Authors Ridge
Resting place of literary giants like Alcott, Hawthorne, Thoreau, and Emerson in historic Sleepy Hollow Cemetery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Spooky atmosphere at sunset
Authors Ridge
Best Time
Spooky atmosphere at sunset
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Resting place of literary giants like Alcott, Hawthorne, Thoreau, and Emerson in historic Sleepy Hollow Cemetery.
"A touching tribute to literary legends, offering a peaceful and historic experience."
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cemetery grounds are expansive and can be uneven. Good walking shoes are essential for exploring Authors Ridge.
✍️ Leave a Tribute
Many visitors leave pens, pencils, or notes at the graves. It's a special way to honor these literary figures.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Louisa May Alcott's Grave
Authors Ridge, Sleepy Hollow Cemetery
Pay respects to the beloved author of 'Little Women' and her family. A truly moving spot for book lovers.
Henry David Thoreau's Resting Place
Authors Ridge, Sleepy Hollow Cemetery
Visit the final home of the transcendentalist philosopher and author of 'Walden'.
Nathaniel Hawthorne's Memorial
Authors Ridge, Sleepy Hollow Cemetery
Honor the author of 'The Scarlet Letter' and other classic American literature.
Ralph Waldo Emerson's Final Site
Authors Ridge, Sleepy Hollow Cemetery
Reflect at the grave of the influential essayist, poet, and philosopher.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visits to Authors Ridge
Navigating Sleepy Hollow Cemetery
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cemetery grounds are expansive and can be uneven. Good walking shoes are essential for exploring Authors Ridge.
✍️ Leave a Tribute
Many visitors leave pens, pencils, or notes at the graves. It's a special way to honor these literary figures.
🤫 Be Respectful
Authors Ridge is a place of rest. Please maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor while visiting.
📍 Confirm Location
Ensure you're heading to the correct Authors Ridge within Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, as some listings can be misleading.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cemetery grounds are expansive and can be uneven. Good walking shoes are essential for exploring Authors Ridge.
✍️ Leave a Tribute
Many visitors leave pens, pencils, or notes at the graves. It's a special way to honor these literary figures.
🤫 Be Respectful
Authors Ridge is a place of rest. Please maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor while visiting.
📍 Confirm Location
Ensure you're heading to the correct Authors Ridge within Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, as some listings can be misleading.
📸 Capture the Mood
The cemetery offers a unique, historic ambiance, especially at sunset.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Authors Ridge a peaceful and historically significant spot, particularly for literary enthusiasts. The tradition of leaving tributes is often highlighted as a touching element. Some reviews note potential confusion with location listings and the need for comfortable footwear to navigate the cemetery grounds.
"Nice and quiet, we weren’t sure where to park but found a little alcove within the grounds."
Elisabeth Groth
"This is NOT the correct location for Author's Ridge. The correct location is a bit north from here (26m walk...)
Google should get rid of this listing."
LP
"Always stop by to offer my condolences to the authors when I'm in Concord. Spooky at sunset."
JAY HACKETT
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Authors Ridge is located within Sleepy Hollow Cemetery in Concord, Massachusetts. You can drive and find parking within the cemetery grounds, though some visitors mention finding small alcoves. It's a peaceful walk once inside the cemetery to reach the designated area for the authors.
While public transport might get you to Concord, reaching Authors Ridge specifically within the cemetery might require a walk or a short taxi/rideshare from the town center. Check local Concord transit options for the most up-to-date information.
Parking is available within Sleepy Hollow Cemetery. Visitors have noted finding small parking areas or alcoves within the grounds.
The cemetery is quite large, and Authors Ridge is a specific section. It's a moderate walk from the main entrance, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
Sleepy Hollow Cemetery generally has visiting hours. It's best to check the official cemetery website for current operating hours to plan your visit. Some visitors enjoy the 'spooky at sunset' atmosphere.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to visit Authors Ridge or Sleepy Hollow Cemetery. It is a public cemetery and a historical site.
Opening hours for Sleepy Hollow Cemetery can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official Concord town or cemetery website for the most accurate and up-to-date information before your visit.
