African-American heritage across the US
A growing awareness of the contributions of African-Americans to US heritage has had a big impact on travel. Suddenly, practically every city and town is telling the world - through brochures, booklets, maps, and websites - about its special African-American attractions. These range from places that played a key role in the days of slavery to sites connected to civil rights movement activities.
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Here's a tiny sampling of what's available. Contact state visitors' bureaus for a fuller list.
Statewide
"Alabama's Black Heritage" booklet lists hundreds of sites across the state, by county.
1-800-Alabama www.touralabama.org
Florence
Birthplace of music legend W.C. Handy; week-long jazz and blues festival celebrates his legacy.
1-888-FLOTOUR; www.flo-tour.org; www.wchandymusicfestival.org
Montgomery
Many places connected with the civil rights movement, including the Rosa Parks Museum. Also, the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site.
1-800-261-1100
Macon
Tubman African-American Museum
(478) 743-8544
Junction City, Leavenworth
Buffalo Soldier exhibits and monuments. The famed all-black cavalry unit fought in the Civil War.
Nicodemus
The only remaining all-black town west of the Mississippi is a National Historic Site. The Nicodemus Emancipation Celebration each July includes Buffalo Soldier reenactors.
Wichita
Kansas African-American Museum,
(316) 262-7651
Lafayette and Lake Charles
A brochure, "The Soul of Southwest Louisiana," guides visitors to African-American sites.
1-800-456-SWLA
Statewide
A brochure, "Explore New York State's Diversity," includes a list of African-American events.
1-800-225-5697; www.iloveny.com
New York City
Harlem spiritual gospel and jazz tours
(212) 391-0900
Westchester County
African-American Heritage Trail
1-800-833-9282
Statewide
"The Rich Black Heritage of African-Americans in North Carolina," a booklet, details activities, events, and celebrations commemorating the accomplishments of black citizens.
1-800-VISITNC
Durham
28 sites (including "black Wall Street") and five music and arts festivals.
