Westboro Historic District
The site of the landmark Supreme Court case that ended segregation in U.S. public schools. A powerful educational experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal experience
Westboro Historic District
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The site of the landmark Supreme Court case that ended segregation in U.S. public schools. A powerful educational experience.
"A MUST SEE FOR TEACHERS! Well designed and very easy to navigate!"
Allow ample time
Don't rush; give yourself at least an hour to absorb the history and exhibits.
Engage with rangers
Park staff are knowledgeable and eager to share insights about the case.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Monroe Elementary School
The original school building
Walk through the halls of the school that was at the heart of the fight against segregation in education.
Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site Exhibits
Inside the school building
Engaging exhibits detail the history and impact of the landmark Supreme Court decision.
National Park Passport Stamps
Visitor Center
Collect unique cancellation stamps for your National Park Passport, including special anniversary editions.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the Significance
Plan Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allow ample time
Don't rush; give yourself at least an hour to absorb the history and exhibits.
Engage with rangers
Park staff are knowledgeable and eager to share insights about the case.
Jr. Ranger Program
Kids can complete activity books for a special Jr. Ranger badge.
Passport Stamps
Bring your National Parks Passport to collect unique stamps.
Today marks the 70th anniversary of the Brown vs. Board of Education ruling that desegregated school in America and the start of overturning Jim Crow Laws.
Tips
from all over the internet
Allow ample time
Don't rush; give yourself at least an hour to absorb the history and exhibits.
Engage with rangers
Park staff are knowledgeable and eager to share insights about the case.
Jr. Ranger Program
Kids can complete activity books for a special Jr. Ranger badge.
Passport Stamps
Bring your National Parks Passport to collect unique stamps.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site for its informative exhibits and the dedication of its staff. Many find it a deeply moving and important place to visit, highlighting the educational value for all ages. While the site itself is focused, its historical significance is profound.
"While on a cross country road trip in September 2024 we visited several places in Topeka, one of which was the school building that was central to the US Supreme Court case Brown v. Board of education. Very friendly park staff took the time to provide a lot of information and explained the background behind the case. Very good layout and exhibits to see. Spent about an hour here. If you are in the Topeka area, highly recommend seeing this."
rich troutman
"Such an amazing National Park! Well designed and very easy to navigate! A MUST SEE FOR TEACHERS!
We got our US National Park Passport Stamped including the 60th anniversary stamp!"
Heidi Gomez
"The Brown V. Board of Education NHS is a Park that you need to see. Passport cancelation stamps are on a table as you walk into the building. There are six passport cancelation stamps here! The staff and park ranger were very nice and knowledgeable. They answered any and all questions I had."
William Baker
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Westboro Historic District is located in Topeka, Kansas. The primary attraction is the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site, located at 401 NE Orchard St, Topeka, KS 66617. It's accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Public transportation options may be limited, so driving is often the most convenient method.
Yes, there is parking available at the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site. It's generally ample for visitors, making it easy to access the school and exhibits.
While the main focus is the National Historic Site, the surrounding area offers a glimpse into historic Topeka. Walking is a great way to explore the grounds of the former school and appreciate its context.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site is free. It's a National Park Service site, dedicated to public education and remembrance.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official National Park Service website for the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Advance booking is not typically required for general admission to the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site, as it is free. However, for special ranger programs or group tours, it's advisable to check the NPS website for any reservation requirements.
The site often hosts special events, educational programs, and ranger talks, especially around significant anniversaries like the 70th anniversary of the Brown v. Board ruling. Check the NPS website for a schedule of upcoming events.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site, featuring the preserved Monroe Elementary School. You can explore exhibits detailing the history of segregation and the fight for civil rights in education.
Most visitors spend about an hour to an hour and a half exploring the exhibits and grounds. This allows time to read the displays, watch any presentations, and collect passport stamps.
The National Historic Site is generally accessible. The exhibits and facilities are designed to accommodate visitors with mobility challenges. It's always a good idea to contact the site directly if you have specific accessibility concerns.
Ranger-led tours and talks are often available, providing deeper insights into the historical context and significance of the Brown v. Board of Education case. Check the schedule upon arrival or on the NPS website.
Yes, children can participate in the Junior Ranger program, which involves completing an activity booklet. This is a great way to engage younger visitors and make the experience educational and fun for them.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site for personal use. However, flash photography may be restricted in certain areas to protect exhibits. Always check for posted signage.
The exterior of the Monroe Elementary School building itself is a key photographic subject. The exhibits inside also offer opportunities for meaningful shots, capturing the historical narrative.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📚 Educators and Students
🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Brown v. Board of Education
Visitors can walk through the classrooms as they were, offering a tangible connection to the past. The National Park Service maintains the site, ensuring its historical integrity and educational value. It serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and the importance of education as a tool for social change. The site is not just about a court case; it's about the lived experiences of students and families who fought for their right to equal educational opportunities.
Beyond the school building, the surrounding area provides context for the era. The Westboro Historic District itself, while not as extensively developed as some other historic areas, offers a sense of place. The preservation of Monroe Elementary is a testament to the community's commitment to remembering and learning from this critical chapter in American history. It's a place that encourages reflection and dialogue about race, justice, and the pursuit of a more equitable society.
Visiting the National Historic Site
Key features include the preserved classrooms of Monroe Elementary, which offer a direct look into the segregated school system. The exhibits are comprehensive, covering the legal aspects of the case, the lives of the plaintiffs, and the broader context of the Civil Rights Movement. Many visitors highlight the effectiveness of the displays in conveying the importance of the ruling.
For those who collect them, the site offers National Park Passport stamps, including special anniversary editions, which are a popular takeaway. The Junior Ranger program is also available for children, providing an engaging way for them to learn about the site's significance.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit