4DMV Kids’ Guide to the National Museum of African American History and Culture
The National Museum of African American History and Culture is also known as NMAAHC or the Blacksonian. This Smithsonian museum is huge with 5 floors of captivating art, exhibits and interactive learning displays that reflect different time periods of African American history and aspects of culture.
This guide reflects both facts and opinions based on our experiences in visiting The National Museum of African American History and Culture, located on the National Mall.
Follow the blue links to explore more information about the various exhibits and things-to-see while visiting.
No affiliate links are included in this blog.
Check back frequently for updates. The more we visit; the more tips we’ll be able to share. Happy planning!
In this Guide
About the Museum
- Location: 1400 Constitution Ave NW Washington, DC 20560
- Closest Metro Stations: Federal Triangle and Smithsonian (Mall exit) on the orange, silver & blue lines
- Open daily except December 25th, when they are closed to the public.
- Also closed on January 20th in observance of MLK Day & Inauguration Day
- Hours of Operation:
- Tuesdays – Sundays: 10:00 am – 5:30 pm
- Mondays: 12:00 pm – 5:30 pm
- Last entry for all visitors, including groups, is 4:00 pm
- Admission: Free; however, timed tickets are required. This museum gets busy, so I recommend booking in advance.
- Passes are released at 8:00 am, for time slots 30 days out.
- Same-day passes are released beginning at 8:15 a.m.
Accessibility
This museum is very accessible!
There are ramps and elevators to each floor/exhibit. Manual wheelchairs, standard and bariatric sized, are located near the Madison Drive entrance and are available to borrow on a first-come, first served basis. There are no fees or requirements to borrow a wheelchair. Ask the attendant at the welcome desk upon arrival.
For visitors who are blind or experience low vision, there are Braille/raised image maps and large print maps located at the welcome desk. NMAAHC also provides ASL interpretation for public programs and scheduled docent tours, which can be requested at least two weeks in advance of your visit. All media in the museum is open captioned as well.
Museum floor plan maps are available in Chinese, French, and Spanish at the welcome desk as well as sensory maps. These maps highlight areas where sounds are loud, lights are bright, and where visitors can touch.
Read more about accessibility options at NMAAHC.
General Tips for Visiting
Upon entrance to the museum, you’ll be asked to show tickets before you walk through metal detectors. Make sure to view the list of prohibited items in the museum’s FAQs section prior to heading there.
There are free lockers you can use within Heritage Hall located near the restrooms, next to the Robert Frederick Smith Family Pavilion. I highly suggest using the lockers for unnecessary items like coats, backpacks, etc. since there’s a lot of walking involved.
Download a printable map to take with you or pick one up at the welcome desk located on the entrance level or L2.
There’s elevator access and restrooms on all levels except C1 and C2. The Museum has a lactation room on L3 and baby changing stations in all restrooms.
Concourse Levels of the Museum
The concourse levels of the museum depict African American History from Slavery (1400s) through the Civil Right Movement and beyond (1960s+). There are heroic stories and historical artifacts as well as points of anguish and tear jerkers throughout each level so prepare yourself before taking this walk.
On the main concourse level, there’s the Oprah Winfrey Theatre, Sweet Home Café, and entry to the lower concourse levels that feature the earliest moments of African American History.
C3 | Slavery and Freedom (1400 - 1877)
You’ll start at the bottom (C3) when taking the elevator or stairs down. C3 or Slavery and Freedom (1400 – 1877) engages the senses with reflections from the transatlantic slave trade beginning in 1400. See what conditions were like and listen to stories written in autobiographies by enslaved people like Olaudah Equiano. The first half of this floor explores this time period through African American involvement in the Revolutionary War in 1775. In the second half, you’ll learn about abolitionists like Nat Turner and Harriet Tubman, the Civil War and the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863.
