The best camping near Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site

History and literature geeks love this sparsely preserved home once rented by American author Edgar Allan Poe. Although Poe lived in several houses over his six years in Philadelphia, this is the only one that survives. Poe rented the house located in the Spring Garden district early in 1843. He lived there with his wife, her mother and his cat for about a year.

The rooms of the home have not been restored, nor do they contain furnishings. But you can view an 8-minute video on Poe's life to set the mood. Interactive exhibits help give a feel for how the Poes might have occupied the house. Take a 45-minute self- or Ranger-guided tour. You might get lucky and be treated to a Ranger reading of Poe's "The Black Cat" in the creepy basement.

Wall-mounted illustrations show how the rooms may have been furnished when Poe lived there. Venture into the Reading Room decorated as a recreation of Poe's theories in "The Philosophy of Furniture." Although not part of Poe's original home, the room is furnished in typical 19th-century style. It houses a complete collection of Poe's works, including criticisms. Sample audio of his work narrated by prominent actors or set to music by the Alan Parsons Project and Lou Reed.

A statue of a large black raven outside the home presents the perfect photo op. Although this historic Philadelphia site has very limited Friday through Sunday hours, it's worth a stop. How many people can say they walked through a home in which Edgar Allan Poe spent some of his happiest and most productive writing times?