Jane Austen Lovers Itinerary

A fan of all things Austen? See Colonial Williamsburg through her characters’ eyes.

Colonial Williamsburg and Jane Austen novels have quite a few things in common. Both interpret overlapping time periods, namely the late 18th century. And while Austen’s books examined British gentry, much of what we know about customs, trades, materials, and architecture in Colonial America comes from the Kingdom of Great Britain. Residents of Williamsburg took their fashion cues from England and surely the young ladies of Williamsburg fawned over Continental Army officers in uniform just as young Kitty and Lydia Bennet do with the British militia in Pride and Prejudice.

And we have the perfect guide on how to build your Colonial Williamsburg visit to satisfy your craving to live inside an Austen novel.

Dress the Part

Let’s face it, picturing Henry Tilney confess his love to Catherine Moreland in modern clothing wouldn’t feel quite the same. The period clothes add a level of romance you mustn’t long for any longer. Don a frock and treat yourself to a shopping trip at Tarpley, Thompson & Co. in the heart of the historic area of Colonial Williamsburg to get the latest 18th-century society fashion for men, women, and children in the very best of taste.

Our "off the rack" costumes are made with period-appropriate silks and fabrics, including Colonial Williamsburg reproduction print fabrics.

Embrace Frivolity

Get as silly as Mrs. Bennet with Play House Players. This theatre group embraces the spirit of the 18th-century theater with whimsically lively open-air performances on the Play House Stage, which sits on the site of the first purpose-built theater opened in America. See the calendar of events for a schedule of musical and theatrical entertainment!

Experience Great Houses

They may not be Pemberley or Northanger Abbey, but Colonial Williamsburg has some fantastic homes worth exploring. Tour the Governor’s Palace, the home of the royal governor of Virginia, and get a taste of the colony’s wealth, power, and permanence.

A Tavern Set for a Ball

Instead of begging the local gentry to host a ball (we see you, Lydia), Williamsburg residents could simply pay a small fee to colonial tavern keepers hosting subscription balls, popular features of urban life in the late 1700s. Dine with your family at one of our historic taverns to experience 18th-century fare. You may even find yourself with some exemplary boiled potatoes…

Men in Uniform

Our military interpreters are much more honorable than Wickham, we insist. Explore the Military Encampment and witness the sights and sounds of revolution as the soldiers prepare for war, check out our vast weapons on exhibit in the Art Museums, or retrace the nation’s beginnings with your family! Learn more about these exceptional programs and exclusive military discounts.

Dance the Night Away

Some of the best Austen moments happen on the dance floor. Set to live music played on 18th-century instruments, watch our costumed dancers float across the floor, then learn a few steps for yourself at Dancing at the Governor’s Palace.