Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site
DC

Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site

Hours

Hours vary by day

Entrance Fee

Free

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Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site at a glance

Best time
March–May, October–November
Trip length
1 day
Don't miss
Places of Interest Related to Mary McLeod Bethune
Nearby city
Washington, DC

Explore this park

About Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site

Mary McLeod Bethune achieved her greatest recognition at the Washington, DC townhouse that is now this National Historic Site. The Council House was the first headquarters of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) and was Bethune’s last home in Washington, DC. From here, Bethune and the NCNW spearheaded strategies and developed programs that advanced the interests of African American women.

1 current NPS alert

  • Park Closure: Temporarily Closed for Construction

Source: National Park Service (as of Oct 27, 2026). Official Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site page on nps.gov

Weather Information

  • Spring

    40°F – 70°F

  • Summer

    70°F – 90°F

  • Fall

    40°F – 70°F

  • Winter

    30°F – 50°F

There is occasional snow. Rain is common. Humidity is usually high. Be prepared and drink plenty of water. There is a water fountain in the visitor center. Humidity can remain high in the earlier part of the season.

Operating Hours

The Mary McLeod Bethune Council House NHS is open to the public for ranger-guided tours Wednesday – Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.

  • MondayClosed
  • TuesdayClosed
  • Wednesday9:00AM - 5:00PM
  • Thursday9:00AM - 5:00PM
  • Friday9:00AM - 5:00PM
  • Saturday9:00AM - 5:00PM
  • SundayClosed

Common questions

Planning Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site

The summary above covers timing and highlights. These go deeper on reservations, crowds, and logistics — check Alerts for live updates.

Reservation rules vary by season and activity for Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site. See Overview on this page for fees, timed entry, and campground details before you travel.