Out of the Classroom, Into the Wild: Hotspots for Outdoor Learning (CA/NC)
For the number 7 in me, one of the absolute best things about homeschooling—getting OUT of the house and into the wild. The world is literally your classroom. There’s nothing quite like stepping away from the textbooks and diving headfirst into hands-on learning adventures. From the coasts of Southern California to the dunes of North Carolina, I’ve picked out some epic spots that mix education with exploration.
So grab your backpacks, slather on some sunscreen, and let’s get into some of my favorite outdoor learning hotspots. Ready? Let’s roll!
West Coast Wonders (California)
Griffith Observatory – Los Angeles, CA
Got a kid who’s obsessed with space? Griffith Observatory is the place to be. You’ll get hands-on exhibits, a killer planetarium, and the best views of LA. Whether you're talking galaxies or gravitational pull, this is where astronomy lessons meet epic city views. Bonus: it's free!
Perfect for: Astronomy, space science, physics
Exploratorium – San Francisco, CA
In the heart of the Bay Area, the Exploratorium is a science playground for all ages. With interactive exhibits that cover everything from physics to psychology, this place will have your kids asking questions and diving deep into the "why" of the world. It’s the perfect spot to make science and curiosity collide.
Perfect for: Physics, biology, psychology
Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific – Long Beach, CA
Into marine biology? You’ve gotta hit up the Aquarium of the Pacific. From interactive tide pools to live feedings, your kids will be in ocean-nerd heaven. Plus, their homeschool days are packed with special programs and sweet discounts.
Perfect for: Marine biology, ecosystems, environmental science.
Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) – Los Angeles, CA
Want to shake up your art lessons? MOCA is where creativity goes rogue. With boundary-pushing exhibits, your kids will leave thinking differently about art—and maybe even inspired to create their own masterpieces at home.
Perfect for: Art appreciation, modern art history, creative expression.
San Diego Zoo – San Diego, CA
Let’s be real, the San Diego Zoo is a classic for a reason. With over 3,500 animals and conservation programs, it’s not just a zoo—it’s a living, breathing classroom. Bring sketchpads for some serious nature journaling.
Perfect for: Zoology, conservation, ecology.
East Coast Adventures (North Carolina)
North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher – Near Wilmington, NC
If your kids light up at the mention of marine life, the Fort Fisher Aquarium is a must. They’ll get up close with sea turtles, stingrays, and sharks, plus dive into interactive exhibits that make marine biology come to life. And don’t forget the gorgeous coastal views just steps away.
Perfect for: Marine biology, environmental science, ecosystems
North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences – Raleigh, NC
As the largest natural history museum in the Southeast, this spot has something for everyone. From dinosaurs to space exploration, you can spend the whole day learning and still not see it all. They even offer homeschool workshops and hands-on science labs—perfect for diving deep into Earth sciences.
Perfect for: Earth science, biology, paleontology, astronomy
Outer Banks – NC
Coastal dunes and the Wright Brothers Memorial—what’s not to love? The Outer Banks offer endless outdoor learning opportunities, from nature journaling to birdwatching to getting up close with history.
Perfect for: Nature study, American history, ecosystems.
Southern Charm and Beyond
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center – Austin, TX
Ready to get your hands dirty with some botany? This wildflower center in Austin is a nature lover's dream. Whether you're learning about ecosystems, Texas plants, or pollination, this garden gives you a front-row seat to conservation and natural beauty.
Perfect for: Botany, environmental science, ecosystems
The Field Museum – Chicago, IL
Chicago’s Field Museum is the place where history, science, and art meet. Whether you’re studying fossils, ancient Egypt, or even the first Americans, this museum has an exhibit for everything. Oh, and Sue the T. rex? Enough said.
Perfect for: Paleontology, anthropology, history
Alaska Zoo – Anchorage, AK
If you're venturing up to the great state of Alaska, the Anchorage Zoo is a must. Focused on animals from colder climates, your kids can meet polar bears, arctic foxes, and moose while learning about conservation and ecology in one of the wildest environments out there.
Perfect for: Zoology, conservation, environmental science
Fernbank Museum of Natural History – Decatur, GA
In the Atlanta area, the Fernbank Museum offers an adventure in science, history, and even a bit of nature with their outdoor exhibits. Dinosaurs, massive ecosystems, and world cultures all come to life in this interactive space.
Perfect for: Earth science, anthropology, environmental science
University of Michigan Museum of Natural History – Ann Arbor, MI
Nestled in Ann Arbor, this museum gives your homeschoolers a glimpse into everything from the origins of the universe to prehistoric fossils. It’s a mix of natural history and hands-on science that's as enriching as it is exciting.
Perfect for: Geology, astronomy, biology
Des Moines Botanical Garden – Des Moines, IA
For a peaceful yet educational field trip, the Des Moines Botanical Garden offers lush greenery and endless learning opportunities. Focused on botany and ecosystems, this garden brings nature to the forefront of your lessons in a setting that’s both serene and stunning.
Perfect for: Botany, environmental science, ecosystems
Ready for Your Next Adventure?
Whether you’re trekking through museums, aquariums, or wildflower centers, these spots make learning come alive. No stuffy classrooms—just hands-on, immersive experiences that turn education into a full-blown adventure.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your notebooks, snacks, and a sense of wonder, and get ready to take your homeschool curriculum out into the wild. The world’s waiting!
— Amanda Jo, Co-Founder & CEO, The HOM Network