Best Museums to Celebrate Black History in Atlanta

Black History Museums in Atlanta

Downtown
Since it opened its door in 1996, the Spelman College of Fine Art has continued to inspire the school’s surrounding community, as well as the general public, through art by and about women of African descent. Much of the work highlighted there are from established artists, but the museum also showcases the creativity of Black women that are still in the early phases of their art careers. Faith Ringgold, Joyce J. Scott, and Mickalene Thomas, among several others, have held exhibitions here, making this place one of the most sought-after museums in not only Atlanta, but the entire country.

Buckhead
The Atlanta History Center is known for boasting 33 acres of historic houses and gardens and spectacular permanent exhibitions like the Atlanta ‘96, Cyclorama, Atlanta in 50 Objects, and more. The museum also currently has a few Black history-themed exhibitions on view. Those interested in an immersive learning experience can check out online content for free on AHC’s website, and if you visit in-person, access to both the Gatheround: Stories of Atlanta and the Veteran Voices exhibitions are both included in admission.

Sweet Auburn
Like its namesake suggests, the Apex Museum is one of the top Black history museums in Atlanta, and for added cultural significance, it’s stationed right on Auburn Avenue, smack dab between two important Black literary resources—the Auburn Avenue Research Library and For Keeps Bookstore. The Apex Museum was first opened all the way back in 1978, making it the oldest Black history museum in Atlanta. Don’t let its exterior fool you. When walking by the Killer Mike-approved institution, you may wonder if such a small entrance can lead to a worthwhile museum, but upon entering, you’ll come face to face with a wealth of knowledge and insightful information about African Americans and the Black diaspora.

Old Fourth Ward
There is no way to put this guide together—or tell the story of Atlanta’s history—without mentioning The King Center and the birth home of Martin Luther King, Jr. Given the cultural significance of MLK and his lifelong ties to Atlanta, the immortalized Civil Rights Movement leader played an integral role in Atlanta’s Black History. In addition to featuring the Freedom Hall exhibition space, the King Center houses the beautiful marble crypt that serves as the final resting place for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his wife, Coretta Scott King, and is within walking distance to the home where King was born.