Anacostia Community Museum

This is a very small museum with a lot of D.C. history. Go and support! There are several opportunities for visitors to express themselves through various art forms. This is a nice and quaint museum that won't take up your full day. It isn't crowded. A nice little gem in Anacostia!

We recently attended the aluminum foil workshop at the Anacostia Museum, and it was such a unique and fun experience for all ages! My kids and I had a blast creating different designs with foil—it’s amazing to see how something so simple can be turned into art. The concept was fantastic, allowing everyone to get hands-on and think creatively. The museum itself is beautiful, though it’s on the smaller side, and parking was limited, so we’d recommend arriving early. While the instructor had some incredible creations of her own, the workshop setup could have been improved. A U-shaped arrangement with supplies readily available for everyone and presenting from the center would have made it easier to follow along. Despite these minor issues, we loved discovering a new way to use foil, and we’ll definitely keep an eye out for more workshops like this at the Anacostia Museum. It’s a gem in the city!

I discovered this museum by chance and thankfully so. It is the first Smithsonian Museum dedicated to African American History. It was certainly a smaller space than I expected yet I was pleasantly surprised at how well designed the exhibits were and how very interactive and engaging the entire museum was. The garden outside really caught my attention, Lavender, mint oregano and rosemary and some other random flowers that attract giant bees and countless moths and butterflies!!!!!! I must say the landscaping is certainly a highlight. I found the exhibit very interesting, focused on women and environmental issues, gentrification and systemic racism enhancing the effects of climate change in low income areas. Very thoughtfully curated and well managed. The staff was welcoming and the front desk informed me of all I needed to feel comfortable in the space as I walked in. There was plenty of security and a lot of people enjoying the space with their children. The outdoors make a great place for a picnic lunch as well.

A wonderful museum. Currently 2 exhibits, the main one around art education in Black schools in DC, including Howard University. Alma Thomas is mentioned of course, but I learned about other greats. The av components were amazing. It may look small, but if you really immerse yourself, it’s not just walk in, walk out. The exhibit I described is there through 3/2/25.

This is such a hidden gem in the Anacostia Community! Wonderful exhibits that highlight stories of the people living in the community. The staff are very friendly, the facilities are new and modern, there's a large parking lot, walking trails, picnics area, pollinator gardens, and more. I can't say enough positive things about this museum. Do yourself a favor and go check it out. It's wonderful.

[Visit: March 25, 2024] This little piece of Smithsonian magic not only invites the community in for free (onsite parking free), but all visitors!!! While this is a quaint museum, it is abundant in culture, local history, and intergenerational resilience. In full agreement with the museum's vision and mission, it delivers both BOLD and BEAUTIFULLY 😍. Some may take the museum for granted, but it is an amazing historical reference. Recommended for all local schools, colleges, and universities, including students in town for sporting events, and so on. Adults of all ages, seniors too. A trip down memory lane, where all of the history is not focused on the enslavement era or segregation, but also the profound effects of the people and communities highlighted at the museum. Visitors may take photos, but the museum recommends no video recordings.

a small yet cozy museum with lots of interactive stations for you and your kids. free parking and none was there except my fam in the morning

The Anacostia Community Museum may be the smallest of the Smithsonian's but it's the first federally funded community museum in the country. Located in SE DC in Fort Stanton, it's often overlooked since it's the farthest from the National Mall and not near a Metro. Despite this, if you live in DC, it's worth for these reasons: 1) It's a community museum and highlights the marginalized in our city and advocates for community, advocacy, and identity. They invite you to interact with the each exhibit asking yourself about how you define freedom and identity. If anything, it makes you reflect and think. 2) It only takes 15-30 minutes to go through so if you need a quick trip, it's for you. 3) The building is beautiful and there are a few murals inside that are striking. 4) There's a nice park next door with picnic tables to enjoy the outdoors. 5) It's free and they host some great events also for free. If you're a tourist and short on time in DC, skip this one. if you're a local, visit this place at least once!

