Itinerary at a Glance
From groundbreaking innovation to hands-on experiences, art, history and culture, it’s not hard to see why Boston is on every teacher’s bucket list.
This sample itinerary spans four centuries of cutting-edge technology, environmental science, and interactive learning and highlights several key stops on The Innovation Trail—a showcase of world-changing breakthroughs in science, medicine, technology, and more. Groups can visit any or all twenty-one sites of The Innovation Trail using the free audio guide or book a private tour year-round with the Boston History Company.
Subjects Covered
- Revolutionary Innovations: Explore the science behind Boston’s historic technological advancements.
- Marine Science: Learn about marine ecosystems and conservation at the New England Aquarium.
- Physics Experiments: Discover motion, energy, and gravity at the Museum of Science.
- Space Exploration: Delve into astronomy and space travel through interactive exhibits.
- Earth Sciences: Study geology and climate processes shaping our planet.
- Engineering: Solve mechanical puzzles and explore robotics labs.
- Art and STEM: See how technology drives innovation in art and design.
- Sports Science: Uncover the science of athletic performance and gear.
Day-by-Day Itinerary Details
Day 1: Kick Off Your STEM Adventure in Boston!
- Morning: Arrival and Check-in
Check into a student-friendly hotel such as the Holiday Inn Bunker Hill, The Revolution Hotel or Studio Hotel Allston.
- Afternoon: Museum of Science
Experience the power of discovery at Boston’s Museum of Science, where students interact with exhibits on physics, biology, and technology in a picturesque location on the Charles River.
- Lunch: Riverview Café and a Duck Tour
Enjoy lunch at the museum’s Riverview Café, followed by a splash with Boston Duck Tours. This fun, educational semi-amphibious tour highlights Boston’s unique firsts and landmarks from both land and water with an easy launch in front of the museum.
- Evening: Welcome Dinner and Orientation
Enjoy dinner at Joe’s on Newbury, which offers group-friendly dining with a wide range of options. Afterward, walk to Prudential Center and take in stunning city views and exhibits at View Boston, the city’s newest indoor and outdoor 360°observationdeck, open daily from 10:00 AM until 10:00 PM.
Day 2: Cutting-Edge Science and Technology
- Morning: Dive into the MIT Museum
Explore state-of-the-art technology at the MIT Museum, where students interact with exhibits on robotics, artificial intelligence, gene editing, and more. Tip: Schedule a workshop for an immersive, hands-on experience.
- What is it like to attend one of the world’s best colleges
Take a student-led tour of Harvard, MIT, or both with Trademark Tours, learn fascinating tidbits, and ask questions about one or both universities. Lunch vouchers are available upon request for Harvard Square.
- Afternoon: Harvard Museum of Natural History or Harvard Art Museums
Visit the Harvard Museum of Natural History to explore exhibits on geology, climate change, and the renowned Glass Flowers. Harvard Art Museums offers 50 free galleries featuring significant European & American art from the Middle Ages to the present day.
- Evening: Dinner at Kings Dining & Entertainment
Choose from dining packages that include bowling and arcade games.
Day3: Environmental Science and Marine Biology
- Morning: New England Aquarium
Visit the New England Aquarium to explore marine biology exhibits and learn more about the creatures that inhabit our oceans and shorelines.
- Lunch: Margaritaville at Faneuil Hall Marketplace
Margaritaville can host several busloads of hungry students, offering a variety of affordable group options. Faneuil Hall Marketplace provides a wide range of excellent shopping and dining options.
- Afternoon: Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park
Take a ferry to the Boston Harbor Islands for a hands-on environmental science adventure, where students can participate in ranger-led programs and explore the island’s unique ecosystems. As a year-round alternative, visit the Mapparium globe in the How Do You See the World? experience at the Christian Science Plaza, where you can step inside a stained-glass globe and explore exhibits on global challenges and resilience.
- Evening: Farewell Dinner and Shopping
Enjoy a farewell dinner at Ned Devine’s followed by free time for students to explore the shops and street performers of Faneuil Hall Marketplace, or consider attending a musical planetarium show at the Museum of Science featuring music by artists like Lady Gaga and Pink Floyd.
Stay an extra day, or consider substituting one of these enriching historical and civic sites:
Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate
The Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate, located next to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, offers students the unique role-playing opportunity to step into the role of a U.S. Senator. Through mock debates and interactive sessions, students learn about the legislative process. Meanwhile, the adjacent JFK Library provides insight into the life, legacy, and presidency of John F. Kennedy, offering a complementary historical perspective on American leadership and public service.
Hammond Castle Museum
Situated north of Boston in Gloucester, Massachusetts, this medieval-style castle was constructed by inventor John Hays Hammond Jr., known as the “Father of Radio Control.”The museum combines science and history, featuring Hammond’s inventions alongside medieval art and architecture, all in a dramatic oceanfront location.
Plimoth Patuxet Museums
This living history museum offers an immersive experience ofa17th-century New England village. Students can explore a re-creation of the Mayflower, a Wampanoag homesite, and the Pilgrim village, gaining insight into the historical context of early American settlements.
Contact Emily Meehan (Emeehan@MeetBoston.com) from Meet Boston for additional suggestions or assistance with accommodation, dining, transportation, and attractions throughout the greater Boston region.
Submit the Form Below for More Info From Meet Boston
- Contact – Emily Meehan
- Phone – (617) 867-8209
- Email – emeehan@meetboston.com
- Website – https://www.meetboston.com/