C2 | Defending Freedom, Defining Freedom: The Era of Segregation (1876 - 1968)
As you walk to C2 or Defending Freedom, Defining Freedom: The Era of Segregation 1876 – 1968, you’ll make your way to the replica of Jones Hall Sims House, which was originally located in Montgomery County, MD, and begin with the Jim Crow Era. C2 is a tear jerker as well from the depictions of lynchings to the Emmett Till Memorial, where I lasted two minutes before needing a break. Despite the painful history, there’s a lot to learn from this floor and the interactiveness of it makes it a bit more bearable especially for young visitors. There’s an interactive lunch counter and a segregated railcar that you can walk through as well as a small theater!
C1 | A Changing America: 1968 and Beyond
C1 or A Changing America: 1968 and Beyond reflects the Civil Rights Movement post-assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. through the re-election of President Barak Obama. This floor is a bit brighter than the lower two levels with colorful depictions of changing landscape of Black America. There’s TV and Film nods as well as odes to the Black Power and Black Feminism Movements among other impactful displays. This exhibit also explores the movement from urban to suburban lifestyle and the cultivation of community that came along with it.
Upper Levels of the Museum
The upper levels of the museum depict African American history in modern times through the Community and Culture Galleries. You’ll find artifacts and exhibits dedicated to icons like Muhammad Ali and Bob Marley and a bunch of historical references and stories that may be new to visitors, young and old.
L2 | Explore More
L2 is the most interactive level of the entire museum! There are hands-on activities like the Follow the Green Book exercise that allows visitors to travel back in time and the Search for the São José activity that involves investigative work through a slave ship wreck. Our favorite activity on this level is Join the Step Show by professional dance company Step Afrika!
There’s also the Robert Frederick Smith Explore Your Family History Center, where you can search through genealogical databases to research your own family history. They offer free sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays beginning at 11:00 am.
L3 | Community Galleries
The Community Galleries on L3 feature African American history as it relates to community building and organizing. From religion to education and entrepreneurship, the exhibits on this level are most reflective of everyday life. You’ll read stories of how hip-hop took shape in the Bronx, NY in the 80’s and see artifacts from the early days of The Divine Nine (Black sororities and fraternities) among other interesting facts.
L4 | Culture Galleries
The Culture Galleries are mostly based in The Arts. From visual art and music to pop culture and legendary icons, children visiting will definitely spot a familiar face or two throughout these exhibits. There’s a vintage car, colorful artwork and other expressive artifacts throughout this level to keep children interested. That being said, this level is a great place to start your NMAAHC journey, especially when visiting with small children.
Tips for Visiting with Children
I was once asked if I thought The National Museum of African American History and Culture was appropriate for children to visit. The short answer is YES. Although some of the themes and elements can be overwhelming even for adults, there’s plenty to do/see with children that can even be stretched out over multiple days of visiting.
With all children under 12, I recommend starting from the top of the museum and working your way down. As previously mentioned, the top floor (L4) explores The Arts and modern culture as it relates to the African American experience. L3 is community focused with nods to everyday life and iconic sports legends.
Visiting with Young Children (0-5)
Here are a few of the best exhibits/things-to-see when visiting NMAAHC with children under 5. You can get through these exhibits fairly quickly, if needed, and the exhibits themselves may spark curiosities you can build on.
- Musical Crossroads located on L4 – My kids love this exhibit! There are bright lights and historical artifacts like Parliament’s Funkadelic Mothership (space ship) as shown in the photo above. Children will learn about musical legends and the adversities faced through the years. Learn more about Musical Crossroads.
- Sports: Leveling the Playing Field located on L3 – Huge statues & plenty of seating to watch the exhibit come to life! This portion of the museum is another one that’s fairly small and easy to get through. I highly suggest also visiting the Muhammad Ali: A Force for Change exhibit, which is a few steps away from the main Sports area. It’s a small room with artifacts and media from throughout Ali’s life. Learn more about Sports: Leveling the Playing Field.
- Defending Freedom, Defining Freedom located on C2 – This one has a bit more open space but there are actual walk-throughs like the segregated train car and the life-like slave cabin. There’s also a Tuskegee Airplane that younger kids may enjoy seeing. Note that there’s neither elevator access nor restrooms on this level. You’ll have to start at the bottom level C3 and walk upward through the Slavery and Freedom exhibit to get to C2. Learn more about Defending Freedom, Defining Freedom: The Era of Segregation 1876 – 1968.
