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Charlottetown is the beautiful capital of Prince Edward Island (PEI) in Canada. This historic town is a vibrant seaside city famous for its affiliations to Canadian Confederation history and Anne of Green Gables. It is known as the birthplace of the confederation in Canada. There are so many historic sites in Charlottetown. As such, it is a lovely place to explore. While in Charlottetown, you can learn more about the local history, immerse yourself in local culture, try out the local cuisine, check out the fun activities in the town, and go on an adventure of a lifetime.
If you are looking to explore Charlottetown, PEI, here is a guide to some things you can try out while in Charlottetown.
1. Visit Peake’s Quay
Located on the scenic waterfront in Charlottetown, Peake’s Quay is a one-stop location that offers something for everyone. You can get cute keepsakes, dine in one of the lovely restaurants, go on a boat tour, and enjoy live island music.
2. Have a lobster roll
Charlottetown is known for its delicious lobster rolls, which you can get from up to 20 different restaurants. Lobster rolls are a local delicacy you should try whenever you are in Charlottetown.
3. Try some Cow’s Ice Cream
Cows Ice Cream is one of the biggest exports from Charlottetown, PEI. Cows Creamery has the best ice cream on the island. With multiple flavors of ice cream, visiting Cows Creamery is an enjoyable family-friendly activity to engage in whenever you are in Charlottetown.
4. Do some shopping on Victoria Row
Segways are adorkable fun and here you can choose either a one-hour experience with PEI Segway which will get you comfortable on the machine or a two-hour tour along the waterfront. Why walk when you can roll?
5. See Anne of Green Gables on Stage
Go to the Confederation Centre and see a performance of Anne of Green Gables the Musical. This is the musical adaptation of PEI’s most-loved books about the orphan Ann and her romance with her childhood sweetheart.
6. Sip a Craft beer at Upstreet
If you are a beer enthusiast, you should visit Upstreet Brewing and try out their different craft beer brands. Find out more about the beer that is unique to the area.
7. Have a cup of joe at Receiver Coffee
Visit Receiver Coffee and have a cup of one of the best coffees in Charlottetown. Located on Victoria Row, Receiver Coffee is a quaint cafe with great small coffee dates and just enjoying a peaceful moment while sipping on delicious coffee.
8. Downtown farmer’s market
If you enjoy eating organic produce, you should head down to Charlottetown Downtown farmer’s market. You can get fresh vegetables from the farmers, ranging from new potatoes to flavorful peppers.
9. Founder’s Food Hall
Founder’s Food Hall offers a mix of delicious rural fresh food and urban fine dining. If you are looking for a place to dine alone or with friends, you should check this place out.
10. Brunch at Slaymaker & Nichols
Go for an enjoyable brunch either alone or with your friends and family at Slaymaker & Nichols. Explore the local time and have a lovely time.
11. Kettle Black
Yet another place that introduces you to some of the island’s best cuisine, Kettle Black offers great coffee from homegrown coffee beans, fresh food, local produce and baked goods.
12. Cheer for the Island Storm
Do you like basketball? Catch an Island Storm basketball game and go cheer them on to victory.
Note: The Storm will be taking a leave of absence for the 2021/22 season.
13. Charlottetown Islanders QMJHL game
The Charlottetown Islanders are a junior ice hockey team in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL). If you like ice hockey or you are looking for something interesting to watch, go see a Charlottetown Islanders game.
14. Redshores Racetrack
If you love horses and horse racing, you should visit the Redshores Racetrack. Enjoy the harness racing heritage of the island.
15. Ride some Confederation Trail
Ride along part of the 270-mile long Confederation Trail that stretches from one end of Prince Edward Island to the other. You can either ride a bike or go horseback riding along this beautiful trail. Riding along this trail will give you the opportunity to see the scenic beauty of the Charlottetown countryside.
16. See a flick at City Cinema
At City Cinema, you can see a wide range of independent, largely non-mainstream movies in Avery casual setting. So if you are looking to discover more movies and to relax while in Charlottetown, you should visit City Cinema.
17. Confederation Players Walking Tour
Go on one of the historic Confederation Players Walking Tours and discover Charlottetown with competent tour guides. Some of the tours you can go on are the Great George Heritage Walk, which will take you on a historic tour of downtown Charlottetown, and the ghost walks, which takes you on a mysterious journey through Charlottetown’s haunted past.
18. Seal watching with Adventures Marine
Are you a lover of wildlife, and you would love to visit them in their natural habitat? You should go seal watching with the Adventures Marines. You will get to observe the seals and learn more about them.
19. 18 holes at Belvedere
Do you love golf? Then a trip to Charlottetown would be incomplete without checking out the Belvedere golf course. Attempt the 18 holes either on your own or with your friends or loved ones.
20. Harbour Hippo
Board the Harbour Hippo and go on a tour of historic Charlottetown by land and by sea. Check out the sights and sounds of the city, go on a gentle crude of the harbour. Some of the places you will see on this tour include Peakes Quay, Province House, downtown Charlottetown, and Victoria Park.
21. Helicopter Tour with Green Isle Air
Another special tour you should go on is a helicopter tour of PEI through Green Isle Air. On this tour, you and your loved ones can experience the beauty of Charlottetown and its surrounding lovely fields, picturesque lighthouses, and water bodies.
22. Try a night climb at Rise & Climb Adventure Course
If you are looking for a little adrenaline rush or a spectacular adventure, try a night climb at this aerial adventure park. Grab a standard climbing harness and attempt this high ropes course.
23. Secrets of Charlottetown Walking Tour
One of the best ways to take in the uniqueness of Charlottetown and find out some of its hidden treasures is by going on a walking tour of the town. Set out on foot and discover the beauty of Charlottetown.
