Frederick Douglass National Historic Site

Frederick Douglass National Historic Site is located in the District of Columbia and serves as a memorial to the prominent abolitionist and social reformer, Frederick Douglass. Situated on Cedar Hill, the site offers visitors a glimpse into the life and accomplishments of this influential figure in American history.

Douglass lived at Cedar Hill, overlooking Washington, D.C., for the last 17 years of his life. The historic site preserves his former residence, which was converted into a museum in 1988. The building showcases original furnishings and memorabilia, allowing visitors to gain insights into Douglass's personal and professional life.

The site also includes an orientation center, where visitors can explore exhibits that highlight Douglass's remarkable journey from enslavement to becoming a prominent advocate for equality. The exhibits provide a comprehensive overview of Douglass's life, shedding light on his work as an orator, writer, and activist during the Civil War and Reconstruction eras.

Apart from touring the museum and orientation center, there are several things to do at the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site. Visitors can join guided tours of the property, which offer in-depth information about Douglass's life, accomplishments, and views. The tours often include insights into Douglass's relationships with other prominent figures of the time, such as Abraham Lincoln.

Additionally, the site offers various educational programs and events throughout the year, including lectures, book signings, and discussions on various topics relating to Douglass's life and legacy. These programs aim to engage visitors in conversations surrounding the fight for freedom, equality, and justice.

For those looking to explore the surrounding area, there are several attractions nearby. The Anacostia Community Museum, which focuses on African American history and culture, is located just a short distance from the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site. Visitors can also take a walk along the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail, offering scenic views of the river and a chance to connect with nature in an urban setting.

In summary, the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site is a significant landmark in the District of Columbia, commemorating the life and achievements of Frederick Douglass. Visitors can explore the museum and orientation center, join guided tours, and participate in educational programs to learn more about this remarkable historical figure. With nearby attractions, there is plenty to see and do for those interested in delving deeper into African American history and the fight for social justice.

Frederick Douglass National Historic Site is situated in the southeastern region of Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States. Nestled on the slopes of Cedar Hill, overlooking the Anacostia River, this historic site stands as a prominent reminder of the incredible legacy of African-American abolitionist Frederick Douglass. The site is located in the Anacostia neighborhood, characterized by its vibrant community and rich history. Surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil surroundings, visitors to the site can experience breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline while immersing themselves in the profound history and inspiring journey of Frederick Douglass.

Address & Contact

1411 W Street SE
Washington, DC 20020
Driving Directions
Phone: 771-208-1499
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Frederick Douglass National Historic Site would be during the months of April to June, and September to October. During these months, the average maximum temperatures range from 68°F to 86°F, providing pleasant weather for outdoor activities. The average monthly precipitation is moderate, ranging from 3.5 inches to 4.5 inches, allowing for enjoyable exploration of the site.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Frederick Douglass National Historic Site are: Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Junior Ranger Program Park Film Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store

Topics

Learn about these topics at Frederick Douglass National Historic Site: African American Heritage Wars and Conflicts Civil War Social Movements Incarceration Enslavement Voting Rights and Suffrage Civil Rights Reconstruction Abolition Movement

Visitor Centers

Frederick Douglass NHS Visitor Center

The Visitor Center of the Frederick Douglass NHS is located at the bottom of the hill near the parking lot. Inside of the Visitor Center you will find staff who can facilitate your visit, a bookstore run by America's National Parks, handicap accessible restrooms, a water fountain, exhibits and historic objects, as well as a theater with seating, where a 20 minute closed-captioned film on the life of Frederick Douglass is played.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Frederick Douglass NHS Visitor Center.

Campsites within or near Frederick Douglass National Historic Site

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near Frederick Douglass National Historic Site

Courtyard by Marriott Washington Capitol Hill/Navy Yard

Located in Washington (Capitol Hill), Courtyard by Marriott Washington Capitol Hill/Navy Yard is within a 10-minute walk of Nationals Park and Washington Navy Yard. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-in, and express check-out. Planning an event in Washington? This hotel features 2,215 square feet (0 square meters) of event facilities. Limited parking is available onsite.
Address: 140 L Street SE, Washington, District of Columbia 20003
Web: Link

Hampton Inn & Suites Washington DC - Navy Yard

With a stay at Hampton Inn & Suites Washington DC - Navy Yard in Washington (Capitol Hill), you'll be steps from Nationals Park and 9 minutes by foot from Washington Navy Yard. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Planning an event in Washington? This hotel has 1400 square feet (130 square meters) of space consisting of conference space and a meeting room.
Address: 1265 First Street SE, Washington, District of Columbia 20003
Web: Link

Homewood Suites by Hilton Washington DC Capitol-Navy Yard

Homewood Suites by Hilton Washington DC Capitol-Navy Yard is centrally located in Washington, a 4-minute walk from Nationals Park and 13 minutes by foot from Audi Field. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby.
Address: 50 M St Se, Washington, District of Columbia 20003
Web: Link

Duo Nomad

In the heart of Washington, Duo Nomad is within a 5-minute drive of Eastern Market and Washington Navy Yard. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and a 24-hour front desk.
Address: 1010 Pennsylvania Ave, SE, Washington, District of Columbia 20003
Web: Link

Residence Inn Washington Capitol Hill/Navy Yard

With a stay at Residence Inn Washington Capitol Hill/Navy Yard in Washington (Capitol Hill), you'll be a 3-minute walk from Nationals Park and 9 minutes by foot from Washington Navy Yard. Featured amenities include a computer station, express check-in, and express check-out. Planning an event in Washington? This hotel has 340 square feet (32 square meters) of space consisting of conference space and a meeting room.
Address: 1233 First St SE, Washington, District of Columbia 20003
Web: Link

Stay Alfred on Potomac Ave

With a stay at Stay Alfred on Potomac Ave in Washington (Navy Yard), you'll be a 3-minute walk from Nationals Park and 8 minutes by foot from Audi Field.
Address: 79 Potomac Ave SE, Washington, District of Columbia 20003
Web: Link

Sonder - Callisto

With a stay at Sonder - Callisto in Washington (Capitol Hill), you'll be a 5-minute walk from Washington Navy Yard and 5 minutes by foot from Marine Barracks.
Address: 816 Potomac Avenue Southeast, Washington, District of Columbia 20003
Web: Link

Capitol Hill - Four Bedroom TownHouse

With a stay at this vacation home in Washington (Southeast), you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Library of Congress and Supreme Court of the United States. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 413 Guethler's Way SE, Washington, District of Columbia 20003
Web: Link

Luxury Condos minutes from National Mall

With a stay at Luxury Condos minutes from National Mall in Washington (Hillcrest), you'll be within a 10-minute drive of Washington Navy Yard and Library of Congress. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2101 28th St SE, Washington, District of Columbia 20020
Web: Link

Thompson Washington D.C.

Located in Washington (Capitol Hill), Thompson Washington D.C. is a 5-minute walk from Nationals Park and 15 minutes by foot from Audi Field. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and a 24-hour front desk. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 221 TINGEY STREET SE, Washington, District of Columbia 20003
Web: Link