-story Blue Ridge Adventure Park, and the screaming three-person Giant Swing. Young adventurers ages 4+ can explore our kid-friendly Foothills Zip Line Park for age-appropriate adventure. Build confidence and promote problem-solving, healthy risk-taking, and personal achievement with an unforgettable and enriching day of active learning at High Gravity Adventures. Group discounts for 10 or more.
Transylvania Heritage MuseumBrevard
The Transylvania Heritage Museum shall explore, promote, preserve, and nurture the historical heritage of Transylvania County and its families through exhibits, educational programs, collections of artifacts, and heritage/cultural activities.
Animal Park at the Conservators CenterBurlington
Trained tour guides will take your students on a one-hour guided tour, introducing them to over 20 species and connecting their characteristics and adaptations to your grade-level-specific science concepts. Suitable for any grade level, tours are designed to meet North Carolina Standard Course of Study science goals and objectives. They will work with you to design an experience to complement your classroom content! Wild Field Trips are for pre-k through 12th grade and require advanced notice scheduling.
Mount Mitchell State ParkBurnsville
In the crest of the timeworn Black Mountains lies the summit of Mount Mitchell, the highest point east of the Mississippi. For those who ascend this mighty peak, what looms in the horizon is a feast for the eyes—breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, with their rolling ridges and fertile valleys. Forested and forever misty, 1,946-acre Mount Mitchell State Park will provide you with some of the most tranquil moments you'll ever experience.
Carolina Ocean StudiesCarolina Beach
Carolina Ocean Studies is located on the Cape Fear and Beaufort region and have been taking k-12 and homeschool students on field trips for over 28 years. Students are able go crabbing, fishing, explore the marshes, comb the beach for shells, and experience the wonder of the Carolina coast!
Carolina Beach State ParkCarolina Beach
With a marina providing access to some of North Carolina's best fishing spots, a secluded camping area beneath towering trees, and miles of hiking trails that traverse a variety of distinct habitats—not to mention the presence of the Venus flytrap, one of the world's most unique carnivorous plants—it's no wonder Carolina Beach State Park is a popular coastal attraction. Located in an area steeped in both history and natural diversity, the park includes a visitor's center with exhibits depicting the wonders of its environment. Visit Carolina Beach State Park to relax, enjoy nature, or embark on an eye-opening adventure.
Acklund Art MuseumChapel Hill
The Museum's collection consists of more than 15,000 works of art, featuring North Carolina's premier collections of Asian art and works of art on paper (drawings, prints, and photographs), plus significant collections of European masterworks, twentieth-century and contemporary art, African art, and North Carolina pottery. The Ackland organizes more than a dozen special exhibitions a year.
Bounce U MatthewsCharlotte
Bounce U Matthews offers 100% Private Birthday Parties, Play Dates, Field Trips, Camps, and Open Bounce sessions for kids 12 years and under. Run, bounce, and play in two HUGE arenas filled with 18-foot-tall inflatable slides, obstacle courses, bounce houses, games, and dedicated toddler areas.
Billy Graham LibraryCharlotte
Experience history and see your future in a new light at the Billy Graham Library in Charlotte, North Carolina. During a visit to the Library, you'll relive the remarkable ways God used an ordinary farm boy to change the world. Through state-of-the-art exhibits, audio and film displays, and personal memorabilia you will discover how God used Billy Graham to shape history through relationships with world leaders, his outreach efforts during times of war and peace, and his unfailing commitment to God's love.
Mint Museum of ArtCharlotte
The Mint Museum Randolph initially served the region as the first branch of the United States Mint, coining $5 million in gold from 1836 to the outbreak of the Civil War. A grassroots community effort during the Depression saved the original Federal-style building designed by William Strickland from demolition and moved it to its present Randolph Road site. The museum formally opened to the public on October 22, 1936 as North Carolina's first art museum.
Levine Museum of the New SouthCharlotte
An interactive museum housing the nation's most comprehensive interpretation of post-Civil War Southern history.
