Planning a Chicago field trip, but not sure where to start? Chicago is bursting with engaging venues that make learning exciting and fun. From world-renowned museums to vibrant cultural hubs, the city and surrounding areas offer a rich variety of destinations that cater to a range of interests and educational goals.
A Tip for Successful Field Trips at Any Venue
Choosing a venue is only part of the battle of planning an engaging and educational field trip. Planning your group’s time at the venue of choice and strategizing around how to ensure they’re actually learning while there is often the tougher task.
Enlisting the help of event experts like the team at Watson Adventures can make this process easier. We’ve worked with educators around the country to plan field trip activities for students of all ages and groups of all sizes. No matter what your field trip venue of choice—museum, zoo, historical site, or even virtual—our scavenger hunts ensure all students have a chance to play to their strengths, have fun, and learn along the way.
“42 junior high students in grades 6 through 8 played in 6 teams as part of our 2 day on-campus retreat. The students were completely engaged for the full hour. The hosts were so vibrant, fun, and engaging! You do really have to work together and use your brains! It was so fabulous to see all the smiles and see [the students] enjoy the day.” – Nirm Thomas
With that said, let’s dive into some of the most popular options for school and class outings.
Looking for a specific type of field trip? Jump ahead to see our suggestions.
Science & Nature Field Trip Ideas
1. The Griffin Museum of Science + Industry
The Museum of Science and Industry offers an unparalleled hands-on experience with exhibits that dive into physics, chemistry, engineering, and more. Students can tour a real submarine, experience a tornado simulator, or learn about space exploration in one of the many immersive displays.
Great for…
- Students in STEM schools, programs and classes.
- Winter and spring when students are restless and in need of some indoor, hands-on activities.
Add an activity: The Twisted Science Scavenger Hunt
Learn more: https://www.msichicago.org/
2. Brookfield Zoo
Brookfield Zoo provides an up-close look at wildlife from around the globe. Students will marvel at the diversity of animal species while learning about conservation and ecological systems. Seasonal exhibits and interactive programs make this zoo a hit for students of all ages.
Great for…
- Late spring and early fall field trips.
- Elementary and middle school students.
- Complementing biology and ecology-themed lessons or projects.
Add an activity: The Secrets of Brookfield Zoo Scavenger Hunt
Learn more: https://www.brookfieldzoo.org/
3. Lincoln Park Zoo
One of the oldest zoos in the country, Lincoln Park Zoo is a free, family-friendly destination where students can learn about animal behavior, habitats, and the importance of wildlife conservation. The lush park setting provides a perfect backdrop for outdoor learning.
Great for…
- Budget-conscious schools and class trips (Lincoln Park Zoo is free!).
- Late spring and early fall field trips.
- Elementary and middle school students.
Add an activity: The Wild Wildlife Scavenger Hunt at the Lincoln Park Zoo
Learn more: https://www.lpzoo.org/
4. Shedd Aquarium
The Shedd Aquarium in Chicago is one of the largest indoor aquariums in the world, home to thousands of aquatic animals from oceans, rivers, and lakes around the globe. It offers an immersive and educational experience, allowing students to explore marine life up close through exhibits featuring sharks, sea otters, dolphins, and even penguins. A field trip to Shedd is a great way to bring science lessons to life in an engaging and hands-on way.
Great for…
- Elementary and middle school classes studying biology and ecosystems.
- Cold weather outings and Earth Day field trips.
Add an activity: Scavenger Hunt at the Aquarium
Learn more: https://www.sheddaquarium.org/
5. Botanical Gardens
Schools in and around Chicago—or even those visiting the city for a class trip—have no shortage of options when it comes to field trip options to explore ecosystems and plant life. Those located in northside neighborhoods and suburbs may choose to take a trip to the Chicago Botanic Gardens in Glencoe, while those located further south or further outside the city can enjoy a quick trip to the Morton Arboretum.
Great for…
- Warm-weather feel trips.
- Science classes studying plant life cycles, ecosystems, and biodiversity.
- Middle school and high school students.
Add an activity: Scavenger Hunt at the Botanical Garden
Learn more
History Field Trip Ideas
6. The Field Museum
A bit of a science-history crossover, the Field Museum is a treasure trove of natural history, offering students the chance to explore ancient civilizations, marvel at towering dinosaur skeletons, and learn about the wonders of the natural world. Exhibits like SUE the T. rex and the Evolving Planet gallery bring science and history to life, making it an unforgettable educational experience.
