
Ultimate Guide to Black History Month in Detroit
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:
- Detroit is the New Black (Online only)
- Flo Boutique
- Source Booksellers
- Eric’s I’ve Been Framed Shop
- Savvy Chic Trends
- Hot Sam’s
Food and Beverage Stops:
- Good Cakes and Bakes
- Savannah Blue
- House of Pure Vin
- Kuzzo’s Chicken & Waffles
- Louisiana Creole Gumbo

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:
- Historical and Cultural Tours from City Institute
- Black History Month celebrations at The Henry Ford
- The Detroit Historical Museum is hosting an event honoring the legacy of entrepreneurship in Detroit.

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:
- Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History
- Detroit Historical Museum
- The Henry Ford Museum
- N’Namdi Center for Contemporary Art
- Second Baptist Church - Detroit Underground Railroad Historical Society
- Detroit Institute of Arts
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.

Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History by Bill Bowen
Mentioned Attractions And Venues
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Get Directions (313) 877-8777
Full-service 2.4-million-square-foot convention center with five exhibit halls, 80 meeting rooms and eight banquet rooms…
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Get Directions (313) 861-9263
This frame shop sells prints, posters, originals, hand-made note cards created by local artists, coffee…
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Get Directions (313) 833-8769
A destination boutique for both locals and visitors from afar. Its ever-changing eclectic mix of…
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Get Directions (313) 961-6779
Hot Sam's Detroit is the oldest men's clothing store in Downtown Detroit, since 1921 with…
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Get Directions (313) 926-0783
Contemporary northern soul food made with fresh ingredients and southern flavors, presented with Detroit style…
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Get Directions (313) 638-2501
House of Pure Vin is a signature retail destination and a consumer attraction for wine…
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Get Directions (313) 861-0229
Pronounced cuz-oh; a term of endearment for one who is a friend or family member…
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Get Directions (313) 567-1200
A taste of New Orleans in The D. Choose from exotic Creole dishes, hot-and-spicy Cajun…
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Get Directions (313) 577-8400
Located on the corner of Warren Avenue and John R Street in Midtown, the Michigan…
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Get Directions (313) 982-6001
3 must-see attractions. 250 acres of unexpected. 1 awe-inspiring experience. At The Henry Ford, discover…
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Get Directions (313) 833-7900
The Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA), among the top 10 museums in the country, offers…
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Get Directions (313) 494-5800
This African American History Museum has been educating the Detroit area for decades. Founded in…
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Get Directions (313) 831-8700
Rotating local, national and international art exhibitions, with artwork available for purchase. Unique venue for…
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Get Directions (313) 961-0920
Michigan's oldest African-American church. For 29 years, Second Baptist was the last stop of the…
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