If you love getting lost in a good book, why not plan your travels around your passion for reading? You’ll find plenty of places that bring literature to life, from historic libraries filled with rare editions to real-life locations that inspired your favorite stories. But few spots are as exciting for book lovers as the homes where famous authors actually lived and wrote. Walking through their rooms, seeing their writing desks, and learning about their daily routines can give you a whole new appreciation for their work.
Here are a few author homes across the U.S. that you can visit to step into the world of literary greats!
Mark Twain House, Hartford, Connecticut
Mark Twain House and Museum — Hartford, Connecticut
If you find yourself in Connecticut, a visit to The Mark Twain House and Museum in Hartford is a must for any book lover. This stunning 25-room Gothic-style mansion was home to Mark Twain and his family from 1874 to 1891. More importantly, it was within these walls that Twain wrote some of his most iconic works, including The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, and The Prince and the Pauper. Walking through the home, you’ll see where Twain spent his days crafting the stories that shaped American literature.
A guided tour gives you a closer look at Twain’s personal life, his creative process, and the home’s unique architectural details. From the grand staircase to the cozy library where Twain read to his children, every room offers a glimpse into his world. The adjacent museum features rotating exhibits that explore his influence on literature, culture, and even politics. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of his work or just curious about his life, this stop offers a fascinating journey through the mind of one of America’s greatest writers. Adult tickets cost $24, making it an affordable and worthwhile literary adventure.
Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum — Key West, Florida
The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum sits in the heart of Old Town Key West, offering a fascinating glimpse into the life of one of America’s most legendary writers. Hemingway lived here for more than a decade, crafting some of his most famous works, including To Have and Have Not. A tour of the home lets you step back in time to see how Hemingway lived, wrote, and found inspiration in the tropical surroundings.
Inside, you’ll find his impressive collection of Spanish furniture, much of it hand-picked during his travels. The tour also highlights his writing studio, where he spent mornings working on novels and short stories. Outside, you can admire the lush gardens and the famous in-ground swimming pool—an extravagant addition at the time that came with a hefty price tag. And of course, you’ll meet the museum’s famous six-toed cats, descendants of Hemingway’s own pets. Whether you’re a literature buff or just interested in Key West history, this stop is well worth it. General admission costs $17.
Ernest Hemingway Home, Key West
Margaret Mitchell House — Atlanta, Georgia
Are you a Gone with the Wind fan? If so, a visit to the Margaret Mitchell House in Atlanta is a must. This turn-of-the-century Tudor Revival home, built in 1899, was once home to the Pulitzer Prize-winning author Margaret Mitchell. It’s also listed on the National Register of Historic Places, making it a significant literary and historical landmark.
A guided tour takes you through the small apartment where Mitchell lived while writing her famous novel. You’ll get a glimpse into her daily life and creative process, as well as learn about the book’s impact on literature and film. The site also features exhibitions dedicated to Mitchell’s life, her writing, and the cultural legacy of Gone with the Wind. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just curious about literary history, this tour offers a fascinating look at one of America’s most celebrated authors. General admission costs around $23.
Emily Dickinson Museum — Amherst, Massachusetts
Located in Amherst, Massachusetts, The Emily Dickinson Museum offers a deep dive into the life and work of one of America’s most celebrated poets. The museum includes The Homestead, where Dickinson was born and spent most of her life, and The Evergreens, the neighboring home of her brother, Austin. Together, these historic structures sit on three acres of the original family property, providing an immersive experience into Dickinson’s world.
The tour takes you through beautifully restored rooms, offering insight into her daily life, family relationships, and creative process. You’ll see personal artifacts, including her famous writing desk, where she penned many of her nearly 1,800 poems. The museum also hosts exhibits and programs that explore her poetry’s lasting impact. Whether you’re a longtime admirer of her work or just discovering her genius, this museum is a must-visit for literature lovers. General admission costs $12, making it an affordable way to step into the world of one of America’s greatest poets.
“Dickinson Homestead” by Bart Everson is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0
William Faulkner’s Rowan Oak — Oxford, Mississippi
If you love Southern Gothic literature, a visit to Rowan Oak in Oxford, Mississippi, is a must. This striking Greek Revival home, built in 1844, was William Faulkner’s residence for over 40 years. Nestled among towering cedar trees, the property exudes the charm and mystique that defined much of Faulkner’s work. The tree-lined driveway leads to the grand front entrance, setting the scene for a classic Southern home steeped in literary history. Faulkner purchased the house when it was still a modest and somewhat rundown structure, then took on much of the renovation himself. He personally restored and expanded the home, even constructing the bookshelves in his library, where he wrote many of his greatest novels.
As you explore the house, you’ll find handwritten notes scrawled on the walls of his office—outlines for his works-in-progress. The home’s name, Rowan Oak, is inspired by the rowan tree, a symbol of protection, reflecting Faulkner’s deep connection to the place. Today, Rowan Oak stands as a tribute to the writer’s legacy, offering visitors a rare glimpse into his creative world and daily life. Whether you’re a die-hard Faulkner fan or simply curious about the author’s life, this historic home is well worth a visit.
