Reginald F. Lewis Museum
A Smithsonian Affiliate museum celebrating Maryland's African American history, art, and culture through powerful exhibits and engaging events.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Live music & vibrant atmosphere
Reginald F. Lewis Museum
Best Time
Live music & vibrant atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Smithsonian Affiliate museum celebrating Maryland's African American history, art, and culture through powerful exhibits and engaging events.
"A wonderful black history museum that centers on the culture in Maryland as well as the plight of black Americans."
🎯 Check Event Calendar
Don't miss special events like 'First Fridays' for live music and food!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be exploring exhibits, so wear comfy shoes for a better experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Titan: The Legacy of Reginald F. Lewis
Exhibit Hall
Discover the inspiring story of Reginald Lewis, a pioneering African American businessman. A must-see for understanding ambition and success.

Maryland African American History
Permanent Exhibits
Immerse yourself in the rich history, culture, and contributions of Black Marylanders. Powerful stories of family, community, and resilience.

First Fridays Music Series
Museum Grounds
Experience vibrant live music, delicious food, and a great vibe. A perfect way to enjoy a Friday evening in Baltimore.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Explore Beyond the Exhibits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Event Calendar
Don't miss special events like 'First Fridays' for live music and food!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be exploring exhibits, so wear comfy shoes for a better experience.
📸 Capture the Moments
The museum's architecture and exhibits are very photogenic.
🛍️ Unique Gift Shop Finds
The gift shop offers a great selection of items related to Black history and culture.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Event Calendar
Don't miss special events like 'First Fridays' for live music and food!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be exploring exhibits, so wear comfy shoes for a better experience.
📸 Capture the Moments
The museum's architecture and exhibits are very photogenic.
🛍️ Unique Gift Shop Finds
The gift shop offers a great selection of items related to Black history and culture.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Reginald F. Lewis Museum for its powerful and informative exhibits on Maryland's African American history and the inspiring legacy of Reginald F. Lewis. While some mention the museum can get warm, especially during power issues, the overall experience is highly regarded for its cultural significance and engaging content.
"This is a wonderful black history museum that centers on the culture in Maryland as well as the plight of black Americans in the South. The second floor of the museum has a section that is dedicated to the achievements of Mr. Lewis as a great black American businessman. It’s worth a visit if you’re in the area."
T BELL-ABERCROMBIE
"Great experience, it was a little warm but only because they had a power shortage and the electricity was just turned back on. Lots of Black Maryland history and their gift shop has a lot of cute things I wanted. If you have never been, definitely check it out."
Senafekish Kebere
"Explore Baltimore - Titan | Reginald F Lewis Museum
830 E Pratt St
Baltimore, MD 21202
Located two blocks from Inner Harbor in Downtown Baltimore, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture – a Smithsonian Affiliate – documents, interprets, and preserves the complex experiences, contributions, and culture of Black people. The Lewis Museum serves as a catalyst of sustained change by providing robust programs and exhibitions and bold conversations that educate and challenge. We strive to be a trusted custodian, a respected authority, and a thought-partner on the history, art and culture of the African diaspora with an emphasis on the State of Maryland.
Founded in 2005, the 82,000-square-foot facility accommodates over 13,000 square feet of permanent and temporary exhibition space, hosting more than 11,000 objects in our permanent collection, special exhibitions, educational programs, and public events.
Mission: The Reginald F. Lewis Museum documents, interprets and preserves the complex experiences, contributions and culture of Black people in Maryland. We serve as a catalyst for sustained change by providing programs, exhibitions and bold conversations that educate and challenge.
Vision: To be a trusted custodian, a respected authority, and a thought-partner on the history, art and culture of the African diaspora with an emphasis on the State of Maryland."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Reginald F. Lewis Museum is conveniently located at 830 E Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21202, just two blocks from the Inner Harbor. It's easily accessible by car, public transportation, or even a pleasant walk if you're exploring downtown Baltimore.
Yes, there are several parking garages and street parking options available in the vicinity of the museum, especially around the Inner Harbor area. It's advisable to check parking availability and rates beforehand.
Absolutely! Baltimore's public transportation system, including buses and light rail, serves the downtown area. Check the MTA Maryland website for routes and schedules that stop near the Inner Harbor or Pratt Street.
The Reginald F. Lewis Museum is designed to be accessible. It features elevators and ramps to ensure all visitors can comfortably navigate the exhibits.
From the Inner Harbor, it's a short and pleasant walk to the Reginald F. Lewis Museum. Simply head east on Pratt Street, and you'll find it on your left.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, and it's best to check the official Reginald F. Lewis Museum website for the most current admission fees. They often have special pricing for seniors, students, and children.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially for special events like the 'First Fridays Music Series,' to secure your spot and potentially save time.
Museum hours can change, so it's crucial to visit the Reginald F. Lewis Museum's official website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
The museum may offer discounts for students, seniors, military personnel, and children. Check their website or inquire at the ticket counter for details on available discounts.
