Edgar Allan Poe Sites in Baltimore

If you follow along with my blog and social media, you’ll know that I visit Baltimore. A lot. Why? Because some of my closest friends live there. It’s almost become a second home to me. You’ll also know that I’m a big fan of all things spooky and creepy. Combine those two things and what do you get? Edgar Allan Poe. Poe lived most of his life in Baltimore, and there are many modern-day locations that pay homage to the gothic writer. Why do you think the NFL team is the Baltimore Ravens? So if you’re looking for an eerie weekend in Charm City, check out this list of Edgar Allan Poe sites in Baltimore.

Bonus! My friends at Good Mourning, Nancy are also talking about Edgar Allan Poe! Check out their newest podcast now.

The Edgar Allan Poe House & Museum

Probably the most famous (and most obvious) of the Poe attractions in Baltimore is his old home. Like most Baltimorians, Poe lived in a typical row house — located at 203 N Amity Street. This is where he lived when he wrote some of his famous short stories in the 1830s.

“But list, O list! — so soft and low
Thy lover’s voice to night shall flow 
That, scarce awake, thy soul shall deem 
My words the music of a dream.”

“Serenade” by Edgar Allan Poe

In 1949 that home was turned into a museum to honor the poet. It’s an interesting and unique site to visit. My favorite part? The quotes from his most famous works and quotes others said about him painted on the walls. The museum also has several artifacts used by Poe on display, so it’s easy to visualize Edgar sitting at his desk writing.

Many events honoring Poe are held at his home regularly – including the annual Poe Festival. Unfortunately, because the house is very tiny with winding staircases, it is not handicap accessible and service animals are not permitted. 

Hours: Thursdays – Sundays, 11am – 4pm
Private tours available for a fee by appointment.
Cost: $8 adults / $6 military, seniors, students / FREE for children under 1

Edgar Allan Poe’s Gravesite

Originally buried elsewhere, Edgar and his immediate family are now laid to rest together in Westminster Burial Ground. Located on the property of Wesminster Hall church, Poe’s gravesite attracts lots of visitors. And to be honest, it’s also one of the most beautiful cemeteries I’ve seen – small, but overgrown with ivy just the right amount.

At the front of the cemetery you’ll see the big monument dedicated to Edgar, his wife, Virginia, and his aunt/mother-in-law, Maria Clemm. Yes, Edgar Allan Poe married his cousin — who was only 13 when she married him at age 26. Many visitors leave roses, pennies, and even alcohol on the memorial as tribute to Poe.

Further back in the cemetery you’ll see the actual headstone for Poe, a bit hidden from the main path. Don’t miss it! Also, the other gravestones, slabs, and vaults are worth visiting. They house other historic Baltimorians, including many veterans of the American Revolution and the War of 1812.

Edgar Allan Poe Statue

Sculpted by Sir Moses Ezekiel in the early 1900s, this statue honoring Poe was originally located in Wyman Park. Unfortunately, vandalism and severe weather became a problem and the statue was moved to the University of Baltimore’s campus in the 1980s. He’s become an “unofficial mascot” for the university. People often dress him up for sports games and inclement weather!

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Looking for some more creepy-themed articles?
Immerse yourself in the witch history of Salem, MA.
Learn about the headless horseman legend of Sleepy Hollow, NY.
Explore the famous cemeteries of New Orleans, LA.
Get spooked in St. Augustine, FL.
Venture into Paris’s underground in the Catacombs.

The Horse You Came In On Saloon

Not a lot is known about the circumstances of Edgar Allan Poe’s death. Different accounts name different locations and causes, and we can never know the truth for sure. The Edgar Allan Poe Society of Baltimore declares that the last place Poe was seen was at 44 East Lombard Street in a pub. Their story indicates that Poe was found there, very ill, and brought to a nearby hospital.

But, several stories indicate that Poe was last seen alive having a drink at The Horse You Rode In On Saloon, or that it was the last place he was headed. It’s likey a place Poe visited, since it’s Baltimore’s oldest continuously operating tavern. But is it where he was last seen? We’ll never know for sure. Either way, the pub has built a reputation for being the last place he was seen, and some people even say that Poe haunts the place. As for me? I enjoy visiting the saloon to get some bar food, listen to live music, and drink my favorite cocktail – Jack Honey and lemonade.

Because of its popularity, The Horse opened a second location next door — The Horse You Rode Out On Cantina. It operates as a full-service restaurant.

Annabel Lee Tavern

Looking for more artifacts from Poe? Then check out the Maryland Historical Society and the Enoch Pratt Free Library. Both places contain writing and images of Poe. Of course, you’ll find tributes to Edgar Allan Poe all over Baltimore. From sports teams and ice cream flavors to souvenirs and craft beer, his legend lives on.

Can’t get enough Poe and his spooky past? Head over to Spotify and listen to Good Mourning, Nancy’s latest podcast.

Have you ever visited any of these Edgar Allan Poe sites in Baltimore? What’s your favorite work by Poe?