Save the Anacostia Community Museum at all costs! This is such a great and comprehensive museum about the major contributions of DC-based artists! Tied to the larger body of the Smithsonian Institution, Anacostia has great research and archival resources that reveal the importance of local history and its connection to living communities. It enlivens the museum and makes its mission feel super specific and immediate to every visitor, especially those who are based in the DMV! I would be proud to follow in the legacies of artists mentioned through their exhibition (and they are big names now on display at major museums like Sam Gilliam and Elizabeth Catlett). These stories are handled with precision, care, and creativity. There is only really one exhibition on display so that resolves a lot of museum fatigue so you can really take in the comprehensive history they are trying to display. Additionally, there is a good amount of well-developed (probably through a rigorous evaluation) interactives that makes it appropriate for all ages, children and adults. We went during a writers workshop, local farmers market, and by the end of the exhibition got a warm cup of coffee. What a delightful place to be connected with the creative hearts that reside in DC!

The first federally funded community museum in America, the Anacostia Community Museum is a very quaint and well-designed museum in the Anacostia neighborhood of DC. The museum is far from the Metro stop (about 20 minutes of an uphill walk from the Metro), so driving or ride-sharing is your best bet unless you want to transfer to a bus. The museum is small and not necessarily worth the trip unless you have business in the area. I was able to move through the whole thing in less than an hour. The security staff weren't particularly kind, although that is a common problem in Smithsonians. I'm glad I checked this off my list!

...open "every day but Christmas"...?!? ...but www info says CLOSED and extension options ring 25+ times with no answer (11:am Monday 11 Sept 24. !

If you live in the DMV, you should definitely be making trips here. This is one of the few places that talks about the history of the DMV. Often DC is a Mecca of American History as it is the nation's capital. People often forget about the city itself. Plus it is the only one across the river.

ANACOSTIA NEIGHBORHOOD, SE D.C - Got family in town? Not a Smithsonian experience for them. But looking for a small, interesting museum off the beaten path? Check this out. Friendly staff, free coffee, and an always-changing exhibit - currently it's about the role of women of color in the environmental movement, predominantly in the DMV region. Wife saw one previously about gentrification in DC neighborhoods. I can easily imaging going back in a few months, when the next exhibit's in place.

I would almost bet that a lot of people overlook this museum since it's in Anacostia but as a visitor, I was pleasantly surprised to learn about the history of this area of Washington DC. I've never read about an area that was first segregated as a mainly Caucasian neighborhood, then desegregated to include people of color, and then resegregated to a mainly African American neighborhood. It was amazing to read about the constant transition over the years and how all the people of color came together to take a stand to stick up for their neighbors and resist gentrification and/or desegregation again. I also had never seen a video of Dr. Martin Luther King before other than the usual videos that are shown in history classes or on TV. It was really really really cool to see him speak to the people that were standing up for change in the Shaw neighborhood. I also was touched by an exhibit they had speaking to the children of the area and asking what gentrification means to them. Kids are really smart and truly do understand the constant struggle to exist and survive all the while trying to make a name for one's self and building the community. It gives me hope for the future of Anacostia. This is a reasonably small museum but it's an important museum for not just people of color in the DC area but culturally for everyone. As with most of the museums in the DC area, it's free.

The Anacostia Community Museum may be the smallest of the Smithsonian's but it's the first federally funded community museum in the country. Located in SE DC in Fort Stanton, it's often overlooked since it's the farthest from the National Mall and not near a Metro. Despite this, if you live in DC, it's worth for these reasons: 1) It's a community museum and highlights the marginalized in our city and advocates for community, advocacy, and identity. They invite you to interact with the each exhibit asking yourself about how you define freedom and identity. If anything, it makes you reflect and think. 2) It only takes 15-30 minutes to go through so if you need a quick trip, it's for you. 3) The building is beautiful and there are a few murals inside that are striking. 4) There's a nice park next door with picnic tables to enjoy the outdoors. 5) It's free and they host some great events also for free. If you're a tourist and short on time in DC, skip this one. if you're a local, visit this place at least once!

