Overview:
Described as horrifying, mystifying, and a genius, Edgar Allan Poe’s writing has engaged readers all over the globe. The author lived for six years in Philadelphia, which was a time described as his happiest and most productive. Yet, Poe also struggled with bad luck, personal demons, and his wife’s tuberculosis. Within his home, now preserved by the Park Service, visitors can get a glimpse into Poe’s obstacles and creativity.
History:
Authorized on November 10, 1978; established on August 14, 1980.
When to Visit:
The Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site is open Wednesday through Sunday from 9am - 5pm. Closed New Years Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day.
Getting There:
Philadelphia is a great city to visit and there are a number of options on how to get there. For those interested in saving some money, check out public transportation options:
From Independence Visitor Center: (located at 6th & Market Streets) Walk one block west to 7th Street. Take SEPTA bus Route 47 at corner of 7th & Market. Get off at 7th & Spring Garden Street.
From Seventh Street: Take SEPTA bus Route 47. Get off at Green Street (one block above Spring Garden Street)across from Poe House.
SEPTA Market-Frankford Elevated Train (Blue Line): Take Blue Line elevated train to eastbound from 2nd, 5th, or 8th Street stations. Get off at Spring Garden Station. Walk five blocks to Seventh Street.
Be sure to check bus schedules from Greyhound and Bolt Bus which often have affordable travel options. For those driving into the city, refer to these directions:
Eastbound, via I-76 (the Schuylkill Expressway): Exit onto I-676 East (toward "Central Philadelphia) and follow it to the 8th Street exit. Proceed straight at the traffic light and make a left at the second traffic light (this becomes 7th street), and then drive two blocks to Spring Garden Street.
Westbound: After crossing the Ben Franklin Bridge, stay in the right hand lane and exit at the traffic light (this becomes 7th Street). Follow 7th Street to Spring Garden Street.
Northbound, via I-95 - Exit at "Independence Hall/Historic Area": At bottom of ramp turn left at traffic light onto Delaware Avenue (some sections are named "Columbus Ave.") to Spring Garden Street. Turn left on Spring Garden Street and drive to 7th Street.
Southbound, via I-95 - Use "Independence Hall/Historic Area" exit: At the bottom of the exit ramp turn right onto Callowhill Street. Follow Callowhill to 7th Street. Turn right on 7th and proceed to Spring Garden Street. Drive north on 7th Street to Spring Garden Street.
Fees/Permits:
Admission is free to this site and no reservations are required. However, school groups and organizations should call (215) 597-8780 for a reservation.
Things to Do:
Check out the following list of fun things to do at the historic site:
- Check out new exhibits and sales center
- Learn about Poe's life & work in the cultural, social and political context of his time
- Learn how Poe influenced writers around the world, including Alfred Hitchcock and Stephen King
- Use "ratiocination" to decipher the code hidden in Poe's head
- Check out interactive exhibits and watch as Poe's words rise off the pages while he writes "The Raven"
- Help launch the hot air balloon - as you pull, the balloon rises
- Study and analyze a 3-D mini model of Poe's home
- Sit back and enjoy our 8-minute audio-visual presentation on Poe's life
- Take a self-guided or ranger-led tour of Poe's historic house
- Listen to Poe's works narrated by famous actors such as Vincent Price, Basil Rathbone, Christopher Walken and others
- Into music? You will enjoy dancing along to various works of Poe put to music by Glass Prism, the Alan Parsons Project, Lou Reed and others
- Pose with the park’s "Raven"
- Take a picture in front of the Poe mural
Accommodations:
There are no accommodations within the national historic site, however, there are many hotels and options within the city of Philadelphia.
Areas of Interest Outside the Park:
Independence National Historical Park: Located in central Philadelphia, park includes structures and sites associated with the American Revolution and the founding of the United States.
Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial: Life and work of Thaddeus Kosciuszko, a military engineer and an 18th century champion of American and Polish freedom, are commemorated here.
Gloria Dei Church National Historic Site: This national historic site features the second oldest Swedish church in the United States, founded in 1677.
Contact Info:
By Mail:
143 S. Third Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Phone:
(215) 597-8780
