Callaway's Education Department helps schools, scout troops, and daycare groups plan field trips that go beyond the bus ride. Programs are led by horticulturalists, naturalists, and other experts, and pair hands-on activities with a Teacher's Guide built around Georgia Standards of Excellence, giving the visit a place in the lesson plan long after the day is over. Groups can mix self-led exploration with guided programs to build a schedule that fits, or skip the trip altogether with an Outreach Program that brings Callaway's educators into the classroom.
ON-SITE FIELD STUDIES
A Program for Every Group
Each program below can be booked as a self-led visit or a guided experience led by one of Callaway's educators, and groups can combine programs to build a full day. Every program includes hands-on activities and ties into a Teacher's Guide aligned to Georgia Standards of Excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Admission is $11.99 per student, regardless of age. One teacher or staff member per 10 students is included, with additional teachers or staff at $17.99 each. Additional children or adults arriving separately from student transportation are $19.99 each. Guided programs carry an additional fee of $75 to $125 per program (the Owl Pellet Dissection program may run higher depending on the market price and availability of owl pellets). A tax-exempt form must be submitted with payment on the day of the event, and check or credit card are the only accepted forms of payment.
Groups that exceed a program's maximum size will need to split into smaller groups. Students are given priority for booked experiences and venue access, and additional adults or children accompanying the group may not be guaranteed entry into every experience or venue.
Students in grades 9 through 12 may be grouped together for a guided program. Students younger than 9th grade must be within two consecutive grade levels to attend a guided program together, unless the group is a homeschool or scout group.
Field trips are booked through Callaway's online application. Reservations are taken on a first come, first served basis, so early booking is recommended to secure a preferred date. Questions can be directed to education@callawaygardens.com.
Programs take place rain or shine, since indoor program space is available. A field trip can be rescheduled or cancelled up to four weeks before the scheduled date without penalty. Changes made less than four weeks out carry a $50 cancellation fee. Any unpaid balance from a previous visit must be resolved before future field trips can be booked.
Payment can be made by check or credit card. Fees may be paid on the day of the trip at the Information Center gates, or in advance using the Credit Card Authorization Form provided in the Confirmation Kit. Payment must be accompanied by the invoice, a tax-exempt letter (for school groups), and the chosen form of payment.
As a Partner in Education with the Harris County School District, Callaway offers Harris County Schools one complimentary self-guided field trip per class each school year. Complimentary trips must be booked through the online application, and admission is included for students and teachers (limited to one adult per 10 students). Additional chaperones receive the discounted admission rate of $18 plus tax.
School and group programs are arranged in advance and depend on staff availability, so groups should plan and book their visit as early as possible.
Ready to Bring Your Class to Callaway?
Field trips, scout visits, and daycare outings all start with the same simple form.