The Marion E. Wade Center: A Literary Sanctuary

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
+1630-752-5908
Visit website

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.

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.

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The Marion E. Wade Center: A Literary Sanctuary

A brief summary to The Marion E. Wade Center

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Driving

Public Transport

Unlock the Best of The Marion E. Wade Center

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about The Marion E. Wade Center

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

The Marion E. Wade Center

Billy Graham Museum

Cosley Zoo

Cantigny

Sensory Garden Playground

Tuk Tuk Naperville

Naperville, Illinois Water Tower

Naperville Cow Tunnel

Downtown Naperville

Paw Paw Post Office Historic Site

Pinot's Palette

Naperville Convention & Visitors

Fort Payne Historic Site

Naperville Bites and Sites

Centennial Beach

Unmissable attractions to see

Herrick Lake Forest Preserve

Of the Earth: Ona

Herrick Lake

The Morton Arboretum

St. James Farm Forest Preserve

Maze Garden

Children's Garden

Lilacia Park

Of the Earth: Oculus

Of the Earth: Strata

iFLY Indoor Skydiving - Chicago Naperville

Blackwell Forest Preserve

Museums at Lisle Station Park

Pebble Isle

Noon Whistle Brewing

Essential places to dine

Maggiano's Little Italy

Artisan Table

The White Chocolate Grill

Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse

Morton's The Steakhouse

Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant- Naperville

Old Town Pour House (Freedom Commons - Naperville)

MingHin Cuisine

Tasty Biscuit - Naperville, IL

Angeli's

Che Figata

Prairie River Restaurant

CityGate Grille

Fiammé

Catch 35 Naperville

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Maison Russe (The Russian Gift Shop)

Affordable Antiques & More

Cress Creek Square Shopping Center

Nona Jo's

EVEREVE

Treasures

francesca's

Adagio Teas Naperville

MINISO

Naper Nuts & Sweets

SaraBoo Creek Naperville

Anderson's Bookshop

Peace

European Living

Regenerate Boutique

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

White Tavern

Twin Peaks

Tap in Pub