CGC Outdoor Classroom
We welcome all educators and students who are eager to explore with us! Whether you learn from one of our experienced staff members, our highly trained volunteer educators or on your own, Hauck Botanic Garden and the Civic Garden Center offer a wealth of opportunities for learners of all levels.
Field Studies
We offer standards-based educational experiences for groups of up to 40 students. These structured, 2.5-hour experiences are offered weekday mornings in spring, summer and fall.
Our Compost Kids field trips offer teachers and K-6 students an opportunity to practice scientific inquiry while exploring sustainable living.
Our Green Teens field studies introduces high schoolers to three different green careers as they get hands-on with hydroponics, garden design and plant pathology.
If you have a group of students who are younger than kindergarten or older than 12th grade, please reach out to discuss options: youtheducation@civicgardencenter.org
Guided Tours
Each of our monthly 45-minute tours is offered free of charge. You’re welcome to just pop in or let us know you’re coming by emailing Mary Dudley, CGC Director of Education: mdudley@civicgardencenter.org
Our Compost Tours are held from 11am-12pm on the first Thursday of each month. See our calendar for specific dates.
Our Green Learning Station Tours are held from 10-11am on the third Thursday of each month. See our calendar for specific dates.
Our Hauck Arboretum Tours are held from 11am-12pm on the third Thursday of each month. See our calendar for specific dates.
Self-Guided Visits
Our grounds at Hauck Botanic Garden, a public park, are open from dawn to dusk for self-guided adventures (be sure to abide by all Park Board Rules). Reach out if you’re interested in bringing your students to explore on your own. We’ll work with you to find a time and provide resources: youtheducation@civicgardencenter.org