Ready for Black History Month? Great Places to Explore African-American Culture Tali Love February 1, 2024 Black History Month, Destinations, Top US Destinations Black History Month is an excellent opportunity to enrich your understanding of the remarkable people, places, and contributions that shaped — and still continue to shape — American culture. Across the United States, plenty of sites and exhibitions stand ready for eager travelers seeking insight into this vital subject. To enrich your cultural heritage travels, we’ve handpicked some destinations that. Some are universally recognized, others are not, but they are all deeply significant. These locations offer a chance to explore African-American history where it happened, inviting you to connect with true stories in an authentic way, not just during Black History Month but all year round. Apollo Theater — New York City Apollo Theater by Erik Drost is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0 If you’re familiar with the iconic Apollo Theater in Harlem, you’ve likely heard its motto: “Where stars are born and legends are made.” Indeed, this historic venue has been a crucial launchpad for countless African-American talents. In the 1930s, for example, the incomparable Ella Fitzgerald stunned the audience during the weekly amateur night, marking the beginning of her legendary career. The 107-year-old Apollo also witnessed the mesmerizing performances of Billie Holiday and Benny Carter in the ’30s, and Aretha Franklin’s commanding presence graced the stage in the 1970s as well. With a rich history spanning over a century, the Apollo not only pays homage to legends during Black History Month each February but also nurtures new talents with its legendary amateur night, a tradition that flourishes throughout the year. Past events have included special performances, talks, and exhibitions that celebrate the contributions of African-American artists and historical figures, making each visit a deep dive into the vibrant tapestry of Black culture and history. Museum of the African Diaspora — San Francisco The Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAD) in San Francisco is a beacon for those seeking to connect with the African diaspora’s global narrative through art, culture, and history. Offering an array of both permanent and rotating exhibits, MoAD brings to life the diverse stories of African descendants. Past exhibits have included “African Twilight: Vanishing Rituals & Ceremonies,” a photographic exploration of the disappearing traditions across the African continent, and “Black Is Beautiful: The Photography of Kwame Brathwaite,” showcasing the pivotal role of Brathwaite’s work in the 1960s Civil Rights movement. Permanent features of the museum delve into the African diaspora’s historical journey, with interactive displays that trace the paths from ancestral lands to modern-day communities around the globe. One standout exhibit, “The Diaspora Continuum,” highlights the unbroken thread of African culture that runs through diasporic art, offering insights into how these traditions have evolved and influenced contemporary artistic expressions. MoAD also regularly features installations from emerging African artists, providing a platform for new voices that represent the dynamic and evolving nature of diasporic art. These exhibits range from multimedia installations that tackle current social issues to vibrant showcases of African fashion and design. Harriet Tubman National Historical Park — Auburn, New York The Harriet Tubman National Historical Park is a tribute to the extraordinary life and contributions of Harriet Tubman, a renowned conductor of the Underground Railroad. Born into slavery in 1822, Tubman made a daring escape to the North in 1849, marked the beginning of her relentless mission to free others. Leading 13 expeditions from the South, she liberated 70 slaves, solidifying her place as a pivotal figure in American history. Post-Civil War, Tubman remained a stalwart advocate for social justice, championing civil rights and women’s suffrage. The park encompasses three key areas: the Harriet Tubman Home, the Harriet Tubman Home for Aged and Indigent Negroes, and the Thompson Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church. Each site portrays a chapter of Tubman’s fascinating story. Guided tours delve into her post-Civil War activism within the Black community, illuminating her unwavering faith and moral principles. After exploring the park’s historical richness, you can pay your respects at Tubman’s gravesite in nearby Fort Hill Cemetery, situated in Auburn. Mitchelville Freedom Park — Hilton Head, South Carolina Mitchelville Freedom Park is a living portal to the enduring struggle for freedom and self-determination within the Black community. As the Civil War loomed, fleeing plantation owners abandoned Hilton Head Island, leaving thousands of slaves to fend for themselves. In 1862, these newly liberated individuals established Mitchelville, a 200-acre town named after a local Union commander. This bustling community — deeply rooted in Gullah Geechee culture — thrived with over 3,000 former slaves. Mitchelville’s residents demonstrated self-governance by electing officials and establishing their own public school system. Today, Hilton Head Island hosts its annual Gullah Celebration starting in the last days of January. Multiple events take place on the island over a span of 30 days to commemorate their traditions and heritage, covering everything from traditional foods to listening to oral history from the Gullah elders. Guided tours explore the archaeological site and reconstructed buildings, delving into Mitchelville’s pivotal role in the African-American fight for freedom. Varied stops along the tour spotlight the community’s contributions and the challenges faced by freed slaves during Reconstruction. African American Museum — Los Angeles, California California African American Museum by Jeremy Thompson is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0 The city of Los Angeles is a vibrant showcase of the African-American community’s vitality and diversity. Begin your exploration at the iconic Watts Coffee House, where a morning cup of coffee lets you experience the welcoming atmosphere cherished by the local African American patrons. Then, deepen your cultural immersion at the California