The Marion E. Wade Center: A Literary Sanctuary

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Explore the literary worlds of C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, and other British authors at Wheaton College's Marion E. Wade Center.

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The Marion E. Wade Center

The Marion E. Wade Center at Wheaton College is a museum and research center dedicated to the works of seven British authors, including C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. Visitors can explore exhibits, attend lectures, and delve into the literary legacy of these influential writers.

A brief summary to The Marion E. Wade Center

351 E Lincoln Ave, Wheaton, Illinois, 60187, US
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Monday 9 am-4 pm
Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
Friday 9 am-4 pm

Local tips

Check the Wade Center's website for specific hours and closures before visiting.
Groups of 10 or more should complete the Museum and Bookshop Visit Form three weeks in advance.
Visitor parking is available across the street from the Wade Center in the lot north of Edman Chapel.
Consider visiting on weekdays for a quieter experience.

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Getting There

Walking

From the Wheaton Metra station, head east on Front Street towards Main Street. Turn left onto Main Street and continue until you reach E Lincoln Avenue. Turn right onto E Lincoln Avenue, and walk for about 0.5 miles. The Marion E. Wade Center will be on your left at 351 E Lincoln Ave.
Driving

From downtown Wheaton, head south on Main Street. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with E Lincoln Avenue. Turn right onto E Lincoln Avenue. The Marion E. Wade Center will be on your left at 351 E Lincoln Ave. Visitor parking is available in the lot on the east side of Washington Street. Parking meters are enforced Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Daily Fee parking is available for $2 per day at the Wheaton Place Garage (232 W. Wesley), Top Floor, using the Passport Parking app or website.
Public Transport

Take the Metra train from the nearest station to Wheaton station. Exit the station and head east on Front St. Continue until you reach Main St and then turn left. After about 0.5 miles, turn right onto E Lincoln Ave. The Marion E. Wade Center will be on your left at 351 E Lincoln Ave. A one-way train ticket costs $7.

Discover more about The Marion E. Wade Center

Nestled on the campus of Wheaton College in Wheaton, Illinois, the Marion E. Wade Center serves as a unique repository and museum dedicated to the works and legacies of seven influential British authors: Owen Barfield, G.K. Chesterton, C.S. Lewis, George MacDonald, Dorothy L. Sayers, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Charles Williams. Founded in 1965 by Wheaton College professor Clyde S. Kilby, the Wade Center began as a collection of C.S. Lewis's works and expanded to include other authors who influenced or were associated with him.The center's museum features a variety of displays, including original manuscripts, letters, and personal artifacts from the authors. Highlights include C.S. Lewis's writing desk and wardrobe. Visitors can explore the exhibits, attend lectures and events, and conduct research in the Kilby Reading Room. The Wade Center also offers activities for children, such as scavenger hunts, making it an engaging experience for all ages.The Marion E. Wade Center is open to the public and Wheaton College community. It attracts scholars and visitors from around the world. Designated visitor parking is available, and admission is free.