Celebrate Black History Month Around DC With Events, Museums, Movies, More
History talks, movies, performances and more throughout this important month
By NBC Washington staff ••
February is Black History Month, a time to highlight the stories, history and culture of the African diaspora. Whether you want to catch an innovative performance, visit a historic site or dive in deep to a historic talk, we've got you covered.
Here are ways you can partake throughout the D.C. area.
Take in music, theater or dance
Urban Bush Women Dance Place 3225 8th St. NE Feb. 16 and 17
Urban Bush Women explore perceptions of beauty, identity and race at this performance featuring music, history and dance. You can enjoy the opening night party on Feb. 16 at 6:30 ahead of the 8 p.m. performance ($25 to $100). There will be an encore performance on Sunday, Feb. 17.
Scurlock Studio Records, Archives Center, National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution
NMAH Archives CenternScurlock Studio Recordsn0618nSeries 4: Black & White NegativesnFreezer box 8, Envelope 2nAlso shows signs for Lucky Millinder's Stage Revue.nNo ink on negative. Defender Safety Base.
Scurlock Studio Records, Archives Center, National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution
Dancers at Crystal Caverns on U Street NW in 1932.
Scurlock Studio Records, Archives Center, National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution
The second annual banquet for the Rajah Club was held at the Whitelaw Hotel on 13th Street NW in 1930. The Whitelaw was one of several hotels that served African Americans during that time.
Scurlock Studio Records, Archives Center, National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution
Musicians at Crystal Caverns on U Street NW in 1932.
The Republic Theatre was located in the heart of U Street. It was later demolished to make room for the Metro system.
Scurlock Studio Records, Archives Center, National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution
The Republic Theatre in 1937.
Scurlock Studio Records, Archives Center, National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution
A publicity stunt in front of the Republic Theater on U Street in the 1940s.
Scurlock Studio Records, Archives Center, National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution
The corner of 14th and U in the 1950s.
Scurlock Studio Records, Archives Center, National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution
The Dunbar Hotel was located on the corner of 15th and U streets NW. The hotel was one of several that served African Americans. Today, it is an apartment complex.
Scurlock Studio Records, Archives Center, National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution
A group of newsboys and men pose with a sign featuring Cab Calloway's name in front of the Howard Theatre on U Street in 1936.
Celebrate black artists through film
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This Northeast movie theatre is highlighting black artists' films. Head to Angelika on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. to catch films in the series Black is the New Black.
Feb. 13 — "Do the Right Thing"
Feb. 20 — "Poetic Justice"
Feb. 27 —"The Color Purple"
DC Public Library Black Film Festival
Screenings of a number of new releases and classics go on this month. The Woodbridge Public Library will host a family-friendly film each Friday at 4 p.m.
Feb. 12, 6 p.m. — "BlacKkKlansman" at Georgetown Public Library
Feb. 19, 6 p.m. — "Chi-Raq" at the Tenley-Friendship Library
Feb. 28, 6 p.m. — "Their Eyes Were Watching God" at West End Library
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There are so many free and cheap things to do around the District.
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The cherry blossoms won't be back until spring, but the Tidal Basin is a beautiful walk any time of year. Do a loop around the water and you'll see the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial and the Thomas Jefferson Memorial.
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You can bike, run or stroll through the lilies at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, where you'll spot marsh birds, lily pads and some gorgeous flowers. It's a National Park and free to visit.
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Summer and fall are outdoor movie season in D.C. Here's a roundup of the summer movies.
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Swing on the pier, attend an event stroll along the water or browse D.C.'s fish market at the waterfront development in Southwest.
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More than 400,000 former service men and women are laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery. Any day of the year, the public is welcome to visit the site. President John F. Kennedy's grave is there, marked by an Eternal Flame. You can also visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and witness the ceremonial changing of the guards at least every hour.
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In the middle of the Potomac River, you’ll find a park that feels miles away from a city. Head to the middle and you’ll find one of D.C.’s less obvious monuments, the Teddy Roosevelt memorial.
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A number of senators, representatives and even the legendary first FBI director J. Edgar Hoover were buried in the cemetery.
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When it gets chilly outside, the U.S. Botanic Garden stays balmy and green. Explore a tropical rainforest, a reconstructed Jurassic landscape, rare and endangered species, orchids and more.
