10 Museums Where You Can Celebrate Black History Month
Cynthia Amin • February 15, 2021
Many people who don’t normally visit museums tend to dismiss them as boring and often wonder what the appeal is. People visit museums for a variety of reasons, some personal, some societal. The ten cultural museums discussed in this blog have meaningful stories to tell.
Black History Month is celebrated every February in the U.S. and draws attention to the talents and significant contributions of generations of African Americans.
The legacy of these African Americans is a complicated part of history and their stories showcase Black excellence and remind us that Black resilience should be acknowledged and celebrated year-round.
Museums and cultural institutions throughout the U.S. offer travelers’ opportunities to experience and learn about Black history and culture. Visiting these places year-round is an easy, fun, and enlightening way to celebrate Black history.
Listed below are ten (10) museums that celebrate the history and culture of African Americans.
1. National Museum of African American History and Culture - Washington, D.C.
The National Museum of African American History and Culture is the only national museum devoted exclusively to the documentation of African American life, history, and culture. It was established by an Act of Congress in 2003, following decades of efforts to promote and highlight the contributions of African Americans. To date, the Museum has collected more than 36,000 artifacts and nearly 100,000 individuals have become members.
It is housed in a dramatic, David Adjaye-designed bronze building with a facade that’s meant to resemble an African crown. The exhibits and galleries powerfully illustrate the trials and triumphs of African Americans – from slavery and segregation to social activism and the power of the Black press.
2. International African American Museum - Charleston, South Carolina
More than 20 years in the making, Charleston’s International African American Museum is set to open its doors in early 2022. Built over the site of a former major transatlantic slave-trade port, the museum will be home to the African Ancestors Memorial Garden, a space with botanic gardens and an infinity fountain.
Enslaved people who survived the voyage from West Africa were separated from their families and stripped of their identities. To reconnect patrons with their roots, the museum plans to run a genealogy program and will share stories of African Americans from the region, the nation, and the African diaspora at large.
3. National Great Blacks in Wax Museum - Baltimore, Maryland
Culture and history come together with the help of more than 150 life-sized, life-like wax figures at the National Great Blacks in Wax Museum. As one of the only wax museums in the nation dedicated to the preservation of African American history, the Great Blacks in Wax Museum offers one of the most enlightening and educational experiences around.
When you enter you will descend a flight of stairs into a room with a 24-by-30-foot replica slave ship that depicts the inhumane treatment enslaved Africans endured on their captive journey to America. Throughout the museum, you will see 150 lifelike wax statues which honor some of the country’s most prominent leaders such as Harriet Tubman, Frederick Douglass, Booker T. Washington, and President Barack Obama.
4. DuSable Museum of African American History - Chicago
Celebrating over 50 years of sharing history, the DuSable Museum of African American History is the nation’s first independent museum dedicated to the collection, preservation and study of the history and culture of Africans and Americans of African descent.
Jean Baptiste Point DuSable, a Black man of Haitian, French, and African descent became the first resident of Chicago in 1779. He settled along the northern bank of the Chicago River and set up a popular trading post. DuSable lived in the historic Hyde Park neighborhood (where the Obamas used to live).
The DuSable Museum of African American History houses more than 15,000 pieces of Black artwork, rare archives, and historic memorabilia, including a standout permanent exhibit that features a can’t-miss animatronic statue of Chicago’s beloved first Black mayor, Harold Washington.
5. California African American Museum - Los Angeles
Located in L.A.’s Exposition Park, CAAM showcases progressive and provocative contemporary art by African American artists from the West Coast, Brazil, and the Caribbean. Mixed media and photography exhibits illuminate the Black experience, including a current exhibition profiling Muhammad Ali, James Baldwin, Kendrick Lamar, and other revolutionary Black men via inspiring quotes, original art, and embellished photographs.
Pre-pandemic, CAAM was known for its lively dance parties to celebrate their exhibitions’ opening nights.
