Field Trips

field trips (1)

Spark Wonder. Ignite Learning. Experience Fun! Field Trips at Gilbert House Children's Museum.

Ignite curiosity and foster a love for science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) through hands-on exploration! Gilbert House Children's Museum offers a unique and engaging environment, perfect for schools seeking inspiring educational experiences.

Quick Info for Booking:

  • Who: Our field trips are for PreK-2nd grade students (recommended for ages 3-7).
  • Visit: Enjoy up to a 2.5-hour maximum visit filled with hands-on exploration.
  • Cost: Admission is just $14 per student. Good news — chaperones and teachers are free!
  • Lunch: An outdoor lunch area is available if your group wants to bring packed lunches.
  • Group Size: Our minimum group size for field trips is 15 students.
  • Ratio: To ensure a great experience, a 4:1 student to chaperone ratio is required.
  • Booking: Please make your reservations a minimum of two weeks prior to your visit.
  • Payment: All attendees must be paid for in one transaction upon arrival.

Ready to book your educational adventure?

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What To Expect

  • Welcome & Orientation: Your group will be greeted upon arrival and provided a quick orientation to help you start your visit smoothly.
  • Easy Entry: We'll guide your group to our special group entrance (field trip gate on water street), getting you quickly into the heart of our exhibits.
  • Freedom to Explore: Your students will have the freedom to explore our 20+ interactive exhibits and engage with activities at their own pace.
  • Staff Support: Our friendly museum staff will be available to answer questions throughout your visit and assist with gathering your group for departure.

Transportation & Parking:

  • Bus Arrival & Unloading:
    • Buses may circle the roundabout on Water Street to unload students into the grassy area between the green and yellow houses.
    • Per City ordinance, bus parking is not permitted in Salem Riverfront Park.
    • Buses may park at the soccer field at Wallace Marine Park.
  • Car Arrival & Parking:
    • Free parking is available under the bridge in front of our entrance, along Water Street, and in the east half of the Salem Riverfront Parking lot.
    • Please have students gather in the grassy area between the green and yellow houses.

Important Policies:

  • Ratio Compliance: Gilbert House Children's Museum reserves the right to turn away groups that do not comply with the minimum 1:4 adult to child ratio.
  • Memberships: Free admission and discounts for members do not apply to group visits/field trips.
  • Entry: Groups must enter the museum together upon arrival.
  • Chaperone Requirements: Chaperones must be 18+ years old and have no additional children in their care during the visit.