New York City School Field Trip - Top Attractions and Things to Do

By Katie Sagal

On a list of places in the U.S. to go on a school field trip, New York City probably occupies the top spot. With its mix of historic sites, educational institutions, and modern attractions, New York City is a prime destination for school trips of all genres. If you're planning a school trip to the Big Apple and looking for ideas, check out our favorite field trip options:

  • Hop-on Hop-off Big Bus New York Tour
  • American Museum of Natural History
  • Guggenheim Museum
  • Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Museum
  • 9/11 Memorial and Museum

Save on Admission to NYC Field Trip Attractions

For parents and teachers planning a trip to New York City, the budget is surely a significant concern. Fortunately for you, the New York City Explorer Pass is an excellent resource for school groups. Save up to 50% on combined admission prices vs. paying at the gate. See all attractions, passes, and prices -- learn more.

Hop-on Hop-off Big Bus New York Tour

Image of City, Urban, Road, Street, Plant, Potted Plant, Neighborhood, Jar, Planter, Pottery, Vase, Downtown, Metropolis, Cityscape, Person, Bus, Vehicle, For school trips that are looking to introduce students to the cultural and architectural diversity of New York, a bus tour can be very handy. A hop-on hop-off option like this can be used to get between attractions (especially some of the big ones like museums), but it's also a good choice for informative and educational narration should you choose to stay on with the whole group. Choose from the Uptown or Downtown bus routes depending on which other attractions you want to see with your group. Getting In: Big Bus New York tickets are available with the New York City Explorer Pass.

American Museum of Natural History

Image of Person, Image Credit: American Museum of Natural History
One of the best educational attractions in NYC is the American Museum of Natural History. Practically every student in the greater Tri-State area has been here on a field trip at some point! It's filled with learning opportunities, special exhibits, and over 34 million objects in their collections. Some of their top attractions include the Milstein Family Hall of Ocean Life and the David H. Koch Dinosaur Wing. They also offer specific opportunities for class trip planning, including specialized tours and more. Getting In: American Museum of Natural History tickets are available with the New York City Explorer Pass.

Guggenheim Museum

Image of House, Housing, Staircase, Window, Skylight, Hot Tub, An architectural marvel that is full of some of the most iconic pieces of art in recent history, the Guggenheim Museum serves double duty as a cultural center and an educational institution. With a collection that is constantly in a state of flux but is based off of a group of early modern masterpieces, the Guggenheim Museum is devoted to showcasing the art of the 20th century and beyond. You'll also find plenty of educational opportunities for kids of all ages, including tours, free audio guides, and more. Please note that children under 12 get free admission to the Guggenheim; for chaperones or older groups, the New York City Explorer Pass can help with budgeting. Getting In: Guggenheim Museum tickets are available with the New York City Explorer Pass.

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Museum

Image of Art, Sculpture, Statue, Landmark, Statue of Liberty, Boat, Another top attraction for field trips from across the country, the Statue of Liberty is a perfect choice for school groups of all ages. Lady Liberty is such an icon in American culture and is an ideal complement to a unit on American history. Likewise, the Ellis Island Immigration Museum is a must-visit for those looking to reinforce lessons on the history of immigration. Good news for the budget-conscious -- admission to both the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Museum is free! Use your New York City Explorer Pass to cover the cost of the ferry trip. Getting In: Statue of Liberty Ferry tickets are available with the New York City Explorer Pass.

9/11 Memorial and Museum

Image of Indoors, Museum, Person, Adult, Male, Man, One of the most important and poignant field trip destinations in the entire city is the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. Students will learn about the tragic events of 2001 and 1993, see artifacts from the ruins, scope out artwork inspired by the tragedy, and more. The exterior is also particularly remarkable for its striking man-made waterfalls and twin reflecting pools. Please note that due to the sensitive nature of the content at this museum, it's most appropriate for middle-grade or high-school field trips. Getting In: 9/11 Memorial and Museum tickets are available with the New York City Explorer Pass.

Remember to Save on Field Trip Admission

So if you're involved in planning a field trip for your students or kids, you'll want to be sure to keep those ticket prices low. To help save up to 50% on admission to the top school trip attractions in New York City, pick up a New York City Explorer Pass. We also offer discounts for large group purchases, which can be a big help to school trips!

