virginia field trips guide - spring 2013

VIRGINIA FIELD TRIPS GUIDEis published twice a year by EC Publishing, Inc,

located in Abingdon, Virginia. We welcome letters, story ideas

and photos from classrooms all over Virginia.

Spring 2013 Issue

Forward all correspondence to:

Echo Charlie Publishing, Inc.

P.O. Box 845, Abingdon, Virginia 24212

Phone: 1-800-357-0121 • Fax (276) 739-0015

www.virginiafieldtrips.com

Keith RobinsonPublisher

[email protected]

Deanna GrantArt Director

Angela LiskEditor

[email protected]

Teresa ChristianField Trips Map

Virginia Field Trips – Spring 20132

When you think of Busch Gardens you imagine a day ofthrilling rides, challenging games,wonderful performances and just having fun! Busch Gardens is an action-packed, European-themed adventure park with 17th-centurycharm and 21st-century technology,boasting more than 100 acres of fun-filled exploration. Busch Gardens is not only a funexperience but also a learning experi-ence. Plan a visit and choose frommany educational programs includingConservation Counts, Animals Up-Close Tour, Launch IntoPhysics: The Mars Mission and X-treme Physics. Kids will learna great deal without actually being aware of it! Join members of the Busch Gardens zoological team on theAnimals Up-Close Tour! Learn about our animal rescue pro-grams and worldwide conservation efforts, then spend some timebehind the scenes and get a first-hand look at the enrichment activities and unique relationships the team has formed withthese amazing animals. Equally important the ConservationCounts program demonstrates the importance of conservationand what it takes to be a “Virginia Green” tourism attraction. With rollercoasters such as the new Verbolten, Mach Towerand Griffin, physics programs seem only natural. Just how do

Action-Packed Busch Gardens in Williamsburgindoor/outdoor coaster work? How do you stay safe in theworld’s tallest and first floorless dive coaster - The Griffon?Schedule the Launch Into Physics: The Mars Mission programand explore the science of roller coasters. Students will learnabout momentum, acceleration and g-forces by experimenting onand riding Busch Gardens’ world-class thrill attractions. Themore advanced program, X-treme Physics offers teachers thechance to create curriculum based on their own preferences anduse the tools of the park to make it an exceptional learning experience. A minimum of 3 weeks advanced notice is required whenmaking group reservations. To make reservations call (800) 343-7946 or visit www.seaworldparks.com/en/ buschgardens-williamsburg.

Virginia Living Museum in Newport News,VA, Homeschool DayJanuary 30, 2013(757) 595-1900

Inside Media: 2012 Year in Review atthe Newseum in Washington, DCJanuary 5, 2013Family Day: Girl Scouts DayFebruary 16, 2013(888) 639-7386

Homeschool Program at Jamestown andYorktown Victory Center in Williamsburg, VAHistory is Fun for Homeschool StudentsFebruary 16-24, 2013September 7-22, 2013(888) 593-4682

Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center in Newport News, VAJudgement Day: The Nat Turner TrialFebruary 22, & 25-26, 2013(757) 247-8950

Ferguson Center For The Arts in NewportNews, VABoston Pops Esplanade OrchestraFebruary 24, 2013(757) 594-8752

The Marine Science Consortium in WallopsIsland, VAHomeschoolers Marine Science AdventureApril 11-13, 2013May 9-11, 2013September 12-14, 2013(757) 824-5636

The Mariners’ Museum in Newport News, VAHomeschool DayApril 22, 2013 (757) 591-7743

Busch Gardens WilliamsburgRamp Jam April 26-27, 2013 (800) 343-7946

2013 Educational Events

continued on page 20

Virginia Field Trips – Spring 2013 3

Give kids a ‘leg up’ in the worldby experiencing Camp Friendship Self confidence building, self esteem, safety awareness improve our ability to communicate andcarry over into our everyday lives; at home, at school and at work. Summer camp helps young people to become more socially adept by offering them opportunities to participate in and contributeto team-building activities. Camp Friendship is like a kid resort for girls and boys with activities such as water sports in theJunior Olympic size pool and 3 1/2 miles of river frontage on the scenic Rivanna River. Targetsports include archery, air riflery as well as physical sports such as soccer, volleyball, tennis, basket-ball, mountain biking, mountain boarding, fencing, gymnastics, lacrosse, badminton, ga gaball and ultimate frisbee. Many different camp program and themesare available including the Equestrian Camp forgirls 9-16! Working with horses provides selfconfidence building, self esteem, safety aware-ness and improve our ability to communicate.Those with disabilities whether mental or physical will benefit from riding as well as thecare and nature of these animals. Exactly howhorses heal is unknown but it is true that horses help people work through sadness, grief, fear, anduncertainty, teaching us to respect boundaries and how to develop self control. Join Camp Friendship in Palmyra, Virginia and create your own lifelong memory! Call (800)873-3223 and (434) 589-8950 or visit www.campfriendship.com.

Fun Facts!

Earth has more exposedwater than land. Threequarters of the Earth is

covered by water!

Get back to nature at the Massanutten Resort Tucked in the moun-tains of McGaheysville, Virginia and only 10 mileseast of Harrisonburg, VA,the Massanutten Resortcontinues to be the Mid-At-lantic’s premier four seasonmountain resort! Massanut-ten Resort invites familiesnot only to stay and havefun but also ways to discover hidden talents andforgotten hobbies. For themore adventurous take aRiver Expedition down thebeautiful Shenandoah Riverby kayak, canoe, tube or raft.Try out the Zip Line/Canopy Tour which includes a practice area, Burma Bridge, Tarzan Swing,Hanging Vines Crossing and three zip lines ranging from 200'- 300'. Afterwards, cool down at theWaterPark. Massanutten WaterPark has its own FlowRider®. Christened "The Pipeline," it is thefirst and biggest FlowRider® in Virginia! Students/Families may also choose between three educational excursions including the CivilWar Tour, The Presidents' Tour and the Washington D.C. Tour. The Civil War Tour allows groupsto visit the legendary battlefields of Cross Keys, Port Republic and New Market. The Presidents'Tour will visit the Monticello (Thomas Jefferson's home), Ash Lawn (James Monroe's home) andMichie Tavern (18th century tavern). Those who choose the Washington D.C. Tour will visit theArlington National Cemetery, the Capitol, Supreme Court, Library of Congress, Jefferson Memorial and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial just to name a few. The Massanutten Resort also offers many arts and crafts activities as well as horseback trailriding and pony rides, contests, scuba lessons, sport activities and wellness classes. Please note thatnot all classes and activities occur every week throughout the year. For more information visitwww.massresort.com or call (540) 289-9441.

