Located in the foothills of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, many of Sevierville’s attractions offer curriculum compliant programs or opportunities to experience classroom concepts in a real-world environment.
- Great Smoky Mountains Science Expedition
The ultimate destination for adventure and discovery, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve. With over 100,000 species believed to reside in the park, it’s the perfect spot for scientific studies, but is also steeped in history and Appalachian culture. Read more about ranger and teacher led programs at www.nps.gov/grsm/forteachers/index.htm.
- Geology Adventure at Forbidden Caverns
Travel the caverns beneath Sevierville’s rolling hills to see towering formations, crystal-clear streams, and geological features. Students can see earth science concepts firsthand while guides share the cave’s natural and human history.
- Aviation & Aerospace Discovery at Tennessee Museum of Aviation
Take a flight through aviation and US history and get up close with dozens of aircraft at the Tennessee Museum of Aviation. Home to several historic aircraft, it’s one of the few places in the U.S. to see airworthy WWII fighters in person, including two of the remaining twelve flyable P-47s. Field trip information is available at www.tnairmuseum.com/youth-field-trips.
- Wildlife Conservation at Rainforest Adventures Discovery Zoo
Home to over 600 animals, students can learn about animal conservation and preservation while meeting rare and exotic species. Educational programs take place daily but can also be specially arranged for groups in addition to other close-up animal encounters. Find school group information at www.rfadventures.com/school-programs-2.
- STEM Challenges at Dig’N Zone
Build a love for STEM while safely operating real construction equipment. Hands-on experiences introduce foundational concepts in an exciting way, and knowledgeable staff are available to help connect activities to educational curriculum. School group information is available at www.dignzone.com/groups-events/school-groups.
- Birds of Prey Experience at American Eagle Foundation
Caring for the nation’s largest population of non-releasable bald eagles, the American Eagle Foundation provides a rare opportunity to observe America’s national bird while learning about conservation and raptor biology. For more information about school groups, visit www.eagles.org/birds-of-prey-program-request.
- Appalachian History at Blowing Cave Mill
Step back in time to learn about daily life, ingenuity, and resilience of early Appalachian communities at Blowing Cave Mill. This historic grist mill remains operable today and provides tours that are rich in local history and gives visitors a deeper understanding of frontier life in early America.
- Agricultural & Food Science at The Apple Barn & Cider Mill
Sink your teeth into Sevierville’s rich agrarian past at the working orchards of the Apple Barn & Cider Mill. From farm to table, learn how apples are grown on the 65-acre farm and used in products sold in the restaurants and shops around the village. For group reservations at the restaurants, visit www.applewoodfarmhouserestaurant.com/groups.
- Animal Science on the Safari Hayride
Get a hands-on introduction to animal science on the Safari Hayride at SkyLand Ranch. Perfect for reinforcing lessons in agriculture and biology, students gain insight into livestock care and feeding practices while learning about a variety of ranch animals. Group information can be found at www.skylandranch.com/groups.
- Archaeology & History at The Relic Room
Part museum and treasure trove, the Relic Room at Smoky Mountain Knife Works features a collection of fossils, artifacts, minerals, meteorites, and relics all sourced with care from cultures across the world, perfect for a lesson in archaeology and history.
For more information about bringing student groups to Sevierville, contact the Sevierville Convention & Visitors Bureau at (865) 453-6411 or visit www.VisitSevierville.com.
Photo courtesy of Sevierville Convention & Visitors Bureau.
