Bullet holes on the back of stage where Malcolm X was shot showing impact marks on the wall

Malcolm X And Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial And Educational Center

Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial and Educational Center: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance in New York City

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction: A Living Legacy in Washington Heights

Situated in the vibrant Washington Heights neighborhood of Manhattan, the Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial and Educational Center stands as a vital monument to two towering figures in American civil rights history. Housed within the historic Audubon Ballroom—a striking early 20th-century structure and the very site of Malcolm X’s assassination in 1965—the Center serves as both a memorial and a dynamic educational institution. Its mission: to honor the enduring legacies of Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz and to foster ongoing dialogue about social justice, racial equity, and human rights through immersive exhibits, community programming, and cultural events (Untapped Cities; Wikipedia).

Bullet holes in the back of the stage where Malcolm X was shot

Vintage poster advertising Varieté show featuring Trude Berliner in New York 1939

Historical Background: The Audubon Ballroom and Its Transformation

Origins and Significance

Constructed in 1912, the Audubon Ballroom was originally a vaudeville and movie palace designed by famed architect Thomas W. Lamb. Over the decades, it evolved into a neighborhood hub, hosting festivals, community gatherings, and later, significant events in the civil rights movement (Wikipedia). The Ballroom’s grand terracotta façade and ornate interiors made it a local icon.

Malcolm X and the Audubon Ballroom

After splitting from the Nation of Islam, Malcolm X founded the Organization of Afro-American Unity (OAAU) and held meetings at the Audubon Ballroom. On February 21, 1965, he was assassinated here, marking a watershed moment in American history and forever linking the site to the ongoing struggle for justice and equality (Wikipedia; CUNY Commons).

Decline and Preservation

Following years of decline and a period as the San Juan Theater, the building fell into disrepair. In the late 1980s, plans for demolition to make way for a Columbia University biomedical facility prompted a preservation movement. Activists—including Dr. Betty Shabazz—secured a compromise, preserving the Ballroom’s façade and key interior spaces. The site was transformed into the Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial and Educational Center, reopening in 2005 (NYC Preservation Archive Project).

The Memorial and Educational Center: Purpose and Experience

Honoring Two Icons

The Center is dedicated to both Malcolm X—global symbol of Black liberation—and Dr. Betty Shabazz, a tireless educator and advocate for civil and human rights. Their intertwined legacies are celebrated through:

A gold-colored statue of Malcolm X at a podium, evoking his final speech (CUNY Commons),
A dramatic mural depicting scenes from his life,
Interactive digital kiosks featuring archival photos, video interviews, family memories, and historic footage (The Clio),
Rotating exhibits focused on civil rights, contemporary social justice, and Black cultural heritage (NYC-Arts).

Educational Programming and Community Engagement

The Center offers guided tours, curriculum-aligned workshops, lectures, and youth leadership development programs. Annual commemorative events—such as Malcolm X’s birthday (May 19), Juneteenth, and special lectures—connect historic struggles to present-day movements like Black Lives Matter (Amsterdam News; Dwight Hall). Partnerships with local schools and organizations amplify the Center’s impact.

Preservation as Resistance

The transformation of the Audubon Ballroom into the Shabazz Center is a testament to community activism and the power of preservation. Saving the site from demolition turned a place of tragedy into a beacon for education, reflection, and empowerment (Saving Places).

Practical Visitor Information

Address and Directions

Location: 3940 Broadway, New York, NY 10032 (corner of West 165th Street)
Public Transit: 1, A, and C subway lines (168th Street or 157th Street stations); M4 and M100 bus routes
Parking: Limited street parking—public transportation strongly recommended

Hours and Admission

Visiting Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (closed Sundays and Mondays). For the most current hours and special event schedules, check the official website or Eventbrite page.
Admission: Free for all visitors. Guided tours for individuals, groups, or schools can be booked in advance; reservations are recommended for large groups and special events.

Accessibility and Amenities

Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
Photography: Permitted in most public spaces; flash may be restricted in certain exhibit areas.
Gift Shop: Offers books, memorabilia, and items related to Malcolm X, Dr. Betty Shabazz, and Black history.
Facilities: Restrooms, quiet reflection areas, and event spaces for rental.

Exhibits, Events, and Visitor Experience

Memorial Spaces and Exhibits

Malcolm X Memorial: Mural, interpretive panels, and floor marker at the site of assassination.
Digital Kiosks: Access to rare archival photos, interviews, and multimedia resources (The Clio).
Educational and Art Exhibits: Rotating displays on civil rights, Black art, and ongoing struggles for justice.

Signature Events

Malcolm X’s Birthday (May 19): Talks, performances, and community celebrations.
Juneteenth: Family-friendly festival with music, vendors, and cultural programming.
Lectures and Workshops: Discussions on reparative justice, racial equity, and activism.

Community Impact

The Center is a catalyst for community dialogue, healing, and leadership development. Initiatives like the Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz Scholarship Fund reflect a commitment to educational empowerment (Medium).

Nearby Attractions and Planning Your Visit

Explore Washington Heights: Visit the Morris-Jumel Mansion, Hamilton Grange, Fort Tryon Park, and The Cloisters.
Dining and Shopping: The area features diverse cuisine and local shops.
Travel Tips: Wear comfortable shoes, allow 1–2 hours for your visit, and check for special events or extended hours during commemorations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM. Confirm on the official website for updates.

Q: Is admission free?
A: Yes, with special events or tours requiring reservation.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, for individuals, groups, and schools. Book in advance online or by phone.

Q: Is the Center wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, fully accessible.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Yes, except where posted. Flash may be restricted.

Q: What’s the best way to get there?
A: Public transportation is recommended due to limited parking.

Conclusion: Experience, Learn, and Be Inspired

The Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial and Educational Center is more than a historic site; it is a living institution that bridges the past and present, transforming tragedy into a source of education, reflection, and hope. By visiting, you honor the legacies of Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz, engage with ongoing movements for justice, and become part of a community dedicated to empowering future generations.

For the most current information on visiting hours, guided tours, and events, always consult the official Shabazz Center website and Eventbrite page. Enhance your experience by downloading the Audiala app and following the Center on social media.