It falls under the Smithsonian envelope, but the Anacostia Community Museum has a decidedly different vibe than the massive edifices that grace our National Mall. Its focus is purely local, and the District has far more specific history and culture than even most locals might guess, let alone the tourists who know us only for our government buildings and monuments. The feature when I dropped in was an overview of six DC neighborhoods, including one where I once resided, and it was an interesting journey. What did seem Smithsonian about it was the quality of images in the displays. What was different was its activist stance, taking a clear position on a variety of questions related to urban development in the District, questions which anyone who drives through the city are still quite relevant. Notably, it talked a lot about the debate between transit and road development, somewhat ironic in that the museum is not the most accessible place itself, though you can get there with effort. I didn't have occasion to visit any of the events they put on, but I was glad to have finally visited the place and left it actively wondering where the community is headed next.

Mardi Gras Family Festival: This museum is great for families and young people of all ages. When me and the fam drove up all we saw was a sea of children with face paint, bedazzled white parasols, and masks. Not to be overwhelmed though, as my sister, a veteran at this venue, and being the controlled and calm adult she is; we entered the museum with A PLAN! 1st thing we did, signed up for Januwa Moja-Nelson's Art of Adornment pictures which was about an hour wait, that gave us time to go straight to arts and crafts. Basically you gotta get in where you can fit in, get some paints, ask the volunteers for a mask, parasol, and/or paper shield. Then there is a huge supply of glitter, paint, and feathers to go to town with. Question: How do you know an experienced mom? They never sit down at these events for fear of "glitter butt". Once you get glitter on your clothes your likely see it for the next month unless you take your pants to the cleaners. Everyone is so nice sharing supplies and watching other people's kids as someone may have to go to the restroom. Cute babies, cute couples, EVERYTHING JUST CUTE! We make our way back to the Art of Adornment booth, only to wait a bit longer, just because this activity is so popular. Other Cool things going on: * storytelling *a parade *balloons shaped into dogs, rattles, etc. And it's all free! We had a great time Saturday and decided to pick up a schedule of events, among the activities coming up: A Quilting Art Workshop, A tribute to the late DC Mayor Marion Barry during his Birthday month (March), and a slew of Women's History activities including Sarah Vaughn tribute with local singers, and a viewing of A Ballerina's Tale (Misty Copeland's story). This place may not be right up the street from me, but it is certainly worth the drive. I was happy to see the Thurgood Marshall Academy students volunteering for this program, they were really nice and very helpful! And those pictures we waited over an hour for? Came out great.... I posted one. Check it out!

This is such a hidden gem in DC! Many tourists and locals flock to DC because of all of the unique--and free--resources, especially the Smithsonian museums. Most of the are located along and in the vicinity of The National Mall. However, this particular one is located in the heart of historic Anacostia. Currently on display is "A Right to the City" exhibit, which explores various parts of DC and celebrates the rich diversity it has to offer. Note: There are free shuttles from Anacostia Metro station to this site. This museum sometimes gets a lower volume of visitors than larger Smithsonian museums, which is a benefit because there's free parking you can take advantage of if needed. When you're shopping around for museums to visit, make sure to keep this in mind. Check the schedule for the many public events that are hosted here on a monthly basis.

Yelpers you need to get over the river and check this spot out!! To learn more about our DC community and spend time reflecting on the intersection of art, culture, history and activism - this is a top notch museum experience. The richness of our nations capital is not just located along the Mall - we owe it to ourselves to broaden our minds and listen to the stories of over 50 years!

Almost the entire museum has been given over to BK Adams, a.k.a. I am art. Adams is a self-taught artist and apparently he's a terrific teacher -- this exhibit is fascinating. The museum's brochure describes Adams as " mischievous, fantastical, eccentric, mind-blowing, incredible, talented, charmingly weird, engaging." That's about right. Here's the link to the WaPo's review: washingtonpost.com/gog/exhibits/exercise-your-mynd-bk-adams-i-am-art,1212112/critic-review.html#reviewNum2 Take your kids when you go.

