Frederick Douglass National Historic Site
Frederick Douglass spent his life fighting for justice and equality.
Photo: NPS Photo / Nate Johnson / NPS
About Frederick Douglass National Historic Site
Frederick Douglass spent his life fighting for justice and equality. Born into slavery in 1818, he escaped as a young man and became a leading voice in the abolitionist movement. People everywhere still find inspiration today in his tireless struggle, brilliant words, and inclusive vision of humanity. Douglass's legacy is preserved here at Cedar Hill, where he lived his last 17 years.
Pair it with another park
DCdrive time
DCdrive time
DCdrive time
DCdrive time
DCdrive time
DCdrive time
Driving times from Frederick Douglass National Historic Site, one way, via road — a realistic day is 8–10 hours behind the wheel.
Entrance fees
Timed Entry Reservation - Location
$1.00The guided tour includes the upper and lower floors of the home and provides an intimate window into the life of Frederick Douglass. Space on each tour is limited. You are strongly encouraged to make a reservation to secure your spot on a tour. While walk-ins without a reservation are permitted if space is available, tours are frequently completely full well in advance. Plan ahead and reserve your tour today!
Hours
Frederick Douglass National Historic Site
- Mon
- Closed
- Tue
- 9:00AM - 4:30PM
- Wed
- 9:00AM - 4:30PM
- Thu
- 9:00AM - 4:30PM
- Fri
- 9:00AM - 4:30PM
- Sat
- 9:00AM - 4:30PM
- Sun
- Closed
Activities
Getting there
Winter: Temperatures usually range from 30 to 50 F. There is occasional snow. Spring: Temperatures usually range widely from 40 to 70 F. Rain is common. Summer: Temperatures usually range from 70 to 90 F. Humidity is usually high. Be prepared and drink plenty of water. There is a water fountain in the visitor center. Fall: Temperatures usually range widely from 40 to 70 F. Humidity can remain high in the earlier part of the season.
Frequently asked questions
- How much does it cost to enter Frederick Douglass National Historic Site?
- Entrance to Frederick Douglass National Historic Site starts at $1. See the fees section above for each pass and vehicle type.
- What is there to do at Frederick Douglass National Historic Site?
- Popular activities include Bookstore and Park Store, Guided Tours, Junior Ranger Program, Museum Exhibits, Park Film, Self-Guided Tours - Walking.
- Which national parks are within a day's drive of Frederick Douglass National Historic Site?
- Within about a day's drive you can reach National Capital Parks-East (10 min), Capitol Hill Parks (11 min), Anacostia Park (12 min), Belmont-Paul Women's Equality National Monument (13 min), Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial (13 min), Fort Dupont Park (13 min).