We welcome all learners at the DC History Center, but our field trips are specifically tailored to two groups: grades 6-12, and college and university groups.
About the Unit
When should people fight for change? Explore the various ways activists helped shape DC and analyze objects centered around civic engagement and community organizing.
Our exhibit-based field trips introduce students to key themes in local history, from the founding of Washington, DC and the development of neighborhoods through time, to the desegregation of schools and the on-going struggle for Home Rule. Alongside DC History Center educators, students will explore Class Action (the main exhibit in the DC History Center) and complete hands-on activities.
Field trips introduce the DC History Center as a critical resource for students and teachers. They also provide a historical context in which to discuss contemporary issues facing students in Washington, DC, and inform teachers about how exhibit content and collections can be incorporated into onsite and in-class lessons.
Field trips help students:
Field trips for 6th – 12th grades are 90 minutes, and offered on Thursdays and Fridays between the hours of 11am and 3pm. Approved requests will be confirmed by a staff member via email.
FREE for DC schools $250 for MD and VA schools
One adult chaperone is required for every ten students. Chaperones MUST always be present with the students within the DC History Center (including during student workshops).
With prior notice, your group may eat lunch in the South Gallery (space is limited; must be fewer than 20 students). There is also plenty of outdoor green space surrounding the Carnegie Library building for students to picnic if the weather allows.
The DC History Center does not provide transportation. Transportation must be arranged by the school or group. The DC History Center is located two blocks south of the Mt. Vernon/Convention Center Metro station and two blocks north of the Gallery Place Metro Station.
For non-DC schools, field trip payment is due at least 14 days before your visit. Invoices will be sent by email. Payment can be made online via credit card or by check.
Cancellations or changes to your reservation must be made 14 days prior to the scheduled visit to receive a refund. We are unable to issue a refund to groups that cancel within 14 days of arrival, unless a visit is canceled due to the DC History Center’s or the group’s site being closed due to inclement weather or a state of emergency.
To book your field trip, fill out the Field Trip Request form below.
Still have questions? Email education@dchistory.org and a member of our team will get in touch with you.
University and College visits are managed by our library and collections team and are available upon request, based on staff capacity. We prioritize developing relationships with professors at local colleges and universities with a demonstrated connection to local history.
For requests from DC, MD, and VA institutions, please contact library@dchistory.org. For requests from colleges and universities outside DC, Maryland, and Virginia, please see the Tours & Experiences page to inquire about a fee-based experience.
Use this form to request a field trip. Fall 2026 dates will become available in September–stay tuned!
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