Celebrate National Poetry Month

In April, join the world’s largest literary celebration, National Poetry Month, in honoring the wonder of words. Here are five ideas to consider:

1. Orchard House, Concord, Mass.: Visit the home of Louisa May Alcott, the novelist and poet who stole hearts with the compelling story she crafted, “Little Women,” using the relationships within her own family as inspiration. You’ll take a guided tour and get a glimpse into how the family lived in their home, known as Orchard House. Contact: louisamayalcott.org.

2. Seuss at Sea on Carnival Cruise Lines: Relish the clever, rhyming words of a legend aboard a Carnival Cruise, where the imagination of Dr. Seuss comes to life for kids of all ages. Savor a “Green Eggs and Ham” breakfast and enjoy interactive story time. It’s all happening as part of the Seuss at Sea program, designed to bring the timeless tales to life and create memories for every generation. Contact: carnival.com.

3. Cody, Wyo.: Cowboy poetry got its start on the Western frontier more than 150 years ago. During a long day in the saddle, riders would compose rhymes with the hope of sharing around the campfire at night. The living tradition is still going strong in this corner of Wyoming. Dan Miller’s Cowboy Music Revue puts poetry in musical motion during an evening of family fun, dining and entertainment. Contact: yellowstonecountry.org; centerofthewest.org.

4. The Fenimore Art Museum, Cooperstown, N.Y.: Discover the wild world of a beloved wordsmith within “50 Years, 50 Works, 50 Reasons, Maurice Sendak: The Memorial Exhibition.” Expect original illustrations from “Where the Wild Things Are,” “Little Bear,” “In the Night Kitchen” and other books as well as set design and costume sketches; animation reels; posters; and workshop opportunities. Now through May 14. Contact: fenimoreartmuseum.org; thisiscooperstown.com.

5. Your words, your way: Exercise poetic license to celebrate the beauty of your family’s favorite words. Pair a reading of Eric Carle’s “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” with an outing to the Butterfly Wonderland in Scottsdale, Ariz. Jane Yolen’s Caldecott Award-winning “Owl Moon” will surely inspire a magical evening of moonlit discovery. Consider creating your own poetry to honor your recent, current or upcoming adventure. Contact: butterflywonderland.com; janeyolen.com.