Education
School Field Trips
Our goal at Meijer Gardens is to make learning fun. Whether you select a school program, a guided tour, a tour/classroom combination or a self-guided discovery, we believe that your educational experience should be creative, age-appropriate, and, of course, relevant. By focusing on main ideas and hands-on learning, our educational offerings are both informative and engaging.
Scholarship Funds
Scholarship funds and transportation assistance are awarded to Title I schools on a first-come, first-served basis.
Two limited scholarships are available on a first-come, first-served basis for eligible applicants. The transportation scholarship helps defray bus costs while the admissions scholarship reduces the entrance fee. Grand Rapids Public Schools as well as out-of-district schools may apply for either scholarship. All applicants must qualify under Title I guidelines. A scholarship application is available here. Fax completed applications to Suzie Doten 616-974-5239.
Choose from four field trip options:
School Tour/Activity Package combines a 45-minute guided tour with a 45-minute related classroom project. Cost: $5 per student and includes admission.
School Programs are 90-minute, curriculum-based, interactive experiences lead by experienced teachers. Cost: $5 per student and includes admission. Minimum number of students - 20.
Guided School Tours are 60 minute, curriculum-based, interactive experiences led by trained volunteer docents. Cost: $3.50 per student.
Self-Guided Discoveries allow you to explore at your own pace. Various materials are available to enhance your experience. Cost $3.50 per student.
Plan A Field Trip
To schedule a field trip, call our Indoor Education Manager at 616-974-5239, or pre-register online. Please schedule your field trip a minimum of two weeks in advance. If scheduling during our Butterflies are Blooming exhibition, please register early. The school rate is $3.50 per students for tours, $5 per student for programs, $3.50 for teachers and chaperones, $8 for adults beyond the chaperone requirement.
Registration form
Upon arrival, please be prepared to make one payment for the entire group. You may pay with cash, check, Visa, MasterCard, Discover or American Express.
Non-Traditional Groups
Special Education classes qualify for the school rate regardless of class size. Licensed child care facilities qualify for the school rate with a minimum of six children. Home schools qualify for the school rate with a minimum of 10 students, aged 3 years and older.
Large Groups
With a campus of 132-acres, Meijer Gardens is happy to accommodate large groups (100+ students). Our staff will work with you to develop appropriate field trip activities. A non-refundable $50 deposit is required to reserve your spot.
Eating Options
There are several eating options for your field trip including boxed lunches from our Taste of the Gardens cafe, a rented classrom and outdoor picnic pavilions.
Café Menu and Order Form
Please see FAQ below for Frequently Asked Questions regarding eating options at Meijer Gardens, or call Suzie Doten at 616-974-5239 with questions.
Teacher Packets
Connected and Disconnected: The Sculpture of Hanneke Beaumont Teacher Packet
Art & Science Teacher Packet
Sculpture Park Teacher Packet
Beyond Bronze Tour of Indoor Sculpture Teacher Packet
Science Tour Teacher Packet
Butterflies Are Blooming Teacher Packet
FAQ
Meijer Gardens supports inclusive learning. We strive to accommodate all students with special needs. Please notify us in advance if additional arrangements are required.
