Sure, Baltimore may be known for its crabs, crushes and charm, but did you know that the city has ties to the macabre (the grim and ghastly)? A macabre poet that is!

Famous for his dark and mysterious tales, Edgar Allan Poe has a legacy that lives on in Baltimore. Although not born there, it is where he met his wife-to-be, launched and transformed his literary career, and tragically saw the end of his life (mysteriously, in and of itself). Poe’s influence runs so deep, in fact, that his poem “The Raven” is the namesake of the NFL Baltimore Ravens and their mascot, Poe.

Celebrate the poet’s legacy this October, using Yelp as a pocket guide across the city:

Visit his home

The Edgar Allan Poe House & Museum sits on North Amity Street and is where Poe lived in the 1830s. Visitors can wander through the mostly-preserved interior (with the original fabric!) and see important life artifacts like his writing desk and chair. The Edgar Allan Poe House & Museum has re-opened to visitors on a limited basis. Reservations are required.

“The volunteers at this historic landmark are very knowledgeable and can answer basically any questions you may have related to Poe’s time spent in the Baltimore area.” – Lauren F.

Cheers to his legacy

Annabel Lee Tavern is a Poe-themed haunt in Canton that pays homage to the writer and his last-ever poem, ‘Annabel Lee’. Here, celebrate with your tastebuds over the Resurrection Mac & Cheese and Edgar Allan Pâté dessert (a triple chocolate slicable mousse) and cheers over a Descent Into the Maelstrom cocktail, named after his 1841 short story.

“Annabel Lee Tavern is a hidden gem in Baltimore, it’s a little off the beaten path in the middle of Canton in a corner row home redesigned for the restaurant. It’s one of those places that make the Baltimore food scene so unique. The food is so good and the service is charming.” – Candice S.

Walk the same streets

Established in 1775, The Horse You Came In On is Baltimore’s oldest saloon. It is the only bar in Maryland to exist before, during and after prohibition and is said to be Poe’s last destination before his puzzling death. While it is temporarily closed due to COVID-19, you can wander the cobblestone of Thames Street and the Fells Point Historic District.

“Very unique dive bar where Edgar Allan Poe had his last drink… we sat on the saddle barstools and enjoyed looking around at the various wall decorations and articles. This place is a must-see for anyone visiting Baltimore!” – Kiley K.

Read his works

The Enoch Pratt Free Library is home to a collection of Edgar Allan Poe’s letters and artifacts – with a lock of his hair being the most notable. While all Pratt buildings are currently closed, you can explore his works (and see that lock of hair) virtually through Digital Maryland, the collaborative, statewide digitization program of the Maryland State Library Resource Center and Enoch Pratt Free Library.

“This is a beautiful piece of architecture and a wonderful asset to the city… the layout is open and inviting while still maintaining the grandeur of neoclassical design.” – Kevin C.

Visit his grave

Westminster Burial Ground is the final resting place of Poe, his wife, and her mother. Although originally buried in an unmarked grave towards the back, visitors can now find a monument dedicated to him at the front of the cemetery. Other city nobles are also buried here. The burying ground’s gates are open for visitors from 8-6pm daily.

“The overall experience here at the Edgar Allan Poe’s Grave was somber, reflective, and casually exclusive – while being respectful and inspiring at the same time… it was very emotional and uplifting” – Ed L.

Inspired by what you’ve seen and ready to bring out your inner author? Leave a Yelp review of your Poe stops to help keep his legacy alive!

Special thanks to Poe Baltimore and The Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum for enriching the lives of both Baltimore residents and tourists alike by preserving the history of the city!