Washington, D.C., is not just a city of politics and history; it’s a vibrant playground of interactive experiences, the perfect destination for an 8th-grade field trip. Whether walking in the footsteps of historical figures or diving into the world of secrets and investigations, there’s something for every curious mind. Here’s a list of must-visit spots that will engage and inspire your students well past their time in the nation’s capital!
1. Ford’s Theatre
Step back and witness where history was made at Ford’s Theatre. This iconic site, where President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated, offers an immersive experience that brings history to life. Students can take a tour of the theater and engage in educational programs that highlight the events of that fateful night. Learn more about Ford’s Theatre here.
2. Petersen House
Just next to Ford’s Theatre is Petersen House, where Lincoln breathed his last. The new educational center next door offers a wealth of information and interactive exhibits that delve deeper into the story of Lincoln’s assassination and the immediate aftermath.
3. Exhibition Hall
Immerse yourself in American history at the Exhibition Hall. This space is designed to engage young minds with interactive exhibits and displays covering various historical events and figures. One example is a virtual reality experience where students can step into historical events, like the signing of the Declaration of Independence, making history feel vivid and real.
Exhibition Hall has interactive experiences to keep the students busy and having fun! Our three favorite experiences are:
- Virtual Reality Stations – Your students will be completely immersed in the VR Stations as they explore historical events, space, and other significant landmarks in US history!
- Educational Games – Scavenger hunts, puzzles, and interactive storytelling games make education entertaining and memorable.
- Augmented Reality (AR) Experiences – AR experiences are always engaging because visualizations can be overlain on real-world objectives, which is always so eye-opening and interesting to the students!
Vietnam Memorial
The Vietnam Memorial is a moving tribute to the soldiers who fought and died in the Vietnam War. Students can walk along the reflective wall, reading the names of the fallen, and gain a deeper understanding of the war’s impact on the nation. It’s a powerful experience that fosters reflection and respect.
Learn more about the Vietnam Memorial here!
Gettysburg Battlefield
Travel a bit out of the city to the Gettysburg Battlefield for an unforgettable experience. The site of one of the most pivotal battles in the Civil War, Gettysburg, offers a film that vividly depicts the battle. For the students, it is an opportunity to stand on the battlefield that once had over 160,000 troops present in one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War, allowing them to imagine the events that took place, making history come alive. Learn more about the Gettysburg Battlefield here!
Planet Word
Explore the origins of language at Planet Word, a brand-new museum dedicated to words and language that opened in 2020! Interactive exhibits allow students to engage with language innovatively, from karaoke to speech analysis. It’s a fun and educational experience that will leave them with a greater appreciation for the power of words.
Here are some cool things to do!
- The Spoken Word – Students can engage and interact with displays showing the power of spoken language
- Interactive Wall – Another hands-on experience, students can learn how language changes over time!
- Wordplay – Challenge the class with puzzles and games that test the student’s language skills!
The Spy Museum
For those who love mystery, The Spy Museum is a must-visit. Students can dive into the world of secrets, learn about famous spies, and even solve a crime through interactive exhibits. One popular exhibit allows students to take on the role of a secret agent, completing missions and decoding messages. Another favorite is the “Operation Spy” experience, where students can participate in a simulated spy operation, including surveillance and lie detection. Learn more about The Spy Museum here!
We hope this guide gave you the understanding you need when planning your next Washington, D.C. field trip. If you want a personalized experience tailored to your students, please do not hesitate to call Student Adventures at 1-877-873-7550 or email us at info@studentadventures.org!