Embracing Florida's Black history landmarks

22.02.2024 - 09:41 / travelweekly.com / Aretha Franklin / Ron Desantis

Black history and travel opportunities abound in Florida, from museums to theaters to cuisine.

And seeking out and celebrating these places became even more important last month after the NAACP issued a travel advisory for the state of Florida "in direct response to Gov. Ron DeSantis' aggressive attempts to erase Black history and restrict diversity, equity and inclusion programs in Florida schools." The announcement sent waves through the travel industry, with some arguing that Black businesses could be hurt if people are discouraged from traveling to the state.

As a Black Floridian, I want to encourage: If you do decide to visit the state, consider learning more about Florida's Black history and landmarks.

From Miami to Jacksonville, here are places you can visit to learn about Florida's rich Black history. And to make the experience more enriching (and delicious), I've suggested a local or Black-owned restaurant or cafe at each stop.

Miami: Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater

Located in Overtown, one of the oldest communities in Miami, the Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater is a partnership between the Black Archives History and Research Foundation and the Lyric Theater. The Lyric Theater dates to 1913 and served as a venue for greats like James Brown and Aretha Franklin in its heyday. In 1988, the Black Archives History and Research Foundation acquired the Lyric Theater and completely restored the stage and auditorium. Today, visitors can attend stand-up comedy shows and musical performances.

Located on the same property, the Black Archives has thousands of manuscripts, photographs and art that document African American life in Dade County that are available to the public by appointment.

While you're in Overtown, you can also stop by one of the city's beloved soul food restaurants like Red Rooster and Lil Greenhouse Grill.

Fort Lauderdale: The African American Research Library and Cultural Center

Opened in 2002, the African American Research Library and Cultural Center is a unique, 60,000-square-foot venue in downtown Fort Lauderdale. The building includes a main library, an auditorium and a children's library with more Black-authored books than any other facility in the country.

The center also serves as an essential community center and offers classes, lectures and performances year-round. An exhibit area is located on the first floor, and the second floor includes a special collections room that's available by appointment with research materials, artwork and music.

Pair your visit to the library with a stop at Circle House Coffee, owned by former NFL player Stephen Tulloch.

Orlando: Wells'Built Museum of African American History & Culture

Central Florida is known for its theme