Closest major city:
Tucson

State:
Arizona

Appropriate age group(s):
Elementary School
Middle School
High School & Beyond

Time needed for trip:
Full day

Description:
Some think of the desert as an empty place, but a visit here will totally alter that perception!

The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is home for many, many beautiful and wondrously adapted creatures, from Gila Monsters to Hummingbirds. The Tucson mountains form a majestic backdrop.

Other comment or suggestions:
As someone who has lived away from the desert for many years, my favorite time to visit is Springtime (for a desert in bloom!). The museum has buildings set up to provide services, but the visit really involves walking extensive pathways, and viewing plants and animals Outdoors. Sunscreen and hats are definitely a good idea; if you forgot 'em, you can buy that in the excellent gift shop, no doubt ;-)
The museum has books, gifts, pottery, etc., available online, too...so, you could get some books and Read Up before your visit!

Educational opportunities are in abundance here, for youth, and for youth leaders and teachers.

You haven't really seen Arizona if you haven't been to this museum.

If you have really well-behaved small children, they are surely welcome, but short legs tend to get very tired on the trails, and if whining ensues, you'll whip thru the place way faster than you intended. Basics like meals, naps, and water intake are of double importance when bringing little ones along.

Contact information for this day-trip site:
Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
2021 N. Kinney Road
Tucson, AZ 85743-8918