From ziplining to boat tours to in-sky experiences, students will learn about ecosystems and encounter animals in their natural habitat. These outdoor activities are great for group bonding while learning about culture, history and more across the United States.
Illinois
Credit: 360 Chicago
Experience Chicago in 360 degrees on the 94th floor f 875 North Michigan Avenue (formerly known as the John Hancock Center). Step onto the observation deck, and you’ll see everything from the Magnificent Mile o the waters of Lake Michigan. With interactive touch screens, guests can learn about the urban landscape from every angle in addition to the city’s history, architecture, scenery and culture. 360chicago.com
Massachusetts
Credit: Boston Harbor Cruises
The New England Aquarium has partnered with Boston Harbor Cruises to give visitors front-row seats to view the ocean’s most fascinating and magnificent animals…whales. Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary, your destination, is one of the world’s most active marine sanctuaries. Here, you will encounter acrobatic humpback whales, fin back whales, minke whales, white-sided dolphins, sea birds and more. If for some reason there are no whales out, the New England Aquarium will give you a free ticket for a future whale watch. neaq.org
Minnesota
The Padelford Riverboat tour in St. Paul is the perfect mix of an educational and recreational cruise. The Mississippi River tour can be tied into nearly any subject being taught in school. There is another tour for fourth to sixth graders called Big River Journey. This is a hands-on learning experience where students use microscopes to peer into the tiny world of aquatic invertebrates, study river geology, bird watch with binoculars and more. mnfieldtriplibary.org
Montana
Whitefish Lake, Montana; Credit: Explore Whitefish
Ranked #1 among Whitefish attractions on TripAdvisor, Scenic Lift Rides are a must do in the summer. Choose from an enclosed gondola or an open chairlift, then sit back and enjoy the mountain scenery as well as views of Whitefish Lake, the Flathead Valley and Glacier National Park on the ride to the summit. Once at the summit, enjoy 360-degree views before returning down the mountain, or spend some time at the Summit House in the full cafeteria-style restaurant and bar or in the Summit Nature Center. skiwhitefish.com
Nevada
Credit: FLY LINQ Zipline, Las Vegas
Fly high over the strip of Las Vegas on a 12-story zip line. The FLY LINQ Zipline is an adrenaline-fueled sky-high experience for thrill-seekers looking for an exhilarating ride. Flyers can ride seated at $25 during the day, superhero position at $35 and even backwards. Nighttime flie are available for those who really love the adrenaline rush. Bring your GoPro, or buy one at the launch deck, to show all of your family and friends your crazy experience. caesars.com
North Carolina
If you are looking for an amazing team building opportunity, look no further than ZipQuest, located in Fayetteville, North Carolina. This group-based recreation experience is meant to foster and strengthen the bonds between group members in a unique and fun way, using nature as the backdrop. Goals include better communication within the group, an increase in motivation and sharper critical thinking skills. Your group can choose from a number of activities from a six-hour zipline excursion to a three-hour waterfall zipline expedition. zipquest.com
Pennsylvania
Open 365 days a year, take a ride up 57 floors o the One Liberty Observation Deck. With a bird’s-eye view, you will see City Hall, the Ben Franklin Parkway, the Ben Franklin Bridge and the rest of Philadelphia. You can get a closer look at landmarks with the six touch screens placed throughout the deck. Here, you can get a closer high-definition look at noteworthy sites around the region. As you tap, you’ll learn about that landmark’s history, architecture and culture. phillyfromthetop.com
