Here come the fall leaves, and you know what that means — back to school for kids across the Garden State! Teachers are setting up their classrooms, creating lesson plans, and mapping out activities for the new school year. One important part of that plan? Field trips. From elementary through high school, educators are always looking for new, engaging destinations for their students. As the school year kicks off, here’s a helpful guide to some of the best field trip ideas in New Jersey.
Outdoor Field Trip Ideas
Sweet Land of Liberty: Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty
Opened in 1892, Ellis Island was the nation’s busiest immigration station until 1954, processing over 12 million people. Today, the museum helps students explore immigration history and connect to their roots. Right next door stands the Statue of Liberty — a symbol of freedom and democracy and a must-visit for any civics or history class.
That’s History: Monmouth Battlefield State Park
Located about 30 miles east of Trenton, this site marks one of the largest battles of the American Revolution. The park features scenic trails, picnic areas, and a restored 18th-century farmhouse. The visitor center offers educational exhibits, making it a well-rounded outdoor learning experience for students of all ages.
A Water Adventure: Manasquan Reservoir Environmental Center
Just 25 minutes from Asbury Park, this environmental center offers hands-on learning about wetlands, wildlife, and habitat preservation. With interactive exhibits and self-guided nature walk backpacks (available for free), this trip brings science and nature to life in a fun, engaging way.
Indoor Field Trip Ideas
Take a Dive: Woodbridge Aquarium and Wildlife
This interactive aquarium offers one of the most unique field trip experiences in New Jersey. Students can touch, feed, and learn about animals from ecosystems around the globe. Woodbridge Aquarium provides age-specific programming designed to make science and conservation fun for all grade levels. It’s an immersive and exciting trip perfect for schools across the region.
It’s All in the Mind: Virtual Reality Center – Rowan University
Located in Mullica Township, this cutting-edge facility introduces students to virtual reality, simulation, and 3D visualization. Guided tours include access to their massive curved screen environment and conversations with faculty and students about the future of tech and digital design.
Weird Science: Liberty Science Center
In the heart of Jersey City, this STEM powerhouse delivers hands-on science education for learners of all ages. From interactive exhibits and the giant planetarium to the Dino Dig Adventure and science theater, the Liberty Science Center offers unforgettable experiences in science, technology, and discovery.
New Jersey offers no shortage of inspiring, educational field trip options that enrich the classroom experience. Whether you're exploring wildlife at Woodbridge Aquarium and Wildlife, walking through Revolutionary War history, or experimenting with cutting-edge science, there’s something for every subject and student level. Use this list to help plan a school year full of fun, learning, and adventure.