Field Trips


If you are planning a field trip to the Zoo, we are here to provide a fun learning experience. We have many different self-guided options as well as options to meet with Zoo Staff for a more formal interaction.

Request your Field Trip Here

Tortoise With Campers

Field Trip Add-ons

Animal Encounter

Get up close and personal with a special animal ambassador! For the health and safety of our animals, selections will be made by the presenter.

  • 15 to 20 minutes 
  • Groups of up to 20 students
  • $25 per animal

Classroom-Style Programs

Consider adding one of our school programs designed around NGSS standards to extend your classroom learning. Our full-length interactive programs are approximately 45 minutes with biofacts and a live animal visitor. For younger students or shorter time frames, we also offer shorter educational chats. 

  • 45 minutes 
  • Groups of up to 30 students
  • $40 per program (simultaneous programs can be requested)
  • Classroom-Style Programs are not available during camps.

Here are our classroom-style program themes by grade level:

  • PreK: Shapes and Colors
  • K-1st: Bare Necessities
  • 2nd: Habitats
  • 3rd: Life Cycles
  • 4th: Exploring Creature Features
  • 5th: Web of Life
  • MS: Genetic Jeopardy
  • MS-HS: Zoo Careers

Guided Tours

For classes that want to explore the Zoo with a guide, an educator can lead you on a tour lasting 45 minutes to 1 hour focusing on an educational theme. Tours are best with groups of 20 or fewer students. 

  • 45 minutes to 1 hour
  • Groups of up to 20 students per tour guide
  • $50 per tour 

Our tour themes are separated by age groups.

  • Animal Adaptations (elementary)
  • Conservation Connections (middle and high school)

Outreach Programs

Can't bring your students to your Hometown Hutchinson Zoo? We can bring a bit of the Zoo to you! We have a variety of programs available to meet your needs at your location. Check out our Outreach Programs.

Additional Information

Self-guided field trips are offered free of charge for schools, but donations are always welcome. Our suggested donation is $2 per person. Add-on options are available for an additional charge to enhance your experience.

Fish food (temporarily restricted) and train rides are available for purchase but should be requested in advance of your visit. 

Offered for PreK-12 Students only.

Adult to student ratio for grades PreK-5 is 1:5, and for grades 6-12 is 1:10.

Only 10 people, including one adult supervisor, are allowed in the Zoo Gift Shop at a time.

Programs must be requested at least two weeks in advance of your visit.

For more information or to schedule a program please fill out a request form

Domestic Zebu