An Educational Tour in New York City: 6 Sites to See for Students

An Educational Tour in New York City: 6 Sites to See for Students

New York City is well-known as a tourist’s paradise. But with so many attractions and so much to see and experience, it can be overwhelming knowing where to go and what to do. If you’re looking for a fun and educational tour of New York City’s finest historical and cultural sites, check out a few of the must-sees for your educational tour of New York City.

For U.S. History Students

• Ellis Island & The Statue of Liberty: Once the gateway into New York City for all immigrants, these monument sites now serve as a staple of American history. After taking a short ferry ride through New York Harbor, visitors can explore both Liberty Island (home of the Statue of Liberty and a museum) and Ellis Island. While both sites offer valuable information and experiences, the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration is especially relevant and interesting for history students of all ages.

For Science, History, and Social Science Students

• American Museum of Natural History: The AMNH is filled wall to wall with expertly curated exhibits that are sure to interest students of all ages and of all disciplines. The wide variety of permanent and rotating exhibitions cover a wide variety of topics from human origins and archaeology to planetary sciences and oceanography. The AMNH also offers age-specific and family-oriented programs and workshops across an assortment of subjects.

For Religious Studies and Architecture Students:

• Cathedral of St. John the Divine: Famously the largest Cathedral in the world, this 120-year-old Episcopalian church is a treasure trove of religious history and architectural accomplishment. Students can walk through the expansive Cathedral, gardens, and surrounding grounds on a self-guided or guided tour to learn about the church’s significant religious and cultural histories. The Cathedral and accompanying buildings also offer an array of distinctive art installations and architectures.

For Art and Cultural Appreciation Students:

• Museum of Modern Art: One of the premiere art museums in the world, MoMA is home to dozens of exhibitions featuring nearly 200,000 pieces across all disciplines of the modern and contemporary art world, from impressionist paintings and photography to sculptures and mixed media pieces. Free audio programs for children and adults are available, and MoMa also offers games, activity guides, and gallery sessions for a more interactive experience.

For Music Appreciation & Band Students:

• Radio City Music Hall: Declared a city landmark in 1978, Radio City Music Hall is a mecca of sorts for music, cinema, and theatre lovers alike. The building is steeped in history, featuring gorgeous art installations, stunning architecture, and the largest ever theater pipe organ built for a movie theatre. Even if you don’t have the opportunity to catch one of the many live performances at the hall, a variety of tours are available showcasing the architecture and history of the venue, while providing a behind-the-scenes look at its show business side.

For Current Events & Civics Students:

• The 9/11 Memorial and Museum at Ground Zero: This historic site of American history includes both a dedicated memorial and a museum. Two options of walking tours are available at the memorial—guided tours exploring the symbolism and historical significance of the events and the memorial and tribute tours conducted by people directly affected by 9/11. The 9/11 Museum features a wide collection of artifacts and stories of 9/11, exploring the events of the day and its continued historical impact.

The Big Apple offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the history and culture of our nation and the world. For students of all ages, an educational tour of NYC can make a lasting impact, and we hope that this list provides a helpful framework for planning your next trip to New York City.