Taking students on an educational trip offers lots of benefits, especially when the trip involves overseas travel. With so many diverse cities and regions to choose from, selecting the right destinations is key to creating a memorable learning adventure. Here are some of the top cities to consider for an educational US school trip.
Washington D.C. – Immerse in US History and Government
Washington D.C. is an obvious choice for any school trip to the US. As the nation’s capital, it offers endless opportunities to delve into American history, government and culture. Top attractions include the White House, Capitol Building, Supreme Court, Library of Congress, Smithsonian museums, Arlington Cemetery and monuments spread throughout the National Mall.
Students can watch Congress in action, tour government buildings and get a first-hand lesson in US democracy. The Newseum offers interactive exhibits on the First Amendment and the role of free press.
New York City – Explore Arts, Culture and Urban Life
The energy and dynamism of New York City makes it an exceptional destination for a school trip. Students can tour iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, 9/11 Memorial Museum and Broadway theaters.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art and Guggenheim are must-visits to experience world-class art exhibitions. Walking tours introduce students to distinct neighborhoods like Chinatown, Little Italy and Harlem. Seeing a live TV show taping provides insight into media production. And a harbour cruise offers unique views of Manhattan’s sprawling skyline.
Boston – Dive into America’s Colonial History
School trips to America would not be complete without visiting Boston, America’s most historic city. Follow the famous Freedom Trail past sites like the Old State House, Paul Revere House, Old North Church and Faneuil Hall. View the campus of Harvard, America’s oldest university.
The Museum of Science has interactive STEM exhibits while the New England Aquarium and Whale Watch allow students to observe marine life. Tour the USS Constitution, Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum and Minute Man National Historical Park to immerse in Revolutionary War history.
Washington, D.C. – Immerse in Space Exploration
What kid doesn’t love space travel? Visit Houston’s Space Center for an educational journey through the history and future of space exploration.
Go behind-the-scenes at NASA’s Mission Control and see real rockets and space modules. Ride a simulator to experience G-forces of a rocket launch and touch an authentic moon rock. Students can do hands-on engineering challenges like designing a Mars rover. The Starship Gallery and Independence Plaza display massive spaceships and aircraft, making this a stellar STEM learning experience.
Orlando/Kissimmee – Discover Eco Science and Marine Life
Few places offer easy access to world-class eco experiences like Orlando.
At Disney’s Epcot, the Living with the Land ride shows innovative agriculture techniques while the Seas Pavilion houses massive saltwater aquariums. Visit SeaWorld and Discovery Cove to interact with dolphins, sharks and tropical fish up-close. Gatorland provides a reptile adventure among thousands of alligators and crocodiles.
Away from the theme parks, the Kennedy Space Center displays real shuttles and IMAX movies on space. No matter what, students will gain a greater appreciation of our planet and environment.
This is just a small selection of the cities you could add to your school trip itinerary. There are plenty more iconic places worth exploring!
