Learning Programs
Learning at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature is hands-on, minds-on, and always inspiring. From Backyard Science experiments to live Planetarium shows, our programs invite curious minds of all ages to explore, create, and discover. Whether in our galleries, under the Mighty Oak, or out in the community, every experience sparks imagination and brings science and nature to life.
Backyard Science
Check out the Backyard Science program for elementary-aged learners at The Bishop’s incredible indoor Mosaic Backyard Universe. This engaging learning program offers a wide range of activities, observations, and crafts that are sure to excite curiosity and ignite learning. You and your child will explore a different topic each month.
Space Saturday
- The first Saturday of every month is a special Space Themed Saturday Backyard Science as a part of our monthly Space Saturdays.
- Join us inthe Planetarium every month as we highlight a different astronomy topic. During KidSpace, we unleash the awesome power of astronomy to help kids become scientific masters of the universe!
- KidSpaceis designed for grades 1-5 and their grown-ups, but everyone is welcome!
Homeschool Science Days
Join us for exclusive Museum programming designed especially for homeschoolers. Dive into our exhibits and collections for hands-on activities and exciting workshops that bring learning to life. These classes are held on the second Thursday of every month in the morning and afternoon. Special museum admission discounts for homeschool families.
- Junior Explorers (GradeK-3, ages 5-8)
- Discovery Rangers (Grade 4-6, ages 9-11)
Tales Under the Tree
A special Storytime experience at The Bishop every Saturday and Sunday at 2pm. Tales Under the Tree happens under the Ralph S. French Charitable Foundation Mighty Oak in the Mosaic Backyard Universe. Our learning specialists will share a unique story that promotes environmental awareness while boosting self-esteem. Following the story is a delightful craft.
School and Student Field Trips
Broaden your curriculum and enhance your students’ knowledge with one of our unique and engaging programs.
- Highlight Tour – The Best of the Bishop in a 2-hour tour
- Manatees and More – Focus on Manatees, Sea Turtles, and a few other marine mammals in this specialized 2-hour tour.
- Our Universe through the Planetarium – Experience a live planetarium show and question and answer session
- The Solar System
- Constellation Stories, The Night Sky
Guided Adult Tours
The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature showcases unique specimens, historic artifacts, dioramas of Florida’s natural history, and exhibits about Earth’s evolution. These guided experiences for adult groups are available to delve deeper into Florida’s natural history and can be customized to your group’s interests.
Summer Science Camp
Our unique and popular camp uses our Museum and Planetarium to help campers explore their world and discover new things. Our Summer Science camp explores a new theme each week, all summer long, and runs from 8:30 to 3:30.
CIT Middle School Program
The Counselors in Training (CIT) program is designed to have middle schoolers gain independence and confidence as they support our Camp Counselors with camper supervision and the delivery of activities and games. Counselors in training can earn volunteer hours for academic programs and receive letters of recommendation for future job opportunities.
Outreach, Custom Programs, and Events
We love bringing science to the community! From local festivals and school STEM fairs to library programs and clubs, our outreach makes learning fun and accessible. Looking for something special? We also offer custom programs designed to fit your curriculum.
- Community Events and Festivals
- School Science Fair and STEM events
- Library programs
- Clubs