Yes, becoming a member of the Reginald F. Lewis Museum often provides benefits like free admission, discounts in the gift shop, and invitations to exclusive events.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss 'Titan: The Legacy of Reginald F. Lewis' for an inspiring look at his life and achievements. The permanent exhibits showcasing Maryland's African American history are also incredibly powerful and informative.
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring the exhibits. However, if you plan to attend a special program or deeply engage with all the displays, you might want to allocate more time.
Photography for personal use is generally allowed in most areas, but flash photography and tripods may be restricted. It's always best to check for signage or ask museum staff for specific guidelines.
The museum may offer guided tours, especially for groups. Check their website or inquire upon arrival about scheduled tours or the possibility of arranging a private tour.
The museum hosts a variety of programs, including lectures, workshops, musical performances like the 'First Fridays Music Series,' and community events celebrating Black culture and history.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
During special events like the 'First Fridays Music Series,' food and drinks are often available for purchase from local vendors.
Yes, the museum is located near the Inner Harbor and Little Italy, offering a wide array of dining options from casual eateries to upscale restaurants.
Generally, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the museum galleries. It's best to consume them in designated areas or before/after your visit.
At events like 'First Fridays,' you might find diverse offerings from local Baltimore food trucks and caterers, often featuring soul food or other popular cuisines.
Dining options near the museum are plentiful, and many restaurants in Baltimore offer vegetarian and vegan choices. For museum events, offerings can vary, so it's good to inquire if specific dietary needs are a concern.
📸 📸 Photography
The museum's modern architecture, designed by Phil Freelon, is a great subject. Inside, the exhibits themselves, especially the 'Titan' exhibit and displays on Maryland's Black history, offer compelling visual stories.
Personal photography is usually permitted, but always check for signs indicating restrictions. Flash photography is typically not allowed to protect the artifacts.
While personal photos are generally fine, professional photography or videography may require special permission. Avoid using tripods or large equipment that could obstruct other visitors.
The lighting inside the museum is generally good throughout the day. For exterior shots, consider the golden hours around sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting on the building.
The 'Titan' exhibit, with its focus on business and achievement, and the vibrant displays detailing the rich tapestry of Maryland's African American history are highly photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for exhibits that highlight achievements and resilience, which can be particularly inspiring for younger visitors. The museum's location near the Inner Harbor also makes it a great addition to a family day out in Baltimore, offering a blend of historical learning and popular attractions.
🤝 Couples and Date Nights
Beyond the events, a visit to the museum itself can be a thoughtful and engaging date. Exploring the exhibits on Reginald Lewis's legacy or the rich history of Black Marylanders can lead to insightful conversations and shared learning, offering a deeper connection than a typical outing.
📚 History Buffs and Educators
Educators will find the museum a rich resource for understanding local and national Black history, with opportunities for field trips and professional development. The museum's mission to educate and challenge visitors makes it a prime location for deep dives into complex historical narratives and cultural contributions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The "Titan" Exhibit: A Business Legacy
Visitors often find this exhibit particularly inspiring, highlighting themes of entrepreneurship, leadership, and economic empowerment. It serves as a crucial reminder of the significant contributions Black individuals have made to American business and society, often against considerable odds. The museum's dedication to showcasing this story underscores its mission to educate and challenge visitors about the complexities of Black history and culture.
This exhibit is a cornerstone of the Reginald F. Lewis Museum's commitment to preserving and interpreting the history of African Americans in Maryland and beyond. It’s a narrative that resonates with aspiring entrepreneurs, students, and anyone interested in the pursuit of excellence and the dismantling of systemic barriers.
Exploring Maryland's African American Heritage
Visitors consistently praise the museum for its powerful and informative displays that shed light on often-overlooked aspects of American history. The collection includes over 11,000 objects, providing a tangible connection to the past. Whether you're learning about the Great Migration, the Civil Rights Movement in Maryland, or the vibrant artistic expressions of the community, the exhibits are designed to educate, engage, and provoke thought.
Beyond the permanent collection, the museum frequently hosts temporary exhibitions that explore specific themes, artists, or historical periods, ensuring there's always something new to discover. These rotating exhibits, combined with robust public programs and educational initiatives, make the Reginald F. Lewis Museum a dynamic center for understanding and celebrating African American heritage.
Events and Community Engagement
These events are crucial for fostering a sense of community and providing accessible platforms for cultural celebration. The museum also hosts block parties, lectures, workshops, and special celebrations like Juneteenth and African-American Music Appreciation Month, often coinciding with significant historical dates or anniversaries. This proactive approach ensures that the museum remains relevant and a focal point for dialogue and cultural exchange.
By offering such a dynamic calendar of events, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum invites everyone to participate in the ongoing narrative of African American history and culture. It's a place where learning is interactive, celebratory, and deeply connected to the community it serves.
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