New York City

Embrace the Subway

The New York City Subway is your best friend for getting around quickly and affordably. With 24/7 service and extensive routes covering all five boroughs, the subway provides a reliable way to reach major attractions, neighborhoods, and everything in between. Purchase a MetroCard at any station vending machine or consider a contactless payment option like OMNY for even easier access. Remember to check service changes, especially on weekends.

Ride-Sharing and Taxis: The Backup Plan

While public transport will likely be your go-to, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft, as well as traditional yellow taxis, offer flexibility and convenience, especially late at night or when traveling with luggage or in a group. They can be pricier, especially during peak hours, so use them selectively.

The Brownstone

Nestled in the heart of Harlem, The Brownstone stands as a beacon of style and elegance, exclusively catering to women’s fashion with a distinct ethnic inspiration. Founded in 1998 by the visionary Princess Jenkins, The Brownstone emerged from a personal desire for a boutique in Harlem that mirrored the community’s rich culture and sophistication. Princess, having lived in Harlem for many years, recognized a unique opportunity to establish a Lifestyle Boutique that would serve as a haven for women seeking exceptional attire for all the significant moments in their lives.

The Brownstone distinguishes itself not only through its unique ethnically inspired fashion offerings but also through its commitment to providing a shopping experience unparalleled in warmth and personalized service. The boutique’s interior exudes a charm and elegance that are immediately inviting—chandeliers cast a soft glow over the space, oak wood floors offer a touch of classic beauty, and hand-painted textured walls create an atmosphere of exclusivity and luxury. This well-appointed boutique has become a treasured destination for those in search of clothing that celebrates heritage while embracing contemporary style, making The Brownstone a true gem in Harlem’s vibrant community.

24 East 125th Street New York, NY 10035 / (212) 996-7980

Weeksville Heritage Center

Weeksville, located in the heart of Brooklyn, is a hidden gem of African American history and one of New York City’s most significant cultural landmarks. Founded in 1838 by James Weeks and other free African Americans, Weeksville was one of the first free Black communities in the United States, serving as a safe haven and a beacon of hope for African Americans seeking a life away from the oppression of slavery and discrimination. Today, the Weeksville Heritage Center continues to preserve this rich history through its preserved historic homes, educational programs, and cultural events that celebrate the resilience and contributions of African Americans.

Visitors to Weeksville are invited to step back in time and explore the Hunterfly Road Houses, which have been meticulously restored to reflect the lives of their 19th-century inhabitants. The site offers a unique opportunity to learn about the history of self-sufficient Black communities, their strategies for economic independence, and their role in the broader fight for civil rights. Beyond its historical significance, Weeksville fosters a sense of community and creativity, hosting a variety of workshops, performances, and art exhibitions that highlight contemporary Black culture. A visit to Weeksville is not just an educational experience but an inspiring journey into the heart of African American heritage, making it a must-see destination for anyone interested in the stories that have shaped our nation.

158 Buffalo Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 / (718) 756-5250

The Akwaaba Mansion

In the heart of Brooklyn, the Akwaaba Mansion stands out as the most beloved Black-owned accommodation in the Greater New York area. This stunning bed and breakfast, set in a magnificently restored 1860s landmark building, combines the charm of vintage aesthetics with modern comforts, offering guests a unique and intimate stay. Owned and operated by Monique Greenwood, a former magazine editor-in-chief turned hospitality maven, Akwaaba Mansion is renowned for its warm, inviting atmosphere and exceptional service.

Each of the mansion’s guest rooms is thoughtfully decorated, reflecting various themes that celebrate African American culture and heritage. Beyond the luxurious accommodations, guests are treated to a gourmet breakfast each morning, featuring a spread of homemade specialties. The mansion’s location in Brooklyn provides easy access to some of the city’s best dining, shopping, and cultural attractions, making it a perfect base for exploring New York’s rich tapestry of experiences. Akwaaba Mansion not only offers a stay but an immersive journey into the heart of Brooklyn’s vibrant community, making it a top choice for travelers seeking a meaningful connection to the city’s African American heritage.

347 MacDonough Street, Brooklyn, NY 11233 / (718) 455-5958

Black History in Fort Worth

Welcome to Fort Worth, Texas, where the roots of African American history run as deep as the narrative of the city’s development from a frontier trading post to a modern metropolis. With history dating back as early as the mid-19th century, Black cowboy culture contributed greatly to the ranching industry of the region. With such a large presence of African Americans, the emergence of Black neighborhoods was the natural progression. Areas like Terrell Heights served as vibrant centers of Black culture and enterprise, fostering a sense of community and resilience amidst the challenges of segregation and inequality. Beyond residential, these neighborhoods served as a hub for various businesses, houses of worship, and institutions serving as cultural and economic strongholds for Black Fort Worth.The legacy of Fort Worth’s African American community continues to evolve and influence the city’s cultural landscape. Notably, Grammy Award-winning soul singer Leon Bridges hails from Fort Worth, drawing inspiration from his roots in the city. Bridges’ music, often infused with themes of love, struggle, and social justice, acts as a modern reflection of the African American experience, bridging past and present. His connection to Fort Worth underscores the continuing impact of the African American community on the city’s arts and culture scene, highlighting a lineage of creativity and resilience that resonates through generations.

Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo

1911 Montgomery Street

The Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo is at the very top of the “must do” list. A living history lesson steeped in the rich traditions of the American West, the contribution of African American cowboys holds a place of honor at this showcase. An event that celebrates and displays cowboy culture and livestock, the inclusion of the pivotal role Black cowboys played in the overall shaping of the cowboy legacy is highlighted. Their skill, stories and resilience are an integral part of the fabric of Western culture, and there’s no better place to witness it than the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo. The beating heart of the African American cowboy narrative is Bill Pickett. A legendary figure whose innovation of ‘bulldogging’- now known as steer wrestling- left an indelible mark on the rodeo world. A standout at the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo, Pickett’s daring and skill were unmatched. His legacy not only illuminates the vital contributions of Black cowboys to the rodeo culture, but also ensures their stories and accomplishments will continue to be celebrated as part of the broader American Western heritage.