CELEBRATE THE AFRICAN-AMERICAN EXPERIENCE IN DC
From the scholars, artists and activists that strolled the streets of yesterday’s “Black Broadway” to the many black business owners, political figures and opinion leaders that live, work and play in the city today, Washington, DC has proven itself to be a city welcoming to African-Americans. And with the arrival of President Barack Obama to the White House, DC’s spot as a black power capital has been secured. From dining and nightlife to sports, history and art, DC is home to many sites and attractions that are of special interest to black visitors, and there are more to come in the future. Here are a few to keep on your radar:

The Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial – opening August 28, 2011
In late October 2009, the National Capital Planning Commission gave final approval to a new security configuration, clearing the way for construction to begin on the memorial. It will be the first major memorial along the National Mall to be dedicated to a person of color, and to a non-president. The structure will commemorate the life and work of Dr. King, honoring his contributions to international world peace through non-violent social change. The design features include a crescent-shaped-stone wall inscribed with excerpts of Dr. King’s sermons and public addresses, as well as a 30-foot likeness of Dr. King as the centerpiece. The memorial will be dedicated on August 28, 2011, the 48th anniversary of King’s “I Have a Dream” speech.

The Anacostia Neighborhood
This neighborhood, located east of the Anacostia River, is known for its rich African- American history and culture. It’s also a hotspot for development, particularly along the waterfront. The Anacostia Waterfront Initiative has many projects in the works, including the Anacostia Riverwalk and Trail, designed to revitalize the area. The neighborhood’s story is told at the Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community Museum, and the neighborhood is also home to Frederick Douglass’ magnificent home, Cedar Hill. Tour the 21-room Victorian mansion or take part in a program to learn about Douglass’ efforts to abolish slavery. Set high in the hills, the house and its grounds also open up onto one of the most breathtaking views of DC. Before you leave, check out The Big Chair, a huge chair that has served as a landmark and neighborhood gathering place since 1959. 
U Street Corridor
The U Street Corridor has a long history in DC’s black community, including being the famous site where the joyous street celebrations took place the night President Obama was elected in 2008. Nicknamed “Black Broadway” for its ties to musical legends like Duke Ellington, Etta James and Dizzy Gillespie and performance venues like the Lincoln Theatre and Bohemian Caverns, this Mecca of black culture and nightlife has experienced a rebirth. Although many of the businesses were desecrated during the riots of the ‘60s, new ones are popping up in previously vacant warehouses, breathing new life into this hip neighborhood. While you’re there, make sure to grab a chili half-smoke at the famous Ben’s Chili Bowl, or at Next Door, the upscale eatery/lounge just one door down. Also check out Marvin Restaurant & Lounge, a Marvin Gaye-inspired eatery frequented by DC’s liberally-minded set.

The neighborhood is also home to the African American Civil War Memorial and its new museum, which is slated to open in July 2011. 


Lincoln’s Cottage at the Soldiers’ Home
Located on a picturesque hilltop in Northwest DC, President Lincoln's Cottage is the most significant historic site directly associated with Lincoln's presidency aside from the White House. Located on the grounds of the Armed Forces Retirement Home, the Cottage recently underwent a $15 million restoration by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
This landmark’s history is particularly significant for black Americans, since it’s where Lincoln developed his policy of emancipation and determined to include the 13th Amendment abolishing slavery in the Republican platform of 1864. While there, a stop at the Robert H. Smith Visitor Education Center, adjacent to the Cottage, is essential. It features related exhibits exploring the history of the Soldiers' Home, wartime Washington, DC, Lincoln as Commander-in-Chief and a special exhibit gallery.
Cultural Tourism DC’s African-American Heritage Trail
Cultural Tourism DC’s self-guided African-American heritage highlights sites that represent important moments in the city’s – and the nation’s – black history. The trail provides the opportunity for DC residents and visitors to enhance their appreciation for DC’s rich cultural roots and the many generations of African Americans that built strong communities, churches and businesses throughout the city. Many of the sites on the trail are open to the public, while others are private residences or businesses. All 200 sites can be accessed online at Culturaltourismdc.org.
National Museum of African American History and Culture (coming in 2015)
The Smithsonian Institution is developing its latest museum on the National Mall, the National Museum of African American History and Culture. The museum will be located between 14th and 15th Streets, adjacent to the Washington Monument and across from the National Museum of American History. While the museum’s content is currently under development, it will explore African-American history on a national level, examining such topics as slavery, the Reconstruction, the Harlem Renaissance and the civil rights movement. The architectural team Freelon Adjaye Bond/SmithGroup will design the museum.
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About Destination DC: Destination DC, the lead destination marketing organization for the nation’s capital, is a private, non-profit membership organization of more than 800 businesses committed to marketing the area as a premier global convention, tourism and special events destination with a special emphasis on the arts, cultural and historic communities. www.destinationdc.com.