Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Yes
African Burial Ground National Monument in New York
Categories
Location on the map
New York, New York County, New York, US
Accessibility
Amenities
Good for kids
Yes
Phone: +1 212-238-4367
Site: http://www.nps.gov/afbg
Site: http://www.nps.gov/afbg
Opening hours
- Monday:Closed
- Tuesday:10AM–4PM
- Wednesday:10AM–4PM
- Thursday:10AM–4PM
- Friday:10AM–4PM
- Saturday:10AM–4PM
- Sunday:Closed
Comments (199)
A somber but great experience still. It was a nice re-introduction to the history of slavery in New York and I would definitely recommend a visit to old and young alike.
A beautiful monument and a very sad and powerful piece of history. I think the city could’ve done more to acknowledge what they have done and still are doing. It’s currently being protected by scaffolding cause of the building going on next to it. Also, the government shutdown prevented us from being able to see it close up.
A place to remember slavery in NYC, shouldnt be missed. I went there as part of a guided tour so I had all the explanations. I recommend visiting
My Black New York professor Dionne Bennett treated the class to a field trip to the African Burial Ground because it aligned with the classs coursework. As college students we were ecstatic to go on a field trip because its uncommon for students our age to be taken off campus to learn. On the day of our field trip we all met up at the museum , which can be a bit difficult to find because of the many buildings in the vicinity. However, after finding the site and entering the building, this museum left me speechless for quite a bit of time . Although small the museum was beautifully, yet gracefully designed. I was not prepared for the amount of knowledge that was provided to me , and at times some of the new information became overwhelming. Without giving too much away , I would say that if you are in the area do yourself a favor and visit The African Burial Ground. The experience is unlike any other.
Many threads in the tapestry that is New York City, too long unseen.
The exhibit and grounds were humbling, heartbreaking and inspiring..To be reminded of what African slaves and their offspring endured while LITERALLY building New York City..being forbidden to bury their dead.. choosing to defy and face beatings and death so their dead could be buried with dignity and respect..just to have this sacred ground built on for corporate and government greed..To have to protest..testify at hearing after hearing - to justify the importance of retain the SMALL remaining portion of sacred ground..is mindboggling.
Very well put together exhibit documenting the history of slavery in colonial New York City. Informative and respectful.
Stop by and learn about this sacred burial ground, unknown to many until the recent discovery of the site. Because the entire site is fenced off, visitors can only see and take pictures of the memorial from the street, and read the plaques with information about the history and significance of the place.
The burial ground was truly an inspirational place to be, not everyone has heard of this amazing place but this was such an educational place to be, the trip there was worth it, the staff there are helpful and full of knowledge.
This is a small, hide away corner in the midst of the busy lower Manhattan. Its quiet and very few people find it. If you have time, go into the museum, lots to see, read, learn, and tears to share. A great place to contemplate a past history of forced human migration and to reflect how to can we live together as brothers and sisters in a modern, civil society. Beautiful and meaningful patterns on the granite walls. Garden offer a very interesting perspective views for photographers. Do not let the children walk on top of the burial mounts/tombs.
The museum is still closed but that looked super cool and I want to go back to check that out some day.The actual monument is open and very interesting. Be sure to pick up a brochure by the entrance. There are some wandering rangers but it’s not like the other NPS sites with a tent or ranger station.
We went to see the outdoor monument knowing that the visitor center was closed. While we were there, a park ranger came out to talk with us. He was very informative and we appreciated that he came out to tell us about it. Its a beautiful and thoughtful memorial.
Beautiful venue captures the stories of slavery and what the slaves endured in NY well
It was an extremely emotional experience as a black man. To learn about the Transatlantic Slave Trade is one thing--to see actual artifacts and remnants from it is an entirely different and sobering experience. I recommend it for anyone trying to envision what it was like.
Thank you for your service
I saw with a tour group. It was a very informative experience. The tour was organized by Black Gotham Experience. It included the architect who designed the memorial. Highly recommend. Check out their website.
First experience was breathtaking. There’s such a spiritual movement that runs through you while you’re inside. For those who feel connected with their African lineage. They play movies to depict the past. For me it’s always good to have a history reminder of the country I live in today & how far we’ve come as a people. The museum is outstanding. Can’t wait to go back!
