Opened to the public in September of 2016, The National Museum of African American History and Culture is the newest addition to the Smithsonian Institution’s line-up. Following decades of efforts to promote and highlight the contributions of African Americans, it was established by an Act of Congress in 2003. This museum is the only National museum devoted to the documentation of African American life, history, and culture. If you’re headed to Washington D.C. with educational excursions in mind, this museum should definitely be added to your agenda.
Open Hours and More:
The National Museum of African American History and Culture is open 7 days a week, 364 days a year (closed on December 25), and holds regular operating hours of 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Meaning, planning your own tour of the premises is as easy as picking the date. And there’s a lot to see once you have! The museum is made up of 85,000 square feet of exhibition space, 3,000 objects, 12 exhibitions, 13 interactives, 17 stations, and 183 videos over five floors. Personal tip, start at the bottom floor and work your way up!
Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of African American History and Culture Architectural Photography
A Story for all Times:
While the museum aims to share the story of African Americans in our great nation, the exhibits and artifacts within are an important part of cultural history. As Lonnie G. Bunch III, founding director, noted, “This Museum will tell the American story through the lens of African American history and culture. This is America’s Story and this museum is for all Americans.”
Planning to bring your class, church group, or club to D.C.? The National Museum of African American History and Culture, and ALL Smithsonian’s offerings, offer the educational opportunity of a lifetime. Planning to visit during off peak season (January – February) or Peak (March- August) and with a large group, select here to Request Your Group Pass. But where should your group stay to cut down on travel time hassle? We have a few ideas.
Where to Stay:
Homewood Suites by Hilton and Hampton Inn offer locations 15 minutes, or roughly 3 miles, from The National Museum of African American History and Culture and other great sites. Both located at 501 New York Avenue NE, Washington D.C. these new hotels are in the heart of it all. They also offer shuttles to the Metro and local areas, heated indoor pool, a rooftop observatory, and 2300 square feet of meeting space.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Washington DC NoMa Union Station offers extended stay suites with kitchen and living room space, as well as breakfast and wifi included in each stay. Hampton Inn Washington DC NoMa Union Station offers comfortable guest rooms with free wifi, free 24 hour coffee and tea service. The hotel also offers “On the Run” breakfast bags during the week so you can grab the most important meal of the day.
Getting There and More:
Traveling to Washington DC by plane, train, bus or automobile, we’d love to help your with booking your group travel logistics. Contact a Groople travel expert and we’ll help you get started. Ensure you let us know if you are a non-profit organization interested in touring The Museum. We’d be happy to assist you in getting free tickets to this amazing museum for your non-profit group.