The Koshland Science Museum is a great place for students to see how science can solve real-world problems. Starting in September 2013, we are pleased to offer free school field trips again. A limited number of free facilitator led tours are also available. To qualify for this free offer, field trips must be organized by middle schools and high schools in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.
Free facilitator-led tours are limited in quantity and offered on a first-come, first-served basis, so act fast to offer your students this unparalleled educational experience! Logistics and registration.
Interact with the Issues
During a visit to the Koshland Science Museum, your students will see a whole new side of science. We go beyond the “who/what/where” and challenge students to think about why scientists investigate our world and how science informs the decisions we make as individuals and as a society.
From climate change to the human brain, students will see how small changes can make a big difference and consider how to make their choices count.
Customize Your Tour
Our facilitated tour provides an in-depth, personalized 2-hour learning experience for 12-36 participants. Using the Jigsaw method, your group will divide into smaller groups and collaborate to become “experts” on different parts of the exhibit, then exchange information during small-group and whole-class discussions.
Facilitated tours focus on one of two exhibits:
- Life Lab: This exhibit focuses on the human brain and body. Explore the science of learning and memory, find out why we age and see how the brain changes over time, and get behind the wheel of our driving simulator to experience first-hand the effects of distracted driving. Students can even try their hand at designing a high school lunch menu that conforms to national dietary recommendations.
- Earth Lab: In this exhibit visitors explore our changing climate. See how scientists investigate climate change and delve into its causes and effects. Then “play policymaker” to consider the energy-sector tradeoffs required to meet CO2 emissions goals.
Self-guided tours are available for 12-100 participants. Students explore the Life Lab, Earth Lab, and a collection of mind-bending games, videos, and interactive experiences at their own pace.
Is this Right for Me?
Our exhibits are designed to be informative and engaging for middle schoolers, high schoolers, college students, and adults. Because our museum is affiliated with the National Academy of Sciences, you can be sure the science presented in our exhibits is accurate and frequently updated with the latest developments.
Washington, DC-area middle and high school groups can take advantage of free self-guided or facilitated group tours starting in September 2013. Free facilitated group tours are limited and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Learn more.
For other groups, admission rates are $7 for adults and $4 for students and active military. Chaperones, teachers, and tour operators receive one free admission per every 10 visitors. The facilitated visit option costs $200, in addition to regular admission. Learn more.