Carowinds Student and Youth ProgramCharlotte, NC
Whether it’s for a reward, end-of-year celebration, or educational experience, Carowinds provides the perfect adventure for your students. The Carolinas come together with the park residing in both North & South Carolina! Take your lesson plan on the road and show how your lessons apply to the world around us. Come enjoy a variety of Educational opportunities during the spring programming days, splash and play in Carolina Harbor waterpark and ride the Copperhead Strike coaster all summer, have a frighteningly good time during Scarowinds event in October, or visit the park during Winterfest when they transform the park into a Winter Wonderland! Teachers are also welcome to download an online curriculum to create a corresponding lesson plan for their students. Tickets may be purchased by mail, email, or fax. Confirmation of homeschooling is required for eligibility.
Hubb's FarmClinton
Hubb's Farm is a working family owned and operated farm. Hubb's Farm tours and programs help grow an appreciation of where our food comes from and a knowledge of safe farming practices to all participants. Hubb's Educational Field Trips provide hands-on interactive agriculture exploration. On-site classes available concerning growing crops, how the maze is cut and designed and greenhouse hydroponic strawberries. Also, a hay ride to Animal Acres. Hubb's is open for field trips year round and includes a large picnic pavilion for picnics and large parking area for buses.
Charlotte Motor Speedway STEAM ProgramConcord
The STEAM program at Charlotte Motor Speedway offers student groups a fun and educational experience like no other. Students will relate motorsports to core principles of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics. Force, motion, energy and engineering are some of the topics that come alive as kids navigate through hands-on stations. A ride on the NASCAR track is included in your visit! Grades 3-12 welcomed. Program runs M-F throughout the year.
iFLY CharlotteConcord
iFLY's vertical wind tunnel is a marvel of engineering and provides a one-of-a-kind laboratory for students to get immersed in real world applications of STEM. Each iFLY STEM field trip provides an interactive presentation, live lab experiment, lab activity and flights for your participants! iFLY offers programs with a focus and objectives for pre-K-college level physics that align with all state education standards. A minimum of 15 participants required. Please reach out for more details! Email: mmazzuca@iflyworld.com or Direct: 512.674.9208
Great Wolf Lodge - Concord/CharlotteConcord-Charlotte
Great Wolf Lodge is North America's Largest Family of Indoor Waterpark resorts, and the ultimate destination for your next family getaway. Designed to capture the atmosphere of the Northwoods, the waterpark offers an amazing guest experience in a one-of-a-kind, rustically elegant setting. The perfect place for families to re-connect, and create lifelong memories. With one of our fully-themed resort suites as your family's base camp, you can set out on your Great Wolf adventure. You'll likely first discover the gigantic indoor waterpark, where it's always 84 degrees. And that's just the beginning. Besides the waterpark, don't miss the themed restaurants, interactive arcades, full-service spas (and even a version for kids!), fitness centers, and so much more. And with more than 10 locations coast to coast, Great Wolf Lodge is the perfect, weatherproof, year-round destination for your busy family. So whether your family splashes the day away in the waterpark, enjoys a delicious family meal in our restaurant, or enjoys the nightly Storytime together before calling it a night, there's no time like a Great Wolf time. 10175 Weddington Road Exn, Concord, NC 28027
Pettigrew State ParkCreswell
Pettigrew State Park is an ideal blend of nature, history and recreation. Explore Lake Phelps and examine dugout canoes as ancient as the pyramids. Or cast your line into crystal-clear waters where largemouth bass reign. Take a trip back in time at the grave of a great Confederate general. Or hug a tree as wide as an elephant. Paddle down one of North Carolina's last undeveloped rivers.
Moores Creek National BattlefieldCurrie
"King George and Broadswords!" shouted loyalists as they charged across the partially dismantled Moores Creek Bridge on February 27, 1776. Just beyond the bridge, nearly 1,000 North Carolina Patriots waited quietly with cannons and muskets poised to fire. This battle marked the last broadsword charge by Scottish Highlanders and the first significant victory for the Patriots in the American Revolution.
Equine Epiphany FarmDenton
This low-cost field trip is a fun, safe, interactive learning experience with horses at Equine Epiphany Farm in Denton, NC, where Maggie Johnson works as a Certified Equine Assisted Learning professional. Curricula are customized per group and can include topics such as How Horses Do What They Do, Why Horses Do What They Do, What is That Horse Saying, and What Do We Need. Ages 6 and up.