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Housed in a gorgeous building, the National Museum of Women in the Arts highlights the works of female artists. Usually, an adult ticket costs $10 (free if you’re under 18). On the first Sunday of each month, the museum hosts a community day and admission is free.
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The Freer|Sackler galleries display Asian art and artifacts. As with all Smithsonian museums, it's free to visit. The museum also hosts film screenings featuring classic and new movies.
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D.C.’s Union Market features a handful of places to eat, drink and shop. The hub includes more than 40 vendors and hosts events throughout the week. The market is open to the public from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. during the week and from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekends. It's closed on Mondays.
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From the Potomac River to 14th Street, you'll find monuments to America's greatest leaders and largest wars. The Washington Monument, which is closed for construction but still viewable from the outside, marks the eastern edge. Walk west and you'll find the epic World War II memorial, where you can snap a picture with the pillar representing your state. The D.C. War Memorial, somber Vietnam Veterans Memorial, haunting Korean War Veterans Memorial and some smaller monuments are found on either side of the Reflecting Pool. The imposing Lincoln Memorial towers over the western edge. You'll find other monuments circling the Tidal Basin, just south of the Reflecting Pool.
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Hang out and marvel at the towering columns at the National Building Museum's Great Hall. If you have children, the open grounds provide plenty of room for playtime.
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Situated near Dupont Circle, but a few blocks away from the rush of Connecticut Avenue, the curved Spanish Steps make for a perfect post-brunch walk.
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Celebrate and learn about the contributions of African Americans through artifacts, interactive exhibits and events at the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
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D.C. can seriously accommodate beer lovers. You can find free tours at 3 Stars Brewing Company, DC Brau, Right Proper Brewing Company and Atlas Brew Works. (Looking for fun stuff outside of the city? See our guides for Northern Virginia here and for Maryland here)
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Retrace the steps of Nicholas Cage -- but don’t steal the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, Bill of Rights or any of the other historical documents. The museum is open daily and is free.
This not-so-secret corner of Rock Creek Park is where hundreds of pounds of stones that used to make up America's Capitol Building have been dumped. You can still see some intricate designs. It's near the Rock Creek Park Horse Center — hunt for the Capitol Ruins on Google Maps for an exact location. (Looking for fun stuff outside of the city? See our guides for Northern Virginia here and for Maryland here)
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Rangers offer free guided tours daily of the home of one of history’s most tireless activists. Frederick Douglass lived the last 17 years of his life at Cedar Hill, a now-historic D.C. home.
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This haunting and unique statue offers a place to honor the thousands of of men who lost their lives when the Titanic sank.
This lesser-known memorial outside the National Academy of Sciences honors Einstein and his greatest contributions to physics. Look down and you'll see the skies: the floor is doubles as a star map!
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Eastern Market (225 7th Street SE) is a farmer's market, bazaar and upscale food court all rolled into one. Inside, a number of restaurants sell crab cakes, groceries, freshly cut meats and more. Vendors outside sell unique soaps, clothing, decor and art. You'll find the market open Tuesdays through Sundays. On Sundays, a bustling flea market sets up on 7th Street SE. Across C street, Capitol Hill Books (657 C St. SE) is packed to the gills with literary treasures (and hilariously tongue-in-cheek signage).
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D.C. boasts a robust distillery scene, which one booze-maker said is because it’s the only city in America where you can make and serve alcohol in the same establishment. If you’re in Northeast, Jos. A Magnus & Co., Republic Restoratives and New Columbia Distillers offer free tours, usually on Saturdays. Check with the distillery before heading over.
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Stroll (or bike, if you’re comfortable in traffic) down Massachusetts Avenue from Woodley Park through Dupont Circle, and you’ll pass embassies from every continent. Try to guess the flags as you pass. Each May, they open their doors to the public for free.
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Museums suited to every interest line the National Mall — and all of the Smithsonians are free to visit. The Smithsonian Castle serves as the visitor's center. The Air and Space Museum showcases spacecraft from the Wright era to the space age. For art, check out the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, the National Gallery of Art and the Freer Sackler gallery. History buffs will love the American History Museum, Natural History Museum, National Museum of the American Indian and the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
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You’ve heard the tale: In 1804, Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton entered into a duel that ended in Hamilton’s death. Now, you can see the firearms for yourself among letters and portraits detailing the remarkable life of the former Secretary of the Treasury.
