upcoming Exhibits
THE NEGRO MOTORIST GREEN BOOK
FEBRUARY 7 – MAY 3, 2026
Photo credit: Dr. Ernest C. Withers. Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. © Ernest C. Withers Trust.
The Negro Motorist Green Book offers an immersive look at the reality of travel for African Americans in mid-century America, and how the annual guide served as an indispensable resource for the nation’s rising African American middle class. The exhibition includes artifacts such as historic footage, images and firsthand accounts to convey not only the apprehension felt by African American travelers, but also the resilience, innovation and elegance of people fighting to live a full American existence. It will bring focus to a vibrant parallel world of African American businesses, the rise of the Black leisure class in the United States and the important role The Green Book played in facilitating the second wave of the Great Migration.
The Green Book was published and distributed nationwide from 1936 until 1967, providing African American travelers with information on restaurants, gas stations, department stores and other businesses that welcomed Black travelers. In an era of Jim Crow laws and “sundown towns,” The Green Book offered critical, life-saving information and sanctuary.
The Negro Motorist Green Book was created by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service in collaboration with Candacy Taylor, and made possible through the generous support of Exxon Mobil Corp.
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GET BUILDING! BRICKS AT THE DURHAM
FEBRUARY 7 – MAY 3, 2026
The Durham Museum is partnering with Lincoln/Omaha LEGO® Users Group (LOLUG) to create a fun new interactive experience for builders of all ages. Featuring extraordinary models of Union Station and other creations developed by the LOLUG team, plus hands-on construction areas where visitors can free-build on their own, Get Building! emphasizes creativity and collaboration.
HEROES & VILLAINS: THE ART OF THE DISNEY COSTUME
OPENING MAY 30, 2026
Image courtesy of the Walt Disney Archives, © Disney
Featuring 70 costumes of some beloved characters such as Cinderella, Maleficent and Captain Jack Sparrow, this blockbuster showcase highlights the innovative ways Disney’s iconic characters are brought to life through the artistry and imagination of their costumes. The exhibition includes pieces worn by Bette Davis, Glenn Close and Angelina Jolie, as well as designs from Academy® Award- and Emmy® Award-winning and -nominated productions.
Representing nearly six decades of film and television production at The Walt Disney Company, the exhibition showcases costumes worn by the likes of Bette Davis, Glenn Close, Angelina Jolie, and Disney Legend Julie Andrews. Guests will also be able to get insight into how costumes evolve from concept to reality, with quotes and detailed written accounts featured throughout the exhibition from some of Hollywood’s preeminent designers.
Heroes & Villains: The Art of the Disney Costume is created by the Walt Disney Archives.
THE SIGNERS
OPENING AUGUST 1, 2026
The Durham Museum is proud to present The Signers, a special exhibition from the renowned Byron Reed Collection in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States. This inspiring display explores the stories of the 56 men who boldly signed the Declaration of Independence — farmers, lawyers, merchants and musicians — united in their pursuit of liberty. Featuring original signatures from the museum’s Byron Reed Collection, the exhibition is enhanced by historic documents and a striking reproduction of John Trumbull’s iconic painting The Declaration of Independence.
WHITE CHRISTMAS – THE EXHIBITION
OPENING NOVEMBER 27, 2026
One of the most popular exhibitions to visit The Durham Museum is returning with even more objects from the beloved holiday musical.
The Durham, in partnership with The Rosemary Clooney House and private collectors Stephen and Heather French Henry, will host White Christmas – The Exhibition during the museum’s Christmas at Union Station season in 2026. The highest-grossing film of 1954, and one of the highest-grossing musicals of all time, White Christmas has become a holiday film classic.
The music of Irving Berlin comes to life as Edith Head’s costumes adorn a star-studded cast of Bing Crosby, Rosemary Clooney, Danny Kaye and Vera-Ellen as they dance their way across the silver screen. See film costumes, props, sheet music, behind-the-scene photos and archival materials. White Christmas – The Exhibition features some of the most iconic costumes such as the blue “Sisters” dresses and Vera-Ellen’s sparkling “Mandy” dance outfit.
Whether you are a fan of music, costumes and the pageantry, White Christmas – The Exhibition will be the highlight of the holidays!
ADMISSION
Adults: $15*
Seniors (62+): $12*
Military/Veteran: $12*
Children (ages 3 – 12): $8*
*PLUS TAX
Children 2 years and under FREE
Members: FREE!
BOOK YOUR TICKET »
Advance reservations are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome.
Members, your free admission discount is applied near the end of the online registration process.
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