African American Museum (CAAM), a treasure house of both historical and contemporary facets of Black life in America. Recent CAAM exhibits have included “Rights and Rituals: The Making of African American Debutante Culture,” which offers a glimpse into the debutante balls’ significance, displaying elegant gowns, historical photographs, and cultural artifacts. “Adia Millett: Breaking Patterns” presents contemporary artist Adia Millett’s mixed media works, exploring themes of identity, history, and the notion of home within the African-American narrative. An retrospective on the Los Angeles Uprising of 1992 showcases local artists’ perspectives on the events, blending photography, video, and storytelling to recount the uprising’s influence on Los Angeles’ Black community. Buffalo Soldiers National Museum — Houston, Texas The Buffalo Soldiers were a distinguished group of African American servicemen who served in the United States Army after the Civil War, forming units that were key to the expansion and security of the western frontier. Composed of former slaves, freemen, and Civil War veterans, these regiments earned their reputation through exceptional bravery and skill in numerous conflicts during the Frontier Wars. Their duties ranged from protecting settlers and railroads to engaging in battles against Native American tribes, embodying a complex legacy of courage under challenging circumstances. The name “Buffalo Soldiers” is believed to have been conferred upon them by Native American tribes, a nod to their fierce fighting abilities and the respect they commanded, though the exact origins of this nickname are not definitively known. In Houston, the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum honors the legacy of these remarkable soldiers, celebrating their contributions to American history. The museum features authentic uniforms and equipment used by the Buffalo Soldiers, and tells the groundbreaking story of Cathay Williams, the only known female Buffalo Soldier who enlisted by concealing her gender. The museum’s collection also covers the involvement of Black veterans in military engagements from the American Revolution to current conflicts in the Middle East, providing a comprehensive look at their enduring impact on American military history. Lorraine Motel — Memphis, Tennessee Lorraine Motel by Brad Montgomery is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0 Martin Luther King Jr.’s profound influence on American history and the Civil Rights Movement is undeniable. His assassination at the Lorraine Motel in 1968 marked a pivotal moment in our nation’s history. Today, this site is incorporated into the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, serving as a poignant reminder of the struggle for civil rights and a testament to King’s legacy. The National Civil Rights Museum offers visitors a deep dive into the history of civil rights in America. Highlights include a detailed exhibit on the slave trade, providing insights into the inhumane conditions and the resilience of those who suffered through it. Another exhibit explores the Jim Crow era through interactive displays that examine the systemic segregation and disenfranchisement of African Americans. A particularly moving exhibit focuses on the 1960s Civil Rights Movement, featuring artifacts, photographs, and personal stories that bring to life the courage and determination of those who fought for equality. You May Also Like: Discover African-American History at These Inspiring Museums National Museum of African American Music — Nashville, Tennessee At the heart of Nashville‘s vibrant cultural scene, the National Museum of African American Music is a pivotal institution celebrating the significant contributions of African American artists to the nation’s musical heritage. Upon entering, you are introduced to exhibits that explore African American music, ranging from the spiritual hymns of the colonial era to the pioneering rhythms of modern hip hop. The museum allows visitors to explore the development of more than 50 music genres that have been shaped by African American creativity. You can delve into the origins of jazz within the lively atmosphere of New Orleans. You can also feel the deep soul of gospel or become captivated by the impactful narratives of hip hop — all through the museum’s meticulously assembled displays. With a collection exceeding 1,400 artifacts, the museum connects visitors directly to music legends. Noteworthy items include attire from icons like Nat King Cole and Whitney Houston, offering a glimpse into the personal styles of these figures. Moreover, B.B. King’s famed guitar, “Lucille,” serves as a poignant emblem of the emotional depth and cultural significance embedded in African American music. Through specially curated playlists, attendees can dive into the melodies that have marked various eras, uncovering the influences and stories of key African American musicians. FAQs: Q: How can I plan my visit to these destinations during Black History Month? A: Check the official websites of each destination for Black History Month events and schedules. Some locations may offer special exhibits, guided tours, or performances during this time. Q: Are there admission fees for these sites? A: Admission fees vary by location. Check the official websites for up-to-date information on ticket prices, discounts, and any special promotions. Q: Can I visit these sites year-round? A: Yes, most of these destinations are open throughout the year. Check their regular operating hours and any seasonal closures on their official websites. Q: Are these destinations family-friendly? A: Yes, these destinations cater to diverse audiences, including families. Look for family-friendly programs, educational activities, and any age-appropriate exhibits. Q: Can I take photographs at these sites? A: Generally, photography policies vary by location. Review the rules on the official websites or inquire on-site about photography permissions and restrictions. Q: Are there nearby dining options? A: Most of these destinations are situated in areas with popular dining options. Explore the surrounding neighborhoods for a variety of restaurants and eateries to put the literal cherry on top of your visit. Did we leave out your favorite Black History Month destination? Tell us all about it in our comments below!
