Education at Hearst Castle
Illuminate. Inspire. Empower.
We’re inspiring and empowering future generations with educational tours, art lessons, conferences, scholarships, and authentic historical experiences.
Featured Program
STEAM Program at the Castle
Watch students from the Boys & Girls Club experience our STEAM Program at Hearst Castle. Click above to view.
Sponsored by The Foundation at Hearst Castle, the STEAM Program is a unique educational opportunity offered in collaboration with the CA State Parks PORTS Program.
The program includes a custom tour of Hearst Castle and a guided exploration of nearby San Simeon Bay and Pier, aligned with grade-appropriate STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) curriculum.
For qualifying groups,* our nonprofit organization covers all costs of your day trip, including a hearty lunch and transportation (if your district does not provide a bus). The STEAM program will be available on a first come, first served basis.
*Some restrictions apply. This program is designed especially for students in underserved communities who do not have the opportunity to take field trips to museums or state parks. Please review the School Qualification Guidelines.
STEAM Program Components
- Pre-visit: Classroom engagement with California State Parks interpreters using high-quality interactive videoconferencing
- Film: Screening of Hearst Castle: Building the Dream showcased on the SLO Safe Ride Charter
- Custom tour: Hearst Castle tour aligned with STEAM curriculum
- Coastal study: Guided exploration of the nearby pier and beach life, also aligned with STEAM
Frequently Asked Questions
How many students does a STEAM tour accommodate? 45 students + 7 chaperones
What if there are more than 40 students that want to come? While we try our hardest to accommodate everyone, we have to max out tour count at 40 due to various limitations and rules.
What grade levels qualify for this opportunity? Grades 4-8th
What does a typical STEAM tour day look like? The tour begins at 10:30am and goes until about 4:30pm; please keep in mind if you are a school traveling from afar, that does not include travel time.
What if we have students who need special accommodations? Please let us know in the planning phase so that we can make the proper arrangements. Inclusivity is important to us.
Are students allowed to bring their own lunch? Yes, of course. Just please make sure the lunch count provided is accurate as we don’t want a student to miss out.
Can the STEAM tour be cut short? Unfortunately no. When signing up for the tour, you’re signing up for the full day — 10:30am – 4:30pm
“Every detail was meticulously planned, from the charter bus to the engaging activities you arranged, ensuring a memorable experience for all. Many of my students had never heard of Hearst Castle, let alone visited such a magnificent place. Your generosity provided them with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
Juan Rodriguez – Teacher / Palm Avenue Middle School
Get Involved
Join us in inspiring the next generation through our STEAM program at Hearst Castle! Your support can make a lasting impact—whether by sponsoring a student, experiencing the magic of a STEAM tour firsthand (exclusive to members), or making a direct donation to fund this vital initiative. Every contribution helps us provide students with hands-on learning opportunities that ignite curiosity and foster innovation. Be part of shaping young minds and ensuring this program continues to thrive!
Sponsor a Student or Class
Make a difference in a student’s life by sponsoring their journey into the world of STEAM at Hearst Castle. Your sponsorship covers the cost of an unforgettable educational experience, providing hands-on learning that sparks curiosity and creativity. You can even choose to sponsor an entire class, allowing more young minds to explore science, technology, engineering, arts, and math in a truly inspiring setting.
Stay Connected
Stay connected and inspired by signing up for our STEAM program email updates! Be the first to learn about exciting news, upcoming events, and opportunities to support our mission of empowering students through science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. By joining our mailing list, you’ll get an inside look at how we’re sparking curiosity and innovation in young minds, all while making a lasting impact for future generations. Don’t miss out—sign up today and be part of something truly transformative!
Thank You To Our Partners
