February is upon us, which means it’s time to look back on how far we’ve come and celebrate Black History Month. We always prefer to experience places and honor their history in person rather than just reading about them, so here are our top five distinguished destinations in the U.S. that come alive during Black History Month, in no particular order:
Harlem, New York
You can’t visit Harlem and not pay your respects at the Apollo. The legendary Apollo Theater has been showcasing Black excellence since 1914, and has been instrumental (pun intended) in the growth of a number of music genres, from jazz to blues, gospel to R&B. If you have an eye for contemporary art, the Studio Museum in Harlem is an ever-evolving hub of creativity, showcasing the richness of African-American artistic expression.
Washington, D.C.
The National Museum of African American History and Culture in D.C. is well worth a trip to our nation’s capital. The Slavery and Freedom exhibit tells stories spanning centuries, stories that are heartbreaking and infuriating, but also tales of strength and bravery. The unique Cultural Expressions exhibit is a more modern gallery dedicated to the African diaspora.
Memphis, Tennessee
By Bubba73 – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=124808251
In Memphis, the rhythms of blues intertwine with Civil Rights history. The National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel is more than a museum – it’s an immersive experience and a moving tribute to those who fought for justice. Walk through the exhibits and feel the weight of history while being inspired by the brave souls who paved the way for future generations.
New Orleans, Louisiana
There’s more to the Big Easy than joyous nightlife, soulful music, and tantalizing cuisine (it is definitely all those things too, though). New Orleans contains the oldest African American neighborhoods in the country (Tremé) which still stands a living testament to the community’s resilience. Visit Congo Square, where enslaved Africans celebrated their culture through music and dance, or the Backstreet Cultural Museum to learn about the history of Mardi Gras.
Atlanta, Georgia
Our final destination brings us to the heart of Atlanta, the birthplace of the great Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Visit his birth home (be sure to book a tour ahead of time as they fill up fast), have a quiet moment at Ebenezer Baptist Church, and stroll along the International Civil Rights Walk of Fame.Finish your visit at The King Center, and pay your respects at the final resting place of Dr. and Mrs. King, and spend some time in reflection in the beautiful Coretta Scott King Peace and Meditation Garden.
BONUS: Montgomery, Alabama
The National Memorial for Peace and Justice in Montgomery, Alabama, offers a profound and essential experience for those exploring Black heritage and history. Perched on a hilltop, this six-acre memorial is the first in the nation dedicated to the legacy of enslaved Black Americans and victims of lynching and racial segregation. It commemorates over 4,400 Black people who were lynched between 1877 and 1950, with their names engraved on over 800 corten steel monuments. This sacred space not only confronts the horrors of racial terror but also encourages reflection and healing. It’s a powerful addition to your list of must-visit destinations, underscoring the transformative power of travel in understanding and honoring Black history.
This Black History Month, celebrate unity, embrace diversity, and rejoice in how far we’ve come, while never losing sight of the work left to do. Do more than just read about the men and women who led the way for us – bring history to life by walking in their footsteps. If you would like a hand in arranging a trip for Black History Month, we can help! Give us a call or drop us an email and let us know what you’d like to see, and let’s make it happen.
