Bringing learning to life, in your classroom or ours.

Discovery and curiosity are central to the museum's education mission. Our programs are designed by educators, for educators, and support Nebraska College and Career Readiness Standards. Bring your class to Ashfall Fossil Beds on a field trip, or bring the museum to your classroom with our distance learning opportunities. Our education programs will expand your students' curiosity and understanding of science and the natural world. 

Kids on boardwalk watching researcher talk from the digsite

On Site Learning

See the research and explore Ashfall Fossil Beds in person. Students will build collaboration and critical thinking through immersive science programs and park exploration. Book a field trip program to have a researcher or member of our staff lead your group on a tour or come as a group to explore on your own. 

Fees & Group Size

  • $5.00 per person (students and adult volunteers).
  • Two teachers are complimentary per group (all other adults will be charged).
  • Minimum fee of $60 for small groups with 12 or fewer participants.
  • Maximum group size is 40 per tour – larger groups need to reserve separate tour times.

Guided Tour Details

  • Tours will be led by one of our on site researchers, staff or educators
  • Tour provides an orientation and full description of the fossil bed exposed in the Hubbard Rhino Barn
  • Tour lasts approximately one hour
  • Allow an additional time after the tour to visit the gift shop or for a short hike on the walking trail

Reservations

  • Reservations are required and must be made via telephone during regular business hours.
  • Scheduling is based on availability and only one group can be accommodated for a guided tour at a time. Have an alternate date and time in mind when making reservations.
  • A reservation confirmation will be sent with all pertinent information.

Call (402) 893-2000 for a reservation.

Distance Learning

Bring the museum directly to your classroom. We offer teacher-ready programs and resources with museum educator-led virtual field trips, hands-on museum science kits, and innovative lesson plans. 

Virtual Field Trips

Explore science and our museums without ever leaving your classroom! Our educators and scientist interact with participants through live videoconferencing programs. Our Virtual Field Trips are designed to fit within your schedule, curriculum, or interest areas, with options for K-12 students, clubs or adults. 

Learn More
Researcher with headset and mic on digsite with iPad

Science Chat Specials

Introduce your students to the work of scientists by letting them engage with the scientists themselves. These monthly programs are live, interactive, and focus on Nebraska phenomena. Each science chat special is billed by the school, meaning more than one classroom at the same school can attend at the same cost. 

Learn More
A scientists shares his research in a virtual field trip presentation.

Museum Kits

Enhance your lessons with museum specimens, STEM resources and activity guides designed by museum educators and combined into kits delivered directly to your classroom. 

Learn More

A museum kit displayed on a table showing instruction guide and a variety of fossils.

Stay in the know!

Archie's Classroom is a monthly e-newsletter offering updates on museum programs and opportunities for teachers and students. The newsletter runs for the duration of each school year and is free to subscribe. 

Recent Archie's Classrooms

November 2025

October 2025

Subscribe to Archie's Classroom

* indicates required