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The Mark Twain House & Museum: A Glimpse into Literary History

Step back in time at Mark Twain's Hartford home, a Victorian masterpiece where literary history comes to life.

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Visit the meticulously preserved Hartford home where Samuel Clemens, better known as Mark Twain, lived with his family from 1874 to 1891 and penned some of his most celebrated works, including *The Adventures of Tom Sawyer* and *Adventures of Huckleberry Finn*. The house itself is a stunning example of Victorian Gothic architecture with interiors designed by Louis Comfort Tiffany.

A brief summary to The Mark Twain House & Museum

  • Monday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online in advance, especially for weekend and holiday visits, to secure your spot on a guided tour.
  • Arrive early to allow ample time to explore both the historic house and the museum center.
  • Consider visiting during the holiday season (late November to January) to see the house decorated in Victorian style.
  • Check the museum's calendar for special events, lectures, and programs that may enhance your visit.
  • The Nook Café, located in the museum center, offers sandwiches, salads, and light fare.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the nearby Harriet Beecher Stowe Center, simply walk east along Farmington Avenue for about 200 feet. The Mark Twain House & Museum will be on your right. The entrance to the parking lot is located a block before the Mark Twain House.

  • Public Transport

    CT Transit buses 60, 62, 64, and 66 connect The Mark Twain House & Museum with downtown Hartford and West Hartford Center. Check the CT Transit website for the most up-to-date schedules and fare information. A single-ride bus fare is typically around $1.75.

  • Driving

    From I-84 East or West, take Exit 46, Sisson Avenue. At the traffic light, turn right (north) onto Sisson Avenue. Continue four blocks to the end of Sisson Avenue. At the traffic light, turn right (east) onto Farmington Avenue. Continue three blocks (approximately 2/10 mile) on Farmington and look for the sign on the right at the entrance to the museum's free parking lot. Parking is free.

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Discover more about The Mark Twain House & Museum

The Mark Twain House & Museum offers a captivating journey into the life and times of one of America's most iconic authors. Located in Hartford, Connecticut, this National Historic Landmark was home to Samuel Clemens, his wife Olivia, and their children during a prolific period of his career. From 1874 to 1891, Twain wrote many of his most famous books here, surrounded by the ornate beauty of his unique home. The house is a marvel of Victorian architecture, boasting 25 rooms filled with original furnishings and meticulously recreated decor. Interior design elements by Louis Comfort Tiffany add to the home's unique appeal. Visitors can explore the grand library, where Twain penned many of his masterpieces, and the billiard room, his private writing space. The restored kitchen wing and butler's pantry offer a glimpse into the lives of the Clemens' servants. Adjacent to the house, the LEED-certified Webster Bank Museum Center offers further insight into Twain's life and legacy. Here, you'll find exhibits featuring original manuscripts, family photographs, and personal artifacts. A film by Ken Burns provides an overview of Twain's life and career. The museum also hosts interactive programs, lectures, and special events throughout the year. Allow at least two hours to fully experience both the house and the museum. Timed ticket purchases are highly recommended.

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