The Best PreK and Kindergarten Field Trips (Both Virtual and In-Person!)

Kinders are a wild bunch and taking them anywhere might seem daunting, but field trips provide kids with the kind of real-world learning that really sticks with them. These kindergarten field trips will keep your young students interested and (mostly) out of trouble.

Not all of these trips will be possible everywhere, but keep in mind local treasures that are unique to your area. And when you can’t manage a trip—for whatever reason—try our virtual kindergarten field trips below.

In-Person Kindergarten Field Trips

1. The Pumpkin Patch

Is it even kindergarten if you don’t go to the pumpkin patch? Many locations offer tours via hayride and the opportunity to learn how vegetables like pumpkins grow. And, of course, picking out your own pumpkin is the best part!

2. The Grocery Store

A behind-the-scenes trip to the supermarket can teach kindergarteners everything from how their food is sourced to the concept of paying for goods with money. They can explore different roles and departments and—everyone’s favorite—try food samples.

3. The Zoo

Going to the zoo provides students with the chance to observe animal behaviors and learn about wildlife conservation. Most of them, like the San Diego Zoo, have educational programs, including keeper talks and up-close animal encounters.

4. A Children’s Museum

At children’s museums, the rule is: Please touch! If you’re lucky enough to have a children’s museum close by, most have areas specifically designed for children ages 5-6. Look for role-play areas, climbing structures, and water play.

5. The Fire Station

Grades K–2 are big on learning about community helpers, so the fire station is a great choice! A visit can help ease young children’s anxiety (sometimes firefighters can look scary in all their gear). And they’re sure to be fascinated by the trucks and equipment.

6. An Apple Orchard

Who doesn’t love apple activities? A visit to the orchard allows little ones to learn how apples are raised and harvested. This is a great opportunity for them to pick their own apples and taste different varieties.

7. The Public Library

It’s never too early to teach kids about the amazing place that is their local library. On a trip to the public library, you can show your kinders how a library works, introduce them to the librarians (ask in advance for a storytime), and maybe even sign them up for their own library cards!

8. The Aquarium

If you’re not lucky enough to have a zoo close by, an aquarium is another good choice. Students will get a window into life under the sea, and lots of aquariums have touch pools that are sure to delight littles.

9. A Bakery

On a bakery field trip, curious kindergarteners can learn about how bread, cakes, and pastries are made. Take a tour of the kitchen and watch the mixing of ingredients and the baking process. Some bakeries even offer kids’ activities, like cookie decorating!

10. A Farm

A farm field trip is a great way to connect children to agriculture. Plus, there are all kinds: dairy farms, poultry farms, apiaries, and more. You might try a large commercial dairy farm or a smaller family-owned hobby farm.

Virtual Kindergarten Field Trips

1. An Egg Farm

We love these virtual egg farm field trips from the American Egg Board. Make sure you catch the elementary-friendly versions of Hertzfeld Poultry and Creighton Brothers Farms.

2. The Zoo

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Most zoos have live webcams in some of their most popular exhibits, such as the Panda Cam at Zoo Atlanta. However, some zoos offer a more in-depth look. You’ll definitely want to check out the San Diego Zoo.

3. The Aquarium

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It’s a similar story with aquariums. You have your pick of live webcams, but our favorites are the Georgia Aquarium’s Ocean Voyager webcam (wait for the whale shark!) and the “jellycam” at Monterey Bay Aquarium (so soothing). And definitely check out The Maritime Aquarium where you can register for their virtual programs (try Fish Tales, A House for a Hermit Crab, or Shark Safari).

4. Boston Children’s Museum

“Walk” through all three floors of the Boston Children’s Museum on this virtual tour. Direct your students to the Countdown to Kindergarten exhibit.

What are your favorite kindergarten field trips? Come and share in our WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.

Plus, check out the Best Field Trip Ideas for Every Age and Interest (Virtual Options Too!)