March 19, 2020

Anne of Green Gables

Come discover all-things Anne on Prince Edward Island this summer!

Prince Edward Island is known for many things, picturesque lighthouses, red sandy beaches, and lush rolling hills chief among them. More than anything, however, PEI is known for a fiery young orphan who has captured the hearts of millions around the world for over 100 years. We’re talking about the iconic Anne Shirley of Anne of Green Gables. It seems like no matter where you go on the Island, you can feel Anne’s presence. So if you want to learn more about her, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s how to take in all-things Anne on your PEI getaway.

Visit the Green Gables Heritage Place

Anne fans from across the world love making their way to the Green Gables Shore. After all, this is where Anne’s story takes place. Because of this, the area is full of sites dedicated to Anne and her Island adventures. One of the biggest draws here is Green Gables Heritage Place, which is conveniently located within the Prince Edward Island National Park. Here, you’ll find the legendary home that inspired Lucy Maud Montgomery to pen her wonderful stories. You can stroll through the house to learn more about Montgomery, view rooms filled with memories, and walk in her footsteps across the beautiful landscape that would lay the groundwork for her novel’s unforgettable setting—including the Haunted Wood and Lovers Lane. If you’re lucky, you’ll even have a chance to meet Anne herself while you’re visiting!

Stop by for a Visit (and a Bite) in Avonlea Village

Avonlea—the fictitious town where Anne lived—has been recreated here on Prince Edward Island! As you stroll through this lovely recreation, you’ll find the original 1872 Long River Church and the schoolhouse where Lucy Maud Montgomery worked as a teacher. While this is definitely a stroll down memory lane, you’ll also find five different restaurants in Avonlea to stop in for a bite to eat. Enjoy an authentic Island experience, with lobsters, baked potatoes, classic COWS ice cream, and more!

Explore the Anne of Green Gables Museum

In Silver Bush, you’ll find the Anne of Green Gables Museum—a quaint homestead dedicated to Anne, as well as her creator, Lucy Maud Montgomery. Here, you can peruse some of Montgomery’s personal belongings and learn more about Anne’s story. Best of all, this museum is not far from the Lake of Shining Waters, which fans of these stories will undoubtedly recognize. In fact, the museum also offers carriage rides by the lake, where you can imagine yourself as Anne Shirley making her way through beautiful flower gardens.

Find the Perfect Souvenir at the Anne of Green Gables Store

From the rolling country hills, it’s time to make your way into town—Charlottetown, to be precise! Here, you have to make a stop at The Anne of Green Gables Store for some official Anne memorabilia! Dolls, books, posters, even Anne Jam is available at the Anne Store—so you’re sure to find something you’ll love.

Treat Yourself to Two Performances of Anne’s Story

For a different take on Anne’s story, consider taking in a performance of Anne & Gilbert. This musical is based on the Anne of Avonlea and Anne of the Island books by Lucy Maud Montgomery and tells the story of the whirlwind romance between Anne Shirley and Gilbert Blythe. Beloved by fans of Anne, and a staple on the Island, Anne & Gilbert is not to be missed on your Anne of Green Gables tour.

Charlottetown is also the place to see The Songs of Anne & Gilbert, The Musical. Featuring a live band with singers and dancers this musical includes the most memorable songs and dance number from Anne and Gilbert.

Start your tour of Anne’s Island with a voyage to PEI with Northumberland Ferries.