Robert Frost — Derry, N.H.

It is easy to see why New England has been an inspiration to so many poets. Famed American poet Robert Frost claims New Hampshire as his childhood home. Visitors can tour his home that overlooks the White Mountains and features collections of Frost’s most well-known works. Now listed in the National Register of Historic Places, the Robert Frost Farm is surrounded by thick forests and nature trails that traverse the grounds. Fans of the Pulitzer Prize-winning poet can also visit his former home in Shaftsbury, Vermont, the house where we penned “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening.” This home boasts seven acres of beautiful grounds, a barn, an apple orchard, and a museum.

Emily Dickinson — Amherst, Mass. 

Dickinson Homestead by Bart Everson licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0

Amherst, Massachusetts is where you will find the Emily Dickinson Museum. This site consists of two historic homes called the Homestead (where Emily was born) and the Evergreens (where her brother and his family lived). The homes are a stunning display of Italianate architecture, making this a good visit for those interested in this type of design. The homes are also distinguished as the first brick houses in Amherst. In addition to touring the homes and the museum, visitors will also enjoy spending time in the lush gardens of the property.

John Keats — Hampstead, London, U.K.

Keats House by Laura Nolte licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0

One of the most famous poets of the Romantic Era, John Keats lived in London before moving to Rome. The house in London is now what is known as the Keats House Hampstead. The site includes a comprehensive literary center and museum, offering a number of original manuscripts and artifacts on display to the public. The attraction is also home to many special events throughout the year. The Keats House Hampstead is easily accessible from the London Tube, making it an easy stop on any trip to London.

Pablo Neruda — Valparaiso, Chile

La Sebastiana, built by Pablo Neruda by Dan Lundberg licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0

For a truly eccentric travel experience, be sure to visit the three different homes of Chilean poet Pablo Neruda. All three of these homes in Chile are open to the public. La Chascona is a great stop while in the lively city of Santiago. This home is nestled at the base of San Cristobal Hill, providing a respite from the city life. When in Valparaiso, you will want to check out La Sebastiana. Here you will find windows shaped to deliver views of the elaborate fireworks displays over the Pacific Ocean. Lastly, the home on Isla Negra overlooks the pristine waters of the Pacific with a design that replicates a ship.

Walt Whitman — Camden, N.J. 

Walt Whitman House, Camden NJ by Bart E licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0

The former home of poet Walt Whitman is now a National Historic Landmark as well as a New Jersey State Historic Site. The Greek-revival style home in Camden, New Jersey is the only home that Whitman ever owned. It is also where he lived when he made a name for himself in the literary world after writing “Leaves of Grass.” The restored Whitman House and Museum is the perfect representation of Whitman, known by many as the “Poet of Democracy.”

Zora Neale Hurston — Fort Pierce, Florida

Ft. Pierce Zora Neale Hurston House by Sebas Torrente licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0

You will not want to miss the chance to tour the former home of Zora Neale Hurston, now an official National Historic Landmark. Located in Fort Pierce, Florida, this home is where Hurston lived from 1957 until her death in 1960. The home is a stop on the Zora Neale Hurston Dust Tracks Heritage Trail, a tour that takes visitors to the Zora Neale Hurston Branch Library and the Garden of Heavenly Rest Cemetery, where Hurston is buried. Walking this trail and checking out the sites is an ideal way to learn more about Hurston and her literary works.

Do you have a favorite poet’s home that you’ve enjoyed visiting? Tell us about it in the comments below!