Iconic History, Wild Encounters & Mesmerizing Museums
Embark on an educational journey through Philadelphia at these 10 fascinating and essential field trip destinations.
The Franklin Institute
The spirit of discovery shines at The Franklin Institute, where students immerse themselves in science and technology. From exploring the cosmos in the Fels Planetarium to walking through the giant heart exhibit, there’s something for every young learner. Educators can also enhance the experience by incorporating exhibit resources into their curriculum, sparking post-visit classroom discussions. With exciting exhibitions on space exploration, the human body, and key artifacts from its collection, The Franklin Institute offers a wealth of learning opportunities during your field trip. Premiering in 2026, “Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition” will showcase how Universal parks are created. Entirely designed, built, and toured by The Franklin Institute, the exhibit will highlight key milestones of Universal Destinations and Experiences, from the early Studio Tram tour to the new Epic Universe.
Independence Seaport Museum
Embark students on a journey through Philadelphia’s maritime history at the Independence Seaport Museum, located along the Delaware River Waterfront. For an additional cost, groups can visit the nearby Cruiser Olympia, the world’s oldest floating steel warship, and the WWII-era Submarine Becuna in the Delaware River. These hands-on tours, typically 30–45minutes in length, provide an up-close look at historical vessels, perfect for sparking a deeper interest in naval history.
Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell
Philadelphia’s historic landmarks tell the story of America’s founding like nowhere else. Conveniently located across the street from one another along what’s known as America’s “most historic square mile,” Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell are two of the must-see historic and well-known attractions in Philadelphia. Take a tour of Independence Hall, the building where the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution were debated and adopted. Tickets for a viewing can be purchased in advance for only $1. Head to the Liberty Bell Center to learn about the origins of the iconic historic landmark. The symbol of American Independence is free to see, as are the accompanying exhibits inside the center. 2026 will be a truly special time to visit these historic landmarks as the country celebrates its 250th anniversary.
National Constitution Center and Museum of the American Revolution
On the northern end of Independence Mall, where Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell Center are located, is the National Constitution Center. It is the nation’s only museum devoted to the US Constitution, located just two blocks from where it was signed. Ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary, the National Constitution Center is opening two new galleries–America’s Founding Gallery and Separation of Powers Gallery. Just steps away, a visit to the Museum of the American Revolution offers a fascinating glimpse into Revolutionary sites and encourages further exploration of the city’s founding role.
Betsy Ross House and Elfreth’s Alley
Add another stop in the historic district to learn the story of Betsy Ross—who is believed to have sewn the first American flag—and the Colonial-era women of the Revolution at the Betsy Ross House. Students will learn about Betsy’s life as a businesswoman and working mother in early America. The more than 250-year-old house is where Betsy lived and tells the story behind the first Stars and Stripes, which Congress adopted as the country’s official national flag on June 14, 1777. While in the area, students can stroll down the cobblestone streets of Elfreth’s Alley, the oldest continuously inhabited residential street in America, and enjoy the beautifully preserved homes of early American settlers.
Eastern State Penitentiary
Once the most famous and costly prison in the world, Eastern State Penitentiary now stands as a powerful monument to the evolution of America’s criminal justice system. The museum offers customized group experiences that align with classroom lessons in civics, history, social studies, and the arts. Ideal for students from elementary to college level, Eastern State offers an educational look into the past and present of social reform.
Penn Museum
The Penn Museum offers an array of group experiences, including interactive after-hours events. The “Night at the Museum” package, popular among students, features a trivia-style game, dinner, and a scavenger hunt. STEM-focused workshops, such as “Digging Up the Roman World,” connect science and history, teaching students to apply critical thinking skills in real-world contexts.
Performing Arts in Philadelphia (Ensemble Arts Philly, Philadelphia Orchestra, and Walnut Street Theatre)
Immerse students in the arts of Philadelphia with a journey to South Broad Street to explore Philadelphia’s Avenue of the Arts. The arts and culture hub is home to some of the city’s most notable performing arts institutions, including Ensemble Arts Philly, home to the Philadelphia Orchestra, Philadelphia Ballet, Opera Philadelphia, and more. Enjoy a performance at the Walnut Street Theatre, founded in 1809 and known as America’s oldest theatre. The Theatre produces exciting lineups of Broadway-quality musicals and plays each year.
Philadelphia Zoo
The Philadelphia Zoo, the nation’s first zoo, is a 42-acre living classroom that brings lessons to life. Spark students’ curiosity and help them connect with the wonders of wildlife, including giraffes, lemurs, frogs, and so much more. The zoo’s innovative Zoo360 experience allows tigers, gorillas, and other animals to climb overhead as visitors move between exhibits. Debuting in 2026, the Philadelphia Zoo will premiere the zoo’s largest exhibition project in over a decade–a $20 million transformation of Bear Country. The expanded exhibit will feature an added Zoo360 trail for bears, an off-exhibit space for cub rearing, and enhanced water features and landscaping. A field trip to the zoo is like no other–learning, tons of fun, and the chance to get a little wild.
Museum of Illusions Philadelphia
You won’t believe your eyes at the Museum of Illusions, a one-of-a-kind “edu-tainment” destination providing students with a unique and interactive experience. At the museum, students can learn about vision, perception, and science through abstract concepts that are transformed into tangible experiences. Students will be challenged to see the world differently and are rewarded with knowledge of how our brains interpret reality. And of course, they’ll get to take memorable photos. All field trips at the museum are self-guided, but staff members are readily available to answer questions, explain illusions and assist with taking photos.
Plan Your Student Group’s Philadelphia Experience
Philadelphia’s rich history, diverse attractions, and educational experiences make it the perfect destination for student groups. From interactive museums and historic landmarks to unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences, the city offers something to spark every student’s curiosity. Start planning your next student group adventure today.
CONTACT
- Annie Jirapatnakul
- Group Tourism Sales and Services Manager
- annie@discoverphl.com
- 215-636-3405
