Edgar Allan Pоe National Historic Site

Visiting the Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site on his birthday felt like a pilgrimage to the mind of one of literature’s greatest dark geniuses. The site radiates a somber charm that perfectly fits Poe’s legacy, offering an intimate glimpse into the life and surroundings that shaped his haunting works. Unfortunately, my visit was bittersweet as the site was under construction. While it was still moving to stand where Poe once lived and penned some of his most iconic tales, the scaffolding and blocked-off areas dulled the experience. It felt as though I was catching a glimpse of a masterpiece through a fogged window—intriguing, but incomplete. Despite this, being there on Poe’s birthday gave the visit a special significance. The weight of his legacy was palpable, even in the midst of repairs. It was a reminder that Poe’s genius endures beyond any physical space, though I couldn’t help but wish for the full, immersive experience the site promises when it’s not under construction. If you’re a Poe fan, it’s still worth visiting, but I’d recommend waiting until the restoration is complete to truly absorb the eerie magic of the site. Until then, I’ll dream of returning when the halls are ready to tell their full story.

It was interesting to see the exterior of the house, but, both fortunately and unfortunately (for us), the interior was closed for renovation/repair. The raven statue was impressive, and the mural, just down the street, was also nice to see. I'll have to return when the work is finished.

Never in a million years would I have thought I’d see Edgar Allan Poe’s cellar. Such a treat! Very helpful staff and a quaint little home attached to the neighbor’s bigger house. What a wonderful treasure. I wish the national park service got more funding to keep things up better but they do a great job with what they have. The back porch and garden are wonderful. Love this experience! A must do in Philly!!

I enjoyed my visit to the Edgar Allan Poe National Historical Site. The exhibits on display were very interesting and informative. The self-guided tour of the house was very good. The docent on-site also provided interesting information about Poe's life, as well.

I passed by today to just get some photos of the outside of the museum. Unfortunately, it is still closed due to COVID-19. Hopefully the next time I am in the area this place will be back open to visitors and I will be able to see inside one of the final homes of Edgar Allan Poe and give an even more positive review. Update 5/25/2024 I was finally able to see the inside of this museum this past weekend. There is no entrance fee, and it is a self guided tour. Upon request, you can ask to see a little video about Mr. Poe. There really isn't much to see, with the exception of some information after entering the house and two of the rooms that were furnished, so you can be in and out within a half hour. I liked that the house is preserved as-is, and it also includes a part of the neighbors residence. There are three floors and a cellar. The staircases are quite tight, and the cellar is a bit low. The outside grounds are well maintained and clean. The staff is friendly and very welcoming. They have a little gift shop as soon as you walk in with just a few items for purchase. I personally enjoyed visiting one of the last homes, Mr. Poe lived in, and I think it is worth checking out.

Part of Independence Historical Park, but further away from the central area. There's an 8-minute video that goes over Edgar Allen Poe's life. There's also a self-guided tour of the 3-story house, cellar, and garden. It's free to visit, and kids can earn a Jr. Ranger badge by completing the scavenger hunt. It will take less than an hour to tour the house and do the scavenger hunt.

Charmingly creepy one-time residence of author Edgar Allan Poe. While not as flashy as Independence Hall and the other American Revolution era sites, it's definitely worth a visit if you're a fan of Poe's work. As of February 2024 there weren't many exhibits, but additional exhibits are being created. The gift shop has Poe related merchandise from books to bobble heads to pins. The area around the house has limited parking and the bus to it is infrequent. To reach the house, it may be easiest to get a ride share or do the 15-minute walk from the Independence Hall visitor center.

Stopped in here and it was very cool but also very small. I found it very interesting as a Poe fan it was nice to be in the place where he wrote some of his best work. It's definitely worth a visit