The Cornell Lab of Ornithology is a great place for self-guided class field trips. If you are thinking of bringing a group of students, here are some guidelines to help you figure out what to do in the time you have.

First consider a few questions: How many of you will there be? How long will you be at the Lab? What time of year will you be coming? What topics are of particular interest to you and your students?

Below are Guidelines and Expectations for school groups as well as links to a variety of resources you can use. For more information, including Self-guided Tour Ideas, a Time Table for Suggested Activities, and more tips to help make your visit a success, download the full Educator’s Guide to Visiting the Lab of Ornithology (6 pages) here.

Links to Resources to use when planning a field trip to the Lab of Ornithology.

School Tours—Guidelines and Expectations:

Call ahead to make a reservation (607/254-2473). In addition to the date(s) and time you’d like to visit, let us know your school’s name and address, the number of students and adults (one for every 6-8 students), and a contact name and information. Please give us at least a weeks’ notice, 3-4 weeks in the spring.

We welcome all visitors to the Lab. However, we expect visitors to respect each other, the building, and the sanctuary.

Please remember…

•Handle exhibits with care and follow the instructions

• Stay on the trails at all times

• No collecting—please do not pick or take the flowers or other wildlife

• No food on the trails


Thank you, and we hope you enjoy your visit!