Please see our School Resources page for classroom lesson plans and historical content to support your investigations of Washington State history.

All of our school programs are fully facilitated experiences led by a team of trained staff and volunteers. We work hard to make sure that your students are engaged and enthralled with their venture back in time!

For all on-site field trips, our maximum group size per day is 60 students. We are happy to welcome homeschoolers with a group of at least 10 students. For any questions about field trips, please contact the Education Manager at education@harborhistorymuseum.org.

Midway School Experience

The award-winning Midway School Experience, in the restored Midway Schoolhouse and museum galleries, is an opportunity for school groups to step back in time, learn local history, and relive schoolhouse life at the turn of the century.  Participants are immersed in four hours of continuous programming with curriculum designed to meet several Washington State Education Standards. In this program, students visit our permanent galleries special exhibition gallery, and participate in a lesson circa 1915. This program is for 3rd - 6th grade students, minimum of 8 students.
Price: $10 per student
Program Available W-F (10:00 a.m. – 2:00 pm; program is 4 hours)

“My students definitely loved their time in the Midway schoolhouse! I don't think they will ever forget their experience!”

“Our students LOVED the Midway experience. It is a memory of a lifetime.”

“It's PERFECT for 4th grade standards in Washington State History!”

Primary Museum Experience

During the Primary Museum Experience students in grades K-2 enjoy a fast-paced introduction to the museum. With an interpreter guide they explore the museum galleries and visit the Midway Schoolhouse and Shenandoah. They get hands-on experience with artifacts and begin to learn what museums are and how they tell stories of people in the past.
Price: $6 per student
Program Available: W-F (Available during museum hours; 1.5 hour program)

“I will recommend this field trip to other kindergarten classes.”

“The kids loved it and had a wonderful time!”

General Museum Visit

Ideal for middle and high school-aged students working on a special project, students explore our galleries and investigate artifacts through docent, teacher, and self-guided experiences. Learn Washington State, local, and maritime history, as well as how to uncover stories of the past. We are happy to work with teachers to customize the field trip to your specific needs. Best for 6th grade and higher.
Price: $5-7 per student
Program Available W-F (10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.)

“Thank you! Our students were guided, directed, and entertained at a very high level. We are very pleased. Your staff exceeded our expectations!”

“The docents were lovely, informed, and patient. You put on an amazing, welcoming program.”

“We really enjoyed the exhibits and appreciated the knowledgeable guides.”

If you would like more information or to schedule a field trip please fill out our Field Trip Form.

We have compiled some helpful pre-visit information and a pre-visit activity for your to complete with your class. Download them here:

Field Trip Overview and Pre-Visit Information

Pre-Visit Slideshow and Sensory Guide

Pre-Visit Activity (hands-on activity) — 3rd grade and up

Pre-Visit Activity Slideshow — 3rd grade and up

Clothing and Lunch Suggestions

Post-Schoolhouse Experience Reflection

Thank you to the following organizations for support of our School Programs:
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Gig Harbor Garden Tour
The Baker Foundation
The DV and Ida McEachern Foundation

Estate of Joan Bassett
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