6. Schomburg Center for Research and Black Culture - New York City
The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture in Harlem is one of The New York Public Library’s renowned research libraries. It was founded in 1925 and is a world-leading cultural institution devoted to the research, preservation, and exhibition of materials focused on African American, African Diaspora, and African experiences.
It’s part research library (with more than 300,000 volumes and rare archives), and part museum, featuring murals by Harlem Renaissance artist Aaron Douglas, and artworks by Elizabeth Catlett, Jacob Lawrence, and others.
The Schomburg serves as a community gathering space for film screenings and other performing arts programs.
7. The African American Museum - Philadelphia
The African American Museum in Philadelphia is the first institution built by a major United States city to house and interpret the life and work of African Americans. You will experience the richness and vibrancy of African American heritage and watch culture come alive in four magnificent exhibition galleries filled with exciting history and fascinating art.
Notable Black Philadelphians and artists of color are celebrated at this institution which is located down the street from the Liberty Bell.
Audacious Freedom: African Americans in Philadelphia 1776 - 1876, is a permanent exhibition which shares stories from people of color in Philadelphia during the country’s early years, while other photography and mixed media exhibits explore notable themes of Black masculinity, spirituality, and ancestral connection.
8. Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History and Culture - Baltimore
The Lewis Museum has over 400 years of history in its permanent collection. During your tour you will take a journey through Maryland African American history in the areas of industry, politics, leisure activities, sports, media, the arts, education, the military and more.
This museum was named after a prominent African American businessman and philanthropist and is located near Baltimore’s bustling Inner Harbor.
The museum also dedicates space to spotlighting regional African Americans who made strides in politics, media, education, and other industries.
The current exhibit, Make Good Trouble: Marching for Change, is a collection of protest signs, photos, murals, and buttons from Maryland activists and artists who took to the streets to protest racial injustice in the wake of George Floyd’s murder.
9. Le Musee de f.p.c. - New Orleans
This historic house museum is one of the country's few attractions dedicated exclusively to preserving the material culture of and telling the story of free people of color.
Set on the parlor floor of a grand mansion on historic Esplanade Avenue, the unique Musee de f.p.c. honors the legacy of NOLA’s mixed race and French-speaking people of African ancestry who were educated, owned property, and lived outside of slavery before the Civil War.
Founded by newspaper publisher Beverly Stanton McKenna and her husband, Dwight McKenna, the museum showcases stories and exhibits shared by descendants that reminds visitors of their ancestors’ legacy.
10. National Civil Rights Museum - Memphis, Tennessee
As one of the nation's premier heritage and cultural museums, the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, Tennessee’s mission is to share the culture and lessons from the American Civil Rights Movement and explore how this significant era continues to shape equality and freedom globally.
Established in 1991, the National Civil Rights Museum is located at the former Lorraine Motel, where civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated on April 4, 1968. The motel’s original façade is intact so visitors can view Room 306, where Dr. King spent his final hours.
The wreath on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel’s facade marks the spot where Martin Luther King, Jr. stood before he was assassinated.
Through interactive exhibits, historic collections, dynamic speakers and special events, the museum offers visitors a chance to walk through history and learn more about a tumultuous and inspiring period of change.
Final Thoughts
Museums are an ideal way to learn about human history and culture. Museums preserve the legacy of humanity, chronicling both the good and the bad, and serve to enrich the lives of countless visitors making the world a more enlightened place for present and future generations.
Contact Colesville Travel at 301-989-1654 or send us an email at cindy@colesvilletravel.com
if you would like to visit any of these museums.
