SE Homeschool Fieldtrips

Did you know that almost every museum, attraction and nature center offers homeschool days and classes? And that the homeschool days, classes, etc often have reduced admission rates? Well to make sure you don't miss any GREAT homeschool fieldtrip opportunities I will be posting information about the places in Georgia and neighboring states that offer homeschoolers valuable learning experiences on this page. These are listed in alphabetical order and I will be adding more as I find out about them, so be sure you save this page as a favorite or add it to your Pinterest Board. The museum, attractions and nature centers are listed in red. If there are FREE events or coupon codes available I will indicate that information bold. I also admin a group on Facebook called GA Homeschool Fieldtrips where I post information as well (often the items I post there are reminders about upcoming events, coupon deals and items that are special one time occurrences). And if it is a place that we have visited or reviewed I will be sure to link to those posts as well so you can read our families thoughts and take a look at some photos.

**Please note prices and dates are subject to change so always be sure to follow up to confirm with the facility by calling or visiting their website.

Image(s): FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Alliance Theater Homeschool Days (Atlanta, GA): offers amazing shows for children ages 18 months and up. Fees range $6.50 - $10.00 per person. Visit the website for more information http://alliancetheatre.org/Alliance/Education/Acting-Classes.aspx (see left side navigation bar for details on both education programs).

Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Homeschool Days (Atlanta, GA): offers amazing programs for children in PreK - High School. Fees start at $7.00 per person. Visit the website for more information  http://www.atlantasymphony.org/EducationAndCommunity/FieldTrips.aspx.

Atlanta History Center Homeschool Days (Atlanta, GA): One of our favorite spots in GA. You can read about our 1st visit to the Atlanta History Center here. They offer a FREE homeschool day typically in August. Throughout the year they offer homeschool days each month. Fees are $8.50 for non-members and $6.50 for members (discounts available for groups). Visit the website for more information www.AtlantaHistoryCenter.com/homeschool. For group reservations, please call 404-814-4018, email Homeschool@atlantahistorycenter.com,.

Biltmore Homeschool Day (Asheville, NC): Each Fall typically in September they offer a great homeschool event. Fee is $22 per person 5 yrs an older. They typically offer a discount if you register by the end of July. Visit the website for more information www.biltmore.com. 

Braves Homeschool Night at Turner Field (Atlanta, GA): Turner field offers a homeschool day once a year typically in August. Fees range $9.00 - $19.00 per person, parking is $10.00. Please call 404-614-1401 or email natalie.galvin@braves.com for tickets and further information.

Cagles Dairy (Canton, GA): Review our over at Expedition Mom.

Columbus GA Homeschool Day (Columbus, GA): Sometime in February they offer a homeschool week where many local attractions like Hills & Dales, Global Village and Discovery Center, RiverCenter ArtsReach, Oxbow Meadows, Columbus Museum, National Infantry Museum & Soldier Center etc will be offering special homeschool programs. Fees vary based on attractions you choose to attend. Visit the website for more information http://visitcolumbusga.com/ you can also email Sid Kaminsky skaminsky@visitcolumbusga.com and request to be added to the mailing list for updates.

CNN Homeschool Day (Atlanta, GA): On MLK Day. Fees Adult $13, Student $12, Child $10 there are also specials rates for groups over 20. Visit the website for more information www.cnn.com/tour or you can also call 404-827-2300 or email atltour@cnn.com.

Emory Carlos Museum (Atlanta, GA): You can view our pictures and some more details here.

