Today, The Great Gatsby turns 90 years old. On April 10th, 1925, Charles Scribner’s Sons published what would become a seminal piece of American literature. As you can see from my makeshift shrine below, I’m something of a rabid Gatsby devotee. So on this celebratory occasion, let’s check out a few places you can visit if you want to party like it’s 1925. Flapper dresses not included.
The Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum in Montgomery
Open for more than a quarter century, this is the world’s sole museum dedicated to the Gatsby author as well as his mercurial wife, Zelda. The couple lived there for two years in the early 1930s, and the Alabama museum houses numerous treasures and hosts an annual gala in the author’s honor. Jay Gatsby would approve.
The F. Scott Fitzgerald Statue in Saint Paul
If you’re ever in Fitzgerald’s hometown of Saint Paul, be sure to stop by and visit him—in bronze form, of course. The celebrated statue of the author is a major landmark in this Minnesota city, and it only takes a minute to snap a selfie with the Gatsby scribe. He might not understand the newfangled technology, but he’ll appreciate the attention.
The Plaza Motel in New York
Throughout the story, the Plaza Motel is featured heavily, including in the climactic confrontation between Gatsby and Daisy’s husband Tom. Check out Jay’s old stomping grounds for yourself, either by staying the night or simply stopping by for lunch at the famed on-site restaurant. Don’t forget the Mint Juleps.
Even if you can’t make it to a Gatsby-themed locale, there are plenty of other ways to celebrate. Purchase any one of the gorgeous paperback covers of the book (and you know, read it). For hardcore fans, be sure to check out Trimalchio in West Egg, which is the early, albeit different, draft of the book. And of course, if you’re like me, you’ll need some swag. Out of Print has got you covered, even featuring a 25% off sale for today only in honor of the 90th anniversary of the book. The Jazz Age has never sounded so good.
Happy hauntings, and happy birthday to the Great Gatsby!