To learn about the other offerings from Colesville Travel visit our website http://www.colesvilletravel.com
Stay inspired,
Cindy
Blog
If you've ever wondered, "Why should I use a travel advisor when I can book everything online?" you're not alone. It's one of the most common questions I hear, and it's a fair one. The internet has made travel look incredibly simple. In just a few minutes, you can book a flight, reserve a hotel, and purchase a tour. It feels easy. It feels convenient. But here's what many travelers don't realize until something goes wrong: Booking travel and planning a successful trip are two very different things. Anyone Can Book a Trip. Not Everyone Can Design an Experience. Booking online is like buying ingredients at the grocery store. Working with a travel advisor is like having a professional chef prepare the meal. Both start with the same ingredients, but the outcome can be dramatically different. When I work with my clients, my goal isn't simply to book a vacation. My goal is to create an experience that fits who they are, how they like to travel, and what memories they want to bring home. That's something a search engine simply can't do. What Are You Really Paying For? Many people assume they're paying a travel advisor just to click "Book." In reality, you're investing in years of experience, industry relationships, destination knowledge, and professional guidance. You're paying for someone who asks questions you may not have even considered. Questions like : Is this hotel in a safe neighborhood? Is it walkable? Will the room category you've chosen meet your needs? Is this itinerary too rushed? Are there hidden resort fees? Will you need visas or vaccinations? Is there a better flight connection that gives you more time at your destination? These details can make the difference between a good trip and an unforgettable one. Online Booking Sites Don't Know You Travel websites are designed to sell inventory. They don't know that you love small boutique hotels instead of giant resorts. They don't know you have mobility concerns. They don't know you're celebrating a milestone anniversary or traveling with three generations of family. They don't know that avoiding a six-hour layover is worth paying a little more. As your travel advisor, I get to know you. The more we work together, the better I understand your travel style, your priorities, and your expectations. That means every trip becomes more personalized than the last. The Cheapest Price Isn't Always the Best Value This is one of the biggest misconceptions in travel. The lowest advertised price often leaves out important details. That "great deal" may include: Basic airfare with expensive baggage fees Non-refundable reservations Long airport layovers Poor hotel locations Limited customer service No flexibility if plans change Sometimes spending a little more upfront saves hundreds—or even thousands—later. Value isn't about paying the least. It's about getting the most for your money. When Things Go Wrong, Who Has Your Back? Travel is unpredictable. Flights get canceled. Weather changes. Hotels overbook. Luggage gets delayed. Tours get canceled. When you book online, you're often left navigating automated phone systems, chatbots, or spending hours on hold trying to fix the problem yourself. When you work with a travel advisor, you have someone in your corner. Someone who can advocate for you, help find solutions, and guide you through unexpected situations. That peace of mind is something you can't put a price on. Your Time Is Valuable Planning a trip can easily take 15 to 30 hours—or more. Researching destinations. Comparing hotels. Reading hundreds of reviews. Checking airline schedules. Looking at maps. Trying to figure out which information is actually reliable. Your time has value. Many of my clients would rather spend their evenings looking forward to their vacation than spending weeks trying to plan it. That's where I come in. Experience Matters I've spent more than 30 years helping travelers explore the world. I've learned which hotels consistently deliver exceptional service. I know which excursions are worth your time—and which ones aren't. I understand the details that many travelers don't discover until they're already at their destination. Experience helps prevent costly mistakes before they happen. Travel Should Feel Exciting—Not Stressful The best vacations begin long before you leave home. They begin with confidence. Confidence that everything has been thoughtfully planned. Confidence that someone has considered the details. Confidence that if something unexpected happens, you're not handling it alone. That's the real value of working with a travel advisor. Not because you can't book online, ut because you deserve more than a reservation. You deserve a well-planned travel experience designed around you. Final Thoughts The internet is an excellent tool for gathering information. But information alone isn't expertise. When you work with a trusted travel advisor, you're gaining an advocate, a planner, a problem solver, and someone who genuinely wants your vacation to be everything you've dreamed it would be. After all, travel isn't just about getting from one place to another. It's about creating memories that last a lifetime. When you are ready to book that long deserved vacation contact Colesville Travel at 301-989-1654 or send an email to cindy@colesvilletravel.com . Until then, Stay inspired, Cindy #TravelAdvisor #TravelAgent #TravelPlanning #VacationPlanning #TravelExpert #TravelTips #LuxuryTravel #GroupTravel #CustomTravel #TravelSmarter #TravelBetter #TravelWithConfidence #ColesvilleTravel #TravelWithCindy #ExperienceMakesTheDifference
