Ultimate Guide to Black History Month in Detroit

Modified: February 06, 2023 | Story by Chloe Seymour | Photos by Eastern Market/Murals in the Market, Savannah Blue

It’s no secret – Detroit has played a special and pivotal role in some of our nation’s most monumental historical moments. From the days of the Underground Railroad, with Detroit being the last stop on many slaves’ path to freedom, to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. giving his first version of the I Have A Dream speech at Detroit’s convention center (Huntington Place), Detroit is in the history books next to some iconic names as an influential city within these periods.

Detroit continues to honor its roots in a variety of ways throughout Black History Month (and beyond!) The city takes pride in its extensive collection of art, historical monuments, and inclusive businesses to give locals and visitors an opportunity to observe Black History Month and have some incredible experiences along the way.

Learn more about your community, inclusive grassroots efforts, and Detroit’s notable history during Black History Month in three simple ways:

Shop Black-Owned Businesses

Being aware of Detroit’s black-owned small business scene is a great way to keep your dollars local and support entrepreneurs. The list of black-owned businesses in Detroit continues to grow, with many business owners finding ways to open up shop in their own neighborhoods. Whether you’re looking for a meal to die for or a new outfit for a special occasion, the following businesses have your back:

Retail Spaces:

Food and Beverage Stops:

Kuzzo's Chicken & Waffles

Kuzzo’s Chicken & Waffles

For more black-owned dining options, check out our blogs about restaurants and bakeries.

Attend Black History Month Community Events

The entire month of February is full of amazing community events revolving around Black History Month. Learn something new and explore the city by checking out programming from some of Detroit’s best community organizations:

Art of Rebellion

Discover Black History for Yourself:

More of the independent type? Detroit’s museums and galleries never disappoint, especially regarding their Black History Month exhibits, collections, and events. Though Detroit museums and cultural institutions are a staple for any visit to the city, February is one of the best times to give them a peek:

Clearly, there is no shortage of enlightening experiences within the city during Black History Month. Whether you find yourself spending hours in a special exhibit, or eating an afternoon snack at one of the city’s many black-owned businesses, experiencing February in Detroit is a truly enriching adventure.

Black History Month exhibit in Detroit

Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History by Bill Bowen

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Mentioned Attractions And Venues





  1. 1
    Huntington Place
    One Washington Blvd., Detroit, MI 48226
    313-877-8777
  2. 2
    Detroit is the New Black
    1430 Woodward Ave., Detroit, MI 48226
    313-818-3498
  3. 3
    Flo Boutique
    404 W. Willis St., Detroit, MI 48201
    313-831-4901
  4. 4
    Source Booksellers
    4240 Cass Ave., Detroit, MI 48201
    313-832-1155
  5. 5
    Eric's I've Been Framed Shop
    16527 Livernois Ave., Detroit, MI 48221
    313-861-9263
  6. 6
    Savvy Chic Trends
    2712 Riopelle St., Detroit, MI 48207
    313-833-8769
  7. 7
    Hot Sam's Detroit
    127 Monroe St., Detroit, MI 48226
    313-961-6779
  8. 8
    Good Cakes and Bakes
    19363 Livernois Ave., Detroit, MI 48221
    313-468-9915
  9. 9
    Savannah Blue
    1431 Times Square, Detroit, MI 48226
    313-926-0783
  10. 10
    House of Pure Vin
    1433 Woodward Ave., Detroit, MI 48226
    313-638-2501
  11. 11
    Kuzzo's Chicken & Waffles
    19345 Livernois Ave., Detroit, MI 48221
    313-861-0229
  12. 12
    Louisiana Creole Gumbo
    2051 Gratiot Ave., Detroit, MI 48207
    313-567-1200
  13. 13
    Michigan Science Center
    5020 John R St., Detroit, MI 48202
    313-577-8400
  14. 14
    The Henry Ford
    20900 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn, MI 48124
    313-982-6001
  15. 15
    Detroit Institute of Arts
    5200 Woodward Ave., Detroit, MI 48202
    313-833-7900
  16. 16
    Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History
    315 E. Warren Ave., Detroit, MI 48201
    313-494-5800
  17. 17
    Detroit Historical Museum
    5401 Woodward Ave., Detroit, MI 48202
    313-833-1805
  18. 18
    The N'Namdi Center for Contemporary Art
    52 E. Forest Ave., Detroit, MI 48201
    313-831-8700
  19. 19