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The Basilica of the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception (400 Michigan Ave. NE) may be D.C.'s most underrated tourist spot. Right off the Brookland station on the Red Line sits one of the 10 largest churches in the world, according to the Basilica's website. If you visit, tour the outside and the lower crypt. But do not miss the upper church, where the ceilings are covered in intricate murals.
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No trip to D.C. is complete without a half-smoke, and the original is housed at Ben’s Chili Bowl. Adorned with a mural celebrating African-Americans legends including The Obamas, Dave Chappelle, Dick Gregory, Mayor Muriel Bowser, News4's own Jim Vance, Chuck Brown's daughter, Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton and Cora Masters Barry. Chili dogs start at $4.40; the Original Chili Half-Smoke is $5.95.
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From the Capitol's old Corinthian columns to photography classes to an azalea collection, the arboretum has more to see than just trees — and yes, it's free.
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D.C.'s Chinatown is small and always bustling. At the intersection of 7th and G streets Northwest, the Friendship Archway and decorated 6-way crossing make great photo opportunities. Stop and listen to the buskers playing music or singing throughout the neighborhood. If you're hunting for Asian flavors, Chinatown Express offers a $6.95 lunch special where you watch the chefs make food. Wok and Roll, China Boy, Penny Whisky and Reren Lamen & Bar are neighborhood favorites. If you like ramen, Daikaya is well-loved among locals and Bantam King serves up tasty bowls alongside fried chicken.
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Watch millions of dollars make their way through the printing press at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. Free, 40-minute tours are offered year round, but you’ll need a ticket from March 5 to Aug. 21.
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This church-turned-brilliantly colored art space hosts several free events a month (with cash bars, of course) and gallery viewings on Saturdays and Sundays. It was formerly called the Blind Whino.
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The Highlights Tour allows you to explore the details of the Cathedral's dramatic art and architecture with a guided tour tailored for first-time visitors. Reservations not required for individuals or families, and the tour is free with admission into the church. You can also look on from the outside, where you can see some very unique architectural flair.
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At the Anderson House, a free museum that focuses on all things related to the American Revolution, you'll find antique tapestries, sculptures, portraits and more.
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AFI Silver Theater has plenty of unique choices. The center has two stadium theaters and numerous events. If you’re looking for a movie that hasn’t been in theaters for a while, or a screening of a classic flick, this could be the place where you find it. Ticket prices vary.
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D.C.’s free zoo is one of the world’s best.
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With two locations open and another coming soon, one of D.C.'s favorite independent bookstore offers more than paperbacks and hardcovers. Many of the stores’ guest speaker events are free, but you can also stop by to pick up a new release or grab coffee and a snack at The Den coffeehouse and wine bar (Connecticut Avenue location only).
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You can scope out the architecture or, if you get there early, watch the judges hear a case. The Supreme Court does not offer guided walking tours, but you can visit public portions of the building.
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The Embassy of Canada Art Gallery is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is free to the public. Murals, paintings and more with Canadian ties are on display. The gallery rotates its exhibits, so you’ll be able to visit twice and see different works.
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Whether you’re looking for breakfast, dinner or somewhere to see a show, H Street has plenty of options. You can head to Dangerously Delicious Pies for a delectable slice, Bullfrog Bagels for a New York-style bagel or Granville Moore’s for mussels and other pub-type food. There are performances to see at the Atlas Performing Arts Center and live shows at the Rock and Roll Hotel. On Sept. 15, 2018, the streets will be full for the H Street festival, the biggest neighborhood celebration in D.C.
If you have a plane-lover in your group, head to Gravelly Point for a picnic and skywatching.
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Contact your representative for a tour inside the Capitol, a massive complex connected by underground tunnels. The Supreme Court is nearby, and the neighborhood has colorful homes and the Folger Shakespeare Library, which says it features the world's largest Shakespeare collection, gardens, art and more. Admission is free, but shows are not.
D.C.'s natural oasis boasts hiking trails, picnic areas and more to explore. Space-lovers should make sure to check out the planetarium, which hosts programs on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday.
Stroll near the waterfront, sip coffee in some of D.C.'s favorite caffeine stops, window shop or just soak in the quaint architecture. Hoof it through the hilly Book Hill Park (1500-1600 blocks of Wisconsin Avenue NW) for incredible views.