Small Museum Association ConferenceFeb 17-19, 2013, Ocean City, MDwww.smallmuseum.org/[email protected] - For vendors

Virginia ProStart Student InvitationalMarch 8-9, 2013, Fredericksburg, VAwww.vhta.org/cde.cfm?event=396117

Apologia LIVE Conference for Homeschool MomsMarch 8-9, 2013, Baltimore, MDwww.machemd.org/Event-5.asp

Virginia Association Of Museums (VAM)March 9-12, 2013, Hot Springs, VAwww.vamuseums.org/displaycommon.cfm?an=16Margo Carlock (804) 358-3171

(NCHE) National Council for History Education National Conference

March 21-23, 2013, Richmond, VAwww.nche.net/conference

Virginia ForumMarch 21-23, 2013, Ashland, VAwww.virginiaforum.org/cfp.html

VaHomeschoolers 2013 Conference and Resource FairMarch 22-23, 2013, Glen Allen, VAwww.vahomeschoolers.org/conference/2013/Lisa Hight: [email protected] or 540-709-7284.

Eastern Panhandle Home School Conference EPHSCMarch 23, 2013Shepherdstown, West Virginiawww.ephsc.org

2013 Upcoming Conferences & Meetings

continued on page 20



Colonial Williamsburg Imagine taking your group on a trip back in time. Not only to stroll past historic buildings, butto become immersed in history by engaging and interacting with real people of the past. Help yourstudents learn the importance of citizenship through demonstrations, reenactments, and stories ofthe struggles to become Americans. Colonial Williamsburg offers guests unique opportunities todiscover 18th-century life in Virginia. By experiencing this bustling 18th-century town, you learnfirsthand about the roots of American independence. Williamsburg was the political, social, and cultural capital of Great Britain's largest, wealthiest,and most populous colony. The Hall of the House of Burgesses at the Capitol echoes with the voicesof Thomas Jefferson, Patrick Henry, and other leaders who debated the issues of freedom and lib-erty for Virginians. Find yourself involved in the 18th century as you learn a colonial dance, take part in a witchtrial, or march with the Fifes and Drums. Before your group leaves home, please be sure to visit our website for tips to make your tripspecial, engaging, and safe. We look forward to seeing you. Group pricing is available. To plan atrip or make reservations, call (800) 206-6628 or visit colonialwilliamsburg.com/grouptours. [email protected].

The first day of spring is one thing,

and the first spring day is

another. The difference

between them is sometimes

as great as a month.

~ Henry Van Dyke

Fun Facts!

The longest one-syllableword in the English

language is "screeched."


The Shenandoah Discovery Museum has a new home... Much will change forThe Shenanodaoh DiscoveryMuseum in Winchester, Virginia in the coming years.Still dedicated to igniting creativity, sparking curiosityand inspiring learning the museum has announced a newExecutive Director, MaryBraun! Under her leadership,the museum is expected tocontinue to be a communityresource that is dynamic and“open to change”. Already a new fully-functional website has beenlaunched. Find information onexhibits and educational pro-grams as well as specialevents. Find everything fromannouncements, newslettersand resources just for kids,www.discoverymuseum.net The Museum will alsohave a new home in the future! The 14,500 squarefoot, three level, historicbuilding will offer many opportunities for expansionand growth, while keeping theMuseum in historic down-town Winchester. The newbuilding has plenty of space tohouse all of the visitor’s most favorite exhibits and willallow for them to be expanded upon, enhancing thevisitor’s experience of an oldfavorite like the Apple Pack-ing Shed. The Museum alsohas many new exhibits pa-tiently awaiting this newspace, such as a Triceratopsskeleton that will tower overvisitors and is sure to sparkthe curiosity of a future paleontologist. The spaceeven allows for the potentialof a green roof for outdoor exhibit space. Currently The Shenandoah Valley DiscoveryMuseum offers an interactive,hands-on experience for fami-lies, which focuses on the sciences, mathematics, humanities,and the arts. Scalea climbing wall, race ballsthrough loops and ramps in

Raceways, step back in time to a life closer tonature in a Walk Along The Moccasin Trail orpretend you’re saving lives in the medical coveof Our Town. At the Discovery Museum to touch

is to explore, to explore is to discover, and to discover is to learn! For more information call (540) 722-2020 orvisit www.discoverymuseum.net.


On August 3, 2012, Busch Gardens' 3-month-old wolf packquietly made their public debut. The pups quickly got down tobusiness exploring their new habitat in the park's Wolf Valley. Abridge overlooking the valley offers guests a bird's eye view ofthe wolves as they explore their new surroundings. “Boise, Kaya and Beo seem right at home in Wolf Valley.They are exploring and seem unaware of their celebrity status,”said Jay Tacey, Busch Gardens' manager of zoological operations.Beo and Kaya are siblings and arrived at Busch Gardens in earlyJune from a private facility in Montana. Their pack mate Boisewas found wandering along the side of a road in central Idaho.The three pack mates have been inseparable since late June whenBoise was introduced to the pack. Idaho Fish and Game along with the host zoo, Zoo Boise, selected Busch Gardens Virginia as Boise's new home based onthe park's extensive experience with wolf training, husbandry andeducation programs. The Williamsburg theme park is home to 10wolves split into three packs, including two 6-week-old pups thepark recently acquired from a private breeder in Montana. Daily stage productions and interactive training opportunitieslet Busch Gardens' guests experience the power and agility ofthese animals while they learn about the company's wildlife

Busch GardensWolf Valley

conservation efforts and ways they can help. Go behind thescenes with the zoological team as you experience the sametechniques and behavioral principles used to train Busch Gardens' world-famous wolves. A wolf trainer will teach you thebasics and then let you try your new skills by asking a wolf toperform a behavior. Learn more about wolves and Busch Gardens other animal ambassadors by visiting www.buschgardensvablog.com.


The Alexandria Contrabands & Freedmen's Cemetery will honor the memory of the Freedmen, the hard-ships they faced, and their contributions to the City. Visit www.alexandriava.gov/historic to find out more.

In 2013 The Center for the Arts at Virginia Tech will include:• A 1,260-seat performance theatre, • Visual arts galleries• The Institute for Creativity, Arts, and Technology (ICAT), alaboratory where faculty and students can research, develop,and apply modules for learning in a collaborative, trans-disciplinary setting. Visit www.vt.edu/arts/ to find out more.