GA Aquarium Homeschool Classes (Atlanta, GA): We did the class here previously and it was a great way to experience the Aquarium at a very reduced rate. I wasn't 100% satisfied with the program but the kids really enjoyed seeing all the amazing sea creatures. You can view out pictures and some more details here. Monthly new 2012 classes are not posted yet I will update this page when they are. Programs start at 1:30 pm but you may enter the aquarium at 11 am to walk around the aquarium. Cost is $12 per student plus $4 if you wish to view the Dolphin Tales Show. You must provide proof that you homeschool  (letter of intent). Tickets can be picked up at Will Call. No children under 4 are allowed on the program. And 1 adult per 2 children may enter for FREE. Reservations must be made 2 wks prior to the class you wish to attend. To make a reservation, call 404.581.4121, http://www.georgiaaquarium.org/education/home-school.aspx 

Great Wolf Lodge Homeschool Days (Charlotte/Concord, NC): Dreaming of doing this especially in December! How much fun would it be to go to a water park in the middle of December? They offer two homeschool specials generally in September and December. The fee is normally around $139 per night when you utilize the special promo code. Enjoy a relaxing getaway at the Wolf Lodge. There are awesome cabins and an awesome indoor water park. To add an educational component to your trip take a daily Wolf Walk where you will experience a hands on look at nature and the creatures that inhabit the Northwoods. Visit the website for more details, www.greatwolf.com/concord.

High Museum Homeschool Days (Atlanta, GA): I have never done a homeschool day but I can tell you the High is fabulous. Every time we go there we always have so much fun and learn lots of great things about art. Read our review over at Expedition Mom. Homeschool days are offered once every month typically on a Friday. Each month a different theme is discussed. Admission is $16.50 for adults, $7 for children (discounted from reg. admission) and members get in FREE. More details can be found at www.high.org/homeschool.

Historic Westville Homeschool Day (Lumpkin, GA): Georgia's 1850s Living History Museum. Never been here but really want to check it out. The drive is a little far which is one reason we have not been able to attend. A special homeschool day is offered every year in September. Additional programs are offered throughout the year check the website for more details (group rates are often available). Adults and kids (K-12) are $10 and Pre-K are FREE. Hint: Generally they attend the local homeschool conference in GA and if you mention you saw the Buy One Children's Admission Get One Free flyer you can save yourself some  money! Travel back in time to the 1850's. Enjoy hands on activities like sewing pin cushions, woodworking, candles and soap making, blacksmithing, paper marbling, open harth cooking, spinning, weaving, rope making, and basket making. ***PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED****  Contact info@westville.org or call 888-733-1850 www.westville.org

LEGOLAND Discovery Center (Atlanta, GA): A dream come true for any LEGO lover. LEGOLAND has interactive features which immerse kids into a world where their imagination can run wild with creative inspiration at every turn.  Featuring a whole host of exciting attractions from the Kingdom Quest ride to an amazing recreation of the local area’s most iconic buildings, the Center not only provides fun for LEGO fans young and old, but fantastic educational benefits too. Homeschool group discounts available. Contact Atlanta@legolanddiscoverycenter.com or call 404-848-9252 http://www.legolanddiscoverycenter.com/atlanta/parties-and-groups/school-groups.aspx

Museum of History & Holocaust Homeschool Day (Kennesaw, GA): I have never visited this museum but will definitely be adding it to our list this year of things to do. Homeschool day is generally offered in September and its FREE, FREE, FREE all the time not just on homeschool days.

In September though there is a special program for homeschool students and their families on World War II and the Holocaust. There will be behind the scenes tours, hands on activities, guest speaker and films. For more information, or to RSVP, call 678-797-2082 or email rharker@kennesaw.edu www.kennesaw.edu/historymuseum 

Nature Centers: Many of the nature centers in Georgia offer homeschool days. For ease I will put all the nature centers and information under this heading. 

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Autrey Mill (Johns Creek, GA): One of our favorite nature centers. Every time we visit we get to explore something new.  We love the creek and wildflower trials. It is completely FREE to visit the animals in the nature center and walk the trails. There are great historical buildings to learn more about as well.  Homeschool day is offered on Thursdays, parents are not required to attend (but are welcome to stay and enjoy the preserve). The program is $10 for members, $12 for non-members. The programs are a combination featuring a one hour nature hike/lesson and a one hour heritage tour/activity. A 30 minute lunch break is provided between the classes. Each month will focus on a different topic.

***PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED***  http://www.autreymill.org/homeschoolscience.htm

Chattahoochee Nature Center (Roswell, GA): Amazing trails and hands on nature center, we go to just about every single homeschool day here. Admission is required for this nature center and the trails. Homeschool days are offered every Monday. Adults are $8, Children 3-12  are $5 and Under 2 are FREE. Members are FREE! Chattahoochee Nature Center offers exciting science and nature programs planned just for homeschooling students. A perfect addition to your ecology, biology and geology curriculum, Homeschool Mondays are a great way to get hands-on science and nature lessons, receive help on projects and research and network with other homeschooling families. Visit the website for more details http://www.chattnaturecenter.org/education/homeschool-programs/.

Cochran Mill Nature Center (Palmetto, GA): CMNC hosts Home School Days each month on Mondays. They offer a group program designed for hands-on learning about nature.  This offers the opportunity for your family to learn together in a natural setting guided by an instructor.  New topics are introduced each month and cover a variety of exciting subjects. Program duration is 60-90 minutes and is indicated on the events calendar. Admission is $6 per child (1st-12th grades) and $3 per adult (over 18). Any class materials will be provided for students only. CMNC members are $3 per participant child and adults ***PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED***   http://www.cochranmillnaturecenter.org/homeschooldays.html 

Dunwoody Nature Center (Dunwoody, GA): This is a fabulous little nature center. The trails are FREE to walk here. On select Tuesdays they offer homeschool science classes where students will explore science and nature through age-appropriate games, crafts, stories, and other seasonal experiments and activities. Admission is $10 for members, $15 for non-members.  ***PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED***  http://www.dunwoodynature.org/Homeschool-Classes

Elachee Nature Center (Gainesville, GA): We really enjoy this nature center there is lots to see and do. There is an admission for the nature center but the trails are FREE to hike. Read our review over at Expedition Mom. Each 1st Wednesday of the month they offer a special program for homeschoolers.The cost for the entire 10 program series is $75 per student and $35 per participating parent. Families may also register on a semester basis at a rate of $50 per student and $25 per parent. This series is open to children in grades Pre-K through 5th grade. ***PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED***  http://www.elachee.org/programs/school%20programs/homeschool.html

Gwinnett Heritage Center (Gwinnett, GA): This is a great place. There is are great trails, a nice nature center facility and Treetop Quest. Read our Treetop Quest review over at Expedition Mom. 

Sawnee Preserve (Cumming, GA): To see a breathtaking view hike to the top of the mountain. It is completely FREE to visit the small nature center and walk the trails.

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Renaissance Festival (Fairburn, GA):We went to the student day in 2012 and had a great time. The kids learned all sorts of great things. We learned about the Renaissance Era, glassblowing, weaving, falconry and more. You can view pictures and some more details here. The education day is held at the end of April (this event is not just for homeschoolers and there are lots of public schools that atted as well). Admission is $9.50 for students and $10 for adults. During student day there will be special workshops, demonstrations and classes. These programs will help enhance your child's learning in art, theater, history, science, language and more. Visit http://www.garenfest.com/Information-5 to make your reservation. You will receive email updates as well as your invoice when the time comes.

Ripley's Aquarium Homeschool Days (Gatlinburg, TN) : I really hope to make it to this aquarium this year. I have heard great things about the aquarium. Ripley's offers homeschoolers discounts all year long. Just show proof your a homeschool family like a declaration of intent, attendance, etc. In addition they offer special programs each month on select Wednesdays. Admission is $7 for adults, $9 for K-8th, $4.99 PreK, Under 2 FREE. For more details visit http://www.ripleyaquariums.com/gatlinburg/things-to-do/education-camps/home-schoolers/

Rock City (Chattanooga, TN): 

Stone Mountain Homeschool Day (Stone Mountain, GA): Another one I have never been to but so want to do. But I can tell you Stone Mountain is a wonderful place to visit and you are gauaranteed to have fun and learn lots too while there. In September Stone Mountain homeschool students are invited to embark on a full day of education and adventure at Georgia’s #1 attraction. Includes access to exciting attractions including the all-new Geyser Towers, SkyHike, Summit Skyride, Discovering Stone Mountain Museum, Plantation & Farmyard, YOGI BEAR 4-D Adventure, Scenic Railroad, Mini-Golf & The Great Barn. Ride the Ducks can be added to the Adventure Pass for only $9. Admission is $17 a person or FREE with Mountain Membership.Visit

www.stonemountainpark.com/homeschoolday or call 770-498-5636 for more details.

