Introduction to the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture

🗓️ February 6, 2026

✍🏾 Alia Holliday

The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) in Washington, DC, is a museum that is focused on honoring African American history and culture. Located on the National Mall, NMAAHC opened in 2016 with a ceremony by President Barack Obama. It has garnered visitors from all over the world who seek an immersive experience of African American history.

What You Need to Know

Entry to NMAAHC is free, but visitors still need an entry ticket with a reserved time slot, especially if you are visiting over the weekend. These tickets can be found on NMAAHC's website. Except for Mondays, the museum is open every day of the week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. On Mondays, their operating hours are from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Upon entry, the museum has five floors above ground and a below-ground section with concourse levels zero through three.

Inside, visitors will find exhibits that tell real stories in African American history. Every exhibit in NMAAHC emphasizes that African Americans sit at the very center of American history. From walking through segregated railway cars to shackles designed for enslaved children, visitors are not just observing history, they are personally engaging with it. The experience at the museum is nothing short of immersive and emotional, and all of its visitors are encouraged to reflect on how the past connects to the present.

Upcoming Events

This February, NMAAHC is offering a full calendar of events that celebrate Black History Month. Visiting during Black History Month offers a chance to experience the museum not just as a space to observe history, but as a place where African American history is simultaneously remembered and honored. 

There are guided highlight tours that explore major exhibitions such as the “Defending Freedom, Defining Freedom” experience on Feb. 9 from 12:45 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. In addition to tours, the museum will also host special events such as “Historic Change: Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Althea Gibson” on Feb. 21 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. 

Planning Your Visit

NMAAHC has many events to offer on their website, from a range of dates and times, making their programs easy to attend even with a busy schedule. The museum is about a 17-minute drive from Howard University’s campus and is accessible by public transportation. In your planning, carve out enough time for you to intentionally engage with the exhibits in NMAAHC and even visit their Sweet Home Cafe for a pick-me-up.

This Black History Month, be sure to check the upcoming events, reserve your free entry ticket, and plan your visit so you can experience the powerful history inside the National Museum of African American History and Culture.