Opening in 2014, The George Washington UniversityMuseum will include galleries, virtual displays and spacefor academic and scholarly activity and public lectures. A20,000 square foot conservation center also will be built onGW’s Science and Technology Campus in Loudoun County,Va. Find out more at www.gwu.edu/museum/mediakit/fact-sheet.html.

The Americans in Wartime Museum has acquired oneof four fire engines which were recovered and preserved byFDNY from the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001.

This incredible artifact will help honor the men and womenwho served and sacrificed on 9-11. The new museum is expected to open in 2014 in Prince William County. Readmore at www.nmaw.org.

Scheduled to Open in 2013-2014.....

Center for the Arts at Virginia Tech


4-in-1 attraction atShenandoah Caverns

Shenandoah Caverns is Virginia's only cavern withelevator service which means sights are breathtaking!The Shenandoah Caverns family of attractions welcomesall types of educational and youth groups - public andprivate schools, home school families/groups, Boy andGirl Scout organizations, church groups, performancegroups and camps. The caverns offer outstanding fieldtrips and educational tours that combine an enjoyable experience with an educational opportunity in earth science, physical science, history and social studies. TheVirginia Standards of Learning-oriented tours are ageand grade directed. With four attractions in one location,groups will be amazed at what they will discover! After touring the caverns, stop by American Celebration onParade! View the unique collection of stunning parade floats,props, and stage settings from famous presidential inaugurals.Then it’s off to the Yellow Barn where visitors get a whimsicallook at agricultural heritage and rural life with historical displaysthat include restored antique farm wagons, equipment and carriages. A live indoor bee hive depicts the social life of honey-bees and three model trains in motion. Take a stroll into the past

at Main Street of Yesteryear and step back in time to the era whenfamilies visited Main Streets across America during holidays toview elaborate, animated department store window displays. For additional information contact Debi Wine, Group TourSales Director and Events Coordinator with any questions and toreserve a date for your group tour! Call 888-4CAVERN or visitwww.shenandoahcaverns.com.

Recreating history at theJamestown Settlement andYorktown Victory Center Visit Williamsburg, Virginia for two great places in one - TheJamestown Settlement and The Yorktown Victory Center. There aremany ways to explore including guided tours, self-guided tours,Hands-On History Educational Programs and a Government andLeadership Guided Tour. A two-and-a-half-hour tour at JamestownSettlement or a two-hour tour at the Yorktown Victory Center ledby trained guides highlights each museum's exhibition gallery andoutdoor living-history area. This hands-on, inquiry-oriented tour encourages participants to handle reproduction objects, interactwith costumed interpreters, and explore museum galleries and re-created outdoor settings. Jamestown Settlement features exhibition galleries, re-creations of a Powhatan Indian village, colonial fort,1607 replica ships,and a riverfront discovery area. The Government and Leadership Guided Tour highlights leadership in the Powhatan, English and African cultures, and thedevelopment of representative government in early colonial Virginia. Participants visit the Jamestown Settlement galleries, there-created Powhatan Indian village, ships and colonial fort. Teach-ers may receive an array of resources online including directions,reservations, checklists, food service info, rates, curriculum material, rules and much more. To book your group or get more information, call (757) 253-4939 or visit www.historyisfun.org/Plan-Your-Visit.htm.

Newseum teaching the critical role of theFirst Amendment Experience a museum that takes visitors behind the scenes toexperience how and why news is made! Students will learn the critical role the First Amendment plays in the nation's history, itspresent and its future. With 250,000-square feet, the Newseum features seven levels of galleries, theaters, retail spaces and visitorservices. This unique Newseum offers visitors an experience thatblends five centuries of news history with up-to-the-second technol-ogy and hands-on exhibits. In the Newseum’s hands-on laboratoryand classroom, educators can select various learning experiences andpick the lessons that suit their students’ needs and interests. Debate, role play and work together to explore history’s biggestheadlines, the inner workings of a newspaper or the foundations ofthe five freedoms. Students will learn to interact with other peers andopinions in team-building activities designed for groups of all ages.For a perspective from current day journalism, make plans to visitthe Newseum on January 5, 2013 for the program - Inside Media:2012 Year in Review. Guests Monica Hesse and Dan Zak, both staffwriters for the Washington Post will take a look back at events of2012 and explain what’s in and what’s out for 2013. On February 16, 2013 you won’t want to miss Family Day: GirlScouts Day at the Newseum. Show what you know about the GirlScouts, women’s history and current events in the Newseum’s popular NewsMania game show. Race across a giant game boardand compete for prizes in Front Page Frenzy and then design a T-shirt, button or bumper sticker celebrating your right to free expression. For movie buffs, Inside Media: Oscar Preview With Ann

Hornaday will be held on February 23, 2013. Washington Post filmcritic Ann Hornaday previews the 85th annual Academy Awards anddiscusses some of the biggest hits and misses of the year. Attend all these great programs as well as receive unlimited freeadmission all year, priority seating, discounts on guests, complimen-tary Be a TV Reporter photos/video downloads and so much moreby signing up for a Press Pass annual membership! Call the Newseum Membership Hotline at (202) 292-6287. For registration, prices/discounts, digital classroom activities,policies and procedures visithttp://www.newseum.org/education/plan-a-field-trip. Washington-area school groups visit the Newseum for free. The program is co-sponsored by WTOP 103.5 and The Washington Post. ContactCrystal Andrews, Field Trip Coordinator, at (202) 292-6650 or emailyour group reservation today at [email protected].


SplashDown Water Park...

it’s like a day at the beach

without the drive!

SplashDown Water Park located in Manassas, Virginia and isthe ideal place to for summer fun and excitement. As NorthernVirginia’s largest water park, SplashDown features 5 differentwater areas along with all of your favorite summer foods at theConey Island Café, Paradise Pizza and Sweets N Treats. Thepark encompasses a 770 foot Lazy River, 25 Meter Lap Pool, 4slides, bubblers and fountains, Activity Pool, 2 fast Cannon BallSlides, Two 4-Story Waterslides, Big Kahuna Beach with 250tons of sand and much more. It’s like a day at the beach withoutthe drive! Check out the season passes with benefits such asBring a Buddy deal, discounts on souvenirs and unlimited dailyadmission! The park opens this May 25, 2013! For details call(703) 361-4451. Need refresher course or haven’t learned to swim yet? Noproblem, take advantage of the classes offered at SplashDownWater Park, which offers a wide variety of options to help im-prove swimming ability. Under the supervision of a certifiedAmerican Red Cross Water Safety Instructor, the award winningaquatic staff is happy to provide a safe and enjoyable experience.No matter what age, a course can be customized to suit differentneeds. Call (703) 361-4451 x 223 for more information on Swim Lessons. For additional information visit www.splashdownwaterpark.com.


