ILLINOIS
Field Trips

Have a full day of fun at Sugar Grove Nature Center, where your students can explore hands-on interactive exhibits. Go on a “campout” in a tent while coyotes howl in the background. Let their own puppet shows take center stage in the cabin.

Home to many indigenous and exotic animals, the Summerfield farm and Zoo is the place to learn about everything from alligators to zebras. Many of the animals are rescued animals, from Northern Illinois.

The Terra Foundation for American Art is dedicated to fostering exploration, understanding, and enjoyment of the visual arts of the United States.

The Nature Institute offers year-round opportunities for youth groups to connect with nature. The facility introduces the habitats, flora and fauna of Illinois.

The Oriental Institute is world-renowned showcase for the history, art, and archaeology of the ancient Near East including Egypt, Persia, and Mesopotamia.

The Pride of Oregon is an authentic Paddle Wheel Riverboat; 102 feet of real river charm. She docks at the historic Maxson Riverside Restaurant and Paddlewheel Inn.

The Science Center is dedicated to awareness and exploration of hands-on science to children ages 3 to 13 in southernmost Illinois.

The University of Illinois Arboretum is a living laboratory on 57 acres. Heavily forested, the arboretum offers opportunities for students to learn about planting, horticulture, and landscape design.

Step back into the 1880s for a look at Schaumburg as a rural German farm community. On a visit to Volkening Heritage Farm, you can help with seasonal farm chores, participate in family activities and games of the 1880s.

The Springfield Park District’s Washington Park Botanical Garden is a place for enjoyment and education. The Garden provides a scene of tranquility and beauty, an oasis of nature, within an urban environment.

Visitors to Western Illinois Museum will view exhibits filled with objects and photographs detailing the history of McDonough County, and they may have the opportunity to include their own!

Four spacious buildings house the Wheels O’Time Museum exhibits, which include antique and collector autos, trains, airplanes, tools, toys, clocks, tractors, musical stuff, vintage clothes, fire trucks, bicycles and general family fun.