National Museum of African American History and Culture — Attraction in Washington

Our timed entry tickets were for 1:30 but with a traffic delay we arrived an hour late. This was not an issue, but honestly if you’re going to take your time and try and really process the information being presented, this was not enough time!

We arrived at 2:30 and went straight to the restaurant. We had missed lunch and the restaurant closes at 3, so our hand was forced. Lots of yummy looking options, my husband and I split the pulled pork, squash, and rice with red beans, plus a bread pudding. The plate of food was around $18, plus dessert and two drinks came to around $30.

Next we went to the lowest level of the museum to begin our museum experience. Honestly, and as it should be, it’s heavy stuff. I can’t say I learned anything new, but having so many pieces of history pulled together and organized in a clear and meaningful way was helpful and really well done. There was a stark, emotionally intense moment for me, with a big brother trying to explain to his sister what the child sized shackles were for.

I think if you’re approaching this right, it’s probably going to hurt and be uncomfortable.

It took my husband and I two hours to explore just the lowest concourse, one sixth of the museum. We kind of rushed through the middle level concourse, but I’ll definitely start there when I go back.

There is a special exhibit for Emmett Till. I am admittedly a tender hearted person, and I am very familiar with Emmett’s story. I will go in next time, but after the first floor my mama heart was already aching. I was not prepared and the warning outside about the violent nature his murder, I couldn’t bring myself to go in. Now that I know it exists I’ll be better prepared for that experience.

I’ve heard mixed things about taking children to this museum. I think there is good arguments to be had on either side. For me it was jarring to see kids wandering and maybe less reverent than you might expect in some of the sections. Now that I’ve been there it is something I will save for when my kids are teenagers. I don’t want my kids to be the distraction, and I also want the experience to be powerful and meaningful for them - not just another boring museum. Totally get why people might want to take younger kids, I’d probably stick to more recent history sections and the celebratory sections, not because kids shouldn’t learn the history of slavery in America, but because there are more age appropriate and developmentally sensitive ways of teaching that history.

Overall this was an incredibly experience, and I suspect it will take two-three more visits to explore the whole museum.

The gift shop closes at five on, thirty minutes before the museum closes.

The lowest floor/section did not have any benches. I have spinal nerve damage due to my cancer history and not having a spot to sit down along the way was really unfortunate. The back section and other floors had benches every now and then.

Overall an incredible experience, we will definitely be going back a few times. Those child sized shackles will live in my mind forever. Nothing anyone says will ever justify or fix the injustice of the mere idea, let alone creation and usage of...

Visiting the African American Museum in Washington, DC was an extraordinary experience that left me deeply moved and enlightened. From the moment I stepped foot inside, I was captivated by the power and significance of every exhibit, and I found myself going through a whirlwind of emotions.

The museum's ability to convey the rich tapestry of African American history and culture is truly remarkable. Each exhibit tells a profound story, shedding light on the struggles, triumphs, and contributions of African Americans throughout the centuries. I was taken on a journey that encompassed both the painful chapters of oppression and the moments of resilience and triumph that have shaped the African American experience.

What struck me most was the museum's ability to engage visitors of all backgrounds. It is a place that teaches, challenges, and inspires, regardless of one's prior knowledge or personal connection to the subject matter. The curators have done an exceptional job of presenting history in a way that is accessible, thought-provoking, and inclusive.

The exhibits themselves are beautifully designed, providing a visually stunning backdrop to the stories they tell. The attention to detail and the dedication to preserving and honoring African American heritage is evident in every corner. From the hauntingly powerful artifacts to the interactive displays, each element contributes to an immersive and unforgettable experience.

As an African American, seeing my history represented in such a profound and comprehensive manner was deeply moving. It was a reminder of the resilience and strength of my ancestors and the countless individuals who have contributed to the progress and cultural richness of our nation. It left me with a renewed sense of pride and a deeper understanding of the struggles and achievements that have shaped my identity.

However, the impact of this museum extends far beyond the African American community. It is a place that fosters empathy, understanding, and unity. I firmly believe that everyone, regardless of their background, should visit this museum. By doing so, we can collectively confront our past, embrace our shared humanity, and work towards a more inclusive and just future.

In conclusion, the African American Museum in Washington, DC is a must-see destination that offers a transformative journey through history and culture. Prepare to be inspired, educated, and moved. This museum stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the African American people and serves as a beacon of hope and...

I must say I didn't know what to expect coming here at first. We(my oldest sister and 18yr old niece)came here. This was my first visit to Washington DC visiting my niece who attends Howard University. While here we didn't realize that we didn't begin from the bottom floor to where we'd started from. The bottom floor was where everyone should begin. It starts from the beginning of slavery to the present day. Each floor is another level building from the last floor you were on. It's absolutely surreal to see the actual artifacts up close and personal. To see the actual slave's quarters,shackles used to dehumanize and restrain other humans was a bit much for me to handle. Seeing the beginning of slavery's impact on the world especially the USA was infuriating to say the least. It was STILL disheartening to see what my ancestors endured throughout their time on this earth. Being seen as cattle and not the beautiful Black, Brown and everything in between people they were. Seeing the beginning of segregation and the activists that shaped that resistance,whether peaceful or not,was empowering(for lack of a better word) that that blood flows through ALL of us walking now. To know they didn't just stand idly by allowing injustice to happen. If it happens to one it happens to all of us. The most infuriating part was being around ignorant people laughing, mocking and having a good time there especially when on the lower level where the exhibits were of slavery wasn't my happiest thing to experience. Despite that idiocy happening,I suggest everyone make a trip to Washington DC to see the exhibits inside. I personally feel that all schools(especially predominantly Black/Brown/Every shade in between) make it a prerequisite in school to come here to learn the TRUE history of Black people around the world. I highly recommend coming here. Per the staff it'd take about 2-3 days to see every exhibit here from the bottom...