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Guide to Visiting One World Trade Center

All you need to know about visiting the One World Trade Center, 9/11 Museum & Memorial and One World Observatory. Plan your trip now. When planning your visit to New York City, One World Trade Center – also known as Freedom Tower – must be on the bucket list. Located in the New York City’s bustling financial district in Downtown Manhattan, it offers some of the most breath-taking views across the city up the One World Observatory and it is home to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. It’s also one of the most unique places to enjoy sunset cocktails and fine dining – so any experience of this modern landmark will offer something to remember. Everyone remembers where they were when they found out about 9/11 so what better way to honor this day than to pay homage to the victims at the Memorial & Museum. Situated on the site of the original World Trade Center, the 9/11 Museum uncovers the story of this ill-fated day with over 10,000 artifacts on display, as well as interviews of 2,000 first-hand accounts, photographs and family testimonies. The One World Trade Center’s Museum also features a Permanent Collection with exhibitions of items donated as well as the incredible account from John Stiastny, one of few survivors of the national disaster. The Foundation Hall contains a segment of the surviving wall of the original structure of the World Trade Center and visitors can still see inscriptions, memorials, and missing posters from the aftermath in 2001. Outside visitors can also see the two memorial pools on the North and South end, the 80-foot Tridents columns as well as International flags which were suspended in the lobby of the original Twin Towers prior to the devastating incident. You can easily spend half a day at the site if you then head up the 102 stories to the One World Observatory. The elevator takes just 47 seconds and, on the way, up you can enjoy a dynamic display learning of the transformation of New York City from its original settlement and bedrock to the concrete jungle of today. At the top, the Forever Theatre audio-visual exhibition thrusts you into the vibrant city life and the interactive displays and presentations will help you get to know Gotham’s rich culture and unique history. Don’t miss the Sky Portal, a glass floor that looks down onto the streets beneath you 100 stories below... Be warned: if you have vertigo this will be a challenge! Indulge in an evening to remember at ONE Dine, One World Trade Center's New York’s ultimate dining and drinking experience. The New York themed menu is a fun way to celebrate something special and guests are welcome for a cocktail, bar snack or a gourmet meal. Tip: you will need an Observatory ticket to enter and make a dinner reservation. Of course, you won’t want to forget your camera for shots of the iconic skyline which, by day or night, is one of the most breathtaking vistas in all of New York. You can also make the most of a professional photographer for a take-home souvenir and visit the souvenir shop full of One World Trade Center-themed gifts. A trip to the Big Apple during the holiday season is one of the best times of the year to experience the iconic city in all its cheer. One World Trade Center's Winter Onederland promises a giant snow globe, Santa Visits, family-friendly Christmas displays, as well as Christmas themed drinks and dining - fun for everyone! If you plan on visiting the One World Trade Center’s 9/11 Memorial & Museum you can visit between 9AM – 8PM daily. To visit the One World Observatory, it is open 9AM – 9PM 7 days a week with last admission 8:15PM (check website for amended holiday hours over Christmas & New Year and during the summer months). ONE Dine is open for meals from 12PM – 9PM daily with last reservations at 6:45PM. Nearby you can also visit the iconic Statue of Liberty and historic Ellis Island Immigration Museum to make the most of your New York experience. If you plan on arriving by Subway, the stop is Fulton Street/Park Place or enjoy a Hop on Hop off Bus Tour experience and jump off at stop 11, 12, or 13 on the Downtown route. Alternatively, the address is 180 Greenwich St. World Trade Center should you be arriving by Taxi or car.
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10+ Romantic Things to Do in New York on Valentine's Day

