Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum
Step back in time at the Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum, a historic home with tunnels and artifacts detailing the fight for freedom.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better appreciation
Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better appreciation
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at the Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum, a historic home with tunnels and artifacts detailing the fight for freedom.
"Affordable wisdom that is truly priceless; a must-visit for understanding history."
⏳ Book the 3-Hour Tour
This in-depth tour is for groups and requires advance booking. It's a richer experience than the standard visit.
🚫 No Photos Inside
Be ready to absorb the history visually and aurally, as photography is prohibited inside the museum.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Burkle Estate
Historic home
Explore the 19th-century home that served as a safe house on the Underground Railroad, featuring hidden tunnels and trap doors.
Artifacts of Resilience
Throughout the museum
Discover artifacts that tell the powerful stories of bravery, resilience, and the fight for freedom during slavery.
Magnolia Trees
Exterior grounds
Learn about the historical significance of the magnolia trees on the property, which played a role in the Underground Railroad.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Group Tours
Photography Restrictions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Book the 3-Hour Tour
This in-depth tour is for groups and requires advance booking. It's a richer experience than the standard visit.
🚫 No Photos Inside
Be ready to absorb the history visually and aurally, as photography is prohibited inside the museum.
😷 Mask Up (Optional)
Masks are required inside. You can purchase one on-site if needed.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Experience
Consider bringing your family for an educational and impactful history lesson.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Book the 3-Hour Tour
This in-depth tour is for groups and requires advance booking. It's a richer experience than the standard visit.
🚫 No Photos Inside
Be ready to absorb the history visually and aurally, as photography is prohibited inside the museum.
😷 Mask Up (Optional)
Masks are required inside. You can purchase one on-site if needed.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Experience
Consider bringing your family for an educational and impactful history lesson.
📍 Check Hours
Tours can fill up quickly, especially on busy days. Arrive early or check availability beforehand.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum for its knowledgeable guides and the profound historical insights it offers, calling it 'affordable wisdom that is truly priceless.' However, some express disappointment with photography restrictions and crowded tour conditions, suggesting improvements to visitor flow and tour scheduling for a more immersive experience.
"My husband and I attended a 1pm tour and we were not disappointed. The knowledge and facts of our history told here was appreciated and understood. If you haven’t been it’s a must. Affordable wisdom that is truly priceless."
Arniesa Saunders
"Beautiful place!! My only disappointment is that we were not able to take the 3 hour tour (3/12/19). We were told it's only for groups on 10 and it has to be scheduled in advance. It's not clear on the website. The day we visited, there was enough people for 3 buses which would could have clearly generated a lot of money at $43 a person for the tour compared to $13 a person for the museum visit. Other than this, I was very pleased. I wish they would just have scheduled tours throughout the day. Just my opinion...."
Shelly M.
"What a chaotic mess! First, let down, NO PICTURES. As an avid traveler and photographer, this was very disappointing. Secondly, you have to wear a mask. You can purchase on-site for $2.00. Why do you have to wear a mask? Well, they cram you into the main entrance and all the rooms 25-30 people deep. There is absolutely no way a person that is eight feet away can really appreciate what is being shown. Although I was wearing a mask the gentleman that was working there just wanted us to cramp in together. This causes me severe anxiety and streas. I have been to museums around the world and this was not a good experience. I myself was not able to see the underground railroad due to the amount of people. 4 of us @ $12each. There were so many interesting facts that I would have loved to document and take pictures of to show my friends and family that can not come to Memphis and marvel over this part of Black history and American History. We also brought family from Dallas, Texas, and they were mutually disappointed and disillusioned. Get a better system going. Tablets like Graceland? Less people at a time? Break up tour and audio? Allow people to walk around?"
Adriana Gonzalez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum is located at 826 N Second St, Memphis, TN. It's accessible by car and public transportation. Many visitors find it a convenient stop when exploring other downtown Memphis attractions.
