Middle School Stem Curriculum Map
Introduction
Are you a middle school student or teacher looking for an exciting and educational travel experience? Look no further than the Middle School Stem Curriculum Map! This comprehensive travel guide will cover everything you need to know about the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
NASA Space Center
The NASA Space Center in Houston, Texas is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Visitors can experience interactive exhibits, see actual spacecraft, and even meet real astronauts.
Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, California is not only a marvel of engineering, but also offers stunning views of the San Francisco Bay. Visitors can walk or bike across the bridge, or take a boat tour underneath.
Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty in New York City is a symbol of freedom and democracy. Visitors can take a ferry to Liberty Island and climb to the top of the statue for a breathtaking view of the city skyline.
Hidden Gems
The Wave
The Wave in Arizona is a stunning natural rock formation that resembles a wave. Access is limited to only 20 people per day, so be sure to plan ahead and get your permit.
Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon in Arizona is a narrow slot canyon with stunning red rock formations. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the geology and history of the area.
The Neon Museum
The Neon Museum in Las Vegas, Nevada is a unique museum that showcases vintage neon signs from casinos and hotels. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the history of Las Vegas and its iconic signage.
Food Scene
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is famous for its Cajun and Creole cuisine, including jambalaya, gumbo, and beignets. Be sure to try a po’ boy sandwich and a hurricane cocktail while you’re there.
Portland, Oregon
Portland is known for its food carts and craft beer scene. Be sure to try a gourmet grilled cheese sandwich and a local IPA.
San Francisco, California
San Francisco is famous for its sourdough bread and seafood. Be sure to try a bowl of clam chowder at Fisherman’s Wharf.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Camping
Camping is a great way to save money on lodging. Many national parks and state parks offer affordable campsites with stunning views.
Public Transportation
Using public transportation instead of renting a car can save you money on gas and parking fees. Many cities offer day passes or multi-day passes for their buses and trains.
Picnics
Instead of eating out at expensive restaurants, pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it in a park or on the beach.
Outdoor Adventures
Hiking
Hiking is a great way to explore the natural beauty of a region. Check out trails in national parks or state parks for stunning views and a chance to see wildlife.
Kayaking
Kayaking is a fun way to explore lakes, rivers, and even the ocean. Many companies offer guided tours or equipment rentals.
Ziplining
Ziplining is a thrilling way to see a region from a new perspective. Many companies offer zipline tours through forests or over canyons.
Historical Landmarks
Independence Hall
Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of the United States. Visitors can see the room where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed.
Mount Rushmore
Mount Rushmore in South Dakota is a national monument featuring the faces of four U.S. presidents carved into the mountainside. Visitors can take a guided tour or hike to see the monument up close.
Alcatraz Island
Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay was once a maximum-security prison. Visitors can take a ferry to the island and see the cells where notorious criminals like Al Capone were held.
Family-Friendly Activities
Disney World
Disney World in Orlando, Florida is a magical place for kids and adults alike. With rides, shows, and character meet-and-greets, there’s something for everyone.
The Henry Ford Museum
The Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan is a great place to learn about American history and innovation. Kids will love seeing the first Ford Model T and sitting in a real Wright Brothers plane.
The San Diego Zoo
The San Diego Zoo in California is one of the largest and most diverse zoos in the world. Kids will love seeing animals from all over the globe.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
The Salton Sea
The Salton Sea in California is a unique and eerie place where the water is saltier than the ocean. Visitors can see abandoned buildings and a beach covered in fish bones.
The Mystery Spot
The Mystery Spot in Santa Cruz, California is a place where gravity seems to work differently. Visitors can see objects roll uphill and feel disoriented.
Biosphere 2
Biosphere 2 in Oracle, Arizona is a research facility where scientists study the earth’s ecosystems. Visitors can see the different biomes and learn about the challenges of living in a closed environment.
Natural Wonders
The Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon in Arizona is one of the world’s most stunning natural wonders. Visitors can hike, bike, or take a helicopter tour to see the canyon from different angles.
Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls on the border of the United States and Canada is a breathtaking sight. Visitors can take a boat tour to get up close to the falls.
The Redwoods
The Redwoods in California are some of the tallest trees in the world. Visitors can hike through the forest and see trees that are over 2,000 years old.
Vibrant Nightlife
Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is known for its casinos, nightclubs, and shows. Be sure to catch a Cirque du Soleil performance or see a famous DJ at one of the clubs.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is famous for its jazz music and nightlife. Be sure to check out a live music venue on Frenchmen Street.
Miami, Florida
Miami is known for its beach parties and Latin music. Be sure to check out a salsa club or a rooftop bar.
Local Markets
Pike Place Market
Pike Place Market in Seattle, Washington is a bustling market with fresh seafood, produce, and artisanal crafts. Visitors can see the famous fish toss and try a cup of coffee from the original Starbucks.
Reading Terminal Market
Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is a historic indoor market with over 80 vendors. Visitors can try a famous Philly cheesesteak or a Pennsylvania Dutch pretzel.
Ferry Building Marketplace
The Ferry Building Marketplace in San Francisco, California is a gourmet food hall with local and artisanal products. Visitors can try fresh oysters, artisanal cheese, and locally-made chocolates.
Beaches and Mountains
Hawaii
Hawaii is known for its stunning beaches and volcanic mountains. Visitors can hike to the top of a volcano and then relax on a white sand beach.
Aspen, Colorado
Aspen, Colorado is a popular ski destination with stunning mountain views. Visitors can ski or snowboard during the winter months and hike or bike during the summer months.
San Diego, California
San Diego, California is known for its beautiful beaches and sunny weather. Visitors can surf, swim, or sunbathe at famous beaches like La Jolla Cove or Coronado Beach.
Cultural Immersion
New York City, New York
New York City is one of the most diverse cities in the world. Visitors can see cultural landmarks like the Apollo Theater or the Museum of Chinese in America.
Chinatown, San