Discover 7 Brooklyn Landmarks Celebrating Black History and Culture

February 18, 2025

One of the things we love about Brooklyn is its diversity and how it’s brimming with history, culture and stories that resonate far beyond its borders. Whether you’re a fan of hip-hop, a history buff or simply looking to explore more of Brooklyn, there’s something for everyone when it comes to landmarks celebrating Black history and culture.

There are so many places in Brooklyn that honor both Black modern icons and historical figures who shaped our nation, each telling a unique story of resilience, creativity and community.

Join us as we explore seven of these remarkable places that you can visit to celebrate Black History Month or anytime throughout the year.

Christopher “Biggie” Wallace Courts

Clinton Hill/Bed-Stuy

Did you know that legendary rapper Notorious BIG grew up blocks from Crispus Attucks Playground? That’s why in 2017 the basketball courts there were dedicated to him. Crispus Attucks was a runaway slave from Massachusetts who was killed in the 1770 Boston Massacre after having spent two decades working on ships.

Crisups Attucks Playground
1030 Fulton Street
Brookyln, NY 11238

Brooklyn Abolitionist Heritage Walk

Various Neighborhoods

This past summer, days before Juneteenth, an interactive tour exploring Brooklyn’s importance in the National Abolitionist Movement and Underground Railroad was introduced thanks to the Landmark Preservation Commission and creators Kamau Studios and Black Gotham Experience. You can start in Dumbo—or wherever you’re closest to on this linked map. Head to the LPC website for more information.

Marsha P. Johnson State Park

Williamsburg

Formerly East River State Park, this 7-acre waterfront park was renamed for Marsha P. Johnson who is known for her role in the Stonewall Uprising and as a pioneer in the transgender and overall LGBTQ civil rights movement. Enjoy Manhattan skyline views in this idyllic outdoor space where you can take a stroll, have a picnic, read a book or connect with friends and neighbors.

Marsha P. Johnson State Park
90 Kent Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11211

Drummer’s Grove

Prospect Park

Brooklyn’s “Little Caribbean” took shape in the 1960s, in Flatbush, East Flatbush and Crown Heights, and in 1968 some of those neighbors started a drum circle at the southeastern corner of Prospect Park. Known as the Congo Square Drummers, they gather to celebrate community and a sense of home. Prospect Park Alliance added seating in 1997 and named the area Drummer’s Grove. You can still stop by on Sundays in season to listen to, dance to or participate in drumming.

Drummer’s Grove
Prospect Park
Brooklyn, NY 11225

Museum of Contemporary Africa Diasporan Art

Fort Greene

For two decades, this museum has been celebrating the African diaspora “by connecting the intersectional experiences of Black people worldwide through the lens of art, education and advocacy.” Though the main gallery is currently closed, you can visit the outdoor Ubuntu Community Sculpture Garden on site or the Abolition House on Governors Island.

MoCADA
10 Lafayette Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11217

Williamsburg Music Center

Williamsburg

Composer, conductor and musician Gerry Eastman opened this Black-owned jazz venue back in 1981 and it’s still going strong today. Stop by to catch a jazz or comedy performance or for open mic jazz and comedy night.

Williamsburg Music Center
367 Bedford Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11211

Weeksville Heritage Center

Crown Heights

This historic and cultural center uses education, arts and a social justice lens to preserve, document and inspire engagement with the history of Weeksville, one of the largest free Black communities in pre-Civil War America and part of present-day Crown Heights and Bed-Stuy. Tour historic homes from the 1860s, 1900s and 1930s, or connect with the community by signing up for yoga or a dance workshop or checking out an exhibit.

Weeksville Heritage Center
158 Buffalo Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11213

Looking for more ways to celebrate Black History Month in New York? Check out our posts on how to Learn About NYC Black History Year-Round and Celebrate Black History Month in NYC.

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