1 day at Brown v. Board of Education National Historical Park

Colorful mural depicting diverse cultural elements and historical figures under a blue sky.

Spend a day at Brown v. Board of Education National Historical Park, a site that tells the story of the Supreme Court decision that declared racial segregation in public schools to be unconstitutional. Learn about the movement for educational equality in America through powerful exhibits and immersive storytelling.

Duration
1 day
Perfect for
History lovers, educators, and anyone interested in civil rights.
Highlights
Historic school building, powerful exhibits, and modern reflections on equality.
Morning

Arriving at Monroe Elementary School

Monroe school with large windows and blue double doors.

Step inside the Visitor Center

Begin your day at the visitor center and watch a short orientation film that explains the history of school segregation and the legal fight for equality.

Exhibit with "Wall of Courage" display and illustrated figures.

Explore the exhibits

Start your self-guided tour in the main gallery. Discover how the “separate but equal” doctrine shaped American education and learn about the brave families who challenged the system through powerful photos, documents, and stories.

Midday

Explore more

Audience attentively listening at a community event.

Join a Ranger talk

Check the schedule to see if a ranger-led program is being offered during your visit. These talks provide deeper insight into the history of the park and the impact of the court decision today. 

School with red roof, surrounded by trees, under a blue sky.

Walk the grounds

Step outside to see the exterior of Monroe Elementary. Spend some time playing on the playground or walking the Landon Nature Trail.

Afternoon

Connecting the past with the present

Visit the bookstore

Stop by the park bookstore to browse books and educational materials about civil rights, African American history, and the legacy of Brown v. Board.

Tour the Kansas State Capitol

Head into Topeka and take a guided tour to see beautiful murals. Learn how Kansas’s history shaped its role in education and civil rights.

Ritchie House building with a statue in front, surrounded by trees.
Optional add-on

Tour the Historic John and Mary Jane Ritchie House

Have more time? The historic Ritchie house is believed to be the oldest in Topeka. Built by abolitionists, the home was a stop on the Underground Railroad.

Visit Smart

Plan ahead

Check the park’s hours before your visit and look online for any special events, school programs, or temporary exhibits.

Dress for comfort

Wear comfortable shoes so you can fully enjoy the walkable exhibits.

Honor the legacy

This site honors a critical moment in American history. Be respectful of the exhibits and stories shared, and take time to reflect on how the legacy of this decision continues today.

Leave no trace

Topeka and the surrounding region are the homelands of many Indigenous peoples, including the Kaw (Kanza), Osage, Kickapoo, and Shawnee tribes, among others. Visit with respect.

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