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Field Trips

A group of young students look over a bridge in a greenhouse filled with ferns.
At Morris Arboretum & Gardens, educators can bring learning to life through outdoor experiences that connect directly to classroom goals. Field trips and guided programs are designed to support curriculum standards while engaging students through exploration and discovery.
From sensory-based tours for younger learners to ecology-focused experiences for older students, the Morris offers a dynamic setting for hands-on learning in nature.

Field Trips & Youth Tours 

Please note: At least three weeks’ advance notice is needed for guided tours. Please review our FAQ on our Group Tours page to learn how to book a field trip. Fill out the request form on the Group Tours page when you are ready to schedule an outdoor educational experience to enhance your students’ at-home or hybrid school instruction.

Choose from the following field trip tours: 

General Tour (All Ages) 

Duration: 60 minutes 

  • Explore our 92-acre living museum with a knowledgeable guide

  • Understand the importance of plants and our responsibility as caretakers of the environment

  • See unique and champion trees from around the world

  • Visit and learn the history behind signature garden features such as the Morris Pond, the Fernery, and the Log Cabin

  • Meets PA STEELS Standards: 3.1: Life Science; 3.2: Physical Science; 3.4: Environmental, Literacy and Sustainability; 3.5: Technology and Engineering. This tour meets all grade level standards.

For more information or to schedule a field trip, email tours@morrisarboretum.org.

4 Seasons Through the 5 Senses Tour (PreK) 

Duration: 60 minutes 

  • Take a sensory journey through the Morris 

  • Learn the natural characteristics of each season 

  • Collect plant material to bring back to the classroom 

  • Meets PA STEELS Standards: 3.1: Life Science; 3.3: Earth and Space Science; 3.5: Technology and Engineering. Grade level STEELS Standards can be sent by request.

For more information or to schedule a field trip, email tours@morrisarboretum.org.

Tree Adventure Tour I (K - 3rd Grade) 

Duration: 60 minutes 

  • Learn responsibility from a tree 

  • Leaves are responsible for producing food 

  • Bark is responsible for protecting the trunk 

  • Roots are responsible for absorbing water and storing food 

  • People are responsible for taking care of trees in their neighborhoods 

  • Meets PA STEELS Standards: 3.1: Life Science; 3.2: Physical Science; 3.3: Earth & Space Science; 3.4: Environmental Literacy & Sustainability. Grade level STEELS Standards can be sent by request.

For more information or to schedule a field trip, email tours@morrisarboretum.org.

Teacher’s Guide: Download the Pre and Post Visit Guide and Activities  

Our Connected Environment (4th – 8th Grade) 

Duration: 60 minutes 

  • Identify ways in which trees, animals and humans depend upon each other 

  • Learn about oxygen and other gifts we get from trees 

  • Observe PA hardwood trees and discuss their ecological and economic importance 

  • Learn ways to practice good stewardship at home, school and in the community 

  • Meets PA STEELS Standards: 3.1: Life Science; 3.3: Earth and Space Science; 3.4: Environmental Literacy & Sustainability, 3.5: Technology & Engineering. Grade level STEELS Standards can be sent by request.

For more information or to schedule a field trip, email tours@morrisarboretum.org.

Wetlands Exploration Tour (1st - 6th Grade) 

Available April through November only 
Duration: 60 minutes 

  • Explore The Morris Arboretum & Gardens Wetland on foot 

  • Discover the function of wetlands and why they are so vital to nature 

  • Observe and record the different plants and animals that thrive in a wetland 

  • Explain the environmental and economic consequences that can arise with the loss of wetlands 

  • Brainstorm ways we can help safeguard wetlands for the future 

  • Meets PA STEELS Standards 3.1: Life Science. Grade level STEELS Standards can be sent by request.

For more information or to schedule a field trip, email tours@morrisarboretum.org.

Historic Mill Tour (5th – 8th grade) 

Limited availability; for groups no larger than 20 students. Not ADA accessible.
Duration: 60 minutes 

  • Travel back in time by walking in the shoes of a miller’s apprentice 

  • Discover how cutting-edge technology from the 1850s used simple machines to harness water power 

  • Learn how nearby Flourtown got its name 

Teacher’s Guide: Download the Pre and Post Visit Guide and Activities  

For more information or to schedule a field trip, email tours@morrisarboretum.org.