D.C. is among the fittest cities in America, possibly because of the bounty of free workout classes. You can find lists of free workouts on Fitverse or The November Project.
There are dozens of talks daily on art, international politics, the environment, history and any other topic you can think of in the city. Most of them are hosted by museums, think tanks and nonprofits for free. CultureCapital.com curates a large list, and you can also check in with major organizations that cater to your interests, including the CATO Institute, Heritage Foundation, Brookings Institute and the Smithsonian.
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Capital Bikeshare Rentals start at $2 for an hour of rides, and new dockless bikeshare companies start at $1 per ride. Wear a helmet and cruise one of the city’s many bike lanes, or head over to Rock Creek Park for a dose of nature.
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Music lovers can go for the free daily performances, but anyone can enjoy the roof deck overlooking the Potomac River.
Free, one-hour walking tours are offered regularly Monday through Friday. With a valid, official ID card, you can sign up for a library card which allows you to access special reading rooms.
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Hit up two museums in one building at the National Portrait Gallery — home to the presidential portrait hall —and Smithsonian American Art Museum, which hosts treasures ranging from gorgeous landscape paintings to mesmerizing folk art.
African American Passages: Black Lives in 19th Century America Library of Congress' Kluge Center 10 1st St. SE Feb. 21, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Georgetown history professor Adam Rothman discusses what he's learned from an archive of personal stories from African-Americans during slavery, emancipation and reconstruction. Rothman will cover both well-known figures like Federick Douglass and lesser-known writers.
Libraries throughout the city will host a number of events, ranging from talks on genealogy to book discussions to a film festival.
A few highlights include a meet-and-greet with Simba Sana, the local author behind "Never Stop," "Getting Started: African American Genealogy and DNA Testing," a party at Deanwood Library, Black History Jeopardy and more.
Michelle VanTine
The Old Lucketts Store is home to find all kinds of antiques and other vintage finds. The shop also hosts various seasonal events, including its monthly flea market and Design House, which is an interior design showcase offering everything for sale. The next one is the most popular Design House: the Lucketts Holiday Open House & Winter Market coming up Nov. 9-11, and the store is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
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Whether it’s an animated classic like "The Lion King" or a popular blockbuster like "Guardians of the Galaxy," Northern Virginia has a free outdoor movie lineup for anyone. Check out our fall 2018 outdoor movie guide for schedules at locations ranging from Rosslyn to the Smithsonian Air & Space Museum's Udvar-Hazy Center.
Workhouse Arts Center
Take a free tai chi class, visit galleries or go on the Second Saturday Art Walk at the Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton. Admission to the artist studios, galleries and museum are free. The center is open Wednesdays through Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m.
Arlington County Department of Parks and Recreation
Stop to smell the roses at Arlington's Bon Air Park Memorial Rose Garden, which also features azaleas and ornamental tree gardens along beautiful walking paths. The park's recreational facilities include basketball courts and playgrounds, though the courts are closed due to storm damage.
Fairfax County Park Authority
Tickets for mini-golf at Burke Lake Park in Fairfax County are $7 for adults on weekdays and $8 on weekends, while tickets for youth and seniors are $6 on weekdays and $7 on weekends. If you don't want to spend time on the mini-golf course, the park also has a lake suitable for fishing, a carousel that costs $2 on weekdays and $3 on weekends, and reservable picnic areas.
Port City Brewing Company
For just $12, you can take a tour of Port City Brewing Company and try some of their fresh beer on tap. The visit also includes a trip to the tasting room, which houses the brewery's new and seasonal beers. Public tours are available at various times from Thursday to Sunday. See the schedule and make a reservation here.
John Houston
Plan a day trip to take a five-hour hike on the White Oak Canyon and Cedar Run trails in Shenandoah National Park. The hike includes five major waterfalls and several cascades and pools in case you're in the mood to enjoy a natural water slide.
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Every Sunday at 12:30 p.m., a chapter of the battle gaming group Amtgard spars in a Live-Action Role Play (LARP) battle in Jones Point Park in Alexandria. If you're not down to suit up for "war," no worries. The park has playgrounds for kids, a canoe launch and two fishing piers for catching catfish, bass and eels.
