Skip to content

12 Black History Month Must-Visit Destinations for Your Big Family

    February is Black History month, a time to celebrate black culture, heritage, and history. Listening to black voices and visiting places that uplift Black history and stories can be a fantastic way to honor this month and its meaning. In honor of Black History month, we’ve compiled 12 fantastic places to visit any time of year to learn, connect, and appreciate Black history.

    Mrphelps, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

    Frederick Douglass National Historic Site, Washington, DC

    Frederick Douglass was a prominent writer, statesman, and abolitionist in US History. From the years 1877 to his death in 1895, he resided in Cedar Hill, which is now a museum dedicated to his life and achievements. Walk through Douglass’ life, from childhood to the beginnings of his social reform efforts. The house has been restored to its original 1895 appearances to allow visitors to travel back in time and see some of the house’s original decor and items. An educational and entertaining stop, this visit will give you a new appreciation for Fredrick Douglass and his contributions to Black history and freedom.

    Chris Pruitt, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

    Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, Birmingham, AL

    The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute strives to educate and enlighten all generations on the Civil Rights movement, its leaders, its history, and how we can work together to continue making progress. Explore a plethora of interactive exhibits, films, and talks from experts on the Civil Rights Movement. Be sure to see what events are going on when you visit, because there’s always something special planned for visitors.

    Beale Street Historic District, Memphis, TN

    Host of the birth of the blues, rock n roll, the civil rights movement, and one of America’s most iconic streets, Beale Street is always promised to be a good time for all. The music and entertainment pulse of downtown Memphis, Beale Street at the turn of the 20th century served as a haven for African Americans migrating from small towns. Beale Street was also home to many black-owned businesses, clubs, restaurants, and shops and was the headquarters of Ida B. Wells’ anti-segregationist newspaper Walk the street and stop into plenty of shops and museums for a real look at a part of modern Black culture. Be sure to check out King’s Palace Cafe and all the street performers that Beale Street has to offer.

    Chris Pruitt, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

    American Jazz Museum, Kansas City, MO

    Where did American Jazz come from, and who were the people who created it? Find out the answer to these questions and more at the American Jazz Museum, which celebrates the Black musicians who invented jazz music and influenced thousands of other musicians. See thousands of jazz memorabilia and artifacts, as well as live performances.

    Chris Pruitt, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

    Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History Museum, Detroit, MI

    Home to the largest permanent exhibit on African-American culture, this museum is a fun and educational visit for all ages. Check out upcoming events and specials, such as free admission for kids on Thursdays, and theater performances of the Lion King. Exhibits include US Black history, African history, and modern black issues.

    National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, Cincinnati, OH

    The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center offers extensive interactive educational exhibits, events such as lectures from experts, and information on how slavery persists in the world today. Explore the permanent and special exhibits as well as sit in for an educational short film in their film exhibit. Be sure to check their upcoming events calendar to see what new and exciting things they have planned before your visit.

    Minette Lontsie, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

    Museum of African Diaspora, San Francisco, CA

    Dedicated to tracing common roots to the African continent, this museum emphasizes the global influence of African culture and art. Celebrate and appreciate Black art as well as the artists who make it. Check their website for current and upcoming exhibitions.

    Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, Washington, DC

    This sculpture pays tribute to one of the most famous and influential leaders of the Civil Rights Movement. Read and reflect on the engraved quotes by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Then head to the Lincoln Memorial where he gave his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech.

    Chris Pruitt, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

    Black American West Museum & Heritage Center, Denver, CO

    Learn about the role of African Americans in the settlement and growth of the old west. Explore the museum’s collections and displays about Black Americans who were part of the gold rush, cattle ranching, medicine, and all things Colorado and the old west. Yes, not all cowboys were white, there was such a person as a Black cowboy.

    Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park and Visitor Center, Church Creek MD

    The Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center, Church Creek, MD

    The Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center is dedicated to an American hero and pioneer of the Underground Railroad, Harriet Tubman. Located along the area in which Tubman lived, this center offers education, entertainment, and interactive learning. Walk through the life and times of this inspirational woman and her daring mission to help enslaved persons escape to freedom. Ask also about the self-guided driving tour, which takes you along 36 sites related to Tubman and the Underground Railroad.

    National Museum of African American History & Culture, Washington, DC

    The National Museum of African American History and Culture is the only national Smithsonian museum devoted exclusively to the documentation of African American life, history, and culture. The museum has so many exhibits, interactive displays, and other fun things to explore that your family is sure to be entertained for hours. Exhibits cover centuries of African American history from slavery to civil rights, reconstruction to modern-day. The museum also features the lives of many different African American persons throughout history, allowing visitors to really dive into their stories.

    National Park Service, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

    George Washington Carver National Monument, Diamond, MO

    Renowned agricultural scientist, educator, and humanitarian, George Washington Carver is a figure that all ages can look up to. In 1894, Carver became the first African American to earn a Bachelor of Science degree. Carver’s inventions changed the course of farming and agriculture for years to come, and his over 300 developed food products continue to be delicious today. More than just the ‘Peanut Man’, this monument educates visitors of the incredible life and times of this inspirational inventor.

    There are so many places across the country to celebrate Black history and culture. Tell us in the comments about a place near you!

    Sabrina Jorgensen

    Sabrina Jorgensen