Boston is a city steeped in history, culture and innovation, making it a perfect destination for student groups. Home to more than 35 colleges and universities, including globally acclaimed schools like Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Boston is a world-renowned educational hub. The thread of academic excellence can be felt throughout the city, which boasts a thriving economy and dynamic tech scene.
Visitors to Boston will find that the city offers an incredible mix of old-world charm and modern sophistication. In one day, students can recreate history at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum and visit the restored home of Paul Revere, while also delving into modern wonders at the Museum of Science and discovering the “most innovative square mile on the planet” in Kendall Square.
So whether you’re interested in exploring historical sites, delving into scientific discoveries or enjoying the city’s many cultural institutions with your students, Boston is a multi-faceted city that truly offers something for everyone. This guide will take you through the planning process to ensure that your student trip to Boston is an enriching and memorable experience for all.
We understand that planning a school trip is challenging, especially when catering to different age groups and educational goals. To help streamline your planning process, we have created three sample itineraries tailored to various age groups and subject areas. These itineraries provide a balanced mix of educational experiences and fun activities, ensuring a memorable and enriching trip for your students.
Boston offers a wide variety of enriching experiences perfect for student groups. From immersive science museums to hands-on history tours and outdoor adventures, our curated list of top field trip locations is designed to inspire learning and curiosity. Each destination is selected for its educational value, safety, and ability to engage students in interactive learning outside the classroom. Browse the profiles below to find the perfect spot for your next student adventure!
Boston has long been known as a city of educational excellence thanks to its numerous institutions of higher learning. Throughout the city there are a wealth of opportunities for students to deepen their understanding of history, culture and science in unique ways. Let’s delve into Boston’s diverse educational landscape and discover how each facet contributes to students’ learning journey.
Students of history will find that few cities outshine Boston when it comes to the array of historic sites and monuments found dotting the streets and parks. The city played a pivotal role in the American Revolution, serving as the stage for events like the Boston Tea Party and the Battle of Bunker Hill. Through immersive experiences along the city’s famous 2.5-mile Freedom Trail, students can trace the footsteps of revolutionaries, explore historic landmarks and gain insight into the struggles and triumphs that shaped the nation.
Today Boston is an incredible melting pot of cultures, as you’ll quickly see reflected in the vibrant neighborhoods, colorful festivals, diverse cuisines and famed cultural institutions. Students can explore neighborhoods like Chinatown, the North End and Jamaica Plain, each offering a unique glimpse into the city’s multicultural identity. This is the perfect opportunity to help students broaden their perspectives and gain a new appreciation for cultures outside of their own.
Boston stands at the forefront of scientific discovery and innovation, boasting world-renowned institutions like MIT, Harvard and the Museum of Science. The city is ideal for students looking to see STEM careers in action, and there are countless opportunities for scientific exploration to nurture students’ passion and understanding of the sciences. Engaging with hands-on exhibits, participating in educational workshops and interacting with leading researchers and educators are all easily accessible when visiting Boston.
When planning your visit to Boston be sure to check if any major events will be taking place prior to securing your travel dates. Events such as those listed below can cause increased traffic, higher demand for accommodations, and busier public transport, so it’s wise to plan accordingly if visiting during these times. Be sure to verify the exact dates as they may change yearly.
Celebrations around Independence Day with historical reenactments, boat tours, concerts, markets and fireworks. (Early July)
A music festival featuring artists across multiple stages, typically held at the Harvard Athletic Complex. (Memorial Day Weekend)
The largest two-day rowing event in the world, drawing athletes and spectators to the Charles River. (Mid to Late October)
A major parade in South Boston featuring bands, floats and Irish-themed festivities. (Sunday closest to March 17)
Massachusetts offers a wide range of funding and assistance opportunities to help make student travel and field trips more accessible. Whether you’re looking for grants, scholarships, or fundraising ideas, there are many options available to ease the financial burden for schools and families. In this section, we list a few of the various programs and resources designed to support educational trips.
These funds are sourced from the City of Boston’s Operating Budget, and the Mass Cultural Council (MCC), a state agency, to support small and mid-sized nonprofit and fiscally-sponsored organizations, as well as unincorporated entities and artist collectives. The BCC grant program aims to work in tandem with other grant programs to ensure that all Boston residents can access and participate in arts programming and creative expression.
The Arnold Arboretum is launching a Bus Funding Grant Program to cover transportation costs for self-guided field trips. Funding is made possible through a generous donation from the Powder Mill Foundation. Eligibility is Open to educators who work with students in the City of Boston district schools, public charter schools, and parochial schools that are part of the Boston Compact.
The Foundation funds after-school programs, character building exercises, college admissions counseling and leadership training to challenged youth. Whether it is tuition assistance so a child can attend summer camp, a field trip grant, or a scholarship for a child in need to attend school, or “gap funding” to close the breach between a student’s college scholarship and their actual tuition bill– the Corey C. Griffin Foundation is making a profound difference in the lives of children and young adults.
The Arnold Arboretum is launching a Bus Funding Grant Program to cover transportation costs for self-guided field trips. Funding is made possible through a generous donation from the Powder Mill Foundation. Eligibility is Open to educators who work with students in the City of Boston district schools, public charter schools, and parochial schools that are part of the Boston Compact.
Planning a student group trip to Boston can be exciting, but it requires thoughtful organization. Our blog section is here to help teachers every step of the way by offering in-depth guides, expert tips, and inspiring ideas.
From American revolutionary thinkers to the modern theaters staging groundbreaking new plays, Boston offers a vivid backdrop for immersive learning.
The city’s rich array of cultural and academic institutions offer opportunities to showcase how math applies beyond the classroom.