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Great Falls Park has 10 trails with hiking difficulty levels ranging from easy to hard. Some trails permit biking and horseback riding, and others have picnic tables available in case you need to catch your breath or have a bite.
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You can savor an award-winning British-style baked good without hopping on a plane. The Pasty Pure Pasty Company in Vienna is home to an award-winning Cornish pasty after a victory at the World Pasty Championships in March. Their unconventional recipe included pulled barbecue chicken, sweet potato, red pepper, sweet corn and pineapple. The shop is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday and Monday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday.
Cordilia James
The Block in Annandale offers a fun and affordable food hall experience complete with Hawaiian-inspired poke, authentic Thai street food, Taiwan-inspired desserts and more.
Jodi Premack
Northern Virginia has all kinds of trails that are perfect for biking or taking a walk. The W&OD is a 45-mile route from Shirlington to Purcellville and includes a 32-mile horse trail for equestrians. Other popular trails include the Mount Vernon Trail, the Martha Custis Trail, and the Four Mile Run trail, with some of them meeting up at different points so you can plot your own route.
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Attend a minor-league team to save some bucks but still get out to a ballgame. The Potomac Nationals play in Woodbridge. Promotions and special events include a Tanner Roark bobblehead and Kids Run the Bases.
Ja'Mon Jackson
Meet resident artists, visit an exhibit filled with artificial light and browse original work at the Torpedo Factory Art Center in Old Town Alexandria. This free art center is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, except on Thursdays when it is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Nova Parks
Pohick Bay Regional Park in Lorton is a great place for all kinds of outdoor activities, whether it's camping, fishing or boating. The park also includes the Pirate's Cove Waterpark, with two water slides and a 500-gallon dumping water bucket. Daily tickets to the waterpark cost $8.75 per person or less.
Alan B. Frank
Eden Center in Falls Church is the place to go for authentic Vietnamese dishes and cultural events in the DMV. While there's plenty to explore for any budget, if you're looking for wallet-friendly options, go for bubble tea at spots such as Huong Binh Bakery & Deli or munch on bánh mì at Nhu Lan Sandwich Shop. You'll find more than a hundred businesses to browse. The center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. You'll also find free events and seasonal festivals periodically.
Erica Jones
Alexandria offers all kinds of tours to get you excited about Old Town history. Take the Original Ghost and Graveyard Tour for a scare or a historic tour for a learning opportunity. From murals to historic breweries, there are plenty of Instagram-worthy sights to see.
Arlington County Department of Parks and Recreation
Bluemont Park in Arlington is the place to go if you’re looking for somewhere to brush up on your sporting skills. The park is equipped with volleyball, tennis and basketball courts, grass fields for soccer, lacrosse or football and even a disc golf course.
Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum
Take a ride in simulators, watch an outdoor movie and explore an eye-popping array of historic aircraft, as well as the space shuttle Discovery. The center is open from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily. Admission is free. Parking is $15 before 4 p.m., but free after 4 p.m.
Erica Jones
Old Town Alexandria is the oldest continuous farmers' market in the country and runs every Saturday from 7 a.m. to noon yearround. If you can’t make it to King Street, visit Crystal City, Rosslyn and Ballston for other farmers' markets that last through the fall season. Then head home to whip up an affordable DIY feast.
Abolitionist and freed slave Frederick Douglass lived his last 17 years in Washington, D.C. and the National Park Service preserves his legacy at this historic site. You can go inside the home on a free guided tour — Reservations are recommended.
On Feb. 16 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., the site will celebrate Douglass' birthday with a commemorative ceremony, oratory contest and neighborhood walking tour.
This month, the museum opens a retrospective into the work of D.C.-based artist Quest Skinner.
Scurlock Studio Records, Archives Center, National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution
NMAH Archives CenternScurlock Studio Recordsn0618nSeries 4: Black & White NegativesnFreezer box 8, Envelope 2nAlso shows signs for Lucky Millinder's Stage Revue.nNo ink on negative. Defender Safety Base.
Scurlock Studio Records, Archives Center, National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution
Dancers at Crystal Caverns on U Street NW in 1932.
Scurlock Studio Records, Archives Center, National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution
The second annual banquet for the Rajah Club was held at the Whitelaw Hotel on 13th Street NW in 1930. The Whitelaw was one of several hotels that served African Americans during that time.
