We take a lot of field trips at IVA High – at least four per year – and while all of them are fun, they also all have a specific purpose. We believe that learning should be connected to the world. Whether it’s a visit to a local museum for project-based learning or exploring natural habitats for biology class, our small, tuition-free charter high school discovers all that our area offers in order to bring learning to life while having fun. Here are examples of 5 field trips that are FREE for IVA High students.

1. College and Career Exploration

One of IVA High’s goals is to help you expand your horizons – from college and career to hobbies, interests, and skills. IVA High takes students to at least two college and university visits a year. We also attend a College Fair with the LA Dodgers! Through these types of field trips, students get a first-hand look at college life and the diverse range of career options available to them, as well as the opportunity to meet industry professionals.

2. El Dorado Nature Center

A visit to El Dorado Nature Center is like having our own outdoor classroom of native California ecosystems. The lakes, streams, and meadows inhabited by diverse wildlife provide ample opportunities for field studies, bird watching, and plant identification. Our students further develop real and applicable observational and scientific recording skills on this trip in topics like ecology, conservation, and environmental science.

3. Long Beach Museum of Art

Exploring the Long Beach Museum of Art with classmates is a great day out. Being immersed in beautiful architecture and surrounded by diverse artistic styles inspires our students to ask questions, analyze and interpret what they see – a critical thinking win! Free access to a museum can also spark students to think about their future goals. Maybe art history, curation, design or other creative industries could be in their future.

4. Physics Day at Knott’s Berry Farm or Disneyland

Physics Day at Knott’s Berry Farm transforms abstract classroom concepts into real-world experiences as students calculate velocity, acceleration, and g-forces on actual roller coasters! Our students use data collection tools and apply formulas to analyze the mechanics of rides, bridging the gap between knowledge gained in the classroom and practical application in action. And of course, they get to explore the theme park and bond over a few thrill rides and tasty snacks.

5. Senior Camping Trip

Hiking, camping, bonding with your senior class and teachers, campfires and incredible California vistas? It doesn’t get much better. Our senior adventures are some of our most anticipated field trips – almost a rite of passage, if you will. The location changes each year, from Big Sur to Joshua tree or Idyllwyld, and the sentiments and time spent outdoors with amazing people remains. We look forward to these annual trips!

It was tough to narrow it down to just five examples – all our field trips are so good! If you are curious about other places we explore, check out the Field Trips & Activities section under the Student Life heading on our *new* website. You’ll find the places we’ve visited over the years, as well as a list of the other free activities and events available at IVA High.

Want to join us for free field trips and so much more? Enrollment is open for the 2025-26 school year. We’ll save you a seat on the rollercoaster!

About IVA High

IVA High is a fully accredited, tuition-free public high school in Long Beach, California with a mission to empower students to think well: creatively, critically, and with a capacity for self-growth. Our learner-centered approach puts students in charge of their education, while dual enrollment and paid internships transform learning into action. Students come for college prep, STEAM and exploratory pathways for their future; they stay for smaller, safer learning in a vibrant, caring community. Get to know us on social media @ivahigh and on the web at www.ivahigh.org   IVA High – Curious Minds, Empowered Community – Join us!