Field Trips at Seward Park

While we enjoy learning in the forests and meadows of Seward Park, there are some best practices that keep us safe, protect the forest, and help us get the most from this opportunity. Let's review:

Have Fun!
We want you to enjoy your time in the park. Help us make your visit an amazing experience.  

Stay with the Group
Listen carefully when the teachers, chaperones and guides give instructions about sticking with the group or sticking with an assigned partner even when going to the restroom. Don't wander off on your own. If you break this rule, you could end up with the teacher as your partner. 

Respect the Chaperones
You should respect any chaperones and listen to them as you would your own teacher or parents. Chaperones have a big responsibility, watching after so many students at one time. 

Respect Nature
Some field trips will take you into contact with animals or plants. For your own safety, be mindful of potential dangers and don't assume you can touch everything. Always ask first. 

Keep Nature Natural
Respect the rights of other park visitors and animals that live in the park to a pleasant and peaceful environment. Excessive noise or throwing things is extremely stressful to the animals that call the park home. 

Dress for the Weather
It can always rain in Seattle. Come prepared for rain and cold weather. Try to dress in layers so you can add and subtract, as necessary. Don’t forget your rain jacket, shoes appropriate for the weather, a water bottle and snacks. 

Protect the Forest
Please place trash where it belongs, in either trash receptacles or recycling. Trash and recycling receptacles are available throughout the park. 

Connect to Nature
Leave smartphones, tablets and electronic devices at home.  

Please note: For safety and liability reasons, people who are not signed up for the field trip are not allowed. 

Seward Park Audubon Center will request teachers and/or group leaders to intercede when students are displaying unacceptable disruptive behavior. If the behavior continues despite warnings, teachers/group leaders will be asked to provide a safe space for the student(s) away from the field trip and the rest of the group.  

How can I schedule a field trip?
Please fill out the Field Trip Reservation Inquiry form then the Youth Programs Manager will reach out to schedule your field trip.

What days and times are recommended for scheduling field trips?
We are currently offering field trips on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday mornings. We suggest beginning field trips no later than 10:30 am for the best possible experience.

Who can come on a field trip? Are friends and family allowed to attend?
Students, teachers and chaperones are welcome in the program. Students, regardless of age, must always remain with their teachers and/or adult chaperones. A minimum of 1 adult per 10 children is required. For safety and liability reasons, only people who are registered for the field trip are allowed. 

Can I book a field trip even if I am not part of a school?
Absolutely, we are happy to offer field trips to youth groups, church groups, community groups, home-based school groups, affinity groups, etc. Reach out for more info!

How much does the program cost? Do chaperones have to pay?
The standard cost is $10 per person. Chaperones do not have to pay.

Do you offer financial aid?
Discounts of up to 90% are available for schools and are based on the percentage of free and reduced lunches or scholarships for your school. Our standard cost is $10 per student for a 90-minute program. Send us a message if you have more questions!

How long are the programs?
The program lasts approximately 90 minutes, and the park offers many locations where students can gather for a lunch break.

Can I drop off my kids at the center for their field trip?
Students, regardless of age, must always remain with their teachers and/or adult chaperones. A minimum of 1 adult per 10 children is required.

What does the process to book a field trip look like?
Fill out the field trip request form. The Youth Programs Manager will email you back to confirm your appointment. Prior to the field trip we will send you a link to our group rules, liability and photo releases. These must be completed and returned to the Youth Program Manager for every child, teacher, and chaperone before their field trip begins. On the day of your appointment, we will meet you at the center ready to have fun! We will send you an invoice prior to the field trip day and payment can be finalized a day after the field trip. 

Where do we meet our guides?
We will meet you within Seward Park at the Audubon Center located at 5902 Lake Washington Blvd S, Seattle, WA 98118. Our building is near the entrance to the park.

Do your programs meet education standards? Are they accessible and inclusive?

Our programs meet the Next Generation Science Standards and we strive to make them as accessible and inclusive as possible. Please reach out to the Youth Programs Manager with information or requests for special accommodations or support.

Can I bring service animals?
Service animals are welcome. Pets and Emotional Support Animals are not considered service animals by the ADA or Washington State Law, so we kindly ask you to keep them home when you come to our programs.

What is the weather policy? Will you cancel if it's raining?
We recommend that you come prepared for the weather, as we will still be outside unless there is an official severe storm/wind warning. In the event of severe or dangerous weather conditions, we can always reschedule a field trip.

What is your cancellation policy?
Reach out to the Youth Programs Manager to reschedule or cancel your program.

Do you offer programs in any other languages besides English?
Yes, we offer programs in Spanish.

What should I bring with me on my field trip?
Please bring your filled out liability release and come prepared for the weather. Try to dress in layers so you can add and subtract, as necessary. Don’t forget your rain jacket, shoes appropriate for the weather, water bottle and snacks.

Who do I contact with additional questions?
Contact the Youth Programs Manager at gabriela.rivarde@audubon.org