The visitor center is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closed on Sundays, Mondays, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s.
Admission to Brown v. Board of Education National Historical Park is free for everyone.
From Topeka, take US-75 S to SE Monroe St, a journey through historic landscapes to a seminal site of civil rights history.
Free parking is available in the lot across the street from the park entrance. No parking fees or overnight parking. Suitable for cars, but no specific accommodations for RVs or motorcycles.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Full
In the heart of Topeka, Kansas, the Brown v. Board of Education National Historical Park stands as a poignant testament to the nation’s tumultuous past and its stride towards equality. This historic site, once a segregated elementary school, now serves as a powerful reminder of the landmark 1954 Supreme Court decision that dismantled the “separate but equal” doctrine, a cornerstone of the Civil Rights Movement.
The park is centered around the Monroe Elementary School, a two-story brick-and-stone building that has been meticulously restored to its original form. The surrounding grounds are serene, with well-manicured lawns and historic markers that guide visitors through the significant events that unfolded here. Inside, the schoolhouses an auditorium, photo galleries, and special exhibits that vividly recount the stories of those who fought against racial segregation.
Visitors can explore the historic Monroe School building, now a museum, and delve into the rich history of educational racism and the legal battles that led to this pivotal decision. The park also includes affiliated areas such as Robert Russa Moton School in Virginia and Howard High School in Delaware, each offering a broader perspective on the nationwide struggle for equal education.
While the park itself does not offer the natural landscapes often associated with national parks, its historical significance and educational value are unparalleled. Special events include commemorative ceremonies on May 17th, marking the anniversary of the Supreme Court decision. For those seeking a deeper connection, guided tours and educational programs are available, providing an immersive experience into the civil rights era.
In the vicinity, Topeka offers a blend of local culture and history, with artisan shops and eateries that reflect the city’s diverse heritage. The park, operated by the National Park Service, is open Tuesday through Saturday, with free admission, making it an accessible and enriching destination for anyone interested in American history and the fight for equality.
- Area (mi²)
- 0.1
- Annual visitors
- 18 800
- Established year
- 1992
Top 3 Facts about Brown v. Board of Education National Historical Park
The historical site includes five additional schools as affiliated areas, such as Robert Russa Moton School in Virginia, which was the site of a student-led strike in 1951 that lasted 11 months, highlighting the prolonged struggles against educational segregation.
This historic site, once a segregated school, now stands as a testament to equality, surrounded by native Kansas flora such as tallgrass prairies and oak trees. The area is home to a variety of birds, including the American robin and the red-winged blackbird. Small mammals like white-tailed deer and eastern cottontail rabbits inhabit the grounds, while nearby waterways host fish like the channel catfish and largemouth bass. The landscape, though not grand, is a poignant backdrop to a pivotal moment in American history.
Surrounded by the rolling plains of the American heartland, this historic site is set amidst a landscape characterized by the Kansas River, which flows gently through Topeka with waters that often reflect the sky’s hues of blue and grey. The area’s moderate climate brings warm summers and cold winters, with temperatures ranging from below 20°F in January to over 90°F in July. The flat to gently sloping terrain, devoid of towering mountains or lakes, emphasizes the site’s historical significance in a serene and expansive natural setting.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scavenger Hunts
- Virtual Junior Activities.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit in spring for the Topeka Jazz Festival. Allow a half-day to explore the site. Park on site, start at the visitor center. Anticipate paved walks and plan for rests. Pack meals or dine in nearby Topeka before and after your visit.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for variable weather, comfortable shoes, water, a wireless charger, and a small backpack for essentials. Bring extra shoes and a notepad for notes. Check the season to adjust your gear accordingly.
Respect Wildlife
Stay on designated trails, respect area closures, and avoid disturbing local flora and fauna. Carry out trash and use reusable containers to minimize impact. Be mindful of seasonal wildlife activities and weather conditions. Leave the area in better condition than you found it.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and fast-moving water. Check weather and fire alerts. For emergencies, call park authorities at 911 or the park’s emergency number. Stay informed, stay safe.
Seasons
Visit in spring for mild temperatures (60s-70s°F) and vibrant blooming flora. Celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Supreme Court’s ruling with special events in April, honoring a pivotal moment in civil rights history. Ideal time to immerse in historic significance and renewed life.
Visit in summer for warm temperatures (80s-90s°F) and vibrant events. Celebrate the anniversary of the landmark Supreme Court decision around May 17th with free events. Enjoy outdoor activities like picnics and playground fun amidst historic significance. Ideal for history and outdoor enthusiasts.
Visit in fall, when mild temperatures (50s-70s°F) and crisp air enhance the historic ambiance. Enjoy special events like the anniversary commemoration of the landmark Supreme Court decision, typically in late September. A perfect time to immerse in civil rights history.
Visit in winter for a serene, historic experience. January and February bring average highs near 31°F and 36°F, with potential snow and cold winds. Though chilly, the tranquility and lesser crowds make it an ideal time for introspective exploration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Brown v. Board of Education National Historical Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to the Brown v. Board of Education National Historical Park is Topeka, Kansas. The park is located at 1515 SE Monroe St, Topeka, KS 66612.
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There is a hiking trail nearby, the Landon Nature Trail, which is accessible from the park’s parking lot, but it is not specifically within the historical park itself. This trail offers a walk or bike ride option and is located near the historical site.
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Dogs are allowed in most external areas, such as parking areas and along paved roads, but they are not allowed inside buildings unless they are service animals.
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Yes, parking is free. The parking lot is located across the street from the park.
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The Brown v. Board of Education National Historical Park commemorates the 1954 Supreme Court decision that declared segregation in public schools unconstitutional, marking a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement. This decision, made on May 17, 1954, was a result of a case that consolidated five lawsuits, including one from Topeka, Kansas, where the park is located at the former Monroe Elementary School. It symbolizes the struggle for equal educational opportunities and the fight against racial segregation.