Concord, Massachusetts: A Literature Lover’s Paradise

Located 20 miles west of Boston, Massachusetts, Concord is a charming New England town full of rich history, gorgeous architecture, and lovely literary landmarks. No matter if you’re coming to escape the city life or just looking for a cool summer getaway, Concord is the perfect place for you with so many wonderful things to do! Locals and tourists alike love the historical importance of our amazing town. Steeping in literary history, Concord is truly a literature lover’s paradise, as we are home to many current and former famous authors. Start your literary journey at Concord’s Colonial Inn, a longstanding travel destination and town staple since 1716. To help you on your literary tour of Concord, MA, follow our guide of things to do below: 

The Top Bookish Destination

Some of the most legendary literary icons called Concord, Massachusetts, home. The past comes alive here! Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, Nathaniel Hawthrone, and Louisa May Alcott all found a home in Concord. You will find five author homes, many authors’ graves, awesome bookstores, and so much more here. Any book lover will feel at home among these great literary relics and other bookish things to do in Concord, MA. There is so much to do that we cannot cover in one sitting, so make sure to check out Concord’s Colonial Inn’s “Things To Do” web page. For a brief overview of the amazing relics, keep reading; 

• Concord Public Library: Architecturally beautiful, our public library is a great place to retreat and cool down during the summer months 
• Orchard House: Louisa May Alcott’s home between 1858 to 1877. The house is temporarily closed until August 2021, but the lush gardens and grounds remain free and available to all. 
• Ralph Waldo Emerson House: Owned by Emerson’s family, this famed home serves as a seasonal museum. The house will be open soon, so check their website for updates. 
• Sleepy Hollow Cemetery: Pay homage to literary greats at the final resting place of the entire Alcott family, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and Henry David Thoreau, among other notables.
• The Concord Bookshop: Local indie bookstore located in Concord’s town center. Established in 1940, you can find some classic reads for all ages.  
• The Old Manse: Built on the banks of the Concord River in 1770, this Georgian clapboard was home to both Ralph Waldo Emerson and Nathaniel Hawthorne in the 19th century. The grounds are open to the public. 
• The Wayside, Home of Authors:  Home to several notable literary families, from Alcott to Hawthrone, it’s a part of the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom and the Minute Man National Historical Park. 
• Thoreau Farm: Currently closed until further notice, but the staff is hoping to open up Thoreau’s birthplace sometime in 2021. 
• Walden Pond: Visit the slice of nature that inspired Henry David Thoreau’s renowned book Walden. Take a swim, go on a walk, and visit the replica of Thoreau’s single-room cabin. 

Colonial Charm Meets Modern Comfort

Now that you know all the great literary stops and things to do in Concord, MA, we welcome you to stay in a landmark historic hotel, Concord’s Colonial Inn! From our spacious guest rooms to our modern amenities, you and yours will have a fantastic time at our inn, full of gracious service from our staff. Book your stay online now!