Orchard House (Louisa May Alcott), Boston
Step into the home where Louisa May Alcott penned "Little Women" and experience the Alcott family's vibrant literary and artistic world.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate feel
Orchard House (Louisa May Alcott), Boston
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate feel
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into the home where Louisa May Alcott penned "Little Women" and experience the Alcott family's vibrant literary and artistic world.
"Felt surreal being in the spaces where Bronson Alcott raised his family and entertained literary figures."
📸 No Photos Inside!
Remember, photography is not allowed inside the house. Soak in the history and trust your memory!
📚 Bookstore Treasures
Don't miss the onsite bookstore for books, gifts, and souvenirs related to Louisa May Alcott.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Louisa May Alcott's Writing Desk
Her Bedroom
See the very desk where "Little Women" was penned, a truly iconic spot for fans of the beloved novel.
The Alcott Family Home
Throughout the House
Step into the rooms where the Alcott sisters lived, entertained literary giants, and created lasting memories.
May Alcott's Artwork
Walls and Doorways
Discover the artistic talents of Louisa's sister, May, with her childhood drawings adorning the walls.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Embrace the Intimate Setting
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 No Photos Inside!
Remember, photography is not allowed inside the house. Soak in the history and trust your memory!
📚 Bookstore Treasures
Don't miss the onsite bookstore for books, gifts, and souvenirs related to Louisa May Alcott.
🚶♀️ Explore Concord
Combine your visit with exploring historic Concord; Orchard House is a great starting point.
⏳ Arrive Early for Tours
Tours can be split into smaller groups, so arriving a bit early ensures a smoother experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 No Photos Inside!
Remember, photography is not allowed inside the house. Soak in the history and trust your memory!
📚 Bookstore Treasures
Don't miss the onsite bookstore for books, gifts, and souvenirs related to Louisa May Alcott.
🚶♀️ Explore Concord
Combine your visit with exploring historic Concord; Orchard House is a great starting point.
⏳ Arrive Early for Tours
Tours can be split into smaller groups, so arriving a bit early ensures a smoother experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Orchard House for its immersive historical experience and the opportunity to connect with Louisa May Alcott's legacy. The knowledgeable guides and the preservation of original artifacts are frequently highlighted as major positives. Some note that the house is small and tours can feel crowded, and the prohibition of interior photography is a common point of mention.
"Felt surreal being in the spaces where Bronson Alcott raised his family and entertained literary figures like Thoreau, Emerson, Hawthorne, and I’m sure many more. It was wonderful to see Louisa May’s writing desk and hear stories of her and her sisters. I especially enjoyed hearing about the youngest sister, May, an accomplished artist and interesting figure in her own right. Many of her childhood drawings are on door frames and walls around the house, and her later art is framed all over.
Tour was about an hour long with a lengthy video at the beginning. My 10:15 tour was split into two groups-with 10 or 12 of us in each. They were doing quite a bit of restoration and upkeep in the gardens and orchards. Beautiful property!"
Carrie
"Sadly we can't take pictures inside the Alcott house but I am leaving some pictures of the outside and the School of Philosophy that's right next to it. Although the tour is a little crowded and the house itself is really small, the introduction movie they display at the School of Philosophy is quite informative and the vibes are irreplaceable. It's a dive to the past, worth every moment! I definitely recommend a trip to the Orchard House and the historic Concord!"
Livia Louback
"It’s a great historical site for one of the most popular female authors. Worth the visit! There is a great bookstore too with all her books, great gifts and souvenirs you can hope for"
Bri
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Orchard House is located in Concord, Massachusetts, a short drive from Boston. Visitors can drive and find parking nearby, or take public transportation from Boston to Concord, followed by a short taxi or rideshare to the house.
Yes, you can take the MBTA Commuter Rail from Boston's North Station to Concord. From the Concord station, it's a short taxi or rideshare to Orchard House.
Limited parking is available near Orchard House. It's advisable to arrive a bit early, especially during peak times, to secure a spot.
Orchard House is within walking distance of the main shops and restaurants in Concord center, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing.
The address for Orchard House is 399 Lexington Road, Concord, MA 01742. This will help you navigate directly to the location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary, but tours typically range from $15-$20 for adults. It's best to check the official Orchard House website for the most current pricing and to book tickets in advance.
