Great Blacks In Wax Museum
A powerful museum dedicated to Black history, featuring lifelike wax figures and impactful exhibits that tell the story of African Americans.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Great Blacks In Wax Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A powerful museum dedicated to Black history, featuring lifelike wax figures and impactful exhibits that tell the story of African Americans.
"This museum tells Our story and brings Black History to life in a way I had never experienced before."
Allow ample time
Give yourself at least 2-3 hours to absorb the powerful exhibits and learn from the detailed displays.
Consider a guided tour
Youth docents offer insightful tours, deepening understanding of Black history.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Middle Passage Reconstruction
Entrance exhibit
A raw, emotional depiction of the slave ship experience with lifelike wax figures and detailed information.
Influential Black Leaders
Various galleries
Lifelike wax figures showcasing historical and present-day Black heroes, athletes, and icons.
Scenes from Black History
Throughout the museum
Impactful displays illustrating key moments and narratives from African American history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Powerful Experience
Funding and Updates
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allow ample time
Give yourself at least 2-3 hours to absorb the powerful exhibits and learn from the detailed displays.
Consider a guided tour
Youth docents offer insightful tours, deepening understanding of Black history.
Be prepared for emotional content
The museum's depiction of slavery and historical struggles can be intense but is incredibly inspiring.
Check for coupons
Look for discounts, as one visitor found a $3 off coupon that enhanced their experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Allow ample time
Give yourself at least 2-3 hours to absorb the powerful exhibits and learn from the detailed displays.
Consider a guided tour
Youth docents offer insightful tours, deepening understanding of Black history.
Be prepared for emotional content
The museum's depiction of slavery and historical struggles can be intense but is incredibly inspiring.
Check for coupons
Look for discounts, as one visitor found a $3 off coupon that enhanced their experience.
Respectful photography
Capture the moments, but out of respect for the sensitive content, avoid posting graphic images.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Great Blacks In Wax Museum to be a powerful and unforgettable experience, offering a unique way to learn about Black history through lifelike wax figures and impactful exhibits like the Middle Passage reconstruction. While some note the museum's dated appearance and potential need for funding, the educational value and inspiring stories are consistently praised.
"This museum is powerful and unforgettable. It starts with a raw, emotional walk through a reconstructed slave ship that shows what the Middle Passage was really like, complete with lifelike wax figures and detailed information. As you move through the museum, you see important scenes from black history and learn about influential black leaders, past and present. It was heavy at times but incredibly inspiring and worth the visit."
Kendra Shealey
"Visited 04/13/25
While we had fun and enjoyed it, the museum is in bad shape as it appears they lack funding to do upgrades. The inside it is dated and dirty. Some of the exhibits were missing all together or missing parts. They’re using printed papers instead of a plaque to show information on each person. Some of the suits are very oversized, one had green looking hands which did not look realistic at all. Price was $18 dollars when Reginald Lewis museum nearby only charges $12. Lewis blew this one out of the water. However, I did enjoy it and learned quite a bit. It’s cool but don’t expect to be blown away."
S.M.
"10/10 a must visit! This museum tell Our story and brings Black History to life in a way I.had never experienced before.
Thank you for careful and respectfully telling our story and inspiring my family."
T.M. Cartwright
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located at 1601 E. North Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21213. Visitors can drive and utilize the complimentary parking lot available on the side of the building.
While specific routes aren't detailed, Baltimore has a public transportation system. Checking local transit schedules for routes near North Avenue is recommended for public transport users.
Yes, there is a complimentary parking lot available on the side of the building, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Information on accessibility is not explicitly detailed in the provided content. It's advisable to contact the museum directly to inquire about ramps, elevators, and other accessibility features.
Operating hours are not specified in the provided content. It's best to check the museum's official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is $18, though one reviewer mentioned finding a $3 off coupon. It's worth checking for potential discounts or special offers.
Advance ticket purchase information is not detailed. It's recommended to check the museum's official website or call ahead to inquire about booking options.
One visitor mentioned using a $3 off coupon. It's always a good idea to search for potential discounts online or inquire at the museum.
Specific admission policies for children are not detailed. It's advisable to contact the museum directly for information on child ticket prices and age restrictions.
Group rate information is not provided. Schools and other organizations interested in group visits should contact the museum directly to inquire about rates and booking.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You'll encounter lifelike wax figures depicting Black heroes, historical scenes, and a powerful reconstruction of the Middle Passage. It's an educational and inspiring journey through African American history.