24. Walk through Victoria Park
Victoria Park is one of the best places in Charlottetown to take a leisurely evening stroll. While strolling, take in the beauty of the place, take amazing pictures of the scenery, and even have a picnic with your family or significant other if you like.
25. Drinks and a string at The Alley
If you are looking for a super fun activity to carry out in Charlottetown, look no further than The Alley. The Alley features a bar with a bowling alley. Here, you can enjoy a craft beer, dine out with your family, and go bowling.
26. Centre for Craft Retail Gallery
At the centre for Craft Retail Gallery, you will find the most beautiful examples of the fantastic crafts and artworks the artists on the island have to offer. Ranging from artworks inspired by the local culture to contemporary art pieces, there is so much art at the centre for you to explore and enjoy.
Charlottetown is such a lovely place to visit, and you will be sure to have a great time using this guide.
When is the best time to visit Charlottetown?
The best time to visit Charlottetown depends on your personal preferences and the activities you plan to do during your trip.
Summer (June to August) is peak tourist season in Charlottetown, with warm weather and long days. This is the best time to visit if you want to enjoy outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking, and golfing. Many of the island’s festivals and events also take place during the summer months, such as the PEI International Shellfish Festival and the Charlottetown Festival, which features a production of the musical “Anne of Green Gables”.
Fall (September to November) is also a great time to visit Charlottetown, with mild temperatures and colorful fall foliage. This is a good time for apple picking, visiting local farmers markets and enjoy some peaceful and less crowded time.
Spring (May-June) is also a good time to visit, you can enjoy mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers. The weather can be unpredictable, however, so pack accordingly.
Winter (December to April) can be cold and snowy, but it can be a good time to visit if you enjoy winter sports like skiing or ice skating. You can also experience the island’s Christmas and New Year’s celebrations and enjoy some charming winter activities.
Do you need a car to visit Charlottetown?
You don’t need a car if you’re only visiting Charlottetown. The city has a relatively small downtown area that is easily walkable, and public transportation options, such as buses and taxis, are also available. Additionally, many of the popular attractions and sites in the area, such as the Confederation Centre of the Arts and the Charlottetown Boardwalk, are also within walking distance of the downtown area. If you plan to explore more of the island, it might be useful to rent a car or bicycle, but it is not a necessity for visiting Charlottetown specifically.
Is Charlottetown worth visiting?
Charlottetown is definitely worth a visit! The city has a rich history, charming architecture, and beautiful natural landscapes that make it a popular tourist destination.
Additionally, Charlottetown serves as a great base for exploring the rest of Prince Edward Island. The island is home to many beautiful beaches, lighthouses, and natural areas such as Cavendish, home of Anne of Green Gables, and the Green Gables Heritage Place and the Prince Edward Island National Park.
Many people also visit PEI for its delicious seafood and local produces. There are many good restaurants in the city and around the island that offer fresh seafood, including lobster, oysters, and mussels.
Overall, Charlottetown and PEI is a charming destination with a mix of history, culture and natural beauty that make it a destination worth visiting.
Where to Stay in Charlottetown
The Holman Grand Hotel: a luxury hotel located in the heart of Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. Situated on Grafton Street, the hotel enjoys a prime downtown location, providing easy access to various attractions and amenities in the city. One of the standout features of The Holman Grand Hotel is its rooftop patio, offering stunning views of Charlottetown’s harbor and the surrounding cityscape. The rooftop area is a popular spot for guests to unwind, take in the scenery, and enjoy the fresh air.
Fairholm Boutique Inns: a charming collection of historic properties in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. Situated in the heart of the city, these inns offer guests a unique and immersive experience in a setting that reflects the island’s rich history and culture. Fairholm Boutique Inns consist of several meticulously restored heritage buildings, each with its own character and charm. These buildings date back to the 19th century and have been lovingly preserved to retain their original architecture and design.
The Great George: a boutique hotel located in the heart of Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. It is renowned for its historic charm, luxurious accommodations, and personalized service, making it a popular choice for visitors looking for a unique and memorable stay. The hotel’s rooms and suites are elegantly decorated with a blend of historic touches and modern amenities. Guests can expect comfortable beds with high-quality linens, well-appointed bathrooms, and thoughtful details that add to the overall ambiance of the accommodations.
The Sonata Inn: a boutique hotel located in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. This charming inn offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for travellers seeking a cozy and personalized stay. The Sonata Inn is known for its elegant and tastefully decorated rooms, each uniquely designed to provide a comfortable and memorable experience for guests.
The Harbour House: a charming boutique hotel located in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. Situated near the waterfront, this inn offers guests a serene and picturesque setting, making it a popular choice for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing stay. The Harbour House is housed in a historic building that has been lovingly restored and maintained to preserve its original character and architecture. The hotel’s design and decor often reflect a blend of traditional charm and modern comfort.
Book Your Trip to PEI
Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Expedia. It’s one of my favourite search engines because it allows you to search for and compare flights from multiple airlines.
Book Your Accommodations
You can book your hotel with Booking.com as they have the most comprehensive inventory so they are best for booking a hotel. If you want to stay in a vacation rental or cottage in Prince Edward Island, use VRBO to find the perfect place for the whole family.
Book Your Car Rental
Prince Edward Island has many small towns and it’s best to have a vehicle at your disposal. Be sure to book your car rental with Discover Cars early because they often sell out in summer.
Book Your Travel Insurance
While PEI is generally a safe province, you never know when something could happen. Be prepared with travel insurance from SafetyWing.
I am flying to stay with my cousin in June for a holiday to Charlotte’s Town and I’m looking forwards to going around and seeing your beautiful Island.