Yes, booking your tour tickets online in advance is highly recommended, as tours can sell out, especially during busy periods.
Orchard House generally operates with specific tour times. Hours can vary seasonally, so it's essential to check their official website for the most up-to-date schedule before your visit.
Discounts may be available for seniors, students, or children. Check the Orchard House website for any applicable group rates or special offers.
While it's possible to purchase tickets at the door if available, it's strongly advised to book online in advance to guarantee your entry and preferred tour time.
📸 📸 Photography
No, photography is strictly prohibited inside Orchard House to preserve the historic artifacts and the integrity of the home.
Yes, the exterior of Orchard House and its surrounding gardens offer beautiful photo opportunities, especially during the spring and fall.
The golden hours, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, often provide the most flattering light for exterior photographs of Orchard House.
The School of Philosophy is a separate historic site, and photography rules may differ. It's best to inquire on-site if you wish to take photos there.
The front facade of the house and the pathways through the gardens are popular spots for exterior photos.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The guided tour of Orchard House typically lasts about an hour, often including a brief introductory video at the beginning.
You'll see the rooms where Louisa May Alcott lived and wrote "Little Women," including her bedroom, family living areas, and learn about the Alcott family and their famous guests.
The tour is generally suitable for older children who can appreciate historical context. Younger children might find the length and lack of interactive elements challenging.
The School of Philosophy was founded by Bronson Alcott, Louisa's father, and is a historic site adjacent to Orchard House, often included in discussions about the Alcott legacy.
Restroom facilities are typically available on-site, often located near the visitor center or bookstore area.
🎫 📚 Books & Gifts
Orchard House has an excellent onsite bookstore that carries a wide selection of Louisa May Alcott's works, as well as related gifts and souvenirs.
You can find a variety of souvenirs, including books, stationery, prints, and other memorabilia related to Louisa May Alcott and the "Little Women" legacy.
Concord has several charming independent bookstores that are likely to carry Louisa May Alcott's books, offering a broader selection.
While they carry a good selection, rare editions might be harder to find. It's worth checking with the bookstore staff for any special or collectible items.
The bookstore primarily focuses on physical books and gifts. For audiobooks or e-books, you would likely need to look at online retailers or larger bookstores.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's recommended to prepare children beforehand by discussing the Alcott family and the significance of "Little Women." The onsite bookstore is also a great place for kids to pick out a copy of the book or a related souvenir. Consider the length of the tour and the intimate setting; for very young children, it might be more of a challenge, but for older children and teens who are fans of the book, it can be a truly magical experience.
📚 Literary Enthusiasts
The guided tour is exceptionally informative, often led by knowledgeable guides who share fascinating anecdotes about the Alcott family and their famous literary circle. The chance to see Louisa's writing desk and personal belongings offers a profound connection to the author. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the adjacent School of Philosophy, further enriching your understanding of the Alcott family's intellectual legacy.
🏛️ History Buffs
The presence of original furnishings and personal items, including the artwork of May Alcott, adds layers of historical depth. The tour often touches upon the broader historical context of the era, making it a valuable visit for anyone interested in American history, literature, and social reform movements of the period.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Alcott Family Legacy
Beyond Louisa, the house showcases the talents of her sisters. May Alcott, an accomplished artist, left her mark with charming childhood drawings adorning the walls and doorways, as well as her more mature artworks displayed throughout the home. The house also offers insights into the educational philosophies of Bronson Alcott, Louisa's father, who ran the experimental Concord School of Philosophy adjacent to the property.
Experiencing Orchard House is like stepping back in time. The intimate setting and the preservation of original artifacts allow visitors to connect with the Alcotts on a personal level. It’s a place where literary history feels tangible, making it a must-visit for fans of "Little Women" and American Transcendentalism.
Preserving History: Restoration and Upkeep
These efforts are crucial for protecting the delicate artifacts and the structure of the house itself. The gardens and orchards surrounding Orchard House are also part of this preservation, with ongoing work to maintain their historical beauty and ecological integrity. This dedication to detail allows visitors to immerse themselves in the historical context of the Alcott family's life.
While restoration might occasionally mean certain areas are temporarily inaccessible, it ultimately enhances the visitor experience by demonstrating a commitment to historical accuracy. It’s a reminder that preserving such significant landmarks is a continuous process, ensuring that the stories held within Orchard House can be shared for years to come.
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