Top Family Winter Break Destinations with Ties to Black History

As the first semester of the school year comes to an end, it’s time to start planning winter vacation for the kids. Instead of the usual destinations, why not consider exploring places that have strong connections to Black history? These family-friendly winter break destinations offer a unique opportunity to dive into Black cultural travel experiences and learn more about the beauty and diversity of Black culture. Here are some top picks:

1. New York City, NYC

New York City, also known as the Big Apple, has long been a hub for Black culture. From the birthplace of hip-hop in the Bronx to Harlem’s iconic Apollo Theatre, there is no shortage of historical and cultural landmarks to explore. Visit the Louis Armstrong House and the African Burial Ground National Monument for a deeper understanding of Black history. Don’t miss the vibrant Little Caribbean neighborhood in Brooklyn for a taste of the islands, or DJ Kool’s House in the Bronx for a dose of hip-hop history.

2. Memphis, TN

Memphis is a city rich in connections to Black culture, particularly in the realms of music and civil rights. Attend a service at First Baptist Beale Street Church, the city’s oldest African-American congregation, which served as a shelter for freedmen during the Civil War. Explore the Memphis Heritage Trail, Tom Lee Park, and Civil Rights Trails for breathtaking nature views intertwined with Black historical significance. Remember to visit the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel, the site where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated.

3. Boston, MA

Boston may not be the first city that comes to mind when thinking about Black history, but it offers a wealth of educational opportunities. Follow the Boston Black Heritage Trail, a 1.6-mile trail that connects 15 historical sites in Beacon Hill. Along the trail, you’ll discover significant landmarks like the Abiel Smith School, the first building dedicated to educating Black Americans, and a historic barbershop that served as a safe meeting place for those on the Underground Railroad. Don’t miss the chance to visit the oldest house built by an African American.

4. Detroit, MI

Detroit, known by various nicknames like the Dirty D and Motor City, has a vibrant connection to Black history. Make sure to visit the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History to deepen your understanding of African American heritage. Music lovers should not miss the Motown Museum, where you can take a guided tour of the legendary record label’s original building. Other must-visit sites include the African Bead Museum, the Hermitage Slave Quarters, and the Second Baptist Church, all of which offer insights into the city’s history and its ties to the Underground Railroad.