Visiting with Children (6-12)
The museum gets a bit more interactive for this age group! Here are some exhibit recommendations for children ages 6-12:
- Explore More! located on L2 has an interactive gallery of activities as previously described. From learning how to step to throwing on a detective hat through a wrecked slave ship, there’s much to explore on this level including children’s programming that takes place there every so often. There’s also a Family History Center there where you can trace your own roots and learn more about your own African American ancestry. Learn more about Explore More!
- Cultural Expressions located on L4 gives a 360º view of cultural artifacts from literature to music, cooking to fashion and everything in between. There are objects, artifacts and even sounds that may be familiar to children within this age range and older. Learn more about Cultural Expressions.
- Defending Freedom, Defining Freedom located on C2 – As previously recommended for younger children, older children will also appreciate the interactiveness of this exhibit. From the walk-throughs of the segregated train car and slave cabin to the interactive lunch counter, there’s much to see and learn on this level. Note that there’s neither elevator access nor restrooms on this level. You’ll have to start at the bottom level (C3) and walk upward through the Slavery and Freedom exhibit to get to C2. Learn more about Defending Freedom, Defining Freedom: The Era of Segregation 1876 – 1968.
Visiting with Teens (13+)
Contribution Provided by Nikki Lewis of @NikkiInspiredAdventures on Instagram
Visiting the National Museum of African American History and Culture with Teens: Tips for an Unforgettable Day
1. Sweet Home Café: Start Your Day Right
It might seem a little odd to start a blog about such a powerful museum with talk about the café, but hear me out. If you plan to eat during your visit, go to Sweet Home Café first. We got in line before it opened, and by the time we were eating, we watched the café fill up fast. Starting with a great meal keeps everyone energized for exploring, and it’s one less thing to worry about later in the day.
Sweet Home Café isn’t your typical museum café—it’s a celebration of African American culinary traditions. The menu includes dishes from different regions of the U.S., like gumbo, black-eyed pea salad, and smoked turkey collard greens. The food is as much a part of the experience as the exhibits, so don’t skip it!
2. Walk Through History in the Galleries
The museum’s history galleries take you on a journey through African American history—from the depths of the transatlantic slave trade to the Civil Rights Movement and beyond. One must-see exhibit is the segregated railway car, where you can walk through and experience the conditions firsthand. It’s an eye-opening moment that hits home, especially for teens who thrive on interactive learning.
3. Pull Up a Seat at the Interactive Greensboro Lunch Counter
This exhibit is a must. You sit at a counter, pull up the digital “menu,” and choose how you’d respond to critical moments in the Civil Rights Movement. The scenarios force you to think deeply about the courage and sacrifice involved in these protests. It’s a powerful way for teens to connect with history and consider the bravery it took to stand up for change, especially considering many of were teens themselves when they were forced to make these decisions.
4. Reflect at the Contemplative Court
After immersing yourself in the galleries, you’ll need a moment to decompress. The Contemplative Court is a serene space with a calming rainfall feature, offering a chance to sit quietly and reflect. It’s the perfect way to process everything you’ve seen before heading back out into the world.
Bonus Tips for a Smooth Visit:
•Arrive Early: Timed entry passes are required, and arriving early means smaller crowds and more time to explore.
•Pack Light: Keep it simple—no large bags or extra stuff. You’ll want to move easily through the exhibits.
•Engage Your Teen: Teens love a good discussion (emphasis on “good”). Ask them questions like, “What stood out to you the most?” or “What would you have done in that situation?” These conversations can bring the experience to life in a whole new way.
•Plan for Extra Time: The museum is huge, and it’s easy to lose track of time. Give yourself plenty of room to explore without feeling rushed.
Ready to Visit?
The National Museum of African American History and Culture isn’t just a museum—it’s an experience that leaves you changed. With interactive exhibits, powerful stories, and a chance to reflect, it’s an unforgettable day for families, especially those with teens.