Nasher Museum of Art at Duke UniversityDurham
The Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University fosters the understanding and appreciation of the visual arts by providing direct experiences with original works of art supported by a range of exhibitions, programs and publications for the university and the broader community.
Piedmont Wildlife CenterDurham
In this engaging, hands-on experience, students will meet a variety of live animals such as turtles, snakes, a dove, an opossum and more. Explore animal adaptations and learn key conservation messages. Children will have a look at fur, teeth, skulls, and other animal treasures. Touching of the animals will be based on the group size and behavior of the students, and will be at the discretion of the instructor.
Duke Homestead State Historic SiteDurham
Duke Homestead provides school programming where students can experience the daily lives of 19th century farmers. Through hands-on activities, a film, and interactive exhibits, school children will discover and learn about the social and economic history of our state. Duke Homestead offers a variety of programs for Pre-K to 5th grade students, including a tour of the Duke family home, making butter, and an annual Christmas Traditions program. (Duke Homestead requests a $1 donation per participating child.)
Museum of the AlbemarleElizabeth City
Museum of the Albemarle interprets the cultural history of Thirteen northeastern North Carolina counties: Bertie, Camden, Chowan, Currituck, Dare, Gates, Hertford, Hyde, Northampton, Perquimans, Pasquotank, Tyrrell, and Washington. This area, known as the Albemarle Region, surrounds one of the world's largest freshwater sounds.
Carl Sandburg Home National Historic SiteFlat Rock
Carl Sandburg's Legacy Touches Our Lives - Carl Sandburg spent a lifetime exploring what it meant to be an American and asked the eternal questions, "Who am I, where am I going and where have I been?" He did this through poetry, song, lectures, writing and lasting friendships with kindred spirits. Explore Sandburg's legacy and Experience Your America.
Rock Solid Warrior GymFuquay-Varina
Rock Solid Warrior is a ninja/rock climbing/obstacle gym where kids can play on obstacles that are from American Ninja Warrior the TV show. It provides coaches as well to give tips and ensure the safety of kids. Regular open gyms are $15, but daytime specials at certain times are only $10. There is also the option to do half days which are from 8am-12pm or 12pm-4pm which are $33-38 depending on how many kids/days you are participating.
Merchants Millpond State ParkGatesville
An "enchanted forest," primitive species of fish relatively unchanged over millions of years, towering bald cypress trees with massive trunks, luxuriant growths of Spanish moss—this is Merchants Millpond State Park. Here, coastal pond and southern swamp forest mingle, creating one of North Carolina's rarest ecological communities. Together with upland forests, these environments create a haven for wildlife and humanity alike.
Great Smoky Mountains National ParkGatlinburg
This is America's most visited national park. Famous for its diversity of plant and animal life, the beauty of its ancient mountains, and Southern Appalachian mountain culture.
Charlotte Hawkins Brown MuseumGibsonville
Founded in 1902 by Dr. Charlotte Hawkins Brown, Palmer Memorial Institute transformed the lives of more than 2,000 African American students. Today, the campus provides the setting where visitors can explore this unique environment where boys and girls lived and learned during the greater part of the 20th century. The museum links Dr. Brown and Palmer Memorial Institute to the larger themes of African American history, women's history, social history, and education, emphasizing the contributions African Americans made in North Carolina. The museum provides Field Trips and Group Tours for all ages! Tours can be custom designed based on your needs. All tours include an orientation video, a campus tour, tour of Canary Cottage and tour of an exhibit. An add on can include a special program based on your theme. Examples are etiquette, women's history, African-American history, student life, music, and a STEAM related program. All programs are FREE.
International Civil Rights MusemGreensboro
Showcases the nonviolent protest that occurred in Greensboro, NC, the sit in that sparked the civil rights movement. There are both audio and video elements.
