The state of Kentucky The African American Heritage Trail was launched today. It offers visitors nearly 50 sites, as well as several other locations that help bring centuries of Black History to life. The trail offers a complete look at individuals and communities responsible for shaping Kentucky’s past and culture. This includes museums, monuments and historic churches.
The trail was launched in 2025 to coincide with the Juneteenth celebrations throughout Kentucky. The trail serves as a bridge that connects education with exploration, elevating voices that are too often left out of history’s broader narrative. Travel + Leisure. “By positioning culturally significant locations as tourism destinations the trail stimulates local economy, supports small businesses and creates jobs in communities whose tales deserve to be told and celebrated.”
Visit the Visitors Center to begin your exploration. Kentucky Center for African American HeritageIt is a community resource that offers weekly events to support the Black community in New York.
One of the most popular sights along the trail is the Muhammad Ali Center Louisville. The center is dedicated to Ali, the boxing icon and humanitarian. It explores Ali’s Kentucky roots, his impact on civil rights and global humanitarian efforts. The center is also an educational hub, promoting values such as respect, confidence, and dedication—principles Ali championed throughout his life.
A significant stop is the Seek MuseumThe exhibits in seven historic buildings across two National Register Districts tell powerful and often overlooked stories about slavery and the struggle for freedom, justice, equality and equality. Visitors are encouraged to learn and understand through educational exhibits located in seven historic buildings within two National Register districts. The museum operates two sites: the Bibb House, focusing on slavery and emancipation until 1865, and The Bottom, highlighting the post–Civil War resilience and civil rights efforts of a community shaped by segregation and racial injustice.
Southwards Camp Nelson National Historic Monument The story of African American Union troops during the Civil War is told in Jessamine County. This former military depot was used as a recruiting and training center for African American forces, some of whom came with their families in search of freedom. This site has a museum as well as interpretive trails.
The Portal 31 Coal Mine, in Lynch, is a place that highlights the contributions of Black coal miners to the Appalachian coal mining industry. Simmons College of Kentucky is one of Kentucky’s oldest historically black colleges. In Louisville, Roots 101 African American Museum The museum offers interactive exhibits that trace African American History from Africa to the modern America.
Apple Maps as well as Kentucky Tourism’s site will provide access to trail sites. Visit the Kentucky Tourism Website for more information. kentuckytourism.com.