Harriet Beecher Stowe’s House — Hartford, Connecticut
The award-winning author of Uncle Tom’s Cabin, Harriet Beecher Stowe, moved into this charming Hartford, Connecticut, home in 1873. Now known as the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center, the house is a well-preserved tribute to the influential writer and her fight against slavery. While it has some Gothic Revival elements, the home itself is a simple yet elegant structure with a steep hip roof, inviting porches, distinctive bay windows, and a classic all-white exterior.
Inside, you’ll find Stowe’s original furniture and personal belongings still intact, offering a rare glimpse into her daily life. The second floor features sketches and paintings she created, revealing another side of her creativity beyond writing. The beautifully maintained Victorian-style gardens surrounding the home highlight her deep appreciation for nature, with lush greenery and terrariums decorating both the front and backyards. A visit to the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center isn’t just about seeing a historic home—it’s about stepping into the world of a woman who used her voice to challenge injustice. Whether you’re a literature fan or a history buff, this stop offers a fascinating look at one of the most influential authors of the 19th century.
“John Steinbeck House, Salinas, California” by Ken Lund is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
The Steinbeck House and Museum — Salinas, California
John Steinbeck, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author known for tackling economic and social struggles, was born and raised in a classic Victorian home in Salinas, California. This Queen Anne-style house, now known as The Steinbeck House and Museum, is where he spent his early years before going on to write powerful works like The Grapes of Wrath, which shed light on the hardships of the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl era. Today, this beautifully restored home is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and serves as both a museum and a tribute to Steinbeck’s legacy.
Visitors can explore exhibits highlighting his life, influences, and literary achievements. The house has been carefully preserved, maintaining its 19th-century charm while incorporating modern touches like a gift shop and a restaurant. You can even enjoy a meal in the dining room, making it one of the few author homes where you can sit and eat in the same space where literary history was made. Whether you’re a Steinbeck fan, a history lover, or just looking for a unique stop in California, The Steinbeck House offers a special way to connect with one of America’s greatest writers.
Edgar Allan Poe’s House and Museum — Richmond, Virginia
Edgar Allan Poe’s life was filled with hardship, and his early years in Richmond, Virginia, played a significant role in shaping his writing. Orphaned as an infant, he was taken in by the Allan family and lived in Richmond until 1826, when he joined the U.S. Army. While most of the homes he lived in no longer exist, one structure from his time in the city remains—the Old Stone House, now home to The Poe Museum. This preserved 18th-century building holds an extensive collection of artifacts related to Poe’s life and work. Inside, you’ll find furniture from various homes he lived in, personal items he collected, and original first editions of his famous works, including The Raven. Early drafts and handwritten manuscripts offer a rare look into his creative process, making this a must-visit for literature lovers.
Beyond the museum, you can explore other Poe-related sites around Richmond. Visit the church he attended, see the home of his fiancée, and stop by his monument, located just next to the museum. Whether you’re a longtime Poe fan or simply intrigued by his mysterious and macabre legacy, this museum offers a fascinating journey into the mind of one of America’s most legendary writers.
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“Elizabeth and Evan Hunt” by Eli Christman is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0
Herman Melville’s Arrowhead — Pittsfield, Massachusetts
Arrowhead, located in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, is a beautifully preserved homestead that once belonged to Herman Melville. This historic New England farmhouse was where Melville wrote many of his most famous works, including Moby-Dick. His writing room offers a stunning view of Mount Greylock, whose whale-like shape is said to have inspired the novel’s legendary white whale. Built in the 1780s, the farmhouse features a historic barn and a collection of original artifacts from Melville’s time. He named the property Arrowhead in recognition of the Native American artifacts he found in the surrounding fields.
Today, the house operates as a museum, giving visitors a rare chance to step inside the world of one of America’s greatest literary minds. The museum showcases Melville’s original furniture, personal belongings, and manuscripts, offering insight into his life and creative process. If you’re a fan of classic literature or just love exploring historic homes, Arrowhead is a must-visit in Massachusetts. Walking through the same spaces where Melville crafted his masterpieces brings his stories to life in a whole new way.
FAQs:
Q: Are these author homes open year-round?
A: Most of these homes are open year-round, but hours and availability may vary by season. Some sites have reduced hours in winter or close on major holidays. It’s best to check each home’s official website before planning your visit.
Q: Do I need to book a tour in advance?
A: Some sites, like the Mark Twain House and the Emily Dickinson Museum, require or recommend advance booking for guided tours. Walk-ins are welcome at others, but availability may be limited during peak times.
Q: Are these homes wheelchair accessible?
A: Accessibility varies by location. Many historic homes have limitations due to their original structures, but some offer accommodations such as ramps or modified tours. Check each museum’s website for details on accessibility options.
Q: Can I take photos inside these homes?
A: Photography policies differ at each site. Some allow non-flash photography, while others prohibit it to preserve artifacts. Always check with staff or look for signage before taking photos.
Q: Are there discounts available for students or seniors?
A: Many of these sites offer discounted admission for students, seniors, and military members. Some also participate in free museum days or have special rates for local residents.
Q: Are there any kid-friendly activities at these author homes?
A: Yes! Some locations offer interactive exhibits, scavenger hunts, or special family-friendly tours. The Hemingway Home is particularly popular with kids because of its resident six-toed cats.
Q: Can I visit without taking a guided tour?
A: Some homes require guided tours, while others allow self-guided exploration. If you prefer to explore at your own pace, check each location’s policy before visiting.
What other book nerd destinations have you been to? Tell us all about it in our comments section below!
