Post-Edwardian England Comes to West Palm Beach
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By GERRY and PAMELA BARKER
North Palm Beach Life November 28, 2018 WEST PALM BEACH_As two of the millions of fans who watched six seasons of "Downton Abbey" on PBS, we were excited when we learned the "Downton Abbey Exhibition" would be coming here after a long run in New York. After touring it in the old Macy's building at CityPlace, it exceeded our expectations.Not only do you feel like an honored guest of the Crawleys, but also like you've been transported back in time to post-Edwardian England. It's all here: The fabulous costumes, the intricate sets -- all faithfully reproduced in intricate, meticulous detail. As you wind through the rooms, you are encouraged to interact via "listen" stations or pick up the Crawleys' phone and have a conversation (albeit a bit one-sided). You can also choose a VIP tour with audio headsets. Non-flash photography is okay -- no video, please. With that in mind, let's take the tour! 
In the lobby -- the Crawleys are
dressed and waiting for us 
The front door swings open and
you start the tour with a brief video introduction by Carson, the butler. |
More Information
WHERE: 575 South Rosemary Avenue, West Palm Beach (formerly Macy's at CityPlace)
WHEN: Now through April, 2019 HOURS: 10 am to 7 pm daily. TICKETS: $35 adults; children under 14 free. WEBSITE: DowntonExhibition.com 
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If you see a lighted drawer,
pull it out. Lots of extras to experience. |
Love the details ... like the telegram Robert read that England was at war with Germany,
or this train ticket 
Be sure and pick up the phone ... someone is waiting to talk to you.
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Carson's space, where nothing is out of place
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Is this where the Dowager Countess
comes up with all those zingers? |
Mrs. Patmore's kitchen, complete with cooking smells and rattling of pots
Where the servants gather,
and wait for the next bell to ring |
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Have some fun and apply for a job at Downton. There are
10 questions. Based on your answers, it will assign you a position.
Pam's was Mrs. Patmore. And mine was...
10 questions. Based on your answers, it will assign you a position.
Pam's was Mrs. Patmore. And mine was...
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In this room you can watch key moments in the series on projection screens that cover three walls. You really feel immersed in the story. |
Characters like Mary are projected in this floor mirror. Watch for Mrs. Hughes materializing along the way as well. 
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The Crawleys' master bedroom. Pam takes a listen at one
of several listening stations that complement the tour.
Of course, for many the main event are those incredible fashions
the actors donned. So without further ado...
of several listening stations that complement the tour.
Of course, for many the main event are those incredible fashions
the actors donned. So without further ado...
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Men's clothes are pretty basic
no matter the Age! 
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After all that touring, we were ready for dinner and lively conversation.
As the tour ended, we landed in the gift shop, staffed by the most
well-dressed attendants you'll ever see. |
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Whether you're a fan of the show or just a history buff, you'll really
appreciate how much effort and attention to detail
went into this exhibit.
With that, we'll give Rose the final word ...
appreciate how much effort and attention to detail
went into this exhibit.
With that, we'll give Rose the final word ...