Guilford Courthouse National Military ParkGreensboro
The Battle of Guilford Courthouse on Thursday, March 15, 1781, was the largest, most hotly-contested battle of the Revolutionary War's Southern Campaign. It was fought at the small North Carolina backcountry hamlet of Guilford Courthouse and proved to be the highwater mark of British military operations in the Revolutionary War.
Core Sound Waterfowl Museum & Heritage CenterHarkers Island
The Core Sound Waterfowl Museum & Heritage Center teaches about the history, community, and lifestyle of those who were born and raised in the Southern Outer Banks. Duck decoys handmade by local artisans and paintings/drawings by local artists are on display as well. Admission is free.
Cape Lookout National SeashoreHarkers Island
Ready for adventure? - Take a boat trip three miles off-shore to the islands of Cape Lookout National Seashore. Here you can enjoy remote beaches, watch wild horses and other wildlife, or visit one of the historic districts. Be sure to bring a picnic lunch for the day. Going camping takes a little more planning.
Historic Johnson FarmHendersonville
Historic Johnson Farm is an early 20th century farm and tourist retreat. Visitors learn about life over 100 years ago while touring the farm and visiting the animals. Group rate $5 for groups of 10 or more.
Nido & Mariana Qubein Children's MuseumHigh Point
Welcome to the Happiest Place in High Point! Named North Carolina's Visitor Attraction of the Year by the NC Tourism Industry Association! Explore two floors of exciting hands-on exhibits, the Outdoor Adventure Zone, the Hall of Mysteries, the Double-Decker Carousel, and more!
Millis Regional Health Education CenterHigh Point
The Millis Regional Health Education Center specializes in teaching kids all aspects of health in a fun, hands-on, interactive manner. Programs include dental health, nutrition and exercise, general human body systems, and many more. The Centers target audience is preschool through 5th grade. A visit would include an approximately 45 minute program and 45 minutes of exploring in wellness discover place, a hands on interactive play room. Cost is $5 per student. Groups of 10 or more are welcome.
Körner's FollyKernersville
Körner's Folly is a Victorian-era historic house museum dating to 1880. Originally designed as a catalog home for artist and designer Jule Körner, the house offers both self-guided and guided tours for small groups. Scavenger hunts are available digitally or in hard copies and can be paired with downloadable activities for field trip extension.
CSS Neuse MuseumKinston
The CSS Neuse Museum, located in downtown Kinston, houses the remains of the CSS Neuse, an ironclad gunboat from the Civil War, and exhibits that tell the story of life in Kinston and eastern North Carolina during the war. Children of all ages are welcome to the Museum, which has a children's center and a cognitive corner with books and activities. September through April, homeschool field trips are offered on the second Thursday of the month for $1.00 per person. All programs have a STEM component. The Museum is Certified Sensory Inclusive through KultureCity.
Fort Fisher State Recreation AreaKure Beach
Enjoy a leisurely day at the ocean shore. Comb the beach for sea stars, keyhole urchins and whelk shells. Or, simply lie back on the sand and enjoy the aerial acrobatics of seagulls, terns and brown pelicans as they soar above the waves. You may want to venture into the mud flats and marshes to watch sandpipers and other shorebirds as they search for food. Learn about endangered species. Loggerhead sea turtles, piping plovers and other rare species nest along this sandy shore. Explore the North Carolina coast; visit Fort Fisher State Recreation Area. This stretch of pristine shoreline offers many enjoyable activities.
Roanoke Island Festival ParkManteo
Experience a new adventure in an old-world at Roanoke Island Festival Park. This 25-acre historic site allows guests of all ages to experience first hand what life was like for the first English settlers in 1585. Historic costumed interpreters are featured through Indian Town, the Settlement Site and the Elizabeth II ship to show and tell how the first settlers lived, worked and played on Roanoke Island. For a hands-on history lesson, visit the Adventure Museum that features interactive exhibits that all ages will enjoy.
Fort Raleigh National Historic SiteManteo
England's First Home in the New World - Fort Raleigh National Historic Site protects and preserves known portions of England's first New World settlements from 1584 to 1590. This site also preserves the cultural heritage of the Native Americans, European Americans and African Americans who have lived on Roanoke Island.
Wright Brothers National MemorialManteo
They Taught the World to Fly! - Wind, sand, and a dream of flight brought Wilbur and Orville Wright to Kitty Hawk, North Carolina where, after four years of experimentation, they achieved the first successful airplane flights in 1903. With courage and perseverance, these self-taught engineers relied on teamwork and application of the scientific process. What they achieved changed our world forever.
Cape Hatteras National SeashoreManteo
On these narrow barrier islands, things never stay the same. - A haven for recreation and reflection, the islands of Cape Hatteras are constantly changed by tide, storm, current and wind. The plants, wildlife and people who live here adapt continually. You see in their daily lives and hear it in the telling of their stories. And there are many story places - sandy beaches, salt marshes, maritime woods - explore them all!
Kidz at Play Family CafeMorehead City
Kidz at Play Family Cafe is an indoor playground with a custom nautical themed two level soft-play area that provides play for kidz up to 10 years old. There are plenty of creative areas for the kidz to exercise both body and mind from climbing obstacles, monkey rings to a spinning pole and several slides - there's fun for all! A separate corral with a step slide, rocker and soft-play turtle among other features provides safe play time for those learning to crawl and walk. Call or reach out online for group rates!
Morehead City Ferry ServiceMorehead City
Morehead City Ferry Service offers the largest ferry to Sand Dollar Island. The Sand Dollar Island trip schedule varies with low tide times. The Miss Morehead City is a 49-passenger Catamaran. The ferry service also offers Sea Life Encounter Cruises and Sunset Evening Cruises. Reservations are required (book online). Free parking is available.
Patterson Farm Market and ToursMount Ulla
Patterson Farm Market and Tours, Inc. is committed to educating children and adults about their food source, the importance of agriculture, and specifically about the crops we grow at Patterson Farm, Inc. They accomplish this by providing educational opportunities designed to be educational, hands-on, fun, and informative. The park also offers pick-your-own experiences, seasonal activities, and events where families can create memories.
Appalachian National Scenic TrailMulti-state
The People's Path and America's First National Scenic Trail. The Appalachian Trail (A.T.) is more than 2,175-mile long footpath stretching through 14 eastern states from Maine to Georgia. Conceived in 1921 and first completed in 1937, it traverses the wild, scenic, wooded, pastoral, and culturally significant lands of the Appalachian Mountains.
Trail of Tears National Historic TrailMulti-state
The park commemorates the survival of the Cherokee people and their forced removal from their homelands in the Southeastern United States in the 1840s. More than 16,000 Cherokee traveled by foot, horse, wagon, or steamboat along this path with devestating consequences between 1838-1839.
The Overmountain Victory National Historic TrailMulti-state
Stretching 330-miles through four states (Virginia, Tennessee, North and South Carolina) the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail traces the route used by Patriot militia during the pivotal Kings Mountain campaign of 1780. Follow the campaign by utilizing a Commemorative Motor Route which uses existing state highways marked with the distinctive trail logo, or 87 miles of walkable trails. The website offers historical information about the park for those who cannot visit in person.
Jockey's Ridge State ParkNags Head
Located in Dare County in the Outer Banks, Jockey's Ridge State Park is home to the tallest living sand dune system on the Atlantic coast and provides an ideal location for flying kites and watching sunsets. Hang gliding is a hallmark activity at the park, and a private concessionaire offers lessons. A second access area takes visitors through wetland habitats and allows for swimming, paddling, kiteboarding, and windsurfing on the Roanoke Sound. The park also marks the eastern terminus of the Mountains-to-Sea State Trail.
Museum of Coastal CarolinaOcean Isle Beach
From live touch tank feedings to virtual reality experiences, the Museum of Coastal Carolina offers a changing schedule of programs to inspire curiosity in learners from 2 to 92.
President James K. Polk State Historic SitePineville
The Polk Site offers an extensive tour program for student groups. The most popular tour package includes a guided tour of the site's historic structures (Main Cabin & Kitchen House), as well as a scavenger hunt of the museum. Any group may elect to have optional activities in lieu of their standard tour packages. These activities include: a Polk Family Cemetery tour, a musket firing demonstration, and a 19th century education program.