This is a community-based museum that combines art exhibits with outreach. The objects on display include textiles, decorative arts, anthropological finds and glassware. As the name suggests, this museum explores and documents the culture, history and experiences of African Americans. The museum also offers educational and community outreach programs Check out the On-line Academy on their website. You can take a virtual tour of some of the artifacts.

Well-done, local museum. A bit out of the way, but worth the trek for anyone who lives in DC. It encouraged me to think more deeply about DC history and how to engage with the city as a more conscientious resident. Please check it out! I recommend it to all my friends.

I always enjoy entering this space. I've visited for a few programs and I love the idea around the museum. Most recently I came for the Derek Webster exhibit which closes in April. One of my favorite things about this museum is the size. It is small enough to do everything in one visit but also thorough enough to see the same exhibit more than once. I'm am looking forward to the Gateways exhibit on Latinos in the Mid-Atlantice region.

Somewhere between a 2.75 to maybe solid 3 stars. It is a small museum but a lovely space just the same. As far as I could tell, they have two exhibits, one of which is permanent and only interesting if you like baseball (meh). It seems they sometimes have events at the musuem that as far as I know, are free but if they do, you won't really see the permanent exhibit. Any way, when I went, the event going on was free. You can grab the W2 or W3 bus from Anacostia metro and it takes about 10 minutes, get off at Forte Dr. After, I would recommend checking out a nearby Anacostia Art Gallery about a block from the musuem. Then, walk back to the metro through the neighborhood, as it is downhill. You can stop at a Catholic Chruch somewhere on Morris to get a nice view of the city and one that easily rivals the better known Frederick Douglas House. The general Anacostia neighborhood (a small slice of Southeast, east of the river) is an under rated area overall and danger is over exaggerated, though don't wander too much after dark just the same.

I remember when you couldn't find an entry for the Anacostia Community Museum on Yelp!. 10 reviews, so it's still relatively 'undiscovered' compared to the rest of the Smithsonian institutes. I would have to say that this museum has stellar exhibits and monthly programs that give cultural insight to the community. Last year, their Urban Waterways exhibit was so informative. It made me appreciate the efforts to clean up the Anacostia River even more. It's great to see that the younger generations in D.C. (& other major cities around the world) will know that they have not only witnessed, but played an integral part in the transformation/restoration of some the most beautiful bodies of water. The larger, advertised exhibits are always in the front and center; but, there are smaller ones in the back room to the right of the security desk, as you enter. It's definitely worth a trip to visit, and to escape the hustle/bustle of other tourist destinations.

Important note: It's not as big as most of the other Smithsonian museums in Washington, so don't expect to be lost inside for two hours. This is a great museum: It's free and has wonderful exhibits. What more can you ask for. The only reason I could possibly mark it down was because it didn't seem apparent anyone could answer questions if I had any. There only seemed to be security. Also, visiting, is a good excuse to explore Anacostia.

The museum's 45th anniversary exhibition "Reclaiming the Edge: Urban Waterways and Civic Engatement" was what we saw at the museum - it is the only exhibit available at the time. The exchibit itself was excellent; it was about the community sustainability effort to clean up and reclaim the area from the industry pollution of Anacostia River and the surrounding areas. The video stories told by elderly residents of the area was quite revealing. One man said there used to be thicker ice in water during the winter that he used to slide/skate on his shoes, but it is getting much thinner that he doesn't recommend doing it to the kids today. And many more other stories. My gripe about this place was that the exhibit was small so it's a good 1-2 hour stop in combination with Frederick Douglass National Historic Site nearby. I thought the exhibit was extremely fresh and interesting - I would have liked to learn more. The building seems to be primarily a venue for community gathering and the second floor was all occupied by offices. My other gripe is a security guard - I took a couple of photos of the exhibit because I didn't know that I'm not allowed to take photos (why is that, anyway? MET in NYC has no problems) .. and even though I stopped taking photos, he followed me around ... that was uncalled for! But all in all, very interesting exhibit. I think they should make it permanent with regular updates about the effort.