Fun Facts!

The Earth is Not RoundDid you always think the Earth was round? Wrong! Well,kind of wrong...the Earth is not completely round, it is

actually a little bit flattened at the North and South Poles.So next time some one tells you that the Earth is round, you

can argue that a little bit and explain why it is not completely true that the Earth is round!

Statewide Virginia State Parks www.dcr.virginia.gov/parks

Bedford National D-Day Memorial www.dday.org

Luray Luray Caverns www.luraycaverns.com

Manassas Splash Down Waterpark www.splashdownwaterpark.com

Massanutten Massanutten Resort www.massresort.com

Natural Bridge Natural Bridge Of Virginia www.naturalbridgeva.com

Newport News Visit Newport News www.newport-news.org

Newport News Virginia Living Museum www.thevlm.org

Norfolk Visit Norfolk www.visitnorfolktoday.com

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LOCATION ATTRACTION WEBSITE A W

Virginia Field TripDestinationS

Dublin

Big Stone Gap

Ewing

Huddleston

Lynchburg

Max Meadows

WythevilleSaltville

Breaks

Shenandoah

New Market

Stuart

NaturalBridge

6

7Millboro

8

2812

26

1513

Gladstone

20Duffield 2230

31

25

29

3

35

B

W

Austinville

Scottsburg

Randolph

The numbers inside

the indicate a

Virginia State Park.

Locate any park by

using the Map

Legend on Page 20.

Mt. Jackso

Massanutten

C

Quicksburg

Independence

11

Riverton, West Virginia

Mouth of Wilson

Abingdon

Harrisonburg

The National D-Day Memorial Foundation

RoanokeBedford Appomattox

21Foster Falls

Marion14

w

w

w

w

w

w

w

w

w

Palmyra Camp Friendship www.campfriendship.com

Riverton, West Virginia Seneca Caverns www.senecacaverns.com

Shenandoah Shenandoah Caverns www.shenandoahcaverns.com

Williamsburg Busch Gardens www.buschgardens.com/bgw/

Williamsburg Colonial Williamsburg Foundation www.colonialwilliamsburg.com

Williamsburg Jamestown Settlement www.historyisfun.org/jamestown-settlement.htm

Williamsburg Yorktown Victory Center www.historyisfun.org/Yorktown-Victory-Center.htm

Winchester Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum www.discoverymuseum.net


A W LOCATION ATTRACTION WEBSITE

Chesterfield

Luray

Surry

Ashland

Cumberland

King William

Green Bay

Jamestown

Clarksville

h

Market

2

5

12

4

1

17

22

23

2433

2725

Rice

Bentonville

Winchester

Moseley

910

RICHMOND

NewportNews

16

KingGeorge

Fredericksburg

Stafford

Cape

Charles

Mt. Jackson

Delaplane

Palmyra

Clifton

19

Lancaster

Midland

Washington, D.C.

18

34 Montross

LortonWoodbridge

VirginiaBeach

McGaheysville

Norfolk

Williamsburg

Spotsylvania

3632Chester

Stratford

Greenbay

Manassas

Visit the Newseum in Washington, DC and

explore everything news related! Among the

numerous exhibits, The Bancroft Family Ethics

Center tackles ethical dilemmas in journalism.

In the Ethics Center, interactive kiosks allow

visitors to tackle real-life reporting dilemmas and

see how journalists and other visitors

responded. To schedule a field trip to the

Newseum call (202) 292-6650 or visit

www.newseum.org.

Newseum – Everything News Related!


Journey to Newport News for fun, history

and wildlife Plan a visit to Newport News, Virginia and discover a treasure of history along an area no bigger than 23 miles longand 3 miles wide. Located on the banks of the Hampton Roadsharbor in southeastern Virginia, Newport News is minutes fromWilliamsburg and a short drive to Virginia Beach and the AtlanticOcean. From this central Coastal Virginia location, you can experience ships, history and the great outdoors. From the landing at Jamestown in 1607, to the Revolutionary War, the Warof 1812, and the 1862 Peninsula Campaign where the famousBattle of the CSS Virginia and the USS Monitor took place, visi-tors can step back in time and learn about our nation's beginning.With the USS Monitor Center, historic homes, battle sites, fortifi-cations, monuments and extraordinary collections of artifacts,Newport News is sure to offer something for the likes of anyone! Numerous earthen fortifications and attractions that relate tothe Civil War can be experienced in Newport News. In addition,the famous "Battle of the Ironclads" took place off the shores ofNewport News in 1862. For those seeking American military history filled with artifacts, weapons, vehicles and uniforms visitthe U.S. Army Transportation Museum or Virginia War Museum.To find restored authentically furnished homes chocked full of

history, consider visiting the James A. Fields House, EndviewPlantation, Lee Hall Mansion or The Newsome House Museum& Cultural Center. Become inspired at one of the many art centers for every-thing from theatre, dance, fine art, exhibits, films, musicals andso much more! Scheduled events and programs can be found atthe Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center, Ferguson Center forthe Arts, Peninsula Community Theatre and the Peninsula FineArts Center. More interested in nature and creatures of the wild,then you will want to pay a visit to the Peninsula SPCA ExoticSanctuary & Petting Zoo and the Virginia Living Museum. Ships can be viewed from many spots along downtownNewport News including Victory Landing Park, Newport NewsShipbuilding (formerly Northrop Grumman Newport News) aswell as the Monitor-Merrimac Overlook and the James RiverBridge. Various cruise operations do offer tours from the water,please contact the Visitor Center or the Tourism DevelopmentOffice for more information. For more information about Newport News, including acomplimentary copy of the Group Planner, contact Trista Attohat (757) 926-1442, toll-free at (888) 493-7386 or by e-mail at [email protected].

Norfolk VA is a friendly, modern port city nestled where theChesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean. Norfolk offers a variety of activities on land or by sea and many of Norfolk’s museums and historic sites can be found within 12 walkable cityblocks of the downtown waterfront. Norfolk’s NET Bus is available to give you a quick lift along the way, should your feetneed a few minutes rest. Enjoy your journey! Visit www.visitnorfolktoday.com for additional information.