Authors Ridge is a section within Sleepy Hollow Cemetery. There isn't a separate entrance; you enter the main cemetery and then follow signs or a map to the Authors Ridge area.
While there might not be official guided tours specifically for Authors Ridge, local historical societies or Concord tourism boards may offer broader cemetery tours that include this significant area.
Yes, photography is generally permitted in cemeteries for personal use. However, always be respectful of the solemn nature of the location and avoid intrusive photography.
🎫 📝 Literary & Historical Significance
Authors Ridge is the final resting place for four prominent American literary figures: Louisa May Alcott, Nathaniel Hawthorne, Henry David Thoreau, and Ralph Waldo Emerson.
This section of Sleepy Hollow Cemetery honors some of the most influential writers in American literature, making it a pilgrimage site for literature enthusiasts and a testament to Concord's rich literary history.
Visitors often leave pens, pencils, or small notes at the graves of these authors as a tribute to their literary contributions. It's a touching way to show appreciation for their work.
Authors Ridge is located in Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, which is a short drive from the Orchard House, where Louisa May Alcott wrote 'Little Women'. Visiting both sites offers a comprehensive literary experience.
Concord, Massachusetts, was a hub for many prominent writers and thinkers in the 19th century. Authors Ridge in its cemetery is a direct reflection of this significant literary heritage.
📸 📸 Photography & Atmosphere
Late afternoon, especially around sunset, can offer a dramatic and atmospheric lighting for photographs. However, early morning can provide softer light and fewer visitors.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be mindful of the solemnity of the location and avoid disturbing other visitors or the gravesites.
Visitors describe the atmosphere as peaceful, quiet, and historic. It's a place for reflection and appreciation of literary history. Some find it particularly atmospheric at sunset.
The historic gravestones, the serene cemetery setting, and the natural beauty of Sleepy Hollow Cemetery contribute to its photogenic qualities. The tributes left by visitors also add a unique touch.
Drone usage in cemeteries is typically prohibited due to privacy and respect concerns. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise by cemetery management.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Make it a part of a larger Concord exploration, perhaps combining it with a visit to the Orchard House or a walk around the historic town. This helps provide context and makes the cemetery visit feel less isolated. Ensure children understand that this is a place where people are laid to rest, fostering respect from a young age.
📚 Book Lovers & Literary Enthusiasts
Many visitors find the tradition of leaving pens and pencils particularly meaningful. This is a chance to connect with the very tools that brought these iconic stories and ideas to life. Combine your visit with other literary landmarks in Concord, such as the Orchard House or Walden Pond, to create a comprehensive literary pilgrimage.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Cemetery Explorers
For those who appreciate the unique atmosphere of historic cemeteries, Authors Ridge provides a serene and contemplative experience. The 'spooky at sunset' ambiance is often mentioned, offering a different perspective on the site. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some walking to fully explore the grounds and appreciate the historical significance of this unique location.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Literary Pantheon of Authors Ridge
The tradition of leaving pens and pencils at the graves is a particularly touching aspect of visiting Authors Ridge. It symbolizes the enduring impact of these writers and serves as a tangible expression of gratitude from generations of readers. This practice transforms the quiet gravesites into a living tribute, connecting past and present through the shared love of literature.
Beyond the individual graves, the serene and historic atmosphere of Sleepy Hollow Cemetery itself enhances the experience. The rolling hills, mature trees, and well-preserved gravestones create a contemplative environment perfect for reflecting on the lives and works of these literary giants.
Visiting Sleepy Hollow Cemetery: Practicalities
Parking is available within the cemetery, though it can be limited, especially during peak times. Visitors have mentioned finding small parking areas or alcoves. It's always a good idea to check the cemetery's official operating hours before your visit, as these can vary seasonally. The cemetery offers a unique ambiance, with some visitors finding the 'spooky at sunset' atmosphere particularly memorable.
Remember that this is a place of rest. Maintaining a quiet and respectful demeanor is paramount. While photography is generally permitted for personal use, be mindful of the solemnity of the location and avoid intrusive behavior. The tradition of leaving small tributes like pens or notes is a beautiful way to honor the authors, and observing this practice adds to the unique experience of visiting Authors Ridge.






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