Celebrate Black History Month at These Hotels

"Marlboro Man 001" by Clarence James. (Photo by Yelena Ku)
 
 

Your clients can celebrate Black History Month all month—and beyond—at any of these properties through art, music, food and more.

Black History in Miami

Black History
A young Candomble follower celebrates “Iemanja,” the goddess of the sea and protector of fishermen. She represents maternal love and fertility. In Umbanda, she is also associated with regional versions of the Virgin Mary. (Photo by Maria Daniel Balcazar)

The Betsy Hotel is hosting Kilombo, the inaugural Witness exhibition of documentary photographs by Maria Danel Balcazar, through May 2025 in the hotel’s Carlton Room Gallery. The exhibit is the first in a new collaboration: iWitness @ The Betsy.

Balcazar, an acclaimed documentary photographer and visual anthropologist, brings her latest work to the forefront with Kilombo. This collection of expansive documentary photographs pays homage to the enduring African influence in Brazilian culture. Known for her award-winning work, the photographer consistently explores how cultural traditions shape and reshape identity through her lens.

Hyatt Centric Celebrations
Cocktails at the Beck & Call Rooftop Lounge.

Memphis, Tennessee, is a pivotal city in African American history, particularly during the Civil Rights Movement. Additionally, Memphis’s rich musical heritage, deeply rooted in African American culture, embodies the city’s role in developing blues, soul and rock ‘n’ roll. Hyatt Centric Beale Street Memphis is a perfect pied-a-terre for exploring the city’s attractions and history, complete with Mississippi River views. Guests can tour Sun Studios, the birthplace of numerous music legends, or take a stroll down Beale Street, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. The Civil Rights Museum provides a poignant journey through America’s struggle for equality. After a day of sightseeing, your clients can unwind at the hotel’s rooftop whiskey bar, Beck and Call.

Hyatt Centric Center City Philadelphia, located in Rittenhouse Square, is hosting its second annual Black History Month Showcase through mid-March. This free, public event features works by local Black artists, curated by Ginger Rudolph. The exhibit includes various media, including paintings, photography, and sculptures from artists like Shawn Theodore, Jordan Plain and Shakira Hunt.

On Feb. 26, from 6 PM to 8 PM, the hotel will host a “Hear the Makers” discussion panel moderated by Philadelphia Inquirer culture reporter Elizabeth Wellington. The event will offer insights into the artists’ creative processes and experiences.

For more information, visit hyatt.com.

Arlo DC

“Love Below” by Halim Flowers. (Photo by Yelena Ku)

Arlo DC celebrates Black History Month with a special art exhibition at its rooftop lounge, ART DC. This installation, part of the hotel’s Living Room Gallery series curated by Jasmine Arakel, brings contemporary art into public spaces, enhancing accessibility for guests and visitors alike.

For February 2025, ART DC is featuring works by two artists, Halim Flowers and Clarence James. Flowers, who discovered his artistic passion during 22 years of incarceration, incorporates text and diverse media in his creations. James, a Howard University graduate, is self-taught and represented by DTR Modern gallery. Both artists draw inspiration from personal experiences and cultural influences.

This limited-time exhibit offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience thought-provoking art while enjoying panoramic views of Capitol Hill.

For more information, visit arlohotels.com.

The Gates South Beach

Pink Umbrellas. (Photo by GATES HOTEL SOUTH BEACH)

The Gates South Beach will host “Infinite Hues” on Feb. 21, 6-9 p.m., a free digital art showcase features over 20 artists, including works from the One Love x NFTCLT Infinite Hues Open Call, Nick Davis’s Black is Beautiful NFT Collection and Marvin Gwett’s Echoes of the Beyond series. The event, curated by Jenifer Pepen Aquino and Shana Douglass, explores art, technology and storytelling’s intersection. Guests will enjoy live DJ performances, wine tasting and light refreshments. The exhibit runs through February’s end at the hotel, known for its midcentury-modern and art deco-inspired architecture. Art pieces are available for purchase on the OBJKT platform.

For more information, visit lu.ma.