1) Virginia Zoo The Virginia Zoo is home to 400 animals, on 53 acres ofbeautifully landscaped grounds. Bring groups to experience themany school programs which can reinforce science lessons withanimals in informative programs that reinforce Standards ofLearning (SOL). Help raise funds for the new Animal WellnessCampus that is intended to deliver the highest level of animalcare and provide an educational experience for all! Visitwww.virginiazoo.org to discover many types of programs in-cluding Zoo camp, self guided tours, library summer readingprogram, Scout and family programs and so much more. For educational programs email [email protected].

2) Crispus Attucks Cultural Center (CACC) The CACC engages young people in the arts as a way to develop the skills they need to be effective in work, at home andin school. Each year the Crispus Attucks Cultural Center provides public schools year round support from outside the traditional school systems to help them fill educational gaps, and

By land or sea....Norfolk is the place to be

to keep their students engaged and involved in their own learn-ing. The CACC’s education programs will enrich our society byaiding individuals to become more self reliant and to improve thequality of life in their communities. The arts education programsutilize Math, Science, Writing, Character Development, andHealth with correlations to the Virginia Standards of Learning.Core programs include Behind the Lens, Attucks Theatre Summer Arts Program, and RISE! (Rhythm in Setting Expecta-tions). Visit www.cacc-inc.org or call (757) 622-4763 for detailed information. The Norfolk after-school program RISE!was recently recognized by First Lady Michelle Obama for positive youth outcomes!

3) The Arts in Norfolk Norfolk’s thriving arts community will welcome you intotheir studios, their galleries, and their performance venues. Fromthe working artists’ studios located within downtown’s D’ArtCenter, to the beautiful Tiffany glass collection at the ChryslerMuseum of Art, to live performances at the Harrison Operahouse, Chrysler Hall, Wells Theatre, historic Attucks Theatre,Generic Theatre or NARO Art Cinema in Ghent, you’ll find amultitude of opportunities to enrich your creative spirit. CulinaryTours available too!

4) Naval Station Tours Naval Station Norfolk in association with Tidewater ToursInc. will host 45-minute tours conducted by Naval personnel.Visitors will have an opportunity to see aircraft carriers, destroy-ers, frigates, amphibious assault ships and one of the busiest air-fields in the country. The tour also features historic homes fromthe 1907 Jamestown Exposition. Fees apply and a picture ID isrequired for all adults. The tours depart from the Naval Tour andInformation Center and group tours can be arranged in advanceby calling (757) 444-0948. For general information call (757)444-7955.

5) History and Museums in NorfolkJust to name a few....Hermitage Foundation Museum, AddingtonPetty Dickson House, Armed Forces Memorial, Battleship Wisconsin, The Cannonball Trail, The Attucks Theatre, CharlesRollins Grandy House, Fort Norfolk, Hampton Roads Naval Museum, Hunter House Victorian Museum, John Cary WestonHouse, MacArthur Memorial, Moses Myers House, Nauticus,Norfolk Botanical Garden, Norfolk Police Museum and NorfolkFire-Rescue Museum, Norfolk Southern Museum, Norfolk StateUniversity Planetarium, Owen B. Pickett U.S. Custom House, St.Pauls Church and many more.



The Natural Bridge....the

deepest cave on the East Coast While most bridges are designed based on intendedfunction, financial resources andthe type of terrain - the NaturalBridge was not created for a specific purpose...by man. Thisparticular bridge took hundredsof years to carve through twentystories of limestone rock makingit the natural wonder it is today. As the bridge itself is some-thing to certainly see, that’s notall you will find. Once owned byThomas Jefferson, surveyed by ayoung George Washington, andtraversed by Civil War soldiers -the Natural Bridge is a portal tohistory. The Natural Bridge Cav-erns descend some 34 storiesbelow and are the deepest caverns on the East Coast. Whileunderground, tourists can explore the Natural Bridge Caverns and view their many special features, including cavern structures such as the ColossalDome room. The caverns are expected to open March 9, 2013 and offer visitors a comfortable 54degrees guided walking tour. For those more interested in the above ground may adventure down Cedar Creek Trail. Thetrail extends past Cascade Creek and ends about a mile later at Lace Falls. Get a glimpse of the1500 year old Arborvitae tree, discover wildlife upclose and many varieties of plants and flowers.After the trail journey back 300 years at the Monacan Indian village. Here children and adults willlearn what life was like in a typical Native American Village through educational programs and justwondering the complex. Village guides sit in work shelters and the ‘Ati’, a hand-constructed housecovered in woven cattails, while making tools and baskets. Guides conduct presentations through-out the day and are available to answer questions about Monacan life, past and present. BridgingHistory…plus Biology, Botany, Geology, Geography proves there’s no other place that surroundsyou with so many subjects. Education programs now include Butterflies at the Bridge - the live indoor butterfly garden.Experience the life cycle of butterflies from pupa to adult! For details call (800) 533-1410 or visitwww.naturalbridgeva.com.

Academic News for VirginiaVirginia’s new high school graduation requirement: One online courseOn April 5, 2012, Gov. Robert F. McDonnell signed into law a bill that will require Virginia highschool students to take at least one virtual course to graduate with a standard or advanced diploma.The new requirement will apply to students who enter ninth grade in 2013-14, current high schoolstudents are not affected. Governor Bob McDonnell, committed to expanding virtual education,has said that the requirement will help prepare students better for the 21st Century job market. Themeasure is becoming increasing popular with several states passing similar laws.

Virginia On-Time Graduation Rate Rises to 88 PercentIn October 2012, the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) reported that 88% of the studentswho entered the ninth grade in the fall of 2008 earned a diploma within four years and of those,more than 55 percent earned an Advanced Studies Diploma.


