Minnesota Field Trips for Homeschoolers

If you’re a homeschooler and looking for things to do in Minnesota with kids, you are in store for tons of exciting opportunities in the North Star State. Whether it’s physical exercise you’re after, learning more about the state’s history, or enhancing your science and art studies, you can find a field trip idea in Minnesota for just about any interest. Below is a list of educational trips in Minnesota by region to places like state parks, museums, and more.

This printable map of Minnesota can be your first step in planning all the fun things to do in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. You’ll also find free Time4Learning lesson tie-ins that you can download at the end of this post to help supplement your homeschool field trips in Minnesota. Please make sure to contact each site before you plan your visit, as COVID-19 may have impacted their hours of operations.

Field Trips in the Northeast/Arrowhead Region

• Judge C.R. Magney State Park, Grand Marais – If you are looking for field trips ideas in Minnesota, this state park offers tons of outdoor activities and opportunities for physical exercise. Families can fish, camp, observe wildlife, and more. Be sure to take one of the many hiking trails along the Brule River for some amazing views. Including a few of Devil’s Kettle, a waterfall that splits in two, with one part seeming to disappear.
• Split Rock Lighthouse, Two Harbors – Families can explore this National Historic Landmark that sits on the coast of Lake Superior, the largest of the Great Lakes, and learn about its rich history and geography. Homeschoolers can take a self-guided or guided tours of the lighthouse, keeper’s house, and more. A visitor center features exhibits, a short film, and more.
• Lake Superior Marine Museum, Duluth – Operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and located near the Aerial Lift Bridge, this museum allows homeschoolers to learn about the area’s maritime history at no cost. Families can explore interactive exhibits, take part in a number of educational programs, and more.
• Tettegouche State Park, Silver Bay – Located on the north shore of Lake Superior, this park spans over 9,300 acres and included numerous lakes, waterfalls, and a beach. Families can get in some P.E. within the 22 miles of hiking trails. Students can also observe tons of wildlife including beavers, white-tail deer, moose, river otters, peregrine falcons, and more. A visitor center features exhibits, an amphitheater, and more.

Field Trips in the North Central/ West Region

• Charles Lindbergh House and Museum, Little Falls – Students interested in aviation will love visiting Lindbergh’s boyhood home and museum complete with a replica of his famous plane, Spirit of St. Louis. Visitors can take a guided tour of the pilot’s home, test their skills with the flight simulator, and explore tons of interactive exhibits.
• Runestone Museum, Alexandria – Families can learn about Norse and Native American history at this facility that opened its doors in 1958. Named after a 200-pound stone discovered in a nearby town in 1898, this museum has the stone on display as well as other artifacts. Students can play and learn in the Children’s Discovery Room, explore a 40-foot replica of a Viking trading ship, and more.
• Headwaters Science Center, Bemidji – First opened in 1993, this center allows homeschoolers to enhance their science lessons with more than 70 hands-on exhibits, special programs, a live animal collection, and more. Homeschooling groups of 10 or more can take part in a number of fun activities at a discounted group rate.
• Polaris Experience Center, Roseau – If your family is a fan of outdoor fun, don’t miss the opportunity to learn about this company started in Roseau over 60 years ago. Visitors can explore exhibits, watch video presentations, and even take a tour of the factory.

Homeschool Field Trips in the Twin Cities Region

• Wabasha Street Caves, Saint Paul – These man made caves, which are technically mines, have a rich history that goes back to the mid 1800s. A number of tours are available for those who wish to learn more about the caves and how they’ve been used over the years.
• Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, Saint Paul – Science-loving homeschoolers can learn about biology, botany, zoology, and more at this popular attraction that features tons of animals, an amusement park, educational programs, tours, and more. Be sure to explore the impressive Marjorie McNeely Conservatory to see all kinds of plants from all over the world, including the Corpse Flower (when on display).
• The Bakken Museum, Minneapolis – Budding scientists will love learning at this library/museum that features a collection of medical instruments, books, and more. Numerous programs allow students to learn, tinker and unleash their potential. Exhibits include Deep Roots, Tinkering with Prototypes, and Electropolis.
• Minnesota History Center, Saint Paul – Established in 1992, this 44,000-square foot center can help any homeschooler enhance their study of the North Star State. Students can learn about moments and events in the state’s history, its communities and cultures, and more through numerous exhibits, programs, and events.

Homeschool Field Trips in the South Region

• Niagara Cave, Harmony – If you are looking for fun things to do in Minnesota with kids, definitely add this destination to the list. Enhance your child’s study of geology by exploring this impressive cave that was discovered in 1924. A 60-foot waterfall and high ceilings are just some of the things you can expect to see during the one-hour guided tour. Visitors can also pan for gemstones or fossils.
• Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park, Preston – Families can explore the great outdoors, above and below ground, at this park that was established in 1941. Homeschoolers can explore the Mystery Cave, the longest in the state at over 13 miles, on a number of tours. Visiting the Historic Forestville living museum, hiking along the many trails, or observing a variety of wildlife makes for a terrific educational trip in Minnesota!
• National Eagle Center, Wabasha – Learn more about this majestic national symbol at this center that features a number of hands-on exhibits, educational programs, events, and more. Families can even meet some of the eagles that call the center home. Interactive exhibits allow children to explore a bald eagle nest and test their vision against that of an eagle’s.
• Minnesota Marine Art Museum, Winona – Art enthusiasts can explore numerous collections and exhibitions at this museum that opened its doors in 2006. The museum features works of art by Monet, van Gogh, and Cezanne. Homeschoolers can learn through family programs, guided tours, special activities, and more.