A MUST SEE IF ON A TRIP TO DC! I decided to go on a weekday to avoid the crowd.I recommend booking a scheduled time on their website first to bypass the entry queue.From the accurate timeline of history (early days of slave trade to modern slavery) to the well articulated story’s and narratives, you will leave this museum with a sense of soberness, humility and joy as to how far we have come as humans.The 2 hours we spent taking in all the history definitely wasn’t enough. If you really want to get a full experience, I recommend dedicating a full day to the museum!

This is a great little museum hidden away in DC. The staff are extremely knowledgable, and the collection has some real gems. They clearly put a lot of effort into researching the history. Highly recommend!

I truly enjoyed visiting the African American Civil War Museum and received a very informative history lesson from the Director before I wandered around! There was also an event going on but I was still able to get some great pics!! Will definitely be going back so I can see more!! Great place to visit!! So much HISTORY!!

Text heavy exhibitions, but boy is it all needed and important information. The museum tells a comprehensive story of the black soldier via the black experience at large, including time periods well before and after the Civil War. Staff is A++++. One of the few museums that offer equally compelling experiences for visitors AND DC residents alike.

One of my favorite museums. It will take more than one visit to grasp the entirety of this museum. I lived in DC for years and every time I stopped by I saw something new. It will fill HOURS of your day, so plan to spend lots of time there. It will be worth it though. The food there is some of the best of any of the Smithsonians (I used to work in Air & Space, trust me, African American Museum food is 10x better) and I love the selections of books they have in the gift shop.

It is rather small museum, worth visiting but far less impressive than Afro-American museum (or others). If you are nearby you can take a look.

I came here on a school field trip. The actors playing soldiers are great and good with children. They give an interactive lesson on what life was like for the African American Soldiers. Provided scavenger hunt for the children, then leads them to outdoor memorial ( better to visit when it’s warm out)Overall great experience.

WELL worth the stop. Free African American Civil War museum has African American history from slavery to civil rights and youll definitely learn some things they dont tell you in history class. Period dress, live musket presentation and our guide knew his facts and history. Everyone should stop by here to know about our nations history.

This is a must for everyone to visit when they visit DC. To my knowledge it is still free will offerings (no charge). To get a full understanding of what salves were promised and what they received along with where we are today. The staff there is very informed of the facts of what happened during that time. Do to the vast confusion and how American History is spoken about this is where the source resides. I would recommend this to anyone who wants the truth of our American History family or friends alike.

A lot of African American history in a small space, I would recommend leaving a nice donation because they do not charge you.

All my years of visiting D. C. when I was a kid to adult. I didnt know of this place. I love Museums, especially History Museums. However, to see a Museum reflect my race and the the contribution we made and Blood Sweat and Tears made this special. I would recommend Visiting this place along with the African American Museum of History down on the Mall as a complete package. A must see.

There are two things that go together here- the actual memorial just outside of the U Street Metro station in the nearby plaza and the museum itself a block further. Heres whats interesting about the museum:1) Space: Its small, but they make due with the space given. The large room is divided into smaller rooms telling the story of those of African descent who fought in the Civil War from slavery to the war to civil rights. Its a lot of reading with a few artifacts scattered throughout, but its interesting and well presented.2) Staff: They are very friendly and they will even give you a tour upon request.3) Store: Theres a small store at the end with books, shirts, etc.For a free museum, its worth a visit!

Small, historicaly significant place, this was a lovely activity . Benjamen Sands and his band was incredible the poems, the songs it was a lovely day.

A small hidden rare gem in the city. I attended a play with friends. Walkable to dinning spots and metro accessible makes it even better.

This museum is very well done. There is so much interesting information about American history, you could easily spend hours here. The exhibits start long before the Civil War and go all the way through the Civil Rights Movement. I learned a lot and highly recommend a visit. The museum is free to visit but a $5 donation is suggested. There’s a small gift shop, bathrooms and a National Park Passport stamp for the African American Civil War Memorial.

