5 Ways to Explore the Outdoors This Summer Through Black History in America

This summer, step outside and connect with nature while exploring powerful stories of resilience, joy, and community from Black history. Across the U.S., there are outdoor destinations that not only offer stunning natural beauty but also hold cultural and historical significance—many of them once listed in the Green Book, a travel guide that helped Black travelers navigate segregation-era America safely.

Here are five meaningful outdoor adventures that celebrate Black heritage while helping you enjoy the warmth and wonder of the season:

1. Walk the Legacy Trail in Lexington, Kentucky

Once a route for the Underground Railroad, the Legacy Trail is a scenic 12-mile greenway that runs from Lexington to the Kentucky Horse Park. Along the trail are historical markers that tell stories of Black families, abolitionists, and communities who played pivotal roles in Kentucky’s history. Rent a bike, take a walk, and reflect on the resilience of those who journeyed toward freedom.

2. Explore the Beaches of Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

Specifically, visit Oak Bluffs, a historic vacation spot for affluent Black families during the Jim Crow era. This coastal community was one of the few places where Black Americans could own beachfront property and enjoy leisure during segregation. Pack a picnic, stroll the gingerbread cottages, and relax on Inkwell Beach, a spot long associated with Black cultural pride and gathering.

3. Hike through Nicodemus National Historic Site, Kansas

Nicodemus is the only remaining western town established by African Americans during the Reconstruction period. Located on the plains of Kansas, it offers open skies, peaceful walking paths, and immersive storytelling about Black pioneers who sought self-governance and land ownership after emancipation. Join a ranger-led tour and connect with a lesser-known but powerful part of American history.

4. Visit Lincoln Hills, Colorado

Tucked in the Rocky Mountains, Lincoln Hills was once a thriving resort for Black families during segregation and one of the few Black-owned resorts west of the Mississippi. Explore nearby Echo Lake and Arapaho National Forest for fishing, hiking, and camping. This hidden gem offers a chance to experience nature while walking in the footsteps of those who found freedom and joy in these mountain retreats.

5. Cruise Down the Mississippi Blues Trail, Mississippi & Tennessee

Drive or bike sections of this legendary trail along the Mississippi River and visit outdoor stops that shaped America’s music, especially in Clarksdale, Tupelo, and Memphis. While many of the historical markers are roadside, some are located near scenic parks, riverwalks, and open fields where festivals are often held. Pair your outdoor adventure with a rich musical heritage, echoing the voices of legends who shaped the soul of America.

Exploring the outdoors doesn’t just have to be about trails and views—it can be about honoring legacies, connecting with community, and understanding the landscapes that shaped history. This summer, let your journeys be filled with meaning, memory, and movement.