Great museum with lovely host. Every native New Yorker should definitely visit.
Brought a group of 7th and 8th graders.Tremendous experience for students and teachers alike. Staff is very patient and knowledgeable. Interactive exhibits.
I recommend a visit to this free museum. Gives you an appreciation of how the Africans brought to America as slaves helped build and shape New York City.
Powerful, meaningful, and so important to preserve this history.
They have a nice little gift shop and museum. But the site itself is currently under construction as of now.
A tranquil and reverent place in the heart of the hustle of Manhattans civic center.
Very beautiful and informative museum!
Beautiful monument and the small museum was very well done. We stumbled upon this with our young kids and felt like it was properly respectful, emotional, but not upsetting to them. Movie sparked a lot of conversations between us all. Highly recommend.
Wry interesting historical site.
It was closed already but the surrounding plaques explaining the significance was enlightening.
The names of some of the deceased are known. They need to be revealed.The building across the street is doing construction.Are they finding ancestral remains? If so, send them to Howard U immediately!
A small monument to Melanated folks who lived in early NYC and died ,got buried. Then dug up mis named as Slaves now Thier ETERNAL REST has been disturbed.Its PRETTY to look at tho.THEIR bones are in the Smithsonian in a drawer.
Possibly the most significant location in the city for all of African decent. The story revealed through the study and analysis of this helps to create a clearer picture of the African presence in all of the post colonial New World. And it is powerful to be able have a place to visit and connect with the strong resilient and not forgotten predecessors of the struggle we so often remark about.
Took my kids there & had an Amazing experience
The rangers were extremely knowledgeable. It is so educational and so well done. It is an amazing place to honor the people who helped start this country. Definitely watch the 20 minute video.
An very sacred place to pay your respects to the deceased enslaved children & adults whos remains were found , while preparing this property to build an commercial business on it. That building process has been permanently canceled, & now this hallowed & spiritual grounds , are the blessed resting place for the re- interment of the remains of over an dozen slaves that once populated lower Manhattan in that timeline.
I visited here several months ago to learn more about my ancestors and plan to return soon. It is a very interesting site.
A wonderful monument in lower Manhattan dedicated to the unknown africans buried on the site. This is a piece of our history and the monument is a testament to the people buried on the site. Be sure to visit the interpretive center around the corner. There are several interesting exhibits and a video explaining how the monument first came to be. Be prepared to go through security.
This is a beautiful monument and is a must-see for anyone who is a history buff. Youll want to carve out some time to visit the museum but also to reflect upon the monument and grounds itself.
1. Even though youre not an American like me, it is worth to visit this place. This place is not only about the American history but also about human beings history. Actually, I had expected that this was just a cemetery for African Americans. However, while I watched some film in the visitor center, I deeply moved and understood why it was so important. I strongly recommend visiting it.2. All staffs are very kind and gentle. Most park rangers who I met are usually great. Park rangers there are the most dedicated in my opinion. Thanks to them, all of us learned a lot of things there. I can never forget them.3. If you have children, they can earn Junior rangers badges there after completing booklets. It is helpful to read a junior ranger booklet(you can download it) before visiting. JR program is not picky. Kids can find answers easily in the museum. Also a park ranger explains it to kids very kindly. Awesome.
My first time going there and I loved it. I will be taking my little daughter there. Looking at my ancestors made me cry. They had a performance yesterday (Dec 26 2019) for Kwanzaa
This monument is very powerful. Make sure you check out the visitor center. There is a museum inside that is well worth the visit. They show a video in a small theater that brought some tears to my eyes.
More evidence of African Americans invaluable contributions that makes this country what it is. I learned a lot from this museum. Also, there are many books i have never heard of are in the bookstore. I would recommend everyone to take the opportunity to visit.
The interior nice but the burial ground is very small and buildings have been built all around it, it is about 100 times smaller than the burial ground truly is because its been built on for years. I wish it was larger and not just some hole in the wall. It isnt a good representation of the hundreds of lives lost.