Travel is supposed to feel exciting. But for many people, planning a vacation can also bring stress, nervousness, and overwhelm. If you’ve ever worried about flying, airports, safety, delays, or simply being far from home, you are not alone. Travel anxiety is more common than people realize. This is felt even among experienced travelers. The good news? Travel does not have to feel stressful. With proper planning, realistic expectations, and the right support, you can reduce travel anxiety and actually enjoy the experience again. What Is Travel Anxiety? Travel anxiety is the stress, fear, or nervousness people experience before or during a trip. It can happen whether you are traveling domestically or internationally. Some travelers experience mild nervousness, while others feel intense stress leading up to departure day. Common forms of travel anxiety include: • Fear of flying • Anxiety about airports • Stress over travel documents • Fear of getting lost • Worry about international travel • Anxiety about safety and unfamiliar places • Stress from crowded airports and long flights • Fear of travel delays or cancellations Even luxury travelers and seasoned travelers can experience travel stress. Why Travel Feels More Stressful Today Modern travel has become more complicated than it used to be. Travelers now navigate: • Airline delays and cancellations • Entry requirements and passport rules • Crowded airports • Long security lines • Flight changes • Overpacked itineraries • Constant travel updates online Social media can also create pressure for vacations to look “perfect,” which adds another layer of stress. Sometimes travelers become so focused on planning every detail that they forget to enjoy the journey itself. Signs You May Be Experiencing Travel Anxiety You may be dealing with travel anxiety if you: • Feel overwhelmed before a trip • Constantly check flight details • Overpack “just in case” • Avoid booking trips altogether • Feel nervous days before departure • Worry excessively about things going wrong • Struggle to relax while traveling Recognizing travel anxiety is important because once you understand it, you can take steps to manage it. How to Reduce Travel Anxiety 1. Plan Ahead One of the easiest ways to reduce travel stress is to avoid last-minute planning. Organizing flights, transportation, travel insurance, and important documents early create peace of mind. 2. Keep Your Itinerary Balanced Trying to do too much can make travel exhausting. Leave room for downtime, relaxation, and flexibility. Some of the best moments of travel happen unexpectedly. 3. Work With a Travel Advisor Many travelers feel less anxious when they have professional support before and during their trip. A travel advisor can help manage: • Flights • Hotels • Transportation • Destination guidance • Travel requirements • Emergency assistance Having expert support allows travelers to feel more confident and prepared. 4. Arrive Early for Flights Rushing through an airport increases stress immediately. Giving yourself extra time can make the travel experience feel calmer and more manageable. 5. Focus on the Experience — Not Perfection No trip is perfect. Delays happen. Weather changes. Plans shift. Travel becomes much more enjoyable when you focus on meaningful experiences instead of perfect schedules. Can Travel Anxiety Ever Be Helpful? Surprisingly, a small amount of travel anxiety is normal. Traveling pushes people outside of their routines and comfort zones. That nervous energy often comes from stepping into something new. Travel builds: • Confidence • Adaptability • Independence • Cultural awareness • Personal growth Many travelers return home feeling stronger and more empowered than before they left. Final Thoughts on Travel Anxiety Travel anxiety is real, but it should not stop you from seeing the world. The key is learning how to travel in a way that feels comfortable, supported, and enjoyable for you personally. The world is still full of incredible experiences waiting to be explored, sometimes you just need the right preparation and support to enjoy them fully. Call us at 301-989-1654 to stay connected or visit our website https://www.colesvilletravel.com Stay inspired! Cindy #TravelAnxiety #TravelTips #WomenWhoTravel #LuxuryTravel #TravelStress #TravelPlanning #TravelAdvisor #GroupTravel #TravelWell #MindfulTravel #TravelWithCindy #ColesvilleTravel #InternationalTravel #TravelLifestyle
Discover the best time to visit Alaska, including summer cruises, winter Northern Lights adventures, scenic Alaska Railroad journeys, and unforgettable Alaska cruisetours.
