Discover how New York’s top outdoor classrooms cultivate critical thinking, scientific inquiry, historical empathy, and teamwork
Experiential learning follows the cycle of experiencing, reflecting, thinking, and acting during educational interactions. This process aims to empower educators while addressing some of the shortfalls of traditional experiences. In-class learning, information is transferred passively from teacher to student, whereas experiential learning allows teachers to engage with their students meaningfully, connecting learning objectives with real-world examples. By utilizing this style of education, students are gaining key outcomes in:
- Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
- Scientific Inquiry & Method
- Historical & Cultural Empathy
- Environmental Responsibility & Stewardship
- Teamwork & Collaboration
Getting into nature with hands-on experiences is a powerful tool for skill development. Field trips continue to be a great resource for educators, providing students with both personal and academic growth. Let the outdoor world become the classroom, allowing students to apply the learning material while connecting with nature and each other. We have compiled a list of some of the best outdoor classrooms to visit in New York for your next field trip.
Experiential Learning Outcomes & Recommended Outdoor Classrooms
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
The Wild Center (Tupper Lake)
At this 115-acre natural history center, students can apply evaluative thinking and problem-solving skills through hands-on experiences in nature. The Wild Center and Wild Walk offers engaging science-focused workshops designed to fit into your curriculum while engaging students in thoughtful discussions and analysis. Students will experience in-depth programs featuring outdoor education of natural artifacts and live animals.
Storm King Art Center
Art comes to life, and students gain a multisensory experience at this 500-acre outdoor museum. Students get an up-close view of the artwork and further their understanding and appreciation through inquiry-based discussions, interactive activities, and further expression of their observations. The Storm King Art Center also provides teachers with additional resources, helping to further support the natural integration of field trips into the curriculum before, during and after your visit.
Scientific Inquiry & Method
Niagara Falls State Park
Niagara Falls is a stunning natural wonder with thousands of years of geological history to explore. During a visit to Niagara Falls State Park, students are encouraged to be inquisitive about nature-based science and how it applies to their world. There is abundant outdoor education for students to apply practical scientific observation while enjoying the natural beauty. Hands-on experiences include building a birdhouse while learning about local ecosystems and the invasive species that threaten them.
Rochester Museum & Science Center (RMSC)
Immerse your students in the world of science at one of Rochester Science Center’s many school programs. These programs offer various topics, ranging from planetarium presentations to design lab activities and hands-on experience in the inquiry room. These programs align with curriculum standards while sparking curiosity and excitement about science. Students will learn the practical applications of science in an exhilarating educational environment through interactive experiments and group-focused challenges.
Historical & Cultural Empathy
Ganondagan State Historic Site
Take your students on a trip through time and back to the 17th century at the only developed and interpreted Seneca town in the United States. Ganondagan State Historic Site’s educational outreach program offers a variety of activities to help students connect with history and gain new perspectives on local culture. Students can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of history through hands-on experiences with traditional crafts, planting demonstrations, or an in-depth exploration of everyday life.
Genesee Country Village & Museum
The Genesee Country Village & Museum is a living history museum with over 60 buildings spanning over 600 acres and teeming with outdoor education opportunities to connect children with history and nature. Students are transported to New York 200 years ago to learn about 19th-century life through activities, tour historic buildings and the surrounding nature, and interact with costumed historical interpreters. All field trip programs come equipped with specific objectives and educational standards.
Environmental Responsibility & Stewardship
Aquarium of Niagara
Dedicated to the education and conservation of aquatic life, the Aquarium of Niagara offers educational programs to spark curiosity and inspire connections with the natural world. Students will engage with interactive exhibits, animal encounters, and hands-on experiences. The program focuses on the significance of marine ecosystems, biodiversity and conservation. Additionally, teacher resources and outreach programs for on-site learning opportunities are available.
Antique Boat Museum
The Antique Boat Museum is dedicated to preserving and celebrating maritime heritage and its deep cultural history in North America. Visiting students can learn about the importance of water conservation, historical resource management, and sustainable practices. They can get out on the water rowing a skiff or touring La Duchesse—a 1903 houseboat—while learning the ins and outs of environmental responsibility.
Teamwork & Collaboration
Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome
The Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome is a living history museum home to many aircraft from the pioneer era of aviation. With a mission to teach young people about early aviation, their educational programs implore visiting students to work together through aviation-themed challenges and collaborative workshops. Not only do their programs encourage children to utilize teamwork, but they also teach the historical significance of collaboration. Teacher resources, such as pre-visit activities, are available, and programs are designed to be customizable for various learning outcomes.
City Experiences by Hornblower
Bring your classroom to the water with a unique perspective of the city’s history aboard one of City Experience by Hornblower’s educational cruises. They offer customizable excursions where students can learn about navigation, marine biology and environmental conservation collaboratively. Featuring workshops emphasizing teamwork and communication, their group-oriented tours are an outstanding balance of sightseeing fun and hands-on learning.
Integrating Field Trips with Classroom Learning
Field trips are a great way to engage students while providing them with a unique way to expand on classroom curricula. Plan some pre-trip activities in the week leading up to the field trip. Not only will this get students excited for their outdoor excursion, but it will also prepare them and contextualize the experience.
Don’t stop there. In the days following the field trip, keep up the student engagement with post-trip reflection exercises and in-class projects that reinforce and build upon the field trip’s key takeaways. Group discussions, creative projects, and post-trip surveys are great places to start.
While some field trip locations offer built-in activities before and after your visit, they are not all accommodating. If you are struggling with building a lesson plan around your next field trip, check out our guide on how to Maximize the Educational Value of Field Trips.
