Make the outdoors your new learning environment
Free education programs are offered throughout the year for children with varying interests and ability levels. Most programming takes place outdoors and allows students to experience nature by seeing a variety of plants and animals and exploring fields, forests, ponds and gardens. Metro Parks’ staff can also bring educational programs directly to your classroom or group free of charge.
Programs are designed with student academic achievement and environmental responsibility in mind, and may be adapted for a group’s special needs or interests.
Adult program offerings are also a possibility! Email info@metroparks.net or call 614-891-0700 to inquire about adult group learning opportunities.
Program Descriptions
Find the best program for your group
Programs help to reinforce Ohio’s science and social studies education standards and may be adapted for a group’s special needs or interests. Ages and date ranges indicated on the Program Topics Listing and Location chart are suggested for optimal learning experiences. Generally group programs are offered Monday-Friday and last 30-60 minutes based on age and topic.
SCHEDULING A PARK FIELD TRIP
Metro Parks’ programs fill quickly. Reservations can be made based on the following schedule- spring trips begin scheduling February 1, summer trips begin scheduling April 1, fall trips begin scheduling August 1, and winter trips begin scheduling November 1. Please try to make your reservations at least one month in advance by calling or emailing the appropriate park. If you need further assistance or would like information about tram programs please call 614-891-0700. Please note priority scheduling is given to groups visiting the park and those from Franklin County.
Battelle Darby Creek – email or 614-878-7106
Blacklick Woods – email or 614-861-8759
Blendon Woods – email or 614-895-6221
Clear Creek – email or 740-969-9001
Glacier Ridge/Homestead – email or 614-873-7154
Highbanks – email or 614-846-9962
Inniswood – email or 614-895-6216
Sharon Woods – email or 614-865-4507
Three Creeks – email or 614-409-9914
Photo: Barbara Nye
Photo: Susan Boggs
What information do I need to schedule a program?
When scheduling a visit to your Metro Parks, please be prepared to provide the following information:
- Several preferred dates already cleared with your administration (including transportation provider).
- Multiple preferred options for program topics.
- Multiple preferred options for the park you would like to visit.
- Number of children and adults attending. We prefer groups with a minimum of 15 participants and can sometimes accommodate larger groups of up to 120 students with advance notice.
- School or group name and grade level (if applicable).
- Contact name, phone number, school address and email address.
Programs at your location
Let us bring nature to you
Metro Parks’ staff can bring educational programs directly to your classroom or group free of charge. When you contact us to schedule your program, the education staff will work with you to choose a topic that best meets your needs, and help you choose an appropriate time frame with consideration to subject matter and program location. Visits to your site are only scheduled from November-March. To schedule, contact the park nearest your site.
For a complete listing of programs, locations, dates offered and recommended participant age
News & Upcoming Education Programs
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Marvel at the bison grazing in their pastures, look for critters in the creek or listen to the water flow over the rocks. You can do it all at Battelle …Read More