Stephen King house in Bangor, Maine, is a must-visit destination for fans of the iconic horror author. Located at 47 West Broadway, this Victorian mansion has inspired many of King’s famous works and serves as a symbol of his literary legacy. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your visit:
1. Address and Location
- Address: 47 West Broadway, Bangor, Maine 04401, United States .
- The house is situated in a quiet residential neighborhood, surrounded by trees and historic homes. Visitors are welcome to view the exterior but must respect the property as it is private.
2. What to Expect
- Exterior Features: The house is a striking Victorian mansion with wrought-iron gates adorned with spiderwebs, bats, and a three-headed dragon, reflecting King’s macabre style.
- Grounds: The property includes a sculpture of a dead ash tree transformed into a wooden bookcase with human legs, created by sculptor Josh Landry in 2020.
- No Interior Access: The house is not open to the public, and visitors are not allowed inside. However, you can take photos from the sidewalk.
3. Tips for Visiting
- Best Time to Visit: Fall is ideal, as the autumn foliage adds a spooky ambiance that complements King’s horror themes.
- Respect Privacy: The Kings no longer live here full-time but have converted the property into a writers’ retreat and archive. Be mindful of the neighborhood and avoid trespassing.
- Parking: Park legally in the surrounding area and avoid blocking traffic or disturbing residents.
4. Nearby Attractions
While in Bangor, explore other Stephen King-inspired locations:
- Thomas Hill Standpipe: Featured in It, this historic water tower offers panoramic views of the city.
- Mount Hope Cemetery: The setting for Pet Sematary and one of the oldest garden cemeteries in the U.S.
- Paul Bunyan Statue: A 31-foot-tall statue that comes to life in It.
- Gerald Winters & Son Bookstore: A specialty bookstore offering rare Stephen King books and memorabilia.
5. Guided Tours
For a deeper dive into King’s world, consider joining a guided tour:
- SK Tours: Led by Jamie Tinker, this tour covers over 20 Stephen King-related locations in Bangor, including his house, the Thomas Hill Standpipe, and the sewer drain from It .
- Bangor Historical Society: Offers walking tours of Mount Hope Cemetery, which includes King-related sites.
6. Stephen King’s Legacy in Bangor
Stephen King has deep ties to Bangor, which inspired the fictional town of Derry in many of his novels, including It and Insomnia 612. Beyond his literary contributions, King has been an active philanthropist in the community, supporting local libraries, schools, and cultural initiatives.
Conclusion
Visiting Stephen King’s house in Bangor is a unique experience for fans of his work. While the interior is off-limits, the exterior and surrounding landmarks offer plenty to explore. Remember to respect the property and neighborhood, and consider joining a guided tour to fully immerse yourself in the world of Stephen King.
