15 Best Field Trip Ideas in Central Ohio for Schools & Daycares
Looking for educational and fun field trips in Central Ohio? Whether you're a teacher, homeschool group, or daycare leader, we've compiled a list of 15 exciting destinations that provide hands-on learning, outdoor adventures, and STEM-based activities. From cave exploration to wildlife encounters, these field trips are sure to inspire and educate young learners.
1. Olentangy Caverns – Underground Exploration & Outdoor Fun
📍 Location: Delaware, OH
🌐 Website: www.olentangycaverns.com
If you're looking for a one-of-a-kind field trip in Central Ohio, Olentangy Caverns is a must-visit! Students can explore underground caves, once used by the Wyandot tribe, while learning about geology, history, and wildlife. Other attractions include a petting zoo, a gem mining station, and an outdoor maze, making it an all-in-one adventure for students of all ages.
2. Columbus Zoo and Aquarium – Wildlife Learning Experience
📍 Location: Powell, OH
🌐 Website: www.columbuszoo.org
A top-rated zoo in the U.S., the Columbus Zoo provides interactive exhibits, guided tours, and up-close animal encounters designed for school groups.
3. COSI (Center of Science and Industry) – Hands-On Science Fun
📍 Location: Columbus, OH
🌐 Website: www.cosi.org
This award-winning science museum offers STEM-based exhibits, live science demonstrations, a planetarium, and a dinosaur gallery, perfect for interactive learning experiences.
4. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens – Nature & Sustainability
📍 Location: Columbus, OH
🌐 Website: www.fpconservatory.org
This breathtaking botanical garden features indoor and outdoor exhibits, nature-based educational programs, and greenhouse tours focusing on plant science and sustainability.
5. Ohio History Center & Ohio Village – Living History Museum
📍 Location: Columbus, OH
🌐 Website: www.ohiohistory.org
Explore Ohio’s rich history through interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, and a 19th-century village where students can experience life in the 1800s.
6. Stratford Ecological Center – Farm & Nature Discovery
📍 Location: Delaware, OH
🌐 Website: www.stratfordecologicalcenter.org
This working farm and nature preserve teaches students about sustainable farming, wildlife conservation, and environmental education.
7. The Works: Ohio Center for History, Art & Technology
📍 Location: Newark, OH
🌐 Website: www.attheworks.org
This hidden gem combines STEM education with hands-on exhibits, featuring a glassblowing studio, engineering lab, and historical artifacts.
8. AHA! A Hands-On Adventure Children's Museum
📍 Location: Lancaster, OH
🌐 Website: www.aha4kids.org
Perfect for younger children, AHA! Museum features interactive exhibits focusing on science, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
9. Slate Run Living Historical Farm – Experience 1880s Farm Life
📍 Location: Canal Winchester, OH
🌐 Website: www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/slate-run/
Students can step into the 1880s farming era, where they can meet farm animals, help with chores, and learn about traditional agriculture.
10. Legoland Discovery Center Columbus – Engineering Fun for Kids
📍 Location: Columbus, OH
🌐 Website: www.legolanddiscoverycenter.com/columbus
A LEGO-filled adventure where kids can explore STEM-based exhibits, interactive LEGO builds, and a 4D cinema experience.
11. Dawes Arboretum – Outdoor Exploration & Conservation
📍 Location: Newark, OH
🌐 Website: www.dawesarb.org
An ideal field trip for nature lovers, Dawes Arboretum offers guided nature walks, tree science lessons, and wildlife observation.
12. Ohio Wildlife Center – Animal Conservation & Rescue
📍 Location: Powell, OH
🌐 Website: www.ohiowildlifecenter.org
Students can learn about Ohio’s native wildlife, meet rehabilitated animals, and understand the importance of conservation efforts.
13. Topiary Park – A Living Art Museum
📍 Location: Columbus, OH
🌐 Website: www.topiarypark.org
A unique outdoor museum, featuring topiary sculptures that bring a famous painting to life—a great field trip for art and history students.
14. Young’s Jersey Dairy – Farm Fun & Ice Cream Treats
📍 Location: Yellow Springs, OH
🌐 Website: www.youngsdairy.com
Students can milk cows, feed goats, take a hayride, and enjoy homemade ice cream at this classic Ohio farm destination.
15. Homestead Metro Park – Outdoor Play & Nature Trails
📍 Location: Hilliard, OH
🌐 Website: www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/homestead
This kid-friendly park offers nature trails, a covered bridge, a train-themed playground, and plenty of green space for exploration.
Plan Your Next Field Trip in Central Ohio!
From cave exploration at Olentangy Caverns to wildlife encounters at the Columbus Zoo, these 15 top field trip destinations in Central Ohio offer the perfect blend of education and fun. Whether you’re organizing a STEM-focused trip, an outdoor adventure, or a hands-on history lesson, these kid-friendly attractions provide memorable learning experiences.