The Global Meaningful Travel Map

George Washington Carver National Monument

George Washington Carver National Monument

This 240-acre park offers a visitor center, trails, and events celebrating nature, art, and science, all with free access and accessibility features.

OUR EXPERIENCES
George Washington Carver National Monument, the first unit of the National Park System dedicated to an African American, features a visitor center with a museum, theater, gift shop, interactive exhibits, classrooms, a library, and more.

The 240-acre park includes the Carver Trail, Moses Carver Homestead, and a small family cemetery. Year-round educational programs focus on Carver’s legacy in nature, faith, art, and science.

Annual events include Art in the Park, Carver Day, Prairie Days, Storytelling Day, National Junior Ranger Day, Hispanic Heritage Day, and National Public Lands Day. Staff also host offsite programs at the 1872 Neosho Colored School, Carver’s first school, maintained by the Carver Birthplace Association, which offers volunteer opportunities.

Park entry, visitor center access, and programming are all free.

ABOUT US
This monument celebrates Carver's contributions to science, the arts, nature, and faith by providing free educational and experiential learning opportunities through hands-on activities, programming, and storytelling. It highlights Carver's rise to prominence on the world stage despite his humble and difficult upbringing.

OUR IMPACT
George Washington Carver (1864–1943) was a key figure in African American history and science, fostering understanding and mutual respect between races. His achievements helped highlight the vital contributions of African Americans to all aspects of society. Carver played a significant role in the Modern Civil Rights Movement, not only through his accomplishments but also in how they were used to promote racial harmony. His legacy remains a powerful example of perseverance and success.

George Washington Carver National Monument promotes environmental awareness by preserving and restoring tallgrass prairie ecosystems, showcasing Carver’s legacy of sustainable farming, and educating visitors about nature. The monument features restored prairie, woodlands, streams, and riparian corridors.

In addition to honoring Carver, the monument celebrates diverse communities through events like Hispanic Heritage Day and citizenship naturalization ceremonies. It is also designed for accessibility, offering wheelchair-friendly parking, a visitor center, and a mixed-surface trail.

DETAILS
To learn more, contact: GWCA_interpretation@nps.gov

What are your minimum and maximum group sizes?
10-500

Do you require visitors to pre-book?
Prebooking is available but not required

Do you have group rates?
No

Do you pay commissions to travel advisors?
No

What languages do you offer your services in?
English

When are you open?
George Washington Carver National Monument is open 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, except Thanksgiving Day, December 25, and January 1.

What accommodations do you make for people living with disabilities?
George Washington Carver National Monument is designed to be accessible to people with disabilities, with features like accessible parking, a wheelchair-accessible visitor center, and a trail with a mix of paved and compacted surfaces.