Arctic Ecosystem Discovery Tour
Bring your class for a hands-on Discovery tour to accompany the temporary exhibits The Last Polar Bear and Arctic Wings. Learn about the creatures, cultures, and climate of the cold, cold Arctic through two powerful photography exhibits. Students will have the opportunity to examine the museum's cultural artifacts and bird and mammal specimens from the region. This tour will encourage you to think about and discuss what we can do to help preserve this fragile environment.

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GUIDED TOURS are available for every age and intellectual interest. Museum docents offer the inside story on the collections, the museum's fascinating history, and the many treasures on display. A docent-guided tour is a wonderful way to augment your study of a particular topic, compare ideas, ask probing questions, and see the natural world from a different perspective.

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Biodiversity of Washington
(For grades 6, 7, or 8 only) This tour introduces students to the concept of biological diversity. By examining museum specimens of Washington's plants, mammals, birds, and insects, students will be able to explain the value of diversity at the level of individuals, species, and ecosystems and why museums play a critical role in understanding and protecting biodiversity. Students will also learn how scientists classify and identify species using a system called a dichotomous key.

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SELF-GUIDED groups of older students and adults are always welcome. We provide an environment for thoughtful questioning, where real works of art produced by the natural world and by the people who inhabit it are all you need to enjoy a meaningful educational experience. We'll send you a free pass to preview the exhibits so you can create a group visit of your design and focus. The possibilities are limitless.

*Special arrangements can be made for larger groups, and for groups that request longer visits.