National D-Day Memorial The National D-DayMemorial stands as a pow-erful permanent tribute tothe valor, fidelity and thesacrifice of D-Day partici-pants. It’s grandeur encom-passes 88 acres at the baseof the Blue Ridge Moun-tains and includes a stylized English Garden,haunting invasion tableauand striking Victory Plaza.At its center stands a mon-umental forty-four foot tallarch that is highlighted bya reflecting pool that surrounds a captivating scene. The scene is symbolic of the arduous trudge soldiers made onto the blood stained beaches ofNormandy, France. The memorial will take visitors on a archival journeythrough World War II and the politics and perils that embodythe time period. Paying tribute to the men and women whoserved their country, the D-Day National Memorial creates asolemn atmosphere for veterans and visitors alike to gain insight and learn more about the events that shaped our nation'sand our world's history. Tens of thousands of students from numerous states havevisited the Memorial’s military tent (hands-on history) to learnabout the soldier’s experience and about life on the homefrontduring World War II. The program satisfies requirements setforth in the Virginia Standards of Learning and today the

Memorial is one of Virginia’s top 20 schoolfield trip attractions. TheMemorial also conductsan annual public history series and enrichmentprograms off site and incommunity halls and auditoriums for studentsand adults. Black history programs, women’s history events, and lectures on various othertopics occur throughoutthe year and highlightssubjects often omitted

from typical overviews of WWII. Teachers are also provided with a packet of extensive pre-visit and post-visit materials including lesson plans onWorld War II, interdisciplinary activities, technology components, and detailed information on how to interviewveterans. Reservations must be made at least two weeks in advance. For more information, please contact April Cheek-Messier, Director of Education, by email [email protected] by call (540) 586-3329. Coming Soon....The National D-Day Education CenterThe future Education Center will feature an auditorium, compelling programs, theater, computer and video stations, 3galleries and much more. The Education Center’s purpose isto ensure that the D-Day legacy remains clear, meaningful,and accessible to present and future generations.


Scientists know more about stars exploding billions of light yearsaway than they know about the brain.

PROS:• Spending time in a repeated mental task strengthens the neuralcircuits• Trained to process ideas quickly• Fear of outside adventures and encounters with strangers haveincreased the popularity of digital toys• Kids will be given all the tools necessary to successfully competein this “high-tech” society and job market• Allows for collaboration opportunities • Instead of being two weeks behind after an illness, children areoften able to do most of the work from home via email or softwareprograms• Principals and administrators are able to track student achievementand vary instruction to help meet individual needs• Multimedia software – teach to a variety of learning styles• Video and audio technologies – bring material to life also providedistant learning• Students learn to: organize complex information, recognizepatterns, draw inferences and communicate findings• Increased teacher/student interaction• Fine motor coordination while developing logical thinking skillsand mastery over abstractions.• Electronic field trips - programs that allow students to interactelectronically with a scientist or professional

CONS:• Not having conversations, looking people in the eye or noticingverbal cues• Texting too much – Some teachers offer a texting break so childrenwill stay focused during class assignments• Will technology ruin creativity – ability to paint, sing or use aninstrument• Texting and tweeting quick snippets causes an informationoverload and there is no time for reflection or problem solving• Addictive technology – When triggered dopamine creates apowerful urge to continue• Kids may be really good at switching back and forth fromhomework, instant messaging and videos but that equate to being asmarter person• Violent content found in media has had an impact on childaggression• Technology creates a disconnect from nature• Effects from technology overuse may cause overall “shaking,”increased breathing and heart rate, and a general state of unease• Due to rapid intensity, frequency and duration of visual andauditory stimulation kids sensory system is affected• Obesity among kids is rising • Ability to reason fact from fiction• It’s sad but true – predators abound online• Cyber Bullying• Harder for kids to concentrate long enough to solve a complexproblem.• Electromagnetic radiation exposure is another health concern withtechnology

Pros and Cons of Technology

How to increase Brain PowerShort bursts of aerobic activity have been proven to improve testscores

Hugs help your hippocampus grow – which is a key region of thebrain that's important to learning, memory and response to stress

Eat your veggies – antioxidants, vitamins and minerals are needed tonourish and protect growing brains.

Balancing activity with relaxation is important

Eat omega-3 brain food. Omega-3 essential fatty acids are critical toa child's brain development

Happy brains are hydrated brains

Solve problems and come up with your own solutions

Reading with children has been proven to increase brain power

Clear the brain of clutter before beginning homework

Super Foods for the Brain:

1) Cheese – rich in protein and calcium2) Dried Fruit – rich in iron and a source of energy3) Bananas – excellent energy-boosting carbohydrate4) Eggs – protein, zinc, vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E, B12 andIron5) Kiwi – rich in vitamin C

Did You Know?

By the time they're 2 years old, more than 90% of all Americanchildren have an online history.

Elementary school children, on average, use 8 hours per day ofentertainment technology.

Children today are processing 300% more stimuli today thanthey were in 1960.


Newseum’s Digital ClassroomChoose from many video lessons in the Newseum’s Digital

Classroom. Explore: The First Amendment, freedom of the press,sedition, the Founding Fathers, the Bill of Rights, The Berlin

Wall, communism, Journalism, apps, Watergate and so muchmore. Visit www.newseum.org/digital-classroom/video/default.aspx.

Jamestown Settlment and Yorktown Victory Center Find an abundance of curriculum-based materials includingvideos, Q&A, podcasts, audio files, essays, lesson plans, audiointerviews and much more on. Teachers may plan for pre or postvisit lessons in their classrooms, or they may be used separatelyto enhance classroom studies of Jamestown or the Revolutionary

War. Explore the Yorktown Chronicles, the French Alliance andColonial Life. Check back often as new materials are added in-cluding Anna's Adventures: "Nine Men's Morris" and Curator'sCorner - The Declaration of Independence Broadside. Visithttp://www.historyisfun.org/Curriculum-Materials.htm.

Luray Caverns Find information on cave science, classroom activities, a report builder, videos and kids activities. Immerse students in ac-tivities that are interesting and unique including Creating a KarstTopography, What is a Perk Test?, Impact of Discovery, Soils,Solutions and Conclusions, Subterranean Waters and many more. Also find activity pages filled with coloring pages, wordgames and mazes. Visit www.luraycaverns.com/Education/tabid/515/Default.aspx.

National D-Day MemorialFind D-Day Terminology Glossary, Stories from the veterans, D-Day Participant and Identification Project, Lunchbox Lectures,Teacher Study Guides & Countdown to D-Day Lesson Plans,World War II - Overview. www.dday.org/teacher-resources/education-a-teacher-resources.html

The Virginia Air & Space Center The Virginia Air and Space Center has created an array ofeducational programming for grades pre-K through 12. OffersTeacher Workshop, floor plans, outreach programs, inservice

programs, Cub Scout & Boy/Girl Scout Programs and link toNASA Langley Educator Resource Center. Visitwww.vasc.org/teacher/overnight.html.

Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum Teacher’s Packet filled with Exhibit Descriptions, hours andfees, map, exhibit index and list of Special Presentations forSchool Field Trips.

