Welcome to Washington DC, where history comes alive! If you’re planning an 8th-grade DC trip or any Washington DC school trips, you’ve come to the right place. It’s important to know the best stops and things to do on Washington DC school trips before you get there so that you don’t regret what you do with that time!
The National Mall
The first must-see stop on your school trips to Washington DC is the National Mall! This landmark is frequently considered the heart of Washington DC and is home to some of the most famous landmarks in the entire country! Your 8th-grade students will love walking alongside the reflecting pool and seeing the full glory of the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and the U.S. Capitol Building. The National Mall is home to several of the Smithsonian Museums that will completely change the way that you look at history.
The White House
No visit to Washington DC would be truly complete without a stop at the White House. Your students unfortunately won’t be allowed to tour the White House itself, but just getting a peek at that building is incredibly impressive! Take a stroll around the White House Ellipse and snap a photo with the iconic residence in the background.
The Newseum
The Newseum is a unique museum that explores the role of journalism and the First Amendment in American society. Interactive exhibits and engaging hands-on activities will enable your 8th-grade students to discover the significance of journalism in shaping our democracy and learn about its rich history. The Newseum also offers a special program for school groups that includes guided tours and interactive workshops.
The National Archives
Most 8th-grade students have undoubtedly always wondered what the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights look like in person! Your 8th-grade students will have the remarkable opportunity to observe these documents up close and comprehend their pivotal role in shaping our nation when they visit the National Archives.
The National Zoo
The National Zoo is a fun and educational attraction, perfect for your school trips to Washington DC, that your 8th-grade students will love. It will amaze students and adults alike to see over 2,000 animals from 400 different species that are housed at The National Zoo. Its vast collection of creatures makes it one of the top zoos in the entire country. Your students can see giant pandas, lions, tigers, and even take a ride on the zoo’s carousel.
The International Spy Museum
The International Spy Museum is an extraordinary destination that delves into the fascinating world of espionage and spy craft. Get ready to amaze your students with the impressive history of spies and how they have impacted historic events throughout the world. Through interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, they will have an immersive and engaging learning experience. The International Spy Museum also offers a special program for school groups that includes guided tours and interactive workshops.
The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
Another essential stop on your 8th-grade DC trip is the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum that does a fantastic job of honoring all the victims while also putting the horrors of the Holocaust into proper context. By visiting, your 8th-grade students will gain a deep understanding of the profound impact that the Holocaust had on the world and its history. Moreover, the museum offers a special program for school groups, complete with guided tours and interactive workshops.
The National Building Museum
The National Building Museum offers a distinctive perspective on the history of architecture and design. Through interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, your 8th-grade students will delve into the built environment and its impact on our daily lives. The National Building Museum also offers a special program for school groups that includes guided tours and interactive workshops.
Washington DC is an incredible destination for 8th-grade school trips and Washington DC school trips in general. Washington DC offers a wealth of attractions and historical significance, catering to a broad range of interests. We trust that this guide has provided you with ample inspiration for your upcoming trip to the nation’s capital.