Visited recently for my birthday. Extremely knowledgeable and friendly staff! Cant wait to go back!

Enjoyed the History as well as the pleasant willingness to assist and answer all questions. Will definitely attend again.

Steeped in history, this is a must see. Additionally, the museum is a wonderful delight and respectful tribute to those who sacrificed for the Union.

The museum is undergoing construction for expansion at present so I suggest that anyone go now prior to the renovations to see what it looks like at present and then come back and see what it looks like after the expansion...It was hard for me to wrap my head around some of the things I saw because I dont think people are aware enough...DEFINITELY make this the 1 stop in DC that you MUST visit...

I love the museum!!! So much history. The tour was excellent!!! I would recommend this museum to everyone. I wish they had more of the hoodies and t-shirts representing the museum. But most of all, I wish I could have gotten one of the statues of the civil war monument. May be one day. Over all great museum!!!

Had a really great time, very educational, you need two days to go through this Museum.

Highly recommend for the family (not children under 13 it may be overwhelming) Make sure to start at the bottom and work your way up with the tour. Allow yourself an entire day

Full of inspiring stories of our past, present, and future. These kings of men deserve to be honored, in such a way as is done at the African American Civil War Memorial Museum.

What an amazing experience for my family. An awesome and intimate look at the events of the Civil War that shaped the country and showed how significant African Americans contributions were for all Americans, especially people of color.

I have very little complaints. More lockers. Thats my complaint. It is a soul stirring experience. Theyll tell you you can start where you want, but you need to start below ground with the history part. If youre not moved, you might want to check your pulse.

Very educational and in-depth place. Run locally by passiobate volunteers. Worth a visit.

I have been here twice with my students on field trips. I love the presentation given, the introduction video, and the content in the museum itself. It is small, but filled with information and the staff is so accommodating! We will definitely be back next year!

Great place to learn. Cant wait for the new building.

Great place to find history they dont teach in school.

What an amazing experience, I learned so much. The best part was this man who shared about his life and stories that went from generation to another in his family. I had tears during his speech, that is how powerful it was ...

Interesting. A small place that provides information on African american soldiers. Hard to spot if you dont know where you are going. Did the self guided tour which did not take long but I found out into that I was looking for

My Mother and I had an Awesome Experience, I highly recommend for You anyone else Youre with to visit.

A short 10 minute Uber ride from the National Mall. Learned a great deal about the role of African Americans fight for freedom and the Union in the Civil War.

Small museum with lots of history! Our tour guide had all the answers and was very helpful!

It is history that needs to be taught. Please take your children and grandchildren, folks its not a race thing its just history thats not being accounted for. Those that will not remember history are bound to repeat it.

Amazing place to learn about history. My daughter and I learned so much. Really enjoyed this stop!

Loved everything about this place, starting with the on-street history dressed in authentic garb.

There is a ton of information and its a great quiet atmosphere to take it all in.

Great staff who are very informative. Small facility, but it will take some time to get through.

Closed because of the COVID 19 virus but I am looking forward to visiting this museum

Such a well curated and engaging museum. Excellent photos, placards, narrations and artifacts. The young museum officials are friendly, passionate and knowledgeable. The classroom of kids being marched around the museum by the historian in full military uniform was a highlight of my day! A top museum in DC and of the museums I have visited globally.

Amazing experience. Hard to find at first, but luckily they are expanding to new building across the street. Still, highly recommended for a take on African American history that is too often not told.

Was a great museum. Loved the video that was shown to our group

A hidden gem, wished more people heard and could visit this place. a piece of history that is well needed for everyone to learn from

Peaceful. Impromptu stop on a beautiful Saturday. Is rather small and you can miss if you blink. More signage, before you get to the location, needed.

Seeing as well knowing that African Americans also contributed to this great country makes me Proud.