From some of the world’s most unique museum dates to some classic options like ice-skating in Rockefeller Plaza, stunning aerial views, and intimate picnics in Central Park, it’s hard to imagine a more romantic city than New York. If you’re looking for romantic things to do in New York for Valentine's Day, then check out a few of our suggested activities. Our favorite activities to get those sparks flying include: Empire State Building MoMA & the Guggenheim Central Park New York Botanical Gardens Ice Skating Museum of Sex Cruise along the Hudson Dinner Broadway Musicals Jazz Concert See the City from Above at the Empire State Building The Empire State Building has a reputation as one of the most romantic buildings in the world - in no small part due to its history of having served as the location for any number of romantic films, lovers’ rendezvous, and even proposals. Take a ride to the top, day or night, and enjoy that soaring feeling of being on top of the world. Re-enact “An Affair to Remember” and meet exactly at 7:01PM. Then, you can enjoy a fun and flirty meal at some of the nearby restaurants (although we recommend heading away from Times Square to avoid crowds!). Don’t forget to catch a glimpse of the special lighting effects in honor of Valentine’s Day – the top of the spire will be lit with alternating red and pink sparkles. Explore the Art World Mankind has been turning to art to show their love for centuries. So with that in mind, we're sure a visit to the many amazing art museums of New York City this Valentine’s Day weekend is sure to nourish your lover’s soul. The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) offers a unique perspective on love, as seen through paintings like the iconic “LOVE” pop art piece by Robert Indiana. You'll also find a number of unexpected pieces that will get your creative juices flowing. The Guggenheim is another world-famous museum that features several romantic pieces, showcasing the love of art from the 19th century to today's contemporary art. There's an ever-changing calendar of exhibitions so be sure to check out what's in store for your romance-filled visit. Enjoy the (brisk) Outdoors at Central Park & More Now we all know that February isn’t the ideal time of year to be outside in the Northeast, but you can’t cross a romantic stroll off your list of things to do in New York City on Valentine’s Day. Wrap up warm and walk through some of the city’s best parks, like Central Park or Prospect Park, and enjoy the beautiful wintry landscapes. That being said, if you’d prefer the romance of nature without the reality of the weather, try a visit to the New York Botanical Garden or the Brooklyn Museum and Botanic Garden, both of which offer indoor spaces featuring gorgeous tropical plants. Ice Skate at Rockefeller Center If you’re hardy enough to brave the outdoors, then why not try out one of the most romantic wintertime traditions in the city? Ice skating. Watch the ice skaters at the Rockefeller Center rink or in Central Park, or tie on a pair of skates yourself, as long as you don’t mind being out-skated by some locals. Besides, there’s nothing as sweet as a bit of rink time with your love – remember Serendipity? Rockefeller Center and Central Park simply too touristy for your taste? Then head to Bryant Park’s Winter Village for other skating options. They also boast a number of food stalls, shops, and miscellaneous vendors. You know, if you'd like to treat your partner to a little something. Play up Your Sensual Side at the Museum of Sex What’s Valentine’s Day without a little sensuality? One of the most romantic things to do in New York City for this lovers’ holiday is a celebration of the human body, in all its glory. Try a visit to the one-of-a-kind Museum of Sex, a truly educational and enlightening tour of humanity’s relationship with sex. You’ll see art and artifacts spanning the aesthetics of black and white photography to comic books and pop art. It’s not all about art, either – you’ll find some of the most important and compelling conversations about human sexuality in the world represented in the programming and exhibits at this museum. Hop Aboard a Romantic Cruise Although February is a chilly time of year to be out on the water, you will find most tourist-oriented cruises will run at least once per day. One of our favorite options is the romantic Harbor Lights Cruise, which showcases New York in its most flattering light, with all the glitter of the city on display against a beautiful sunset. It's the perfect opportunity to get that lovely couple's photo in front of the city skyline. If you’re in the city primarily to sightsee, however, something like the Landmark Cruise would also be a good option! There's still something really fun and romantic about being out on the water, regardless of your featured attractions. Enjoy a Romantic Meal The mix of delicious cuisine and romantic ambiance that many New York City restaurants offer (both this time of year specifically and year-round) make the Big Apple an ideal destination for a Valentine's Day date. Whether you’re interested in the high-class romance of a steak-and-seafood restaurant or you’re really just looking for an amazing vegan burrito, NYC has that perfect place to satisfy your cravings. If you’re looking to explore new areas for dining options – and we do recommend branching out from Times Square for the really good stuff – try scoping out places like Greenwich Village, TriBeCa, the West Village, and NoMad. Brooklyn also has some great fare if you’re willing to venture on the subway (we promise it’s fine!). Take in a Show The home of Broadway and everything inspired by the art and music industry, New York City offers some of the best theaters in the world just in time for Valentine’s Day. Whether you want to go all-out with a romantic evening performance of the hottest new show, or you want to try something new at a comedy club or a small indie theatre in the Bronx, there is something to suit every taste. Be sure to purchase tickets in advance, as a show in NYC is an incredibly popular Valentine’s idea among locals in the Tri-State area, too. There are also a number of discount ticket sites available, so it's worth your time to do some research before visiting to see if you can get a good deal on your desired performance. Or, if you just fancy enjoying the bright lights of this buzzing area from the street, join a Broadway and Times Square walking tour and walk in the footsteps of some famous names down the glittering Great White Way. Jazz Concert There's nothing more romantic than the cool vibrations of soulful jazz music. Visit Harlem and be transported back to where it all began in 1970s New York at the Harlem Jazz Series. During this one-hour concert, you'll listen to the sensual sounds of both modern and past Jazz musicians, such as Ella Fitzgerald, Miles Davies, Duke Ellington and Billie Holiday. While you're here, take your time to explore the neighborhood of Harlem, home to trendy eateries and cool bars – the perfect place to spend your Valentine's Day in the Big Apple. Remember to Save on Admission Whether you’re a more conventional flower-and-dinner kind of couple, or you prefer something more off the beaten path, there are plenty of romantic things to do in New York for you to choose from. Remember, some of these great options are available with Go City®, where you can make big savings on combined admission vs paying at the gate.
Katie Sagal

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