The Volunteer State is brimming with educational opportunities for the best field trips imaginable, from the Hermitage to the Great Smoky Mountains
Tennessee offers a wealth of enriching field trip ideas that combine education and adventure. Students can explore the wonders of space one day and delve into American history and diverse cultures the next, allowing them to truly appreciate what makes the Volunteer State a Southern wonder. With hands-on learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom, these attractions are popular with schools and parents alike on educational field trips in Tennessee.
Sudekum Planetarium at Adventure Science Center in Tennessee. Photo credit: Adventure Science Center Facebook page
Tennessee Field Trip Ideas
- Sudekum Planetarium
- Chattanooga Zoo
- Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont
- Andrew Jackson’s The Hermitage
- Bessie Smith Cultural Center
- Belz Museum
STEM Opportunities
Educational field trips in Tennessee consist of diverse STEM learning opportunities and unique attractions, including a state-of-the-art planetarium.
Sudekum Planetarium
Located within Nashville’s Adventure Science Center, the Sudekum Planetarium offers an immersive educational experience perfect for students of all ages. The state-of-the-art dome theater brings the wonders of space to life with captivating star shows, visual spectacles, and educational programs that align with school curricula. Whether exploring the night sky, the planets or deep space phenomena, students are sure to be inspired by the universe’s vast mysteries, making it an ideal field trip destination for budding astronomers and curious minds alike.
Chattanooga Zoo in Tennessee themed day at the Zoo. Photo credit: Chattanooga Zoo Facebook page
Chattanooga Zoo
The Chattanooga Zoo at Warner Park provides an intimate and engaging wildlife experience for eager guests. This 13-acre complex is home to over 800 animals representing 150 species, including endangered and exotic creatures from around the world. The zoo’s education programs provide interactive exhibits that help students connect with the natural world. From the African savannah to the Himalayan Passage, children can explore diverse habitats, making the zoo a popular field trip destination.
Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont
Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this attraction gives students the unique opportunity to explore and learn about one of the world’s most biodiverse regions. It’s also a popular educational field trip in Tennessee for many age ranges. Through hands-on outdoor learning experiences, students engage in scientific exploration and environmental education. Programs are customizable and include guided hikes, wildlife observation and ecological studies, creating an unforgettable field trip that fosters a deep appreciation for nature.
America 250 & Other Heritage & Historical Lenses
Discover Tennessee’s rich history and heritage on educational field trips to locations that explore past presidents, Blues culture and fascinating museums.
Andrew Jackson’s The Hermitage in Tennessee: The Hermitage Enslaved a Wagon Tour. Photo credit: Andrew Jackson’s The Hermitage Facebook page
Andrew Jackson’s The Hermitage
The Hermitage, located near Nashville, is a renowned historical site that paints a detailed picture of the life and times of the seventh U.S. president. This well-preserved plantation home and museum provides a rich learning experience through tours, exhibits, and educational programs. Students can explore the mansion, gardens, and slave quarters while learning about Jackson’s legacy and the complex history of the early 19th century. The Hermitage is an invaluable field trip destination for understanding American history and heritage.
Bessie Smith Cultural Center
The Bessie Smith Cultural Center in Chattanooga celebrates the life and legacy of the “Empress of the Blues,” Bessie Smith, and the contributions of African Americans to the cultural landscape of the South. The center combines a museum, performance venue and cultural hub, comprehensively seeping visitors into African American history, music and culture. With the opportunity to explore the rich heritage of Chattanooga’s African American community, there is no better way to understand the South and its impact on American history.
Belz Museum in Memphis TN. Photo credit: Belz Museum Facebook page
Belz Museum of Asian and Judaic Art
Located in downtown Memphis, the Belz Museum of Asian and Judaic Art provides a unique cultural and historical experience. It has an extensive collection of Asian art, including jade, ivory sculptures and textiles, as well as a significant collection of Judaic art and artifacts. Through its diverse exhibits—including one of the finest collections of pieces from the Qing dynasty—students can explore the rich artistic traditions and cultural histories of these fascinating communities.
