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!!

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.

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

Interesting exhibition on Poe and his years in this house. The museum has a very relaxed atmosphere and you are free to explore at your own pace. Very friendly staff and good information signs and posters gave a good overview of Poe’s life and work. The short film (8 minutes) was well worth seeing. I recommend this museum even to people who are not particularly familiar with Poe as it is also a good image of life at that time (1840’s)

Nice experience and warm welcomed at Poe’ s house. I read Poe’s short stories at middle school and attracted by the mysterious feeling, especially in the fall of the house of Usher. So very glad to visit here and have a better understanding of Poe’s living and writing places.

I had to visit for Halloween. I looked it up first. The house is a mere shell of a building and is not furnished. Only a sketch adorns a wall and that's about it. Still a cool place whether you're a Poe fan or not. One room is set up to the style of a person with means in that time would look like but nothing of Poe's is in the house. 3 stories and a cellar. Very narrow and steep stairs, not for handicap or wheelchairs.