13 Winter Field Trip Ideas (with a Twist!)

Think winter isn’t a good season for field trips? Think again. This list of winter field trips for homeschool families goes beyond the usual and includes creative, low-pressure ideas — all inspired by National Days. If you’re looking for fresh ideas that aren’t the same old suggestions, start here.

Winter has a way of making everything feel a little slower — and sometimes that means we forget field trips are still an option. But winter is full of opportunities for easy, low-key outings if you know where to look.

Instead of the usual winter field trip ideas, these suggestions are inspired by the National and International Day lists you’ve probably seen online. Think familiar places, just approached with a fresh perspective.

Are you ready to plan some field trips for December – February? Keep scrolling!

Fire Station

National Firefighters Day (December 4) is a great time to talk about fire safety. Many fire stations are happy to show kids around if crews are available, even without a formal tour.

Zoo

Visiting the zoo during the winter can be a very different experience (aside from the temperature!). Animals behave differently, caretakers face different challenges, and crowds are often much smaller. Plan a visit to celebrate Wildlife Conservation Day (December 4) or Monkey Day (December 14).

Nature Trail or Park

For National Flashlight Day (Winter Solstice), grab a flashlight after dinner and go for a walk in your neighborhood or at a nearby park/nature trail. In the dark, even a familiar path can feel like a new experience.

Ice Rink (Indoor or Outdoor)

January is National Skating Month, which makes ice rinks an easy winter field trip. Watch a public skate session, a hockey practice, or a figure skating lesson. You could even attend a hockey game.

A New-to-You Library

Explore a library that you’ve never visited before, maybe in another city even, for Library Shelfie Day (Fourth Wednesday in January).  

Movie Theater

No, there’s no suggested educational tie-in on this one. But January 19 is National Popcorn Day, and that seems like a good reason to take advantage of a perk of homeschooling — the ability to go to the movie in the middle of the day, if we want.

If you want an educational angle on this idea, look for a movie playing at a nearby museum. They can be a great place for an IMAX movie.

Civil Rights or Civil War Site

In honor of National Freedom Day (February 1), visit a nearby site that helped others gain their freedoms.

This website and this one are two of my first stops when I’m looking for themed locations. As we’ve moved around the US (thank you, US Army!), they’ve helped us find all sorts of places (unique to the mundane) to visit.

Local Inventor’s Home

Did you know that February 11 is National Inventor’s Day? And do you know whose birthday that is? (If you guessed Thomas Edison, you’re right!)

Weather Station or Local News Station

Grab some other homeschool friends and arrange a trip forNational Weatherperson’s Day (February 5).

Local Radio Station or Podcast Studio

World Radio Day (February 13) is a perfect opportunity to arrange a field trip to a local radio station or podcast studio. Do you know someone who has their own podcast? Ask if you can do a short visit to their home to see their equipment.

Board Game Store or Café

Get lost in a puzzle or board game for National Puzzle Day (January 29) or National Board Game Day (January 28). Board game stores & cafes are popping up all over. None near you? Your local library may have them sitting around for patrons to do in the library or to check out.

Music Store or Instrument Shop

Pop into a local record store or even an instrument store for International Guitar Month (January). Explore around, listen to different genres or instruments for a fun and low-pressure winter outing.

Art Museum or Gallery

Art museums and galleries are often quieter in winter, making January an ideal time for a visit to celebrate National Art Appreciation Month (January). Look for small galleries or an art show, too.

Tips for Planning Your Homeschool Field Trip

1. Have water & snacks ready in the car. You might need to pack something to eat for the field trip part. But you’re definitely going to need them when you’re done. Even if the little ones aren’t ravenous, they’re a great distraction while you load up the car, start your GPS, and head home.
2. Keep it simple. You don’t have to do a unit study around sound or lug art supplies to the zoo. Go, learn, enjoy.
3. An organized field trip to your destination will probably require a larger group. Find a couple of trustworthy families that field trip like you do (arrive on time, similar pacing, etc). Plan a monthly trip with them, even if a smaller group means you don’t get group rates. It’ll be worth it!

What’s your favorite field trip? Let me know in the comments.