Scurlock Studio Records, Archives Center, National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution
Musicians at Crystal Caverns on U Street NW in 1932.
The Republic Theatre was located in the heart of U Street. It was later demolished to make room for the Metro system.
Scurlock Studio Records, Archives Center, National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution
The Republic Theatre in 1937.
Scurlock Studio Records, Archives Center, National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution
A publicity stunt in front of the Republic Theater on U Street in the 1940s.
Scurlock Studio Records, Archives Center, National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution
The corner of 14th and U in the 1950s.
Scurlock Studio Records, Archives Center, National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution
The Dunbar Hotel was located on the corner of 15th and U streets NW. The hotel was one of several that served African Americans. Today, it is an apartment complex.
Scurlock Studio Records, Archives Center, National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution
A group of newsboys and men pose with a sign featuring Cab Calloway's name in front of the Howard Theatre on U Street in 1936.
Walk through the most momentous eras of black history in America, where you can learn about the heartbreak of slavery, segregation and movements since the 1960s. Passes are no longer required for weekday visits in February.
National Harbor/Historic Ships in Baltimore/Marketa Eberyt
There are many free and cheap things to enjoy in Maryland.
National Cryptologic Museum
The National Cryptologic Museum in Annapolis details the extensive role of cryptology throughout American history. The museum holds a collection of artifacts machines and devices from the National Security Agency. Admission is free.
Brian Belanger
The National Capital Radio and Television Museum in Bowie holds a wide collection of vintage radio receivers. Visitors can learn about the history of radio and television from its early days to the present with free admission. The museum is open on weekends only.
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Bring your friends and family to Summer Fridays at National Harbor every Friday at 4 p.m. and play games including giant Jenga, Connect Four and cornhole. Check out performances at Bobby McKey's, a dueling piano bar, or check out the dance floor with the DJ spinning summer jams.
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It was the victory at Fort McHenry during the Battle of Baltimore that inspired the lyrics for the Star-Spangled Banner. You can get an immersive Civil War-Era experience will self-guided tours around the fort and planned events throughout the year. There is a $15 entrance fee for adults which gives you access for 7 days.
Chesapeake & Ohio Canal
Maryland has many scenic trails to bike and walk through, including the Billy Goat Trail, which stretches along the Potomac River and is divided into three sections. You can choose from a challenging rock scramble or a more even path, or try all three. Check out trail hours and safety warnings before going. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has an interactive map so you can find a trail near you.
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The visitor center offers a glimpse into NASA’s innovative work in Earth science, astrophysics, planetary science, engineering and all the other work they do. Visits are free of charge and available all week except Monday’s. The visitor’s center is located in Greenbelt, Maryland and accessible by metro.
Scott Frances
Visit the contemporary art and outdoor sculptures in the Glenstone Museum in Potomac. The former foxhunting-turned-art-deco estate is a great experience for any art connoisseur. Admission is free.
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Visit the historical Georgian mansion in Annapolis owned by William Paca, the third governor of Maryland which features two acres of geometrically designed gardens. Admission is $5-$10.
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Hike, jog or picnic at Great Falls and look at the waterfalls rushing downstream. Vehicle permits are $10; individual passes are $5.
Maryland Historical Trust
At the Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum in Baltimore, learn about the African-American abolitionist and scientist in the late 18th century. Check out the 142 acres of exhibitions, trails and cabins dedicated to the scientific legacy of Benjamin Banneker.
There are several different byways to travel along throughout Maryland and D.C. You can retrace the escape route of John Wilkes Booth as he fled D.C., or walk along the route where several battles of the War of 1812 took place. There are tons of historic and scenic options to choose from.
Kaylor G
The museum has more than 7,000 works, including paintings and sculptures. It is located in Hagerstown’s historic City Park. The museum’s collections span centuries and continents featuring modern works from America and European old master paintings.
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Learn about the state capitol building where George Washington ratified the Treaty of Paris through a guided tour or a self-guided tour of the Maryland State House in Annapolis. Now the building serves the Maryland General Assembly for three months each year.
Thoughout February, Lyft is offering free rides worth up to $10 to or from three D.C.-area museums that celebrate black history: the Alexandria Black History Museum, the Anacostia Community Museum and National Museum of African American History and Culture.
There's a limit of one ride per customer. More details and the full list of participating cities, including Richmond and Baltimore, are available here.