International travel to the United States may be slowing as global travelers rethink costs, entry concerns, and travel experiences ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Discover luxury domestic travel in the USA, from national parks to Hawaii. Explore curated, upscale trips designed for comfort, culture, and ease.
Learn how to enjoy your vacation even in bad weather with smart travel tips, flexible planning, and expert advice for stress-free travel experiences.
Discover why cultural context matters more than ever in travel and how understanding local history and customs creates deeper, meaningful journeys.
Beyond Flamenco: Discovering Black History in Spain’s Most Iconic Cities
Are you passionate about exploring the world and love sharing adventures with your friends? Travel is most meaningful when it’s shared with the people you enjoy most. If you love exploring the world and bringing friends together, there’s a well-designed, effortless way to do just that. With expert support from Colesville Travel, every detail is thoughtfully arranged whether you prefer a fully escorted experience or a relaxed journey at your own pace. Through our Adventure Ambassador Program , you can enjoy beautifully curated group travel while receiving exclusive benefits along the way. If you’re ready to travel well with your circle, we invite you to explore the Adventure Ambassador experience. 1. Become the Trusted Curator for Your Travel Circle Many people dream of traveling but are hesitant because of the details involved such as selecting the right destination, choosing accommodations, and coordinating experiences. By bringing your circle together with the support of Colesville Travel, you offer them a beautifully curated trip where every segment of your travel is thoughtfully arranged, making group travel feel effortless, refined, and truly enjoyable. 2. Take the Stress Out of Group Travel Bringing a group together doesn’t mean managing every detail yourself. Colesville Travel takes care of all the arrangements in advance, so you don’t have to worry about coordinating the details. Colesville Travel handles all trip arrangements, ensuring a seamless experience so your group can travel with ease, comfort, and confidence from start to finish. Everything will be organized for maximum fun and minimal hassle. 3. Inspire Your Friends to Explore Traveling together invites your friends to enjoy experiences they may not have chosen on their own - beautifully curated and effortlessly enjoyed. From private wine tastings in Italy and refined beach retreats in the Caribbean to unforgettable safaris in Africa, immersive food experiences in Bangkok, or exclusive museum visits in France, every detail is thoughtfully arranged to reflect the destination at its very best. With the support of the Adventure Ambassador Program and the expertise of Colesville Travel, you and your guests simply arrive, relax, and savor the journey. 4. Enjoy Meaningful Rewards While Traveling Well One of the most rewarding aspects of traveling with your circle is the added benefits that come with it. Through the Adventure Ambassador Program , thoughtfully curated group travel can include exclusive savings, preferred amenities, and in some cases, complimentary travel opportunities. With Colesville Travel handling every detail, your passion for exploring the world is enhanced with meaningful rewards, without compromising comfort, quality, or experience. 5. Create Lifelong Memories and Connections Travel is about more than where you go, it’s about how it makes you feel and who you are sharing it with. Traveling with your friends allows you to create moments that linger long after the trip ends: elegant dinners with unforgettable views, enriching guided experiences, and shared discoveries in beautiful destinations. With every trip carefully arranged, these trips naturally become cherished memories and lasting connections. Final Thoughts Travel is at its most rewarding when it’s shared. If there’s a destination you’ve been dreaming about, this is your opportunity to experience it alongside friends in a way that feels effortless, refined, and thoughtfully curated. With expert planning and personalized support from Colesville Travel, you and your circle can enjoy the journey from the very first idea to the final memory, beautifully arranged, and entirely your own. Contact Colesville Travel at 301-989-1654 to learn more or click Adventure Ambassador Program for more information. Until then, stay inspired Cindy #TravelWithFriends #GroupTravelMadeEasy #MatureWomenTravel #TravelLeadership #AdventureAmbassador #SharedAdventures #GirlsGetaway #TravelCommunity #LuxuryTravelWithFriends #TravelTogether