This museum is amazing! I understand why it’s no admission charge.. they just want people to be educated!! Highly recommend to everyone.. it makes you appreciate everything you have today💕👍🏼
I went here as part of a college class trip. It was very enlightening and saddening. It greatly enhanced my understanding of the role that slavery played in the formation of New York City and think that everyone should go have a look.
Definitely a hidden gem in Manhattan. Bring your family & friends here to learn some great history.
One of the best historical sites in the worldAfrican Americans built this city and most of USATHIS PLACE SHOULD REAL HAVE BEEN AN ENTIRE CITY BLOCK, but Federal Building was built on this sacred site-shame!!More museum of the inside of federal building
It was amazing even though we didnt have a tour guide I was able to explore and learn with my 7 year old daughter about our ansisters. Will be planning to go back real soon
I wasnt able to go inside the building because it was already closed.. the site represents the slaves that were buried here and they have different symbols for them... I couldnt get great picture because they where doing construction ..its a must to visit
Although the memorial is under construction, the visitor center is open and worth visiting. Staff are so friendly and helpful. A good place to stop and learn the history also show respect.
Was shocked about this place did not know about it but the tour guide was very informative and bilingual and very helpful.
It was very interesting and there were a lot of African artifacts and over years ago there was a Cemetery right before people who were just putting buildings and streets right on top of it and it was very cool to see all of African American history
I need to come back when it’s open and pay my respects. there’s a lot to digest in this 0.37 acre national historic landmark.
Visiting this sacred place to see Uptown Dance Academy & celebrate Kwanza with friends! We need to recognize the past with understanding & MOURN & make a better future with unity for ALL!
Underrated site and incredible museum. Small but so full of information. Be sure to watch the introductory first and then explore the exhibits to get the most out of it.
A must visit of black historical relevance.••••EACHONE•TEACHONE••••Tap on my name or icon above and scroll down to see even more locations:600+ BLACK HISTORY ICONS.120 UK BLACK HISTORY ICONS320+ CELEBRITY LOCATIONS.150+ NYC BLACK BUSINESSES.
Very good displays. The monument itself is currently under construction, but you can still view it from the outside. Looking forward to the opening.
Great servicesIt a wonderful experience
Powerful and informative exhibit. Unfortunately, the outdoor monument is completely covered by scaffolding. I assume this is due to renovations on the adjacent building.
I was one of the original protesters Im pictured standing with arms locked with two Beautiful Black Women in which it was an honor and a majestic feeling to take part in such an event and very necessary to manifest truth and justice!
Buried and forgotten history. What else is buried under Manhattan?
The story of what took place here is quite interesting and worth the time to find out. There is a security checkpoint to get through before entering, but thats becoming all too common in this city. Be sure to watch the video while youre here!
Its very interesting but because visitor center is in federal building its worse than airport security. Really wanted to enjoy exhibits but the security screen took so long and they were rude as expected it just was a distraction from what the monument is supposed to represent.
Very nice memorial ❤
Lots of history here at the African Burial Ground monument. I had no idea that was a mass burial area in lower Manhattan in the 17th - 18th centuries. Very informative National Parks center on Broadway. The world map and symbols outside are worth a look too. The Parks ranger is very informative too. I enjoyed talking with him.
The burial ground and accompanying Museum are both informative and reverent. Admission is free, so I recommend everyone go and learn about what took place here.
The African burial grounds is a very special place. While the location might be small and the exhibition limited, the history surrounding the place is just exceptional. Highly recommended
Did you know that a mass grave of African slaves exists in Lower Manhattan? Neither did I until visiting the African Burial Ground National Monument in Lower Manhattan. This should be one of the must see attractions in NYC when visiting. Its a great historical and cultural exploration of African and African American heritage in NYC.
A moving tribute to those who built this country, but have been left out of the history books. The narrative, the artwork, the poetry respectfully do justice to this solemn place.
This place is amazing! Very clean with a super nice staff. I learned so much and I wish this monument had more recognition.
Beautiful place! The park rangers here are so friendly and personable, they really brought it to life and made my groups experience unique.
Brilliant and somber memorial with a fantastic and moving commemorative monument. The site is rather forgotten and under visited/ utilized which makes for a powerful and often solitary viewing and visiting experience.
