The Museum at Bethel Woods brings the Sixties to life
When planning educational, meaningful, and fun student travel, the Museum at Bethel Woods in New York stands out as a dynamic destination that blends history, culture, and music in one unforgettable experience. Rather than just reading about Woodstock in a textbook, students get to hear real stories, ask questions, and gain a clearer understanding of the social dynamics of the time. It’s also a great way to spark discussions about how young people have historically been at the forefront of change.
Vibrant Festival History at Bethel Woods
Located in Bethel, New York, on the historic site of the legendary 1969 Woodstock Music & Art Fair, the Museum explores the three-day festival as a defining moment of the Sixties, highlighting its cultural impact and lasting legacy—perfect for students studying social change, the arts, or the impact of youth movements. Students travel back in time to explore themes of empowerment and inspiration with the Museum’s creative learning programs.
Spanning more than 6,000 square feet of interactive and multimedia exhibits—including a psychedelic bus, the Museum offers an engaging look at a pivotal time in American history giving students in grades K-12 the opportunity to dive into topics like civil rights, the Vietnam War, and the counterculture movement, all through the lens of music and youth activism. Ranked among the top music museums in the country by USA Today’s 10 Best, the Museum offers an immersive experience through vibrant visuals, original festival footage, interactive exhibits, and personal stories.
A Special Exhibit: How Bazaar
This year’s special exhibit, How Bazaar: Arts, Crafts, & Camping at Woodstock, examines the Bindy Bazaar marketplace and the festival’s pioneering on-site camping. Drawing from over five years of research, oral histories, and archaeological studies, the exhibit uncovers often-overlooked elements that helped shape Woodstock’s legacy.
Student Experiences
The Museum is designed to be accessible and engaging for all ages, with hands-on elements, music stations and creative displays that keep students immersed from start to finish. In-person student Explore the Sixties tours are available Monday through Friday from April through December and last 2.5 hours for just $10 per person, including one chaperone for every 10 students. Transportation and financial assistance are available. Each school field trip includes a teacher planning consultation, customized pre- and post-virtual visit activities, and continued exploration and learning resources. Year-round virtual tours, sensory-friendly visits and custom programs are also offered upon request.
Whether your group is focused on history, music, social studies, or cultural experiences, the Museum at Bethel Woods offers a compelling look at how a generation used music to amplify their voices and inspire change. It’s more than just a stop on the map—it’s a chance for students to explore the power of youth in shaping history.
For student travel planners looking to create impactful, memorable experiences, Bethel Woods is a destination that hits all the right notes. Learn more at bethelwoodscenter.org/explore-the-60s
