Hands-On Experiences to Inspire Your Future
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Adventure Travel & Cultural Immersion
Community Engagement & Global Awareness
Active Immersion in Language & Culture
Leadership
Putney and the Smithsonian Institution have partnered to create Smithsonian Student Travel, offering adventurous and educational summer trips for high school students. Smithsonian Student Travel programs combine the reach and resources of the Smithsonian with the experience and expertise Putney has grown over seven decades.
Each Smithsonian Student Travel program focuses on a unique and relevant topic related to the mission of the Smithsonian, ranging from art and culture to technology, conservation, and science. Each takes advantage of the Smithsonian’s resources, from the exhibits and artifacts of its museums to local experts and researchers at cultural and research institutions around the world.
Student Journeys
Student Journeys are themed travel programs in the U.S. and around the world designed for students in 8th through 12th grade. Students engage with their program theme while gaining a deeper understanding of the history, culture, cuisine, language, and environment of their destination.
Engaging Experts
Students benefit from the insights and knowledge of Smithsonian Student Travel Experts, who join every group at various points throughout their program. Experts bring unique expertise, perspective, and contagious enthusiasm about the trip’s theme, and lead the group in engaging discussions and immersive activities.
The Learning Lab
Every Smithsonian Student Travel program draws on the Smithsonian Learning Lab, the Institution’s award-winning educational resource. Containing millions of digital images, recordings, texts, and videos from the archives, the Learning Lab helps students uncover the unexpected connections that lie within program themes and destinations.
Smithsonian Student Travel is a collaboration with Putney Student Travel. Putney Student Travel operates student programs under license from the Smithsonian Institution. The name of the Smithsonian and the sunburst logo are registered trademarks of the Smithsonian Institution, and Putney Student Travel is an authorized user.