The museum and adjacent memorial gives good insight into both the Black and early Dutch history of New York. Expect to spend about 30 minutes here.
African Burial Ground National Monument is located at 290 Broadway. While Visitors can visit the monument and reflect the history, they can also sit and walk around Broadway and enjoy looking at the building itself when there is sunshine in the early morning and when sunshine is reflected on building..
There are no words that capture the feeling
A well designed monument. Its own museum nearby is a nice place to go for people who want to learn more about NYCs history.
A respectful burial memorial to significant, contributing generations mistreated by their contemporaries full of elitists, racists and biased government. Easily accessible by car, local MTA buses,subway lines 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, A, C, E and PATH trains.
Very good narrative of what life was like for Africans in New York. Dont miss the movie as it really does a wonderful job of telling the story of how the monument came to life.
While it is very small, but it is very detailed and educational. I am not sure why I need to go through a metal detector. I am not going to rob the place..
Sadly, for myself, at 51yrs old in April of 2014 , I first became aware of this informative information by way of me just happening to be going through a bin in WalMart and came across a dvd marked Black History. The dvd contained several disc and one had Africian Burial: 3pts. As I watched the series being narrated by Ruby Dee, I was enlightened with a knowlege that was trully an awaking. Words are more than can be expressed as well as emotions. I felt proud to watch to documentary of all the deligent people in unity who preserved to made it that which it is today. May God bless them all. I watched the dvd again with my 47yr old brother and with my 89yr old mother. And as I, they were enlighten and moved. I later went to the map on my phone to see that which was shown on the dvd. Because with todays modern techonology, I was actually able to view the picture of the site. In my own humble way, I felt that I was in the moment of the connection to all that I had just became knowlegable of. I close with this..The history of our people will always come to the surface ...always. God will always have it to be so. Always right on time. Right when He says. I extend my utmost gratutude to all who gave of their heart, time, energy. The soilders of The Most High. Rest in Peace to all my Loved Ones who are gone but not ever to be forgotten....NEVER.
Solemn, dignified place for solitude and contemplation.
Worth seeking out, tourist or not. Helpful plaques on the outside give story & context you might otherwise rely on a park ranger for. Interior is beautiful.
What a pleasent suprise to find this museum walking to Canal St. on our trip to NYC. Should be listed as a must do in NYC! Great for all ages!!!! ITS FREE! Donations are recommended! Oustanding!!!!!
The museum inside the building is not to be missed!!! The historical 20min video and artifacts are quite moving.One question- how far do the actual 6.6 acres! of actual burial ground extend??
We took our kids here while on vacation in New York. Great spot for reflection. The museum is nice as well.
I Went on a school project and it was interesting to have spent some time learning about history. Amazing history on the lower east side. Must see!
The African Burial Grounds (ABG) is an important national monument located in lower Manhattan in New York City. There is an informative museum which is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 - 4:00, as well as an outdoor memorial for all the Africans of the 18th and 19th century who were buried and then discovered in this early segregated cemetery. Additionally, programs and presentations are offered during important ocassions. For the historically minded individual, who is interested in largely hidden histories, this is a must-visit site!
It was a wonderful experience. This is a place of respect and ancestors. Wealth of information. Exhibits are very easy to read and understand.
😢😢😢😢😢 It had a building on it, when the building was demolished WE were fortunate that a young Afroamerican Woman noticed human bones, if she didnt do all the work to get those bones recognized, this would not be here. She gets all the credit.
Eliza the park ranger was amazing. Enjoyed my visit.
I was hurt, all these years I had not know my family was buried under building in new York, Im so devestated, but Im glad my daughter brought me , she had a project to do and I was glad I went🙏🏽😔
I believe my beliefs that a whole lot of things were held back from the information part of the burial and the reason for the death I believe that all the information of the death should be informants to others! And how white people treated people of color.
Loved the outdoor memorial could not get into the vistors
African Burial Ground - 290 Broadway, NYC. Intimate exhibit and video presentation to describe the discovery of the burial ground, the intention of preserving the remains with respect and the contribution of Africans to wealth and development of lower Manhattan.
