Fantastic hidden gems for your next field trip
MetroWest Boston offers unique student programs just 30 minutes from the big city at a fraction of the cost.
Your next STEM-or history-focused field trip should include these hidden gems in MetroWest Boston—a region just 30-60 minutes from downtown Boston that offers easy access to unique, experiential learning at economical rates.
STEM:
Explore these hands-on learning opportunities that inspire curiosity, innovation and critical thinking:
Christa McAuliffe CenterÂ
The Christa McAuliffe Center in Framingham is an interactive hub that immerses students in the wonders of space, astronomy and environmental science. With a cutting-edge planetarium and collaborative Challenger Learning Center simulation lab, students can take on mission challenges—like launching a spacecraft to Mars and back—that inspire critical thinking and teamwork.
EcoTariumÂ
At the EcoTarium, located in Worcester, science and nature meet for a day of exploration and discovery! With engaging planetarium shows, hands-on exhibits, and live animal habitats, students can explore the natural world in fun, educational ways. The museum’s group programs, lectures, and scenic nature trails make it an ideal destination for those looking to delve deeper into scientific concepts, from the environment to astrophysics.
Southwick’s Zoo
From keeper talks to animal encounters to hands-on activities, students explore animal conservation, ecosystems and zookeeping through the EARTH Discovery Center educational programs at the largest zoo in New England—Southwick’s Zoo in Mendon.
Boston Honey CompanyÂ
The Boston Honey Company is an educational hotspot in Holliston that provides an opportunity to explore environmental science through the lens of beekeeping. Students discover the vital role bees play in our ecosystem while learning about sustainable practices and the fascinating world of pollinators.
Massachusetts Horticultural Society’s Garden at Elm Bank
All programs at the Garden at Elm Bank in Wellesley focus on plants and horticulture as a way to learn about the world around us. Hands-on lessons on Plant Parts and Functions, Weather and Climate, Soil Ecosystems and Decomposition, Pollination, and Botanical Art fully explore ideas in a fun way. Girl Scout troops can also earn badges during a 90-minute session on gardening, bugs, trail hikes, ecosystems, and native plants and animals.
Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary
With wetlands, meadows and woodlands, Broadmoor is a 624-acre living classroom in Natick for students to engage with ecology, conservation and environmental science. Hands-on group programs and guided field studies offer learning about wildlife habitats, climate change and water conservation while hiking the sanctuary’s scenic trails.
Dave & Buster’s Play AcademyÂ
Dave & Buster’s Play Academy, also located in Natick, is a STEAM-accredited, educator-backed, student-approved way to take field trips to the next level and show kids that serious learning can be seriously fun! Topics include Strategy, Health, Finance and Physics for Grades 4-12.
HISTORY:
Allow students to get up close and personal with our history, helping them draw meaningful connections to their lives today at:
American Heritage Museum
In Hudson, the American Heritage Museum’s extraordinary collection of antique tanks, planes and automobiles are laid out in immersive exhibits that bring both US and world history to life through old newsreels, video interviews, artifacts, and more. Students explore everything from the rise of fascism in Europe and Asia to the treatment of POW’s in the Vietnam War to the heroic efforts of many during 911, and much more. AHM offers limitless connections to the history lessons you are teaching in your classes!
Framingham History CenterÂ
The Framingham History Center in Framingham provides exhibition group tours, guided walking tours and behind-the-scenes collections access for students to explore documents and artifacts of enormous importance in American history. This includes John Hancock’s signature, two of only four suffragette pins in existence, tune books from the American Revolution, Civil War-era slavery documents, Indigenous artifacts, and more.
Longfellow’s Wayside InnÂ
Groups can take self-guided tours in Sudbury of Longfellow’s Wayside Inn grounds, historic buildings and museum exhibits highlighting over three centuries of history at the oldest inn in America. With prior arrangement, students can also examine pieces from the inn’s archives and receive a history talk from the innkeeper over lunch in the preserved dining room.
Old Sturbridge VillageÂ
Located in Sturbridge, the largest living history museum in New England, Old Sturbridge Village brings history to life through costumed historians, restored buildings, a working farm and mills, vast collections, and incredible stories from life in the early 19th century. They also offer seasonal hands-on workshops where students try authentic 19th-century activities. From cooking over a hearth to weaving on a loom to writing with quill pens, these tactile experiences forge a tangible connection between past and present.
Start Planning Today
Don’t hesitate to reach out to the MetroWest Boston Visitors Bureau for assistance in planning your next student itinerary, including STEM, history, arts & culture, outdoor rec, and just plain fun! www.metrowestvisitors.org
