Background

Journey Through History at the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site

Explore the life and legacy of Frederick Douglass at this inspiring National Historic Site in Washington, D.C., dedicated to his fight for freedom and equality.

4.8

Immerse yourself in the rich history of the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site in Washington, D.C. This remarkable location honors the life and legacy of the iconic abolitionist and statesman Frederick Douglass, showcasing his contributions to American society. Explore the beautifully preserved home where Douglass lived and discover the stories that shaped his extraordinary journey from slavery to freedom.

A brief summary to Frederick Douglass National Historic Site

  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early to secure a spot for the guided tours, as they can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
  • Take time to explore the beautiful gardens surrounding the historic house; it's a great spot for photos.
  • Check the website for any special events or lectures scheduled during your visit for a deeper understanding of Douglass's impact.
  • Bring comfortable walking shoes, as the site includes several outdoor areas to explore.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Bus

    From Rockville, walk to the Rockville Metro Station located at 255 N Washington St, Rockville, MD 20850. Take the Red Line train towards Glenmont. Transfer at Gallery Place-Chinatown Station to the Yellow Line towards Greenbelt. Get off at Anacostia Station. From Anacostia Station, walk approximately 0.5 miles to the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site at 1411 W St SE, Washington, DC 20020.

  • Metro

    Begin at the Rockville Metro Station. Board the Red Line train towards Glenmont. After about 30 minutes, get off at the Gallery Place-Chinatown Station. Transfer to the Yellow Line and board the train towards Greenbelt. Travel for about 5 stops and get off at Anacostia Station. From there, it's a short walk (about 0.5 miles) to the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site located at 1411 W St SE, Washington, DC 20020.

  • Walking

    If you are in the downtown area of Rockville, you can start walking towards the Rockville Metro Station. Once you reach the station, follow the instructions for either the bus or metro options above. Alternatively, you can walk to the Rockville Town Square and catch a local bus that heads towards Washington, D.C. Make sure to check the bus schedule for the most accurate routes available.

  • Taxi/Rideshare

    Use a rideshare app like Uber or Lyft. Input 'Frederick Douglass National Historic Site, 1411 W St SE, Washington, DC 20020' as your destination. This option will take you directly to the site without the need for public transport. Depending on traffic, the ride can take approximately 30-45 minutes from Rockville.

Unlock the Best of Frederick Douglass National Historic Site

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Frederick Douglass National Historic Site

The Frederick Douglass National Historic Site is a profound tribute to one of America’s most influential figures in the fight for justice and equality. As a historical place and museum, it offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the life of Frederick Douglass, a former slave who became a leading voice in the abolitionist movement. Located in Southeast Washington, D.C., this site is not only a museum but also a preserved historic residence where Douglass lived from 1877 until his death in 1895. Visitors can take guided tours of the grand house, known as Cedar Hill, which is filled with artifacts and documents that tell the story of Douglass’s remarkable life, his advocacy for civil rights, and his passion for education and social reform. The picturesque grounds also provide a serene environment for reflection, with scenic views of the surrounding landscape, encapsulating the legacy of Douglass and his vision for a just society. The site is part of the National Park System, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in the struggles for civil rights. In addition to the tours, the site often hosts special events, lectures, and educational programs that delve deeper into Douglass’s impact on American history. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about the past, the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site offers an enriching experience that connects visitors to the ongoing journey toward equality and justice.

Popular Experiences near Frederick Douglass National Historic Site

Popular Hotels near Frederick Douglass National Historic Site

Select Currency