Washington D.C. is rich with Black history, and filled with landmarks that honor the various cultural contributions Black Americans have made in the areas of art, activism, education, and so much more. They tell the stories of resilience, creative excellence, and the power of our community. As a DC native, I grew up visiting some of these sites, and learned about their deep historical significance. While places like the National Museum of African American History & Culture (NMAAHC) and The Frederick Douglass National Site are well known, others are hidden gems. Whether you are familiar with the city, visiting, or just getting to know your way around it, here are six lesser-known Black history landmarks to explore in the nation’s capital.
1. Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site
Located in the historic Logan Circle neighborhood, this site was the home of educator and civil rights leader Mary McLeod Bethune. As the founder of the National Council of Negro Women, Bethune’s residence became a cultural hub for advocacy and activism. The house preserves her legacy, offers insight into her influential role in shaping American history. There is also a Mary McLeod Bethune memorial in Lincoln Park, which is the first monument of both an African American and a woman in a public park in the nation’s capital. Most recently, the National Park Service just celebrated Bethune’s 150th birthday on July 12, 2025. Plan a guided tour of this historic home by clicking here…