Beginning in fall 2023, our onsite programs will be free for school groups in grades Pre-K through 12 (ages 4–18).
Making our programs free ensures these programs are accessible to all, keeping with our mission of bringing joy and inspiration to everyone through the beauty of nature, conservation, and learning … and we are delighted to welcome you to register for these upcoming programs.
Mark your calendar! Registration for our fall 2023 free programs opens August 9 and runs through August 22. Fall programs are offered September 18 through November 10.
Enjoy a day within our living classroom where you set the pace while engaging your students in meaningful exploration.
Registration Information
- Registration opens 10:00 am Wednesday, August 9 and runs through 5:00 pm Tuesday, August 22.
- Requests will be handled on a first come, first served basis.
- Program reservations confirmed via email by 5:00 pm Friday, August 25.
- Program dates run from Monday, September 18 through Friday, November 10, 2023.
- Maximum of 220 students per day.
- Maximum of 440 students per school, per school year, September through June.
Title I Transportation Reimbursement
Title I transportation reimbursement of up to $500 per bus is available to schools with 30% or more of the student population qualifying for the Free or Reduced Lunch Program. Reimbursement applications may occur after scheduling a program date. Learn more and apply.
Additional Information
- Free for school groups with 15 or more students arriving via bus.
- For every 5 students attending, groups will receive 1 complimentary adult admission.
- 1:1 student aides receive complimentary admission.
- Nurses receive complimentary admission.
- Bus drivers receive complimentary admission.
- Additional adult admission $21/person.
Chaperones
A ratio of 1 chaperone to 5 students is required.
All children must be with an adult chaperone (19+ years old) at all times.
All guests must observe Gardens etiquette guidelines. Adult chaperones are responsible for communicating these guidelines to ensure the safety of all guests, exhibits, and plant collections.
Teacher Resources
View a printable map with child-friendly highlights to help teachers and chaperones navigate the Gardens.
Teachers are more than welcome to use the pre- and post-activities that were designed for educator–guided groups.
Lunch Space
Longwood does not have a lunch space inside the Gardens to accommodate school groups with bag lunches.
Food is available to purchase in our Café.
We offer a Picnic Area located across the street from the main parking lot (2-minute drive) for Longwood visitors, available seasonally (mid-April through early-October). Please note that picnicking or bringing outside food or beverages (except water) is not permitted in other areas of the Gardens. Please plan on having your lunch before or after your visit, as re-entry to the Gardens is not currently permitted.
Personal Belongings
Please leave all personal belongings on your bus or at your school. We do not have facilities to store personal belongings while you visit.
Visiting Tips & Garden Etiquette
We have compiled Visiting Tips and answers to Frequently Asked Questions to help you make the most of your experience. Please review these in advance and with your group. Be sure to review our calendar of events to plan your day.
Not a School Group?
If you are bringing a group of youth not affiliated with any school, click here.
Questions? Please contact:
Group Visits Office
E-mail: groupvisits@longwoodgardens.org
Phone: 610.388.5223