Southern Railway Museum (Duluth, GA): Programs are offered at anytime just contact the museum 2 weeks prior to the time you wish to have a guided tour. Cost is $7 per person. There are a couple tour programs available, guided and unguided. All programs include a hands-on experience with artifacts. Programs that are held at the museum generally include a train ride and program-specific tour. Visit http://www.srmduluth.org/About/tours.shtml for more info.

The Southern Museum (Kennesaw, GA): We visited the museum a few times and always have a great time. I even learned lots about the Civil War. The General and a medal of honor that was just donated this year are the two most famous exhibits at the museum. You can view our pictures and some more details here. They offer a special homeschool day generally in September the cost is $5 per person and reservations required 1 week in advance. Homeschool students of all ages can now explore the Southern Museum’s exhibits for a special rate. On any given month, attendees may participate in guide tours through the galleries, hands-on activities and take-home craft projects. Be sure to grab your FREE scavenger hunt at the front desk. All parent educators will receive a take-home packet to enhance the day’s lesson. Visit the website for more details http://www.southernmuseum.org/school-programs/homeschool/.

Titantic Museum (Pigeon Forge, TN): The Titanic Museum is honoring homeschoolers now through May 2013. During this time homeschool students receive a SPECIAL admission price of only $12.50 (includes tax and audio) on selected dates. Reservations are require call 800-381-7670. Find more details here http://www.titanicpigeonforge.com/titanic-pigeon-forge-news-events.php. 

Wild Adventures Homeschool Days (Valdosta, GA): We had a blast at Wild Adventures I highly recommend attending their homeschool days or just taking a family vacation there. Here is our review. Wild Adventures offers homeschool days twice a year in September and June. The cost is $23 per person for 3 parks. Have some fun at the amazing amusement and water park and when your done learn about all of your favorite animals as you uncover hundreds of creatures from around the world as you wander through the zoo. Sit back and enjoy Do You Zoo?, an educational and entertaining animal game show.  Then travel half-way around the world on our Safari Train ride - an adventure that brings you face to face with rare Indian rhinos, giraffes, elephants, zebras, wildebeests and more!  The discoveries are endless at Wild Adventures. For more information

http://www.wildadventures.com/Groups/HomeschoolDays/tabid/507/Default.aspx.

Zoo Atlanta Homeschool Classes (Atlanta, GA): Gwyn participated in the Homeschool Academy class our fist year of homeschooling and it was absolutely amazing. It is totally worth paying for an entire semester visit the website for more details about the class topics. You can read more about Gwyns 1st Zoo Academy class experience here and then do a search on my blog for zoo academy class to read about her others. Homeschool Field Trip Day is offered the first Tuesday of every month. Homeschool Academy is also offered  monthly on Wednesdays. This is a 2 hr class and runs September through May. Homeschool Field Trips: $9 per person. Homeschool Academy: $16 for members and $20 for non members. Register for a semester and get $10 off your registration fee. Immerse your children in an unforgettable educational adventure packed with hand on learning, outdoor exploration, tours and over 1,500 animals from around the world. More details can be found here

http://www.zooatlanta.org/home/book_a_program/schools_and_groups/homeschoolers.

*If you are a museum, attraction, nature center, etc that offers a homeschool programs/days and would like to be listed on this page email me the details and I will add you. If you are interested in our family reviewing your facility on our blog feel free to email me about that as well.