Travel is changing and, in many ways, it’s getting better. As someone who’s been planning trips for decades and traveling the world firsthand, I can tell you this with confidence that 2026 is shaping up to be a fantastic year to travel, especially for travelers who value comfort, culture, and meaningful experiences over rushing from place to place. If you’re thinking about traveling in 2026, whether it’s a bucket-list destination, a long-awaited celebration, or simply time to enjoy the world again I hope this guide will help you understand what’s coming, where to go, and how to prepare so your trip feels exciting instead of overwhelming. What’s Trending in Travel for 2026 One of the biggest shifts I’m seeing is that people are traveling with more intention. Travelers aren’t just asking where they want to go but they are asking how they want to feel while they’re there. From my research here is what’s stands out for 2026: Fewer Trips, Better Experiences Instead of packing in multiple destinations, travelers are slowing down. Travelers are staying longer, making deeper connections, and are taking the time to actually enjoy the destination. These items are becoming the priority. Comfort Matters More Than Ever Premium economy, business class upgrades, smaller group tours, private transfers, and well-located hotels are no longer “extras” but are part of traveling well. Meaningful & Cultural Travel People want experiences that feel personal: food tours, local guides, heritage travel, music, art, wine, and history and not just photo stops. Small Group & Hosted Travel Travelers love knowing someone else has handled the details. Small group journeys, escorted trips, and curated itineraries are especially popular heading into 2026. Where to Go in 2026 While the classics will always be popular, 2026 is the perfect year to explore destinations that offer rich culture without the chaos. Here are a few standouts travelers are gravitating toward: Europe—Beyond the Obvious Think Portugal, Southern Italy, France beyond Paris, river cruising, and train-based itineraries. These allow you to see more without constantly unpacking. Africa & Heritage Travel Countries like Ghana, South Africa, and Morocco continue to grow in popularity, especially for travelers seeking history, connection, and powerful experiences. Alaska & Expedition-Style Cruising Alaska remains a favorite, especially for travelers who want nature, wildlife, and comfort all in one trip without flying overseas. Caribbean with Purpose Instead of just beach time, travelers are choosing islands that offer culture, food, rum tastings, sailing, and local experiences alongside relaxation. How to Prepare for Travel in 2026 (Start Now) Here’s something I say often and it’s more important than ever: The best trips are planned early. Waiting until the last minute usually means fewer choices and higher prices. Travelers who start preparing for their trip early, enjoy better flight options, better hotels, and far less stress. Here’s what I recommend doing now: Check Your Passport Many countries require passports to be valid at least six months beyond your return date. This is one of the most common and preventable travel issues. Start to Think About Timing Popular destinations and cruises are already filling up for 2026. Flexibility helps, but early planning helps even more. Decide How You Want to Travel Do you want independent travel, small group experiences, or a fully escorted trip? Knowing how you want to travel makes planning smoother and more enjoyable. Working with a Professional Travel today involves more moving parts than it used to. Having someone who understands the destination, the logistics, and your personal travel style makes all the difference. Why 2026 Is a Year to Travel Well If there’s one thing experience has taught me, it’s this: travel should enrich your life, not exhaust you. 2026 is the perfect opportunity to travel smarter, to choose destinations that inspire you, choose experiences that matter, and travel at a pace that allows you to truly enjoy the journey. Whether you’re dreaming about Europe, Africa, cruising, or something completely new, now is the time to start the conversation. Final Thoughts Are you ready to start planning? If you’re thinking about traveling in 2026, I’d love to help you shape a trip that fits you, I will take into consideration your comfort level, interests, and travel goals. The earlier we begin, the better your options will be. Travel is an investment in yourself. Let’s make it a great one. Contact Cindy at Colesville Travel today at 301-989-1654 or email cindy@colesvilletravel.com and let us help you start planning for 2026. Stay inspired, Cindy #ColesvilleTravel #TravelwithCindy #Travel2026 #TravelTrends2026 #FutureTravel #TravelPlanning #TravelSmart #IntentionalTravel #MeaningfulTravel #LuxuryTravel #SlowTravel #SoftAdventure