Walnut Creek Wetland ParkRaleigh
Walnut Creek Wetland Park offers field trips on topics such as Discovering Wetlands, Birding, and a field trip geared towards 3rd graders that touches or meets completely 19 standards in math, science and social studies. Individuals are welcome to borrow boots, aquatic nets and binoculars at no charge for self-exploration. Small-group drop-ins are welcome to come and explore the nature center, meet the ambassador animals, borrow an explorer backpack, or do a scavenger hunt. Phone 919-996-2760.
United Skates STEM Field TripRaleigh
An educational field trip program at United Skates, that immerses students in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) education. The program relates STEM concepts to roller skating, where students will learn that STEM is in everything they do, even in fun experiences like skating! The students participate in one hour of hands-on STEM activities taught by a dynamic STEM educator. After the lesson, the students will participate in one to two hours of roller skating, which promotes great health benefits!
Gregg Museum of Art & DesignRaleigh
A collecting museum whose collection includes, but is not limited to, textiles, ceramics, outsider/folk art, photography, architectural drawings & modern furniture. The Gregg Museum of Art & Design also puts on 6-8 annual exhibitions in its two galleries.
Stone Mountain State ParkRoaring Gap
Designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1975, Stone Mountain is bounded on the north by the Blue Ridge Parkway and on the west by the Thurmond Chatham Game Lands. Stone Mountain State Park is home to the 600-foot granite dome that is a designated National Natural Landmark and the historic Hutchinson Homestead, a restored mid-19th-century farm situated at the mountain base. More than 14,100 acres of mountain beauty offer opportunities for outdoor activities of all kinds.
Sky-Vue SkatelandRocky Mount
Combine STEM concepts and physical fitness at Sky-Vue Skateland. The three-hour field trip includes an introductory skating lesson and a one-hour STEM lesson engaging students through hands-on activities. There are 10 STEM-focused lesson plans to choose from. The field trip concludes with two hours of roller skating, including skating games and activities.
The Bechtler House Museum, Bechtler Mint Site and Historic ParkRutherfordton
The Bechtler house was home to Christopher Bechtler who is credited with minting the first U.S. $1.00 gold coin. The home showcases period artifacts and exhibits that transport visitors back to the 1830's and tell the Bechtler story. Tours can be scheduled for any day, Monday thru Saturday. The tours consist of a Bechtler tour guide narrating the story at the museum and a trip to the Bechtler Mint site where students bring their lunch to enjoy in view of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The Bechtler House Museum, Bechtler Mint Site and Historic Park website
Sylvan Heights Bird ParkScotland Neck
Sylvan Heights Bird Park is designed to give visitors an unforgettable up-close experience with over 2,000 waterfowl, parrots, toucans, flamingos, and other exotic birds from around the world. Open to the public since October 2006, the 18-acre facility features spacious, walk- through aviaries displaying birds from South America, North America, Europe, Africa, Asia and Australia. The aviaries are surrounded by tranquil gardens and lush natural areas, which enhance the beauty of the birds on exhibit and immerse visitors in native North Carolina wildlife habitat.
Wild Horses of ShacklefordShackleford Banks
Shackleford Banks, off the coast of Atlantic Beach, NC, has a population of wild horses dating back to the 16th-17th century. Ferry service is available from Harker's Island and downtown Beaufort.
Dismal Swamp State ParkSouth Mills
Feel your daily stresses melt away as you cross the historic Dismal Swamp Canal and walk along the 300-foot boardwalk into this geological wonder. Experience first hand the lush swamp forest and get up-close and personal with the wide variety of wildlife. Discover the uniqueness of a million year old habitat at the Dismal Swamp State Park. Learn why George Washington called the Dismal Swamp "a glorious paradise", how the swamp was important in the Underground Railroad and the ecological importance of wetlands in the visitor's center and exhibit hall. All of this and more can be found just 3 miles south of the NC/VA border on US Hwy 17.