Great place to see the names of African American soldiers on a wall who served during the civil war. There were 106 fighting units. Must see!

A very educational place to visit . I learn about a lot of things that was never told in America History. Not in any school.

You simply must visit; valuable American history.

You havent seen it yet you better get on down there and check it out its something that everybody should see

Very important part of history needs a better LOCATION AND PUBLICLY....TOUR GUIDE WAS GREAT. HE ASSISTED A LOTHOWEVER THE FRONT DESK PEOPLE NEED CUSTOMER SERVICE SKILLS. THEY TOTALLY IGNORED VISTORS

WONDERFUL!! YOU DONT WANT TO LEAVE WASHINGTON WITHOUT VISITING!! GREAT FOR CLASS FIELD TRIPS AND FAMILY VACATION S!!

GO!!! The story told is such an essential and important part of our history. But yet totally forgotten….or hidden.As others have noted, the staff is amazing. What a passionate and committed group. Thank you.We recently took a series of trips in the Deep South and Mid-Atlantic, visiting 30 sites related to Slavery, Civil Rights and African American history. This was one of outstanding highlights. And the only one telling this story in such depth.Again, go and then tell your friends to do the same.

This museum discusses history, trough mostly photos (and photos of art or artifacts). The museum has just a few historical pieces (around 20 including books). I would say that considering that it is free, and you are already in the area, it is ok to drop by for half an hour.I think that the main problem of the museum, is having too little artifacts to show the history... But it IS relevant history, and important to learn.

Very interesting and I cant wait to come back to explore more

Very informative. Patrons are passionate. Loved the tour.

You must take the bus tour with the museum admission. A wealth of information.

Very interesting museum that tells a forgotten story.

One of the loveliest and most serendipitous experiences at the Museum of my life. When we walked in, we were asked if we were there for the presentation. It turned out that a research presentation into the family tree associated with a African American Civil War veteran was about to take place. This was one of the most touching and personal experiences Ive ever encountered at the Museum, and it only makes me want to return. Thank you so much

Wasnt looking for this museum/learning center when I found it. I was walking around D.C. taking photographs when I saw a memorial for black American soldiers who have passed away in war. I believe it was for soldiers in the Civil War fighting for both sides, the Union and the Confederacy. I looked to the left across the road, and between two townhouses, was a decorative arch, which led into a darkened nook behind the homes. I wouldve probably missed it had it not been for the arch close to the sidewalk and road. I was expecting a museum when I walked in, but it was more of a learning/education center, with loads of historic information on walls winding around what appeared to be an old school/community centers gym/auditorium.When I entered, there were very few people in there, and I was greeted by an older gentleman dressed in Civil War era clothing. He greeted me and was very friendly. He was very informed on the subject of the Civil War, African Americans in the civil war, and the abolishment of slavery. He was also well informed on the subject of Abraham Lincoln and his part in the Civil War and the abolishment of slavery. I like to do tours at my own pace to take everything in, but once there was a decent amount of people in the center, the man offered to do a guided tour. I continued to do my own tour, but listened in to what he said to the group, and he was very thought provoking, which is a very good thing for a your guide.The only reason I dont give this place five stars is because it was a pretty small place situated in an old gym it seems. Although it was an informative and insightful place, it gave me the impression that someone didnt know where to put it, so they found a random room to stick it in. This place, to me, deserves a more finished interior, or bigger and better setting. By the way, I believe they do cultural events there as well, but not completely sure about that.

This place is amazing. Its like a hidden gem of the beaten trail.

I was disappointed in how things were watered down as to not offend some of the patrons.

GOTTA LOVE IT For THE HISTORY Often NOT TOLD!

Amazing olace ro be, amazing to be able to see some of my heratige

Moving and very informative tribute to the participation of African Americans in the Civil War.

Very comprehensive and detailed. Free

Very powerful and moving. Shows the straight of black folk

Such a well constructed museum, I had a good field trip experience . I truly think this place very educational . Amazing check it out.

Small but great. The staff was very nice and personable.

Visited on an outing with the men/boys from my church. Cool place, staff engaged and excited about Black History...great stories told on Black history not his story

Was great food just too expensive

Best experience Ive had in a civil war museum, our guide Markquett is a very bright and passionate young man who uncovered many hidden secrets about African Americans role is all wars.

I attended an event held at the museum, and got a brief tour. I cant wait to go back and spend more time at the museum, to see more of the exhibits.

They had three guest speakers there discussing issues in relation to black soldiers during the Vietnam War. One presenter read two personal letters from a black union soldier. A nice array of visual aids. Would like them to add more selections of books in their store. Overall was a nice museum

I sponsored a few trips thru my employer to this museum. The founder Dr. Frank Smith is delightful to work with. Our employees loved to learn interesting facts about blacks in the military and during times of war. Its a definite must see if your in DC or visiting.

This Museum have a lot of valuable information thats not taught in the History books.

This museum is easily one of the best in DC, and that is saying a lot, given the plethora of top flight museums in the area. It is small, but efficient. One can learn a great amount about African American history, not only around the time of the civil war, but the formation of the country. I would recommend this to anyone visiting DC. I know I shall return.

Very informative and professional.The staff is friendly and knowledgeable.Awesome little museum!

Went here on a date last night and to make a long story short, I got to spend the night at her place. might have to try taking another date here, see if I could make it happen twice lol

GO!! If you value REAL history and want to learn some amazing things, check this place out!!Be prepared, theres a TON of reading but its so very worth it. The staff that was on duty was so incredibly personable and one gentleman even taught my son how to load a musket.They give kids a passport to get stamped at different places. And this place is off the beaten path a bit which makes it NOT crowded, free parking, and free entry.By far one of the highlights of my trip!!

Very relevant Very Educational (Remember Fort Pillow)

Awesome little museum! Its small but very new and clean, packed with a lot of information and some nice artifacts. The people who working were very friendly and seemed knowledged about the information presented.

Small museum but lots of information. Had a great trip visiting and learning. Make sure to ask about seeing the muskets and standard uniform!

Great place for field trips or to learn about our often untold history on your own. Staff is very knowledgeable.

Small but they plan to expand soon

Great place! Right in historic neighborhood.

It was an amazing experience, can’t wait to go back!

Great History Lesson. A must see for African American History.

I went on the last Saturday of the month and sat in on the discussion that was being held. Very enlightening talk. Next time, Ill view the exhibits.

I loved it as did my students. We took 40 students and they left with books, museum supported Passports to Freedom and lots of answers to their interested questions. Exceptional visit.

Must visit if youre in DC!

Its ok things are cool and they gave as pizza and they are amazing but there are very little information at this musum but its cool

Museum has awesome history and exhibits. The narrator did an excellent job of explaining all of the parts that tied in with all the dates of importance of history that weve been taught bits and pieces of. He tied all of the missing pieces together so all of the war stories makes sense now.

This museum is exceedingly well done. The exhibits are very easy to guide yourself through, and they have great guides. My group was only able to stop for about 30 minutes before we had to head out, but even in that short amount of time, I feel like I learned a lot. I will definitely be going back with more time.

A hidden gem full of history

Very friendly and knowledgeable staff, who took a personal interest in helping my group to understand and appreciate the contributions of AA during the Civil war time.They have plans to expand in the future which very much needed.

This museum was a little small for me, but for a small donation, totally worth it. The staff were very helpful, showed us artifacts, and seemed really happy to answer our questions. Definitely recommend.

Its a small museum, but very well kept

This is a small, but comprehensive museum dedicated to the 400k soldiers of African descent who served in the Civil War. Chock full of great info, including an informative 22 minute video. Located in the midst of the U Street Corridor, aka Historic Black Broadway. Worth the visit!