Great for…
- Students of all ages.
- Science and social studies classes.
- Budget-conscious Illinois schools and classes (Field Museum field trips are free for IL schools!)
Add an activity: The Field Museum of Natural Hysteria Scavenger Hunt
Learn more: https://www.fieldmuseum.org/
7. Chicago History Museum
The Chicago History Museum invites students to step into the stories that shaped the Windy City. From the Great Chicago Fire to the civil rights movement, this museum offers interactive exhibits that make history accessible and engaging. Students will love exploring the city’s diverse past through artifacts, photographs, and immersive displays.
Great for…
- Chicago and Chicago-area schools looking to give students a better understanding of their local history
- Middle school, junior high and high school students
Add an activity: The Field Trip Detectives Scavenger Hunt
Learn more: https://www.chicagohistory.org/
8. DuSable Museum of African American History
Celebrate the richness of African American culture and history at the DuSable Museum. With exhibits highlighting everything from the Harlem Renaissance to the civil rights movement, this venue inspires meaningful conversations and deep learning about diversity and social justice.
Great for…
- Black History Month field trips
- Exploring diverse experiences throughout American history any time of the year.
Add an activity: The Field Trip Detectives Scavenger Hunt
Learn more: https://dusablemuseum.org/
Art & Culture Field Trip Ideas
9. The Art Institute
The Art Institute of Chicago is home to an awe-inspiring collection of art from around the world. Students can see famous works like Grant Wood’s American Gothic and Georges Seurat’s A Sunday on La Grande Jatte. It’s a must-visit for sparking creativity and exploring artistic expression.
Great for…
- High school art students studying art history or techniques.
- Winter trips when exploring creativity indoors is ideal.
Add an activity: The Art Museum Madness Scavenger Hunt
Learn more: https://www.chicagohistory.org/
10. Navy Pier
More than just a pier, Navy Pier offers a mix of art, culture, and entertainment. With attractions like the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, public art installations, and seasonal events, this venue caters to a wide variety of interests while providing stunning views of Lake Michigan.
Great for…
- Multi-grade groups needing a mix of education and entertainment.
- Seasonal trips, especially during summer or holidays for special events.
Add an activity: The Navy Pier Pressure Scavenger Hunt
Learn more: https://navypier.org/
11. Museum of Contemporary Art
The Museum of Contemporary Art challenges students to think critically about art and its role in society. With rotating exhibits and thought-provoking installations, it’s a perfect venue for encouraging creative and analytical thinking.
Great for…
- High school students or AP art classes analyzing modern art movements.
- Cold-weather trips prompting thought-provoking discussions on modern and social themes.
Add an activity: The Field Trip Detectives Scavenger Hunt
Learn more: https://mcachicago.org/
Virtual Field Trips Ideas
For classes and schools looking to introduce students to exciting new places and experiences while saving on the associated time and costs, consider a virtual field trip that combines fun and learning in an interactive format.
12. Virtual Museum Scavenger Hunts
From history to STEM to art, Watson Adventures offers a variety of fun and educational Kids scavenger hunts that empower students to explore museums around the U.S. without leaving the classroom. On teams, students will meet with our Host on Zoom and use our browser-based app to follow a trail of clues in search of answers to tricky, fun questions.
Great for…
- Classes that want to explore museums around the country without the hassle of an in-person trip.
- Grade 2 and up.
Learn more or book an activity:
13. Virtual Chicago Tour Game
On this unique Chicago game, students sit down in front of a computer and strap in for a virtual tour of Chicago on a scavenger hunt that walks them through some of the best the city has to offer.
On teams, they’ll gather with a Watson Adventures Host on Zoom (or a similar platform) and use our browser-based app to answer unusual trivia questions that lead them to discover great websites of landmarks and museums and answer tricky questions about what they discover. They’ll see quirky art, find surprising objects, peer inside majestic rooms, and virtually wander through sites that reveal Chicago’s many treasures.
Great for…
- Chicago-area students studying local history.
- Grade 2 and up.
Learn more or book the tour: https://watsonadventures.com/hunt/escape-to-chicago-virtual-tour-game/