FIELD TRIPS

The Museum offers hands-on exhibits and engaging programs designed to support school readiness. These experiences help children build early literacy, explore basic math and science concepts, and strengthen problem-solving, physical, and social skills. For caregivers, the Museum also provides valuable resources on early childhood brain development, learning styles, and effective parenting strategies. Committed to accessibility, the Museum extends its impact through outreach programs that support historically underserved children and families, including those with low incomes and disabilities.

The Barlow Planetarium, the first major planetarium in Wisconsin, opened to the public on March 20, 1998. It features a 48-foot projection dome with seating for 98 guests, along with four wheelchair-accessible spaces. The planetarium is powered by advanced Evans & Sutherland Digistar II® technology, along with video projection and automated systems. It also includes a Skylase FX full-dome laser projector—the only system of its kind capable of delivering a complete 360 x 180-degree solid-state laser experience. In August 2024, the Barlow received an IMLS grant to expand its reach by purchasing a portable planetarium using Digistar-Lite software. This addition allows the planetarium to bring immersive space experiences directly to communities who may not be able to visit in person.

Six Flags Great America is a popular amusement park located in Gurnee, Illinois, conveniently situated between Chicago and Milwaukee. Owned and operated by Six Flags, the park offers 45 attractions, including 16 roller coasters for thrill-seekers of all ages. It also features an adjacent water park, Hurricane Harbor Chicago, providing even more fun with water rides and attractions during the warmer months. 

Timbavati Wildlife Park is a 25-acre wildlife park located in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin. Established in 2001, the park is home to hundreds of exotic animals representing more than 75 species, including giraffes, red pandas, African antelope, rhinoceroses, flamingos, parakeets, sloths, kangaroos, and more. The park is owned and operated by a mother-and-son team, Alice and Matthew Schoebel, whose family brings four generations of experience in global wildlife education and conservation. Timbavati is committed to providing exceptional animal care, creating memorable and engaging experiences for visitors, and promoting a better future for wildlife and the natural world.

Bay Beach Amusement Park has been a beloved destination for family fun along the shores of the Bay of Green Bay for over a century. The park features classic rides like a Ferris wheel, Tilt-A-Whirl, giant slide, and the iconic Zippin’ Pippin’ roller coaster. In addition to rides, the park offers a variety of indoor and outdoor rental spaces for events. The Bay Beach Pavilion and picnic shelters are available from May through September, making it a great spot for gatherings of all sizes. Guests are welcome to bring grills for potluck-style picnics, and a list of preferred caterers is available for those planning a fully catered event. 

Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park in Wisconsin Dells is a large, Greek mythology-themed resort offering both year-round indoor attractions and seasonal outdoor parks. Known for its mix of thrills and family fun, the park features standout rides like America’s tallest waterslide, Rise of Icarus, the unique Medusa’s Slidewheel, the intense Hades 360 roller coaster, and a wide variety of go-kart tracks. The resort also includes on-site lodging, such as Hotel Rome, where guests often receive complimentary access to the parks, making it a convenient all-in-one destination for entertainment and stays.