Black History Month: Where to Experience History & Culture
Black history isn’t something we only reflect on during the month of February, it’s something we experience, every day, in this city. Washington, DC is layered with stories of resilience, creativity, activism, and joy, and Black History Month is the perfect moment to engage more deeply with the places that honor and amplify those stories. There’s iconic landmarks and living cultural spaces here that provide meaningful ways to connect with Black history and culture across the District.Where to Go for History & CultureBlack Broadway Walking TourExplore the U Street Corridor, once known as Black Broadway, and uncover the stories of legendary musicians, theaters, businesses, and community leaders who shaped DC’s cultural identity.Go-Go MuseumA love letter to DC’s homegrown sound, the Go-Go Museum celebrates the music, artists, and community that made Go-Go a cultural force and a living tradition.Howard TheatreA historic stage that has welcomed icons from Duke Ellington to Ella Fitzgerald, the Howard Theatre remains a cornerstone of Black performance and culture in DC.Martin Luther King Jr. MemorialA powerful space honoring Dr. King’s legacy, words, and enduring call for justice, equality, and service.National Museum of African American History and CultureA deeply moving journey through African American history, culture, and contributions — from slavery to the present day — told with care, honesty, and pride.Chez Joey (at Arena Stage)A vibrant theatrical production exploring Black identity, storytelling, and lived experience through a contemporary lens — proof that Black history is also unfolding in real time. Feeding Us Deliciously - Black-Owned Restaurants & Chefs in the DMVBlack history in DC doesn’t live only in museums and monuments, it lives at the table. The city’s Black chefs, restaurateurs, bakers, and beverage pros continue to nourish us and tell stories through food every single day. From soulful comfort classics to boundary-pushing fine dining these are thekitchens shaping how DC eats now:ANJU: With Chef Angel Barreto behind the stove, ANJU blends Korean technique. Ben’s Chili Bowl: The OG of OGs, a DC institution serving half-smokes & history.Cane: Chef Jeanine Prime brings Trinidadian cooking to DCThe Continent: A longtime destination for Pan-African flavors & nightlife.DCity Smokehouse: Craft barbecue of smoked meats.Doro Soul Food: American soul food layered with Ethiopian flavors.Dogon: Chef Kwame Onwuachi brings another award-winning concept to DC, stories through an Afro-Caribbean lens.Dukem Ethiopian: A cornerstone of DC’s Ethiopian dining scene, known for generous platters.EATOPIA Eatery: Art-forward restaurant offering authentic, high-quality Ethiopian cuisine.Elmina: Ghanaian flavors take center stage under Chef Eric Adjepong.ETHIOPIC: Elevated Ethiopian cuisine in a refined settingFish Scale: A sustainable seafood restaurant in Shaw, owned and operated by siblings Brandon Williams and Kristal Williams.Florida Avenue Grill: Open since 1944, this diner serves large portions of down-home Southern classics.Hedzole: Chef Candice Mensah’s fast-casual spot specializing in Ghanaian and West African cuisine.Marcus by Marcus Samuelsson: Led by Chef Anthony Jones, blending American cuisine with African and Black culinary traditions.Makers Union: A modern gathering place with global influences.Melange: Home to one of DC’s best burgers, courtesy of Chef Elias Taddesse.Milk & Honey Café: Neighborhood café serving comforting classics from breakfast through dinner.MLK Deli: A community staple, owner Tyrone White is known for comfort food and generous portions.Mr Bake Sweets: Kareem (Mr. Bake) Queeman delivers sweet treats around the DMVNegril the Jamaican Eatery: Known for authentic island favorites like curry chicken, oxtail, and their signature Jamaican pattiesNuVegan Café: A plant-based café spotlighting vegan comfort food through a Black culinary lens.Hen Quarter Prime: Southern restaurant in DC’s Buzzard Point.Oohh’s & Aahh’s: Iconic soul food institution owned and operated by Chef Oji Abbott.Park at 14th: A longtime destination for elevated cocktails and late-night energy.Prim's Cafe: Brand-new woman-owned third space in ShawSankofa Video Books & Café: A cultural hub where food, books, film, and Black history intersect. Founded in 1997-1998 by filmmakers Shirikiana and Haile Gerima.St. James: Another Jeanine Prime concept featuring modern Caribbean cuisine with a lively vibe.Sost: Restaurant, café and speakeasy experience where the Black and African Diaspora thrive via music and food.Sweet Home Café: A celebration of the African diaspora, located within the National Museum of African American History and Culture.Vibe Restaurant: A dining and nightlife destination blending global flavors with DJ-driven energy.Willow Song: Chef Jeffrey Williams brings thoughtful cooking rooted in storytelling. Black History Month is both a moment of reflection and a call to action. This month — and always — let’s keep learning, supporting, and honoring the stories that make this city what it is.