Journey Through Black History Across the Nation

Black history is integral to American history, with many iconic landmarks constructed by individuals who were forcibly brought here, yet who forged lives and legacies against all odds. As you travel from coast to coast, numerous destinations await where you can learn about the people and places that have influenced this nation. While on your journey, consider staying at Black-owned hotels along the way.

This list is by no means comprehensive—countless historical sites remain unrecognized in textbooks or are still undiscovered. However, it serves as a starting point for an exploration that traverses the states and showcases the contributions of a resilient people who, despite overwhelming challenges, cultivated a culture that resonates globally.

The Western Region

California

Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park Earlimart, CA

Often referred to as “the town that refused to die,” Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park stands out as the only California town established, funded, and run by African Americans. Founded in 1908 by Colonel Allen Allensworth and four partners, this small community in central California was dedicated to creating financial and educational opportunities that had been denied due to slavery. In 1974, California State Parks acquired the land, designating it as Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park. Today, visitors can explore the restored 20th-century structures, including Allensworth’s residence, a library, and other buildings that highlight the resilience of these pioneering individuals.

Rosie the Riveter National Historical Park Richmond, CA

This national historic park honors the countless women who entered the workforce in defense and support roles during World War II. A key figure at the park is Betty Reid Soskin, who, at 99, is the oldest National Park Ranger in the US. She plays a vital role in ensuring that the contributions of Black women are woven into the narrative of World War II history. In addition to her ranger duties, Soskin is a songwriter, activist, and author, with her memoir titled “Sign My Name to Freedom: A Memoir of a Pioneering Life.”

The Midwestern Region

Kansas

Buffalo Soldiers Memorial Park Fort Leavenworth, KS

Situated on the historic grounds of Fort Leavenworth, this park honors the 9th and 10th Cavalry Buffalo Soldiers who served on the Western frontier after the American Civil War. These soldiers played crucial roles in various military campaigns yet received minimal recognition. The Memorial Park features busts of several distinguished African American soldiers, unveiled in 1992 through an initiative led by Colin Powell. A recent addition to the park is a monument dedicated to the Women of the 6888th Central Postal Battalion, the only all-Black female battalion to serve overseas during WWII.

Quindaro Ruins Kansas City, KS

Nestled along the Missouri River, this town served as a vital stop on the Underground Railroad, where enslaved individuals sought refuge with local farmers before making their way to Nebraska for freedom. Today, visitors can stand on a stone platform that overlooks the remnants of the town and two cemeteries, both open to the public.

Missouri

George Washington Carver Garden at the Missouri Botanical Garden St. Louis, MO

Wander through the George Washington Carver Garden at the Missouri Botanical Garden, dedicated to the influential Missouri-born scientist who made significant contributions to American agriculture and education. Known as “the plant doctor” by age 12, Carver transformed Southern farming practices by promoting crop diversity, rotation, natural fertilizers, and conservation techniques. The garden features a pathway adorned with uplifting quotes from Carver’s writings and speeches, along with serene spots for outdoor relaxation.

The South

Tennessee

Beale Street Historic District Memphis, TN

In the 1860s, Beale Street became a sanctuary for Black musicians. By the early 1900s, the area thrived with numerous Black-owned enterprises and the renowned “Memphis Free Speech” newspaper, co-owned by civil rights pioneer Ida B. Wells. Within the street's juke joints and honky-tonks, legends like Louis Armstrong and Memphis Minne performed, giving rise to the genre known as “Memphis Blues.” Today, this rich musical heritage continues, showcasing a lively scene inspired by the incredible contributions of Black artists.

Florida

Historical Society of Palm Beach County West Palm Beach, FL

Running through February, this outdoor exhibition pays tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by exploring the 1968 Poor People’s Campaign—a grassroots movement that mobilized thousands to Washington, D.C. for 43 days. Visitors can see protest signs, political buttons, and newly uncovered photographs from this pivotal moment in history.

South Carolina

Philip Simmons Gardens Charleston, SC

These gardens feature the iconic ironwork gate crafted by the legendary blacksmith and artist Philip Simmons. In 1982, he received the National Heritage Fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts, the highest honor awarded to a traditional artist in the U.S. His creations are celebrated across Charleston and are also part of the collections at the National Museum of American History, the Smithsonian Institution, and the Museum of International Folk Art in Santa Fe, NM.

Georgia

The Wanderer Memory Trail Jekyll Island, GA

Jekyll Island recounts the history of America’s last documented slave ship, the Wanderer. The trail winds along the banks of the Jekyll River and features individual exhibits that share the story of Umwalla, a young African boy who was brought to America aboard the ship. The Gullah Geechee people, descendants of enslaved individuals who arrived in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina, carry on the traditions of their heritage through food, storytelling, art, and community.

Louisiana

NOPSI Hotel New Orleans, LA

Nestled just moments from the French Quarter, the NOPSI Hotel captures the essence of 1920s vintage glamour while offering contemporary decor. Sip a drink on the rooftop while enjoying views of the city skyline. The hotel boasts 217 guest rooms, including 76 unique suites. Reserve your stay.

New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park New Orleans, LA

Tremé is the oldest Black neighborhood in New Orleans and the birthplace of jazz, a musical genre born from the creativity of enslaved West Africans, blending elements of blues and ragtime. A visit to this area should include the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park, which honors the rich history of jazz. Check the park's website for a free downloadable map to embark on a self-guided walking tour that highlights significant jazz sites, including spots where Louis Armstrong once performed.

The Northeast

Massachusetts

Boston’s Black Heritage Trail Boston, MA

This 1.6-mile walking path navigates through Boston’s Beacon Hill neighborhood, home to a community of free African Americans after Massachusetts became the first state to abolish slavery in 1783. The trail connects over a dozen significant sites, including the nation's oldest surviving African American church, established in 1806, where abolitionist Frederick Douglass frequently spoke. Free guided tours are available at the visitor center of the Boston African American National Historic Site.

New York

Weeksville Heritage Center Brooklyn, NY

Nestled in the vibrant Crown Heights of Brooklyn is Weeksville Heritage Center, one of America’s significant historical sites. In the 19th century, it was home to one of the largest free Black communities before the Civil War. Today, this multidisciplinary museum is committed to preserving the rich history of that community.

Maryland

Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Monument Church Creek, MD

This park honors Harriet Tubman’s remarkable legacy as a freedom fighter. It features locations significant to her early life, including the Jacobs Jackson Home Site, one of the first safe havens on the Underground Railroad. In 2013, President Obama designated this site as a national monument.

The Ivy Hotel Baltimore, MD

This luxurious boutique hotel showcases elegance in every aspect, from its bright conservatory adorned with plants to the striking zebra print rugs and curated in-room book collections. The Ivy offers eight uniquely designed suites and 10 rooms, alongside an afternoon tea room, a game room, and outdoor seating where guests can savor dishes like their irresistible crab cakes. Book your stay.

Kristin Braswell is a travel journalist and the founder of CrushGlobal Travel, a company specializing in creating road trip guides across the US. Her work has appeared in Vogue, CNN, USA Today, Essence, NPR, Architectural Digest, Ebony, and The Los Angeles Times. Connect with her on Instagram and Twitter.