Only two reviews for this museum?!?! Oh. Yeah. I didn't even *know* about this place until last week, sooo...guess that makes sense. It's unfortunate The Anacostia Community Museum isn't a more well-known DC museum -- and a it's a Smithsonian nonetheless -- since its mission is "to challenge perceptions, broaden perspectives . . . and deepen understanding about the ever-changing concepts and realities of 'community' while maintaining its strong ties to Anacostia and the D.C. Metropolitan region." It's the only museum *I* can think of which is specifically dedicated to the culture and community of a particular Washington neighborhood. Field Trip Fairy is, indeed, good to me. She shook her dust and {{poof}} I was accompanying a group of kiddos to the ACM for the "Exercise Your Mynd: BK Adams, I AM ART" exhibit. It's part of an ongoing series entitled "Call & Response: Community and Creativity", which highlights the art and artists of DC's Wards 7 and 8. Adams' work is comprised largely of found and recycled objects, with the themes of love, knowledge, and family pervading his pieces. His art is graphic, vivid, and textural; his mind is clearly full of humor, whimsy, and a personal philosophy formed over time. My favorite pieces included "Family Reunion," a precariously placed pile of broken chairs, bicycle wheels, and wine glasses; "The Thinkers", a pyramid of used Starbucks cups that both Adams and his children have decorated over the years; and "The Path: When I Look and See How Far I Have Come, I Realize How Far I Have to Go," a pair of highly decorated leather clogs walking up a canvas towards what looks like a delicate tree. Adding to the enjoyment of this exhibit, BK Adams himself came to meet the kids and walk them through the museum (which is quite small; his exhibit is the only one there currently). He showed up in white Velcro Converse, jeans he'd completely painted over in white with brightly colored drips, a striped sweater covered by a canvas vest, steampunk machinist glasses, a beautiful, bushy beard, and what appeared to be some highly-polished version of a Conquistador helmet/baseball cap (here's a little taste of his style: http://images.tbd.com/pictures/498/JHY3259_606.jpg). AWE.SOME. Having him talk to us about each individual piece of art -- what inspired it, what he was trying to say, how it was a part of his artistic evolution -- was phenomenal. Not sure how much the little dears appreciated it, but we adults were blown away by Adams. The ACM is small and showcases one exhibit at a time; but also on "indefinite" display is "Separate and Unequaled: Black Baseball in the District of Columbia", a fascinating look at the professional, sandlot, and collegiate segregated baseball teams which played in the city until the mid-1960s. Admission to ACM is free and parking is ample, so get yourself over here soon.

A tip for getting here if you don't have a car: During the summer on the weekends, there is a shuttle from the National Mall to this museum and the Frederick Douglass House. I took the shuttle and it was easy enough and a nice ride. I saw "Reclaiming the Edge: Urban Waterways and Civic Engagement." It was interesting learning about similar civil movements in other cities -- Pittsburgh, London, and LA were a few examples, I think. It was fascinating learning more about the history of the Anacostia River and the current efforts to clean/reclaim the river for community use today. I also saw the other exhibit which was a series of photographs on baseball and segregation -- "Separate and Unequaled: Black Baseball in the District of Columbia." It was in a room that they rent out for private use so you may not have a chance to see it. I'm a fan of old photos but not of baseball so much so this wasn't as appealing as the other exhibit. It seems like this museum has a lot of interesting activities during the week and for children. I haven't participated but the events listing on the website (bus tours, lectures, nature walks) looks awesome.

Worth the drive to leave the mall. We ended up there between exhibits and the offerings were pretty slim. Wish the website had been clear the "current exhibit" was gone. But for baseball lovers, the permanent exhibit is about baseball, so that has a timeless quality for some.

Great little museum that's part of the Smithsonian Institute in a historic DC neighborhood, so very important to African-American history in DC. I visited on MLK Day 2016 and was very happy to also see an exhibit on Afro-Panamanians in DC. It was cool to see some awareness is being created about the Spanish-Speaking African Diaspora in a city that does not have many of us here in comparison to places like Miami and NYC.