African American Museum of Dallas

African American Museum of Dallas Visit the African American Museum of Dallas. We offer some of the most captivating exhibits, lectures and workshops. ADMISSION IS FREE!
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The African American Museum was founded in 1974 as a part of the Special Collections at Bishop College, a Historically Black College that closed in 1988. The Museum has operated independently since 1979. The $7 million edifice was funded through private donations and a 1985 Dallas City bond election that provided $1.2 million for the construction of the new facility. The African American Museum is

the only one of its kind in the Southwestern Region devoted to the preservation and display of African American artistic, cultural and historical materials. It has one of the largest African American Folk Art collections in the United States. The main objective of the Museum is the presentation of meaningful experiences for children and adults who would not ordinarily visit a museum. The rich heritage of black art and history is housed in four vaulted galleries, augmented by a research library. Living African American culture is experienced through entertaining and educational programs presented in the theater, studio arts area and classrooms. The Museum's permanent collections include African art; African American fine art; magazine, historical, political and community archives. The 38,000 square foot structure, built in the shape of a cross, is made of ivory stone. Natural materials and design motifs are used through the Museum in a manner reminiscent of pre-industrialized cultures of the African continent. The shape of the window represents an abstraction of the Dogon Statue from Mali, West Africa. This shape is also present in the entrance to a group of Ethiopian Orthodox churches that were excavated out of the surrounding rock at Lalibala in the 12th century. A rich heritage of African American Art and history is housed in four vaulted galleries, augmented by a research library. Our visitors can also experience living black culture through our educational and entertaining programs presented in the educational plaza, which includes a theatre and classrooms.

Mandela: The Official Exhibition is on view now through November 1.In partnership with Round Room Live and the Royal Hou...
08/11/2026

Mandela: The Official Exhibition is on view now through November 1.

In partnership with Round Room Live and the Royal House of Mandela, grateful for the support of the Texas Commission on the Arts and the City of Dallas Office of Arts and Culture.



Round Room Live
City of Dallas - Office of Arts and Culture
Fair Park Dallas

08/07/2026

Today, our Chief Program Officer, Margie Reese, spoke at the 30th Annual Dallas Back to School Event, inspiring students and families as they prepare for a successful new school year.

At the African American Museum Dallas, we believe education extends beyond the classroom. Through history, culture, the arts, and community engagement, we're committed to creating opportunities that inspire lifelong learning for every generation.

Thank you to the organizers for bringing our community together and investing in the future of our youth. We wish every student, teacher, and family a school year filled with growth, curiosity, and success!

Here's to an amazing school year ahead!

08/06/2026
Planning to visit the African American Museum with a large group? We'd love to welcome you!To ensure everyone has a safe...
08/04/2026

Planning to visit the African American Museum with a large group? We'd love to welcome you!

To ensure everyone has a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience, all large groups should schedule their visit in advance.

Advance reservations help us:
• Ensure we stay within safe occupancy limits.
• Prepare our staff to provide the best visitor experience.
• Coordinate school groups, tours, and special visits.
• Make your visit smooth from the moment you arrive.

A little planning goes a long way in helping us protect our guests, our collections, and our shared experience.

To schedule your group visit, please contact us before your arrival. We can't wait to welcome you!

08/01/2026
If you’re looking for something meaningful to do this weekend, this is it.Experience Mandela: The Official Exhibition an...
07/31/2026

If you’re looking for something meaningful to do this weekend, this is it.

Experience Mandela: The Official Exhibition and explore the life, leadership, and lasting impact of Nelson Mandela through immersive galleries and extraordinary artifacts.

We’ll see you at the museum.

Thank you to everyone who made the 37th Annual Texas Black Invitational Rodeo an unforgettable celebration of Black cowb...
07/28/2026

Thank you to everyone who made the 37th Annual Texas Black Invitational Rodeo an unforgettable celebration of Black cowboy heritage, culture, and community!

To every ticket holder, first-time guest, returning fan, volunteer, vendor, sponsor, donor, performer, and supporter—thank you for spending your weekend with us. Your energy, enthusiasm, and support help preserve this incredible tradition for generations to come.

Now we want to hear from YOU!

What was your favorite rodeo memory from this past weekend? Was it the thrilling bull riding, the barrel racing, the drill team, seeing friends and family, or simply experiencing the excitement of the evening?

Share your favorite photo or video from the rodeo, tell us about your experience in the comments, and be sure to tag African American Museum Dallas. We may feature your memories in our social media and promotional materials as we celebrate and prepare for next year's Texas Black Invitational Rodeo!

Thank you for making this year's rodeo one to remember. We can't wait to see you again next year!

07/28/2026

We officially opened Mandela: The Official Exhibition with a special breakfast honoring our community partners and leaders, offering them an exclusive first look at this powerful exhibition before it opened to the public.

The room was filled with meaningful conversations, shared inspiration, and a collective commitment to preserving Nelson Mandela’s legacy while exploring its relevance for our communities today. It was a memorable morning of connection, reflection, and celebration, made even more meaningful by those who joined us.

The exhibition is on display now until November 1, 2026.

Address

3536 Grand Avenue
Dallas, TX
75210

Opening Hours

Tuesday 11am - 5pm
Wednesday 11am - 5pm
Thursday 11am - 5pm
Friday 11am - 5pm
Saturday 10am - 5pm

Telephone

(214) 565-9026 Ext 301

Website

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