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If big cities aren’t your thing, basing yourself in Summerside during your Prince Edward Island vacation would be a smart thing to do. This small city of just under 15,000 located just 28km from the Confederation Bridge is PEI’s second largest – big enough to have all the amenities you’d want but small enough to not feel overwhelming. Summerside is a perfect rustic blend of historic brick buildings, heritage homes, and seaside strolls.
Take a look through this hand-picked guide and let us know which things make it to your Summerside bucket list.
1. Visit the College of Piping
If the sound of bagpipes stirs your soul, you’ll want to be sure to drop in to the College of Piping for aspiring musicians and local talent. They’re a local Celtic education and performing arts centre that’s a perfect fit with the island since 70% of Islanders have direct lineage with Scotland and Ireland.
2. Walk the Baywalk
The Baywalk Boardwalk and Cycling Trail is a 6.5 km trail that extends along the Summerside’s waterfront. Enjoy scenic shoreline views during a picnic, and cycle through a rich Acadian forest and Natural Duck Pond Conservation Area. You can even find an outdoor gym circuit for a little fresh air workout.
3. See a show at the Harbourfront Theatre
Catch the latest touring show or local production at Summerside’s premier 520 seat performing arts theatre, which has been hosting top-notch shows in 1996.
4. Learn to ride a Segway
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. Go for a Paddle
Whether you want to SUP or kayak solo or as part of a tour The Paddle Shack can get you on the water. Tour options include a trip to Holmans Island or a visit to Summerside’s most historic lighthouse.
6. Visit a craft brewery
Summerside isn’t missing out on the craft beer revolution. Evermore Brewing Company is located in the old train station and serves up tasty food, trivia, and live music along with their brews.
7. Air Force Heritage Park
If you’re an avgeek you’ll want to stop by Air Force Heritage Park and take a look at the three aircraft they have on permanent display. While there you can learn about the RCAF/CF Base Summerside and the people who served there.
8. Wyatt Historic House Museum
Tour through this family residence built in 1867 for the Wyatt Family. The personal and interactive guided tours (choose between oddity and historic) give a close up view of the intriguing artifacts collected over a century by the prominent Wyatt family, while revealing the stories of the times.
9. Cycle the Confederation Trail
The Confederation Trail is a province wide graded trail on the old railway bed, perfect for walking or cycling. Connecting in Summerside, you could cycle all the way to Elmira on this protected trail.
10. Find all the Murals
The heritage murals of Summerside are a collection of 10 murals around town created between 1997 and 2001 that explore the town’s heritage and celebrate their achievements. Can you collect all 10?
11. Feed Your Sandwich Cravings
Swing by South Central Kitchen and Provisions for a mouth-watering sandwich like pulled pork grilled cheese or their veggie Bravacado. We love this laid-back, approachable and affordable take-out and hang-out.
12. Sample Local Wares
Open every Saturday from 9am-1pm, the Summerside Farmers’ Market showcase some of the best in local producers and artisans. Whether it’s produce, baked goods, meat, fish, prepared food, cheese, artisans or more, you’ll find something interesting at the market.
13. Treat Yourself to Ice Cream
Every good summer vacation requires ice cream and the Kool Breeze Ice Cream Barn serves up some of the best. Even if you’re vegan or lactose intolerant, they’ve got you covered. Iceburgs, soft and hard ice cream, parfaits, hurricanes, ice cream sandwiches, banana splits and soft serve floats – they have something for every ice cream loving heart.
14. Spinnaker’s Landing
Summerside’s waterfront marketplace is a must-visit every summer for tourists and locals alike! Spinnakers’ Landing was designed on a fishing village theme and offers something special for every visitor – unique shops, artisanal studios, tasty food, cold drinks, and live entertainment.
15. Shop for Local Souvenirs
If you want to bring home a little piece of the island, stop by Island Stoneware for hand-crafted stoneware pottery. Each piece is inspired by the land and sea and made right in Summerside.
16. Feel the Thrill of Harness Racing
Feel the thundering of hooves, the roar of the crowd, and an unforgettable experience. Harness racing has been a major part of island heritage and visitors from around the world come to PEI to experience this island tradition at the historic Summerside Raceway.
When is the best time to visit Summerside?
The best time to visit Summerside, Prince Edward Island (PEI), depends on your preferences and the type of activities you plan to engage in during your trip. Summerside experiences four distinct seasons, each with its own charm. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons in Summerside:
- Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season in Summerside and across PEI. The weather is generally warm, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Summer offers the best conditions for outdoor activities like beach visits, hiking, and exploring the scenic landscapes. However, it can be relatively crowded during this time, and accommodation prices may be higher.
- Fall (September to October): Autumn in Summerside is a beautiful season characterized by mild temperatures and stunning foliage. The average temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Fall is a great time to visit if you enjoy quieter surroundings and want to experience the changing colors of the leaves. It’s also the time for harvest festivals and events.
- Spring (April to May): Spring in Summerside is a lovely time when the island starts to awaken from the winter slumber. The temperatures begin to rise, ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). Spring offers a refreshing atmosphere with blooming flowers and a sense of renewal. It’s an excellent time for nature walks, cycling, and exploring the local attractions with fewer tourists.