Visit http://discoverymuseum.net/exhibits-and-education/teachers-packet

Mason Neck State Park Environmental Education - Mason Neck participates in theVirginia State Parks: Your Backyard Classrooms program, a 40-activity curriculum guide for K-12 teachers. There are many opportunities for teachers to conduct environmental studies innatural settings. Schools can rent research resources, and varioussampling equipment can be provided. Teacher workshops areconducted several times a year. Call the park at (703) 339-2380for details.

VA Living Museum The Virginia Living Museum provides grade-level-targetedguides to its living exhibits to help students focus during theirvisit. Also available, Discovery boxes which are "museum-in-a-trunk" traveling curriculum modules that teachers use in theirown classrooms. The Virginia Living Museum's Teacher TrainingInstitute provides outstanding SOL-correlated, grade-level tar-geted training programs in life, environmental and earth sciencefor teachers of grades K-12. Visit www.thevlm.org.

Download all the forms you need to startplanning your group's event.• BGW Thrillbuilders• Educational Programs

• Girl Scout Anniversary/Patch Program• Launch into Physics Workbook• Meal Certificate Options• NASA Days and many more

Call (800) 343-7946 or visit www.sea-worldparks.com/en/buschgardens-williamsburg.

Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Name Location Phone1) Bear Creek Lake State Park Cumberland (804) 492-4410

2) Belle Isle State Park Lancaster (804) 462-5030

3) Breaks Interstate State Park Breaks, Virginia (276) 865-4413

4) Caledon State Park King George (540) 663-3861

5) Chippokes Plantation State Park Surry, Virginia (757) 294-3625

6) Claytor Lake State Park Dublin, Virginia (540) 643-2500

7) Douthat State Park Millboro, Virginia (540) 862-8100

8) Fairy Stone State Park Stuart (276) 930-2424

9) False Cape State Park Virginia Beach (757) 426-7128

10) First Landing State Park Virginia Beach (757) 412-2300

11) Grayson Highlands State Park Mouth of Wilson (276) 579-7092

12) High Bridge Trail State Park Green Bay (434) 315-0457

13) Holliday Lake State Park Appomattox (434) 248-6308

14) Hungry Mother State Park Marion (276) 781-7400

15) James River State Park Gladstone (434) 933-4355

16) Kiptopeke State Park Cape Charles (757) 331-2267

17) Lake Anna State Park Spotsylvania (540) 854-5503

18) Leesylvania State Park Woodbridge (703) 730-8205

19) Mason Neck State Park Lorton (703) 339-2385

20) Natural Tunnel State Park Duffield (276) 940-2674

21) New River Trail State Park Fosters Falls (276) 699-6778

22) Occoneechee State Park Clarksville (434) 374-2210

23) Pocahontas State Park Chesterfield (804) 796-4255

24) Sailor's Creek Battlefield Historic State Park Rice (434) 315-0349

25) Shenandoah River Raymond R. "Andy" Guest Jr. State Park Bentonville (540) 622-6840

26) Shot Tower State Park Austinville (276) 699-1791

27) Sky Meadows State Park Delaplane (540) 592-3556

28) Smith Mountain Lake State Park Huddleston (540) 297-6066

29) Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park Big Stone Gap (276) 523-1322

30) Staunton River State Park Scottsburg (434) 572-4623

31) Staunton River Battlefield State Park Randolph (434) 454-4312

32) Tabb Monument State Park Amelia (800) 933-PARK

33) Twin Lakes State Park Green Bay (434) 392-3435

34) Westmoreland State Park Montross (804) 493-8821

35) Wilderness Road State Park Ewing (276) 445-3065

36) York River State Park Williamsburg (757) 566-3036

Virginia State Parks

Find locations on centerfold map pages 12 and 13

AIMS Heads Conference - Association ofIndependent Maryland & DC SchoolsApril 25-26, 2013Annapolis, MDwww.aimsmddc.org

HEAV - Home Educators Association of Virginia State ConventionJune 6-8, 2013Richmond, VAwww.heav.org/convention/29th-annual-vir-ginia-homeschool-convention

ACCS Association of Classical and Christian Schools Annual ConferenceJune 20–22, 2013Atlanta, GAwww.accsedu.org/

IHM Catholic Homeschooling ConferenceJune 21-22, 2013Fredericksburg, VAwww.ihmconference.org/national/

Conferences and

Meetings continued


Raid at Martin's Station at Wilderness RoadState ParkEwing, VAMay 10, 2013(276) 445-3065

National Kids to Parks Day: A Day of Enchantment at Leesylvania State ParkWoodbridge, VAMay 18, 2013(703) 583-6904

Family Summer Fun Day at Fairy StoneState ParkStuart, VAJune 22, 2013(276) 930-2424

Occoneechee State Park in Clarksville, VAGreat American Backyard CampoutJune 22-23, 2013(434) 374-2210

Free Interpretive Tours of Historic BattlefieldPark in Chesapeake, VAGreat Bridge Battlefield & WaterwaysHistory FoundationYear-Round upon Request(757) 482-4480

Educational

Events continued


Get outdoors to a Virginia State Park.....

Owls by Wagon... Visit the James River State Park in Gladstone, VA on March30, 2013 for a special event - Owls by Wagon! Take a wagon ridethrough the park looking for owls and learn the different owlcalls as well as some interesting facts about these night raptors.

7-8:30pm at Canoe Livery(434) 933-4395

[email protected]/state_parks/jam.shtml

National Kids to Parks Day.... Visit the Occoneechee State Park in Clarksville, VA for National Kids to Parks Day! Start off your day with a fun, infor-mational hayride that will depart from the Visitor's Center at10am and 1pm. The ride will take visitors through an abandonedcampground where kids can observe the new tenants! Thehayride will bring you back to the Visitor's Center where you canlearn "The Occaneechi Story" as you tour the museum full of interesting artifacts. All Kids to Parks Day events are free!

