Dark Tales: Haunted Authors of Providence Tour
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Good general health recommended; moderate walking involved, with some standing and light stair climbing.
Overview
Discover the haunted history of Providence's literary giants on a spine-chilling walking tour. Explore spooky sites, hear ghost stories, and learn about legendary authors in this unforgettable experience. Keep reading to uncover the secrets lurking in Providence's dark past!
Dark Tales: Haunted Authors of Providence Tour
90 Minutes • All ages welcome • Enjoy the spooky stories of Providence!
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About This Adventure
Explore the haunting legacy of H.P. Lovecraft and his contemporaries on this captivating 90-minute tour through Providence. Walk the streets that inspired chilling tales, visit iconic sites like the Providence Athenaeum, and uncover the tragic romance between Edgar Allan Poe and Sarah Helen Whitman, immersing yourself in the city's eerie literary history.
Walk through Providence's dark side!
Duration
1 Hour 30 Minutes
About
The eerie writings H.P. Lovecraft- one of the most significant supernatural horror fiction authors of the 20th century- are inexplicably bound to his hometown of Providence. This tour walks in the tortured author's footsteps through his traumatic upbringing and favorite haunts; guests also meet some of the fictional characters that Lovecraft wrote into the city's fabric through dramatic retellings of his creepiest tales.
But Lovecraft isn't the only author that ambled the city's centuries-old sidewalks: Sarah Helen Whitman was an eccentric local spiritualist and poet who was briefly engaged to master of the macabre Edgar Allan Poe. This tour explores her life and relives the couple's whirlwind- and doomed- romance.
Sights to See
The Providence Athenaeum, our nearly 200-year-old library which all Providence authors enjoyed (and continue to!)
Prospect Terrace Park, Lovecraft's favorite and the city's best view
Lovecraft's and Whitman's homes
135 Benefit Street: the inspiration for Lovecraft's The Shunned House
The place where Poe first saw Whitman, later claiming "love at first sight"
140 Prospect Street: Home of H.P. Lovecraft's character, Charles Dexter Ward
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable walking shoes
Since the tour covers several historic streets, comfortable footwear is recommended for an enjoyable experience.
Bring a flashlight
Some parts of the tour may be dimly lit, so a small flashlight can help illuminate your way and enhance the spooky atmosphere.
Dress for the weather
Providence weather can vary, so check the forecast and layer appropriately for rain or cooler evenings.
Respect the historical sites
Please be mindful of private properties and historical landmarks during the tour to preserve their integrity.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Peregrine falcons
- Urban foxes
History
Providence's rich literary past includes renowned authors whose mysterious stories have fueled local legends for over a century.
Conservation
The tour emphasizes respectful engagement with historic sites and supports local preservation efforts by promoting awareness of Providence's cultural heritage.
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Adventure Hotspots in Boston
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy walking shoes
Comfortable shoes are necessary for covering uneven historic streets comfortably.
Lightweight jacket or sweater
Layers help keep you comfortable during cooler evening temperatures.
spring|fall|winter specific
Small backpack or bag
Carry essentials like water, gloves, and personal items without hassle.
Camera or smartphone
Capture eerie photos at historic sites and atmospheric street scenes.