Wealth of information. Exhibits are very easy to read and understand. Staff is courteous and polite. Very informative and moving experience
A beautiful memorial to those who are buried there. There are a lot of intricate etchings into the stone structures. The best part is that its all free!
A great honor and pride. IA sacred place extremely emotional to see the my Ancestors which built New York City in the 1700s.
A place full of historical facts, a small viewing room, and a nice gift shop. The burial ground is around the corner from the entrance.
It was a wonderful experience. You really gain an appreciation for what the enslaved Africans went through.
Ancestors will communicate to and breathe a new sense of purpose and life into those who have sincerity, curiosity, respect, and destiny.
Worth the visit
Powerful and should be required to visit and learn. Easy to walk around and see the exhibits.
It was very emotional when I watched the movie about how it all started. Rest in peace to the ancestors we lost.
I enjoyed a very informative tour.About African ancestry and the lost of identity of the ones buried on the land.
Was chilly when I stumbled upon it, but just the positive vibe around it was a great feeling that they did not die in vain! Hope to be back to check it out soon!!
Sad symbolism but also closed... seems always closed
Such rich history. Things I didnt know about our history. I was in awe of the whole experience!
Great learned a lot
A part of NYC history that always gets over looked. Such a fitting tribute to the men and women who were forgotten.
These people under our feet were our ancestors. May their Spirits soar....I learned so much history....Wonderful experience
It has a lot of improvements from first time I saw it and if you are from African ancestor you should check it out oh, and if youre not from African ancestry you should still check it out
Most of the people buried are women and kids and its more than 15,000, more like 20,000+....people that basically built wall street, america was brutal back in the 1700 to 1800s and it is really sad that racism still exist......
A great experience! I cant wait to go back with my family!
A great and unknown place that tourists and locals should visit in New York city.
Such a emotional experience.....It was beautiful
Great place
Important History. Very powerful and peaceful
Site of an ancient African American Burial Site in NYC
Very nice workers & good was great
This is a place of Respect and ancestors resting of them bones. I have a spiritual connections to this site.
Very informative. Everyone should visit and learn about their history.
It gave insight to Africans in New York, information that has not been shared previously.
I did not know it was there. Its kind of hidden. Its a nice place
Very informative museum! I wish it was advertised more!
A somber yet powerful place. Allow plenty of time for the museum and the monument.
I love discovering new places and I was moved and touched seeing this, if you are near it, please stop by and remember the travesty of yesteryear
Staffs were friendly and love this place as field trip for children.
Its fascinating how this piece of history was lost for awhile. I recommend it for the learning experience.
It is sublime! The atmosphere is overwhelming. The symbols of faith are marvelous!!
Wooow
It is just a memorial. No biggie but if you have 2 minutos ti spare, you might as well pop up
Wes has issues. Just avoid WesJesse Jackson and al Sharpton should visit...stay maybe...
Great National Park. Unique story and site in NYC.
Excellent, the sentiment is good but is that a building site around it?
Area was the city limit way back. Good to see the city honoring the contributions from the exploited.
Very educational and interesting. Worth the trip!!
Its not on the list of top things to do in NYC, but it should be! Its a gteat experience.
A must for all middle and high school students to learn about African Americans and their contribution to American history.
Neat exhibit with a great story. Lots to look at and think about.
Glad to finally get there to see it, but disappointed by the size of the interior and the relatively small collection of materials.
Put this on your list. You should go here. Know all history, not just the easy parts.
Soul searching experience. Excellent staff as well! (I visited it in the summer of 2016)
Everyone should go check out this historic site.
A fun and entertaining way to learn about the African culture and heritage in Manhattan.
Ensure that you visit both the museum and the outdoor monument.
Its definitely something to experience ESPECIALLY as a black person
Underrated exhibit. Everyone should stop by once. One of a kind.
Everyone should take part in this experience to grasp a sense of how slavery permeated this country, and how its legacy still affects our society today.
Monument is nice but the mall cops making you take off your shoes are the worst.
Great informative place
Most Important Black Historical site N NYC
Went here for my birthday to honor my ancestors 💎💯❤
Wonderful experience; a must-see location.
Thankful that they made the space for this. Very meaningful and sad.
It was great and very informative I loved it.
Story MUST be told. Great place to start.
