A summer in Fredericton isn’t complete without a trip to Kings Landing (or a few trips, for that matter). From time travel in the Village to unique culinary experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy! 

Not familiar with Kings Landing? It’s a picturesque, open-air museum located just 20 minutes west of Fredericton. With over 300 acres to explore, there is plenty of space for social distancing. Surrounded by the majestic Saint John River, this local gem brings 19th century, rural New Brunswick to life with costumed characters working alongside animals in the farms, shops, and homes.

Most of the programming takes place in Kings Landing’s serene, outdoor space. Come see buttermaking, wool processing, cooking and other old-fashioned demonstrations in the open-air. Looking to start a garden of your own? The gardeners are always ready and willing to talk, and let’s be honest, do a little bragging about their prized vegetables. If you need some tips for your own homestead, ask away! Kings Landing’s seasoned farm hands and gardeners know their stuff. 

Forget Pinterest. We’ve all spent way too much time online these past few months. Put your mask on and walk through the beautiful, immaculately cleaned historic homes and shops. From floral wallpaper to hanging plants and braided rugs, many century-old styles are back and there is no better place to get inspired! Kings Landing’s staff will be positioned behind barriers to safely share their family history and traditions. While exploring the homes, enjoy the smell of bread baking or unwind at the mesmerized sights of spinning wheels, loom, and hearths. 

Did you see something you love in the village? You may just be able to find a replica at the Grant Store. Shop the Kings Landing Collection, in the old-fashioned general store. Here, you’ll find souvenirs made by Kings Landing artisans, old fashioned treats and reproductions of some of the favourite village items. 

Are you a history buff looking for the nitty gritty details? Kings Landing offers a number of exhibits complete with artifacts, photographs, and text panels. If you’ve been planning your weeks based on when your fanciest sweats will be clean(est), you’ll definitely want to check out the Keeping it Clean laundry exhibit. Other exhibits include the Spanish Flu Pandemic, the Wolastokuk Exhibit, the Hewlett Marr Black Loyalist Story, and the Lumbering Exhibit.

If you’re hungry and want to cap off your historical experience, be sure to visit the King’s Head Inn Restaurant. Enjoy traditional recipes in a not-so-traditional takeout format. In an effort to reduce waste at the restaurant, takeout is served in compostable or reusable packaging. Help keep Kings Landing clean by bringing your dishes home with you! For those who would like to sit down and take in the view, the King’s Head Inn garden will be set up to accommodate social distancing and tables will be cleaned thoroughly after each sitting. 

No time for snacks or shopping in the village? Stop by the Axe & Plough Café and Peddler’s Market in the Welcome Centre. Grab a delicious coffee, snack, souvenir, and --if you’re lucky-- a loaf of Mary’s famous brown bread on your way out.

With everything in place to offer a safe day trip, Kings Landing will kick off their 2020 season on Wednesday, June 3. They are open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 am – 5 pm. If possible, avoid using cash while at the museum. Those over 2 years old, who are able to wear a mask, are required to while inside buildings or on the horse and wagon rides. Guests are asked to use the touch-free hand sanitation stations as often as possible. There are 64 installed on the site. While visiting, kindly follow all COVID-19 directions communicated through signs and screens and please respect barriers installed throughout the site. To learn more about King Landing’s COVID-19 protocols, special events, hours, pricing, and more, check out their website or Facebook page. It’s time to check time travel off your summer bucket list at Kings Landing!