For Children with Cognitive or Emotional Disabilities
NMAAHC has developed some nicely constructed pre-visit stories to help children with cognitive or emotional disabilities. I think all young children would benefit from reviewing these prior to visiting. They’re equipped with scenarios and photos of what they’ll see at the museum.
Here are the PDF versions straight from NMAAHC’s website:
Museum Events
NMAAHC hosts FABULOUS events from time to time. From community days and tours to story times and panel discussions, there’s always an element of learning about African American history and education in everything they host.
There are also ongoing tours & activities happening most days and multiple times a day. These tours are free with no reservation required. Tours are subject to docent availability; last minute cancellations may occur. Check in with the welcome desk for more info upon arrival.
Upcoming Kid-friendly Events
Here are their upcoming kid-friendly events you may be interested in:
- 1/26 at 11:00 am | Community Day: The People’s Holiday: A Love of Literacy
- In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King’s birthday, there will be a service project to make literacy packets for pre-readers across Washington, D.C.
- 2/1 at 10:30 am | NMAAHC Kids Story Time: Stacey’s Extrordinary Words (Best for ages 4-8)
- Learn about history-maker Stacey Abrams, read an interactive story about the power of words (Stacey’s Extraordinary Words by Stacey Abrams), play word games, and create affirmation word art.
- 2/15 at 10:30 am | NMAAHC Kids Story Time: The Way Champs Play (Best for ages 4-8)
- Learn about history-making Olympians, enjoy an interactive story, The Way Champs Play by tennis champion Naomi Osaka, play sport-inspired games, and celebrate your own accomplishments with a gold medal craft.
See all events at the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Recap: Celebrating Hip-Hop's 50th
A time was had! NMAAHC celebrated Hip-Hop’s 50th Anniversary in 2023 with free performances by Remy Ma and Rap Legend Queen Latifah. This museum block party allowed guests with timed tickets to visit the museum during extended hours and engage in art pop-ups like the one displayed at the top left of the video above.
Movie Screening Recap: Mufasa
Mufasa, the prequel to the 2019 version of The Lion King opened in theaters late 2024. We were invited to attend a special screening prior to opening day. We loved the hot chocolate bar and hors d’oeuvres including meatballs & mini grilled cheese dippers with tomato soup! The screening was held in the Oprah Winfrey Theater located on the concourse level. The movie was really interesting in that it detailed Mufasa’s rise to power. Fans of the original Lion King will appreciate the back story!
Food & Gifts
As Nikki mentioned, NMAAHC’s restaurant, Sweet Home Café is SO GOOD! Located on the Concourse level, it rivals the Mitsitam Native Foods Cafe of the National Museum of the American Indian for best Smithsonian Restaurant, in my humble opinion.
There’s entrées deemed “Agricultural South” like fried chicken, collard greens, mac & cheese and potato salad and options from the grill like the fish of the day and hot dogs!
When eating with family, meals can get a bit pricey. They range from $8 for a side – $22 for a meat (fried or baked chicken) and two sides. The meal pictured below was $37 for the fried chicken plate, two sides, bread pudding and a bottled water.
Seating in the dining hall is on a first-come, first-served walk in basis. No reservations are accepted.
Sweet Home Café is open from 11:00 am – 3:00 pm on the days the museum is open to the public.
Read more info about Sweet Home Café.
The Museum Store has a wide variety of books ranging from baby board books to novels, autobiographies and even cookbooks. Many are from well-known authors and some are from local DMV authors too. There’s also clothing, small gifts and merchandise related to the exhibits.
I really appreciate the range in price points; you can find items from $2 – $50+!
It’s located on level 1 across from the welcome desk. There’s also a mini shop on L3 with merchandise that relates to the exhibits within the Community Galleries.
You do not need timed tickets to visit the museum shop or café. Visit the welcome desk for a Dine and Shop Pass for the day.
Thank you for reading through our guide to The National Museum of African American History and Culture. I hope it was helpful in planning your own trip to the museum. We enjoy visiting NMAAHC throughout the year for special events and exhibit openings so stay tuned for updates. Tap the link below to visit their official website.