(434) [email protected]

www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/occ.shtml

Feeding Frenzy.... The ‘Feeding Frenzy’ gets underway at the James RiverState Park on May 26, 2013! Visit Gladstone, VA from 10am to11am and serve fish, turtles, skinks (lizard) and snakes theirbreakfast! Learn about native animals and their habitat as theyenjoy their breakfast.


www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/jam.shtml

Family Summer Fun Day.... Visit Stuart, VA and the Fairy Stone State Park on June 22,2013 for Family Summer Fun Day! Come to the beach for a livebroadcast by radio station WZBB99.9 Super Country from 11amto 1pm. Enjoy free hotdogs and sodas at noon, while supplieslast. Take part in other giveaways and beach sporting eventsthroughout the day!


www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/fai.shtml

Check out a Park Pack at Virginia State Parks.... Many Virginia State Parks have begun to offer a ‘Park Pack’to enhance your visit. Contact the Park office your visiting tofind out if they are available. Explore the park on your own witheverything you need in your Park Pack including binoculars,field-guide books, story books, birdsong players, and more.Learn more about the flowers, trees, and birds you will see in thepark with these backpacks!

www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks


Students get hooked on science at the

Virginia Living Museumby Christine Lewis, education director at the Virginia Living Museum

Students thrive in an environment where their natural curiosity is stimu-lated and they have the opportunity to explore and experiment. In VirginiaLiving Museum (VLM) paleontology programs the ancient past comes to lifeas students calculate the size and speed of a Virginia dinosaur based on meas-urements they take from a real fossilized dinosaur trackway; or examine andcompare Ice Age mammoth teeth with teeth from a modern mammal to drawconclusions about the diets of prehistoric animals. The VLM has long been recognized as the premier natural science educa-tion facility in Southeastern Virginia where students are encouraged to do realscience. The museum specializes in developing hands-on, experiential programming that is inquiry based and stresses critical thinking skills. Themuseum has a substantial investment in scientific equipment for use in ourclassrooms, lab and observatory, and in the field. In a freshwater ecology program, life science students use plankton tows to collect plankton then viewwater samples with rugged field microscopes. Having the opportunity to lookat these living microscopic organisms at the pond site really brings home theimportance of plankton in the pond’s food webs. It is our goal to make science both understandable and fun - and conse-quently memorable for students. This requires a group of creative profes-sional science educators, a good measure of innovative thinking about scienceteaching and learning, and a lot of effort. VLM’s science instructors are scientists as well as science teachers. VLM truly brings science to life. In addition to the many live animalspecies on exhibit, museum programs also incorporate a wide array of liveprogram animals such as sea stars, bullfrogs, skunks, owls, and turtles that arereserved only for use in museum programs. Students who are studying preda-tor-prey relationships have what may be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity toobserve the razor sharp talons of a live screech owl up close and even touchits soft feathers. We simply cannot over-emphasize the power of living animals to capture interest, stimulate curiosity and imagination, and cultivatea sense of environmental stewardship. The museum’s exhibits were designed to target Virginia’ science SOLsand reinforce concepts taught in museum programs. While exploring indoorand outdoor exhibits that focus on Virginia’s physiographic regions, studentscan observe animal adaptations for finding food and shelter, rearing youngand avoiding predators; see live endangered and threatened species includingred wolves, possibly the most endangered mammal in the U.S. Throughoutthe exhibits students encounter live native Virginia plants and animals in theirnatural habitats as they walk through mountain cove, limestone cave and cypress swamp habitats. In four hands-on Discovery Centers, students canpick up and investigate real specimens. For more information about the Virginia Living Museum and its education programs visit thevlm.org.

The VLM has long been recognized as the premier natural science education facility in

Southeastern Virginia where students are encouraged to do real science.

A Refreshing View of History....at Luray Caverns Nearly 500,000 people annually visit the Luray Caverns,eastern America's largest and most popular caverns system. ThisU.S. Natural Landmark is noted for variety of formations and unsurpassed natural color. From well-lighted, paved walkwaystravelers explore cathedral-sized rooms with ceilings 10 storieshigh and pass through huge chambers filled with towering stonecolumns, shimmering draperies and crystal-clear pools. A featureon the one-hour tours is the haunting sounds of the Great Stalacpipe Organ, the world's largest musical instrument. Get a fresh view on history by starting with the Car & Carriage Caravan exhibit that features over 140 items relating totransportation including cars, carriages, coaches and costumesdating from 1725. Afterwards stop by the new Luray Valley Museum and view a collection of local, restored historic

A unique West Virginia treasure awaits visitors in Riverton,providing attractions for people of all ages! Seneca Caverns offers a pair of hour-long tours, one of the namesake Seneca Cavern and a second of Stratosphere Cavern, recently reopenedto tours after being closed for decades. Seneca Caverns is located on U.S. 33 in Riverton, PendletonCounty, just eight miles south of the popular Seneca Rocks area.In addition to two caverns and the cave opportunity, the attractionincludes the Family Restaurant with fantastic, affordable foodplus a wall of windows providing a fabulous view of the sur-rounding mountains. If you're still feeling adventurous after the cavern tours,search for gem stones that are common throughout the area. Bagsof mining rough can be purchased in the gift shop and taken tothe water sluice. The sluice channels a continuous stream ofwater through a trough that winds around a big old double-trunkoak shade tree. Fool's gold is a favorite, as are rubies, rose quartz,garnets, amethyst and many other precious treasures.

The highlight of the trip, however, is sure to be the under-ground experience. Both caverns feature unique, visually stunning geological formations that have developed over morethan 4 million years through the simple process of water flowingover limestone. Knowledgeable guides conduct one-hour tours ofthe Seneca Cavern, leading visitors along a well-lighted pathwaythat dips to 165 feet below the entrance and it is suitable for allages. Tours of the more demanding Stratosphere Cavern, whichcontains no electric lighting, is open to guests 13 years of ageand older. Seneca Caverns offers a wonderful opportunity forspring school trips. Teachers planning educational tours of the caverns can makearrangements in advance for customized tours to fit their class-room objectives by contacting Andrews at (304) 567-2691. Discounted school rates apply for the tours, lunch and gem stonemining. For more information visit www.senecacaverns.com orcall (800) 239-7647.

buildings creating a small 19th century farming community including a museum of Shenandoah Valley showcasing artifactsfrom the 1750's to the 1920's. The attraction complex also includes a one acre ornamental garden, The Garden Maze, thatincludes one of the largest hedge mazes in the Mid-Atlanticstates. Then it’s off to The Stonyman Mining Company GemSluice, a completely recreated, fully operational, filled-with-funmining station! t’s an interactive history and geology lesson…pioneer style. And it’s the perfect opportunity for kids and adultsof all ages to roll up their sleeves, get their hands wet and discover a truly good time. For additional information call theLuray Caverns at (540) 743-6551 or visit www.luraycaverns.com.

Nearly 500,000 people annually visit the Luray Caverns, eastern America's largest and most popular caverns system.

This U.S. Natural Landmark is noted for variety of formationsand unsurpassed natural color.

Visually stunning geological formations at Seneca Caverns


virginia field trips guide - spring 2013

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