Street parking is generally available near the museum, but it can be competitive, especially during peak hours. Consider using ride-sharing services or public transport if parking is a concern.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, but general museum visits are typically around $12-$13 per person. The longer 3-hour tours are priced higher and are for groups only. It's best to check their official website or call ahead for the most current pricing.
Operating hours can vary, and tours can fill up quickly. It's highly recommended to check their official website or call ahead to confirm hours and tour availability for the day of your visit.
For general admission, it's advisable to arrive early as tours can fill up. The 3-hour group tour absolutely requires advance booking.
Yes, guided tours are available. There's a standard museum tour and a more in-depth 3-hour tour specifically for groups that needs to be scheduled in advance.
While the museum experience is largely tour-based to provide historical context, you can visit for a general museum admission. However, the most comprehensive understanding comes from the guided tours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find artifacts and exhibits detailing the history of the Underground Railroad, including stories of bravery and resilience. The home itself, with its historical features, is a key part of the experience.
No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the museum. Visitors are encouraged to focus on listening and learning.
A general museum visit can take about an hour. The special 3-hour group tour offers a much more extensive exploration of the history.
The historic nature of the building may present some accessibility challenges. It's best to contact the museum directly to inquire about specific accessibility accommodations.
The magnolia trees on the grounds are historically significant and are mentioned as important elements of the Underground Railroad's history in Memphis.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum is primarily an educational institution and does not typically offer food services. However, there are numerous dining options in the surrounding downtown Memphis area.
The museum is located in downtown Memphis, which has a vibrant culinary scene. You'll find a variety of restaurants, from casual eateries to fine dining, within walking distance or a short drive.
📸 📸 Photography
No, photography is not permitted inside the museum. This is a common museum policy to protect artifacts and encourage visitors to focus on the experience.
While interior photography is not allowed, you can take photos of the exterior of the historic Burkle Estate and the surrounding grounds after your tour to commemorate your visit.
The historic architecture of the building itself offers a great photo opportunity from the outside. The surrounding downtown Memphis area also provides many scenic backdrops.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking the longer group tour if your family is interested in a more in-depth exploration, provided you meet the group size requirements. It's a valuable opportunity to supplement classroom learning with a real-world historical site. Remember to prepare children for the sensitive nature of the subject matter and focus on the bravery and hope associated with the Underground Railroad.
📚 History Enthusiasts & Students
The museum's setting within the historic Burkle Estate adds a layer of authenticity, allowing visitors to connect with the past in a tangible way. The detailed narratives and artifacts shared by knowledgeable guides can offer a rich learning experience, making it an ideal destination for students and history buffs alike.
📸 Photographers (Exterior Focus)
Focus on the architectural elements of the 19th-century home and the surrounding grounds, including the significant magnolia trees. These exterior shots can serve as a visual reminder of your visit and the important history the site represents.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Underground Railroad in Memphis
The Burkle Estate, built in 1849, is believed to have been a safe house, utilizing hidden tunnels and passages to aid enslaved people on their journey north. The museum's exhibits and artifacts aim to educate visitors about the bravery of both the freedom seekers and the abolitionists who risked their lives to help them. Understanding this history is crucial for comprehending the broader narrative of the fight for freedom in America.
Jacob Burkle, the estate's builder, was a German immigrant who, according to historical accounts, actively participated in assisting enslaved individuals. His home became a symbol of hope and refuge. Visiting Slave Haven provides a powerful, personal perspective on this critical period, moving beyond textbook accounts to a more visceral understanding of the struggles and triumphs of those who sought liberty.
Preserving History: The Burkle Estate
Despite facing challenges, including a mysterious fire in recent years, the museum and its historical integrity are being maintained. Efforts to restore and protect the estate ensure that future generations can learn from its legacy. The community's support and the dedication of those involved are vital in preserving this important landmark.
Visitors often remark on the powerful atmosphere within the estate, noting how the tangible presence of history impacts their understanding. The museum's commitment to showcasing the realities of slavery and the courage of those who escaped is evident in its exhibits and the stories shared by its guides.
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