Excellent Experience❤
Great cultural experience and eye opener
Ever one this place. Good history there
Highly recommend visiting. Historical context.
Never has the Diaspora African Story been told than at this venue.
It is a monument...For all those who were lost,For all those who were stolen,For all those who were left behind,For all those who were not forgotten
God Rest Their Souls. A must place to visit for NY natives & visitors alike..
One of the best informational experiences of my life!
I am from Albania and I never seen these beautiful places in my country😘
Amazing, the True History of NYC exposed and revealed
A must see location full of historical facts.
Everyone should see!!!. POWER!!!
Our lives and history buried once again, bit unearthed
Sombre, a place of recognition of our ancestors and a time of reflection.
We need to preserve more locations like this
Its Remarkable truth we all need to know
My dad was buried there. Mad vibes.
Powerful.
Its nice experience to visit this place
Great place to learn about African American history
Very interesting and beautiful at the same time.
Wow, a lot of written information, will be passing this informant on to my grandchildren.
It was gorgeous and the story behind it was beautiful.
Interesting semi-outdoor memorial.
Everyone should visit this museum.
Everyone should visit this museum
Great place, should be bigger!
Historic and interesting. Nuff said.
Very Informative and Soul Refreshing!
Both informative and inspiring!
Breathtaking and very educational.
Love it, history.
Quite clean and neat
Rest in peace🌹🙏
The monument was closed without explanation.
Total reviews rating 4.7
199 Reviews for African Burial Ground National Monument 2023:
Review №1
2022-03-28Got lost trying to find the memorial - but glad we persevered and made it there. We’re a little disappointed that we were not able to see the inside exhibit and learn more - as appointments were required (which we did not anticipate) - so I would look into this in advance before visiting. But an important site to see and learn from.
Review №2
2022-02-07The outdoor structure and indoor exhibition are beautiful and very informative. As its still covid, you need to call for an appointment for the indoor exhibit. That being said, if youre in the area, you can call while youre there and you can probably get a slot within a few minutes. The outdoor structure is beautiful - take your time to walk around and absorb the atmosphere, read the informational blurbs as they add context.The exhibit it beautiful, sad and provides a ton of information. There is so much to read and learn well worth the time and visit. I wish this wonderful national monument was better known, had better advertising or was promoted during black history month.
Review №3
2022-04-16Beautifully done and very touching and informative. Keep in mind that there is a visitor center indoors that has lots of displays.
Review №4
2022-05-17The African Burial Ground is a beautiful site. I plan to return soon and bring flowers for the grass mounds.
Review №5
2021-08-15This is a powerful monument that is a national park service unit. The inside is closed (its located inside a federal building) probably due to the pandemic, but the outside if open. There are plaques that describe how this monument came to be and provides a great learning experience. Go check it out while in NY - a good way to spend an hour learning about black history in NYC.
Review №6
2022-05-24Im glad this monument exists because I never would have known this history having had an American public education and all.
Review №7
2021-08-21The monument is very well built, sentimental and definitely worthy of visiting. I gave it three star because the information on Google map and nps app are are not clear. Both said its open and list the open hour, but the hour is not for visitor Center which is temporary closed. We checked the hour before we were going and excited to get another stamp done on our National Park passport, but so disappointed that the visitor Center was closed....It Would Be nice that simply mention the temporary closure of the office aso we could visit some other time.
Review №8
2022-05-04The sign out front says reservation is required to visit, but it is not required! Also security is ridiculous, metal detector so sensitive you have to take off your jewelry, and staff was not nice. Visitor center had informative displays about the discovery of the site and tried to give accounts of enslaved peoples lives in the days that New York was just beginning. The outdoor site where remains were reinterred was beautiful.
Review №9
2022-02-28Not much to see here but an important memorial for historic African burials in NYC
Review №10
2020-02-15Went here for the 1st time with my daughter & we enjoyed it, this place was a great learning experience for both me & her to see how our ancestors lived & what they went through. I Love how she was asking questions about all the exhibits & took plenty of pictures. Great for all ages & would recommend this as a class field trip to any school, a lot of information & great staff. The ranger was very helpful & was explaining the different exhibits to us. This is a must see with your kids & family