- Winter (November to March): Winters in Summerside can be cold and snowy, with average temperatures ranging from -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F). While it may not be the ideal time for outdoor activities, if you enjoy winter sports like skiing or snowshoeing, you might find opportunities in nearby areas. Winter can be a quieter time with fewer visitors, and you may find better deals on accommodation.
Do you need a car to visit Summerside?
Having a car can be beneficial for exploring Summerside and its surrounding areas, but it is not necessarily a requirement. Summerside itself is a relatively small city, and you can easily navigate its downtown area on foot. Many of the city’s attractions, such as the waterfront, parks, and museums, are within walking distance of each other.
However, if you plan to explore beyond Summerside and visit other parts of Prince Edward Island, having a car will provide you with more flexibility and convenience. PEI has a beautiful countryside and coastal areas that are worth exploring, and having a car will allow you to access these areas at your own pace.
Public transportation options in Summerside and PEI are limited, especially when it comes to reaching more remote or rural destinations. While there are some bus services available, they may not offer extensive coverage or frequent schedules. Taxis are available in Summerside, but they may be more expensive for longer distances or day trips.
If you prefer not to rent a car in Summerside, you could consider alternative options such as joining organized tours or using a combination of public transportation and local tour operators to reach specific destinations.
Ultimately, having a car gives you more freedom to explore Summerside and its surroundings, but it is possible to enjoy a visit to Summerside without one, especially if you plan to focus on the city itself.
Is Summerside worth visiting?
Absolutely! Summerside is worth visiting for several reasons. First and foremost, the city offers a charming and welcoming atmosphere. It has a rich history and boasts beautiful Victorian-era architecture, especially in its downtown area. Exploring the city’s streets and immersing yourself in its historic charm can be a delightful experience.
Summerside is located on the Northumberland Strait, providing breathtaking waterfront views. You can enjoy leisurely walks along the boardwalk, relax on the sandy beaches, or engage in water activities like kayaking or paddleboarding. The natural beauty of the area is truly captivating.
The city also has a vibrant arts and culture scene. You can visit art galleries, museums, and craft shops to experience the local artistic talents firsthand. The Harbourfront Theatre hosts a variety of live performances, including music, theater, and dance shows, adding to the cultural richness of the city.
Summerside’s community is known for its friendliness and welcoming nature. Interacting with the locals can enhance your visit, as they often provide valuable insights into the city’s history, culture, and hidden gems.
The city hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, showcasing its vibrant spirit. From the Summerside Lobster Carnival to music festivals and agricultural fairs, there’s always something happening that adds excitement and entertainment to your visit.
Additionally, Summerside’s central location on Prince Edward Island makes it an excellent base for exploring the rest of the island. You can easily venture out to discover renowned attractions like the famous Green Gables Heritage Place, picturesque beaches, charming coastal villages, and stunning natural landscapes.
Summerside’s blend of history, natural beauty, cultural experiences, and friendly community make it a destination that can offer a memorable and enjoyable visit.
Where to stay in Summerside
Quality Inn & Suites Garden of the Gulf: Centrally located in Summerside City, The Quality Inn & Suites Garden of the Gulf features an indoor pool, seasonal outdoor pool, golf course and fitness centre.Tastefully decorated accommodation feature a flat-screen satellite TV. A coffee maker, DVD player and ironing facilities are standard in all the air-conditioned guest rooms. Some include a spa bath. Free wired internet is provided. Guests can enjoy a full hot breakfast served the on-site coffee shop and sip on a variety of drinks at the pool-side bar.
Sunny Isle Motel: Set in Summerside, within 4.5 km of Red Shores at Summerside Raceway and 25 km of Anne of Green Gables Museum, Sunny Isle Motel offers accommodation with a garden and free WiFi as well as free private parking for guests who drive. The property is non-smoking and is located 2.5 km from Harbourfront Theatre.
Driftwood Heights B&B: Located in Summerside, this B&B features a classic interior with hardwood floors and dark wooden furniture. Each of the airy accommodations is equipped with an LCD TV and DVD player. With free Wi-Fi access, all rooms and suites at Driftwood Heights come equipped with tea/coffee facilities and a fan. The rooms have views of the surrounding garden. Board games and playing cards are available for cosy evenings at Drifwood B&B, and there is a library to quietly read a book. The sitting room has a large TV screen with an extensive DVD collection.
Holman’s Heritage Suites: Holman’s Heritage Suites is a sustainable homestay with a garden and tennis court. This property offers access to a patio and free private parking. Featuring family rooms, this property also provides guests with an outdoor fireplace. The units are equipped with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a microwave, a coffee machine, a shower, a hair dryer and a desk. Featuring a private bathroom with free toiletries, units at the homestay also offer free WiFi, while selected rooms have a balcony. At the homestay, all units come with bed linen and towels. There is a coffee shop on-site.
Baker Shore Bed and Breakfast: Baker Shore Bed and Breakfast in Summerside provides adults-only accommodation with a garden and a shared lounge. The bed and breakfast features rooms with air conditioning, free private parking and free WiFi. At the bed and breakfast, every unit comes with a wardrobe, a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, bed linen and towels. All units are allergy-free. Guests can grab a bite to eat in an outdoor dining area at the bed and breakfast. A selection of options including warm dishes, local specialities and fresh pastries is available for the American breakfast. There is a snack bar on-site.
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.