N.C. Transportation MuseumSpencer
Ride a train, step inside a steam locomotive, learn how the Wright Brothers controlled their Flyer, and see 150 years of North Carolina's transportation history. Visit the 1905 Back Shop where steam locomotives were overhauled, to see horse-drawn vehicles, trucks, planes, and boats. Walk through the largest remaining roundhouse in North America for railroad exhibits and the Wright Flyer replica. Take a spin on the 100-foot roundhouse turntable. See automotive exhibits that detail the evolution of vehicles in North Carolina. Then take a 25-minute train ride around the historic 60-acre site!
STARworksStar
STARworks hosts studios in Glass, Ceramics, and Metal and an onsite Ceramic Supply Shop, Cafe & Taproom, and Galleries. STARworks provides learning opportunities for children and adults. The glass and clay studios are public access, so visitors can stop in and watch artists at work.
Allison Woods Outdoor Learning CenterStatesville
Allison Woods Outdoor Learning Center is an instructive facility that uses land and water as an outdoor classroom. Immediately accessible are several lakes, streams, a large forest area, trails, and the wondrous variety of plant and animal life, making teaching and learning in an outdoor facility exciting and fun! Allison Woods Outdoor Learning Center focuses on igniting curiosity, understanding, and respect for nature through education at their Classroom in the Forest.
The Wild Horse Preserve at Grayce Wynds Farm FarmSupply
The Wild Horse Preserve at Grayce Wynds Farm Farm is a wild horse preserve and educational non-profit. Hosting groups for a learning experience is their foremost goal, and they offer plenty of "hands-on" experiences and customize individual programs based on a group's ages, interests, and needs. Activities promote learning in Science, Social Studies, Language arts, Reading, Health and Physical Education. They currently have 27 'ambassador' horses & ponies from the coastal herds of NC for your group to meet. Sue Immen, owner/founder, is a former certified teacher and counselor (BS in PhysEd, MAEd in Counseling). Call 910-515-3743 for an appointment.
Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue & Rehabilitation CenterSurf City
The Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center's mission is to conserve and protect all species of marine turtles, both in the water and on the beach. They accomplish this through the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of sick and injured sea turtles; public education regarding the plight of sea turtles and the threat of their extinction; and learning opportunities for students of biology, wildlife conservation, and veterinary medicine from around the world. The center offers guided tours to their active sea turtle hospital. Reservations are required.
Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue & Rehabilitation Center website
Hammocks Beach State ParkSwansboro
Hammocks Beach State Park comprises a mainland area and three barrier islands, including the 4-mile-long Bear Island. A passenger ferry transports visitors to the pristine beach that provides an opportunity to camp oceanside — an experience unique amongst North Carolina's state parks. Alternatively, visitors can rent or bring their own kayak or canoe for a closer exploration of the marshlands and maritime swamp forests that surround the park's island areas.
Battle of Wilson's StoreWaxhaws
Come join the annual Battle of Wilson's Store Reenactment to be held on the grounds of the Museum of the Waxhaws in Waxhaw, NC. The original battle was held March 1, 1865 as Sherman marched from Columbia, SC through NC. Hosted by the Museum of the Waxhaws and the 35th Regiment, NCT. All reenactors and their families are welcome. Check website for details of event held in May.
Cameron Art MuseumWilmington
The Cameron Art Museum provides a cultural gathering place which enriches the lives of museum visitors and our community through high quality exhibitions, dynamic public programs, unique events and educational opportunities in the visual and performing arts.
Cape Fear Museum of History and ScienceWilmington
Cape Fear Museum of History and Science is the oldest history museum in North Carolina. Since its founding in 1898, the Museum has grown and changed. It began collecting confederate relics, and now collects images and artifacts that help us understand the history, science and cultures of the region. Today, Cape Fear Museum collects, preserves, and interprets objects relating to the history, science and cultures of the Lower Cape Fear, and makes those objects and their interpretation available to the public through educational exhibits and programs.
Old Salem Museum & GardensWinston-Salem
Old Salem Museum & Gardens in Winston-Salem, NC, encompasses 100 acres of restored and reclaimed landscapes that include eighty buildings, nationally acclaimed gardens, and five retail stores, including Winkler Bakery. The Historic Town of Salem and The Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA) - along with award-winning heirloom gardens, invite today's visitors to experience the complete story of those who lived and worked in the early South.
