Visiting Orchard House

Ever wonder what it was like for Louisa May Alcott to unleash the simmering stories in her brain onto paper?  Orchard House now offers a unique chance for visitors to encourage the same spirit of creativity and determination Miss Alcott exhibited by spending private time within the evocative atmosphere of her bedchamber.

Not interested in writing?  You may instead read, sketch, meditate, or reflect.

(1 person / Up to 2 hours / Must be 18+ years)

Youngsters ages 8-12 participated in a joyful, varied week of activities inspired by the March family and their fictional friends and neighbors from Little Women, as well as the real-life Alcotts.  Crafts, games, nature walks, writing, reading, reflecting, performing a play, and even exciting "you are there!" history lessons and live Colonial music courtesy of The Concord Minute Men re-enactors!  Adults are now clamoring for a Little Women Camp, too, so keep your eyes peeled for next Summer's offerings!

Youngsters ages 8 - 12 are invited to participate in our uniquely entertaining and educational camp to experiment with writing poetry, fiction, correspondence, journaling, and stories inspired by nature and art.  Campers will have the rare chance to spend time writing in Louisa's room, closely observe artifacts in the House, and immerse themselves in the beautiful grounds of The Wayside and Ralph Waldo Emerson's garden.  In addition, they will discover ways to move their bodies and enjoy games that encourage playfulness and creativity to make memories that last a lifetime!

Limited to 10 participants; advance registration & pre-payment required

Orchard House has a rich, fascinating, and inspiring 350-year historical and literary significance that has finally been captured on film!  Viewed by millions nationwide on public television, it has now been awarded an Emmy and is available for purchase from our Museum Store.

(Special pricing available for online orders only)

Visitors from around the world or across town consider our gardens and grounds to be a perpetual source of hope, joy, and beauty.  While Mr. Alcott spent years honoring the historic landscape by carefully tending it, Louisa paid tribute to the family’s love of horticulture in Little Women by having the March sisters cultivate their own flower beds.  Read what all the buzz is about in a delightful article written by Executive Director Jan Turnquist — then try your hand at creating your own Little Women Garden!

A marvelous time was had as The Taming of the Shrew met Twelfth Night during the performance of Hannah Cowley's uproarious -- and refreshingly modern! -- 1783 play by Theater in the Open on our evocative grounds!  We also thoroughly enjoyed our first-ever collaboration with Theater in the Open, and look forward to more opportunities to partner with them and revive forgotten classics!

(Click button to find out more about them)