Yes, the museum offers guided tours, often led by knowledgeable youth docents who provide deep insights into Black history.
The museum's content, particularly the Middle Passage exhibit, can be intense. While educational for older children and adults, parental discretion is advised for younger visitors.
Photography is generally allowed, but visitors are encouraged to be respectful of the exhibits and the sensitive nature of some displays.
A visit typically takes 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the exhibits and learn from the historical context provided.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Information regarding on-site dining facilities is not provided in the available content. Visitors may need to plan for meals before or after their visit.
Baltimore offers a diverse culinary scene. Exploring nearby neighborhoods like Charles Village or Greenmount West will reveal various dining options, from casual eateries to more upscale establishments.
Policies on outside food and beverages are not specified. It's advisable to contact the museum directly to confirm their rules regarding outside refreshments.
Baltimore has a vibrant Black-owned business community. Researching local guides or directories can help identify highly-rated Black-owned restaurants in the city.
Baltimore is famous for its seafood, especially crab cakes. You'll also find a wide range of American, Italian, and international cuisines throughout the city.
📸 📸 Photography
Many of the lifelike wax figures of historical figures and iconic Black leaders make for compelling photographs. The Middle Passage exhibit, while somber, is also visually striking.
Yes, photography is generally permitted, but visitors are asked to be mindful and respectful of the exhibits and the historical context.
While not explicitly stated, it's always a good practice to avoid flash photography that could damage exhibits or disturb other visitors. Out of respect for sensitive content, some photos may be best left unshared.
A standard digital camera or smartphone with good low-light capabilities would be suitable. The lighting in wax museums can vary, so a camera that handles different light conditions well is ideal.
You can find photos by searching for 'Great Blacks In Wax Museum photos' on Google Images or browsing social media platforms like Instagram using relevant hashtags. 
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Opting for a guided tour, especially one led by the youth docents, can make the experience more interactive and understandable for younger visitors. The docents are skilled at tailoring their explanations to different age groups. It's also wise to prepare children beforehand about the historical context to ensure they can process the information appropriately.
📚 History Enthusiasts
The Middle Passage exhibit offers a stark, unvarnished look at a crucial historical event, while the galleries showcasing Black leaders, inventors, and artists provide a rich tapestry of achievement. The museum's origins and ongoing mission also add a layer of historical significance to the visitor experience.
💡 Educational Groups
+1Booking a guided tour, especially with the youth docents, can significantly enhance the educational value for students. These tours are often tailored to specific age groups and learning objectives. The museum's commitment to preserving and sharing Black history makes it a vital resource for fostering cultural understanding and historical awareness among young learners.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Genesis of the Great Blacks In Wax Museum
+1Dr. Joanne Martin, a driving force behind the museum, continues to champion its mission. The museum's inception was a response to the often-limited portrayal of Black history in mainstream education. By creating lifelike wax figures, the Martins sought to bring historical figures and pivotal moments to life, making them tangible and relatable for visitors of all ages. This dedication to storytelling through art and history has made the museum a significant cultural institution.
+1The museum's commitment extends beyond static displays. They actively engage the community, notably through their youth docent program. This initiative empowers young people to become knowledgeable ambassadors of Black history, deepening their own understanding while educating visitors. This focus on intergenerational learning and community involvement underscores the museum's enduring impact.
Experiencing the Middle Passage
Visitors often describe this section as 'heavy' and 'unforgettable,' emphasizing its power to educate and evoke empathy. The detailed information accompanying the figures provides crucial historical context, highlighting the brutality and dehumanization inherent in this period. While challenging, this exhibit is considered essential for understanding a critical, albeit painful, chapter of Black history.
The Middle Passage exhibit serves as a stark reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring legacy of slavery. It sets a profound tone for the rest of the museum, preparing visitors for the subsequent exhibits that celebrate the achievements and contributions of Black people despite such adversity.
The Role of Youth Docents
Visitors consistently praise the youth docents for their insightful tours and passionate delivery. These young guides bring a unique energy and perspective to the museum, making the historical narratives come alive for visitors. Their ability to articulate complex historical events and figures with clarity and conviction is a testament to the program's success.
The youth docent program is a powerful example of community engagement and educational innovation. It provides a platform for young people to connect with their heritage, share important stories, and inspire others. Experiencing a tour led by these dedicated young individuals is often highlighted as a particularly rewarding aspect of a museum visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit