Famous for its association with Canadian Confederation history and Anne of Green Gables, Charlottetown is the capital of Prince Edward Island (PEI) in Canada and a vibrant seaside city. It has a historical significance as the spot where the Charlottetown Conference of 1864 took place and is known as the ‘Birthplace of Confederation’ in Canada. Though many indigenous tribes had been living on PEI since centuries, the first European settlers here were the French, and later the British. As a testament to its history, Charlottetown has as many as 11 National Historic Sites of Canada like Province House, The Confederation Centre of the Arts, etc. Several Victorian-era structures like the Beaconsfield Historic House also dot the cityscape. Other noteworthy buildings like Sir Andrew MacPhail Homestead and St. Dunstan’s Basilica are also places of interest here. For those looking for outdoor adventures, there is the waterfront Victoria Park and scenic North Cape Coastal Drive. Visitors can enjoy activities like axe throwing, swimming, harbour cruise, live entertainment, theatre, and art at the buzzing entertainment venues of the city. Downtown Charlottetown offers many opportunities for dining, shopping, and relaxing, too. Check out our suggestions for all the things to do in Charlottetown, Canada and enjoy the charming hospitality of this vibrant city.
1. Explore the historic Fort Amherst National Historic Site
Remains of an 18th-century, French-built fort that was later in control of the British forces constitute the Fort Amherst National Historic Site. It is a picturesque site filled with many attractions that you can spend many hours exploring with your friends and family. Properly known as Skmaqn-Port-la-Joye–Fort Amherst National Historic Site, this historic spot has many farms and settlements, an early settler’s house, a landscape of rolling grassy hills, and spectacular views of Charlottetown harbour. Visitors can enjoy miles of biking, hiking and walking trails, as well as picnic areas and many relaxing open spaces.
Fort Amherst National Historic Site
Address: 191 Haché Gallant Drive, Rocky Point, PE C0A 1H2, Canada
Website: Fort Amherst National Historic Site
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
Price: Free
2. Book an overnight stay at The Great George Hotel (from USD 139)
Reasonable pricing for a historic boutique hotel in downtown area.
Modern amenities with a cozy, old-fashioned feel. Complimentary happy hour and cookies.
Excellent central location, walking distance to restaurants and attractions.
Delicious and varied breakfast, with gluten-free and healthy options.
Treat yourself to a luxurious night’s stay at beautiful The Great George Hotel in picturesque Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. This heritage hotel was built in 1846 and has been lovingly restored to its former glory by its current owners. Book a stay at one of their 54 elegant suites spread out over 17 colourful heritage buildings and have a relaxing time. The award-winning hotel has all the mod-cons required for a comfortable stay and the friendly, professional staff will ensure that you have an unforgettable experience at The Great George Hotel.
The Great George Hotel
Address: 58 Great George St, Charlottetown, PE C1A 4K3, Canada
Website: The Great George Hotel
The Great George
Address: 58 Great George Street
21.74 km (13.6 mi) from Prince Edward Island National Park
3. Shop farm-fresh veggies at Charlottetown Farmer's Market
Take a stroll through Charlottetown Farmer’s Market and grab some fresh veggies straight from the farmers! At this Saturday farmer’s market, there are about a dozen farmers selling locally grown, organic, and seasonal produce. They stock everything from potatoes and beets through peppers to leafy greens. Plus, you get to interact with the growers themselves and learn more about where your veggies actually come from.
Charlottetown Farmer's Market
Address: 100 Belvedere Ave, Charlottetown, PE C1A 4P1, Canada
Website: Charlottetown Farmer’s Market
Opening hours: Sat: 9am - 2pm (closed on Sun - Fri)
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4. Witness a live show at The Guild Theatre
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
At The Guild Theatre located in the heart of Charlottetown’s downtown area, you can catch an engaging live performance from local artists on genres ranging from musicals to drama to comedy. The Guild Theatre aims to provide a performance space for upcoming and talented young artists in a professional environment. The theatre puts up first-class performances throughout the year in its 175-seat venue. Check out a musical, stand-up comedy act, improv, soap opera, and more such live shows at The Guild Theatre in Charlottetown.
The Guild Theatre
Address: 111 Queen St, Charlottetown, PE C1A 4B3, Canada
Website: The Guild Theatre
Opening hours: Tue - Thu: 9am - 5pm; Fri - Sat: 12pm - 8pm; Sun - Mon: 12pm - 5pm
5. Visit the beautiful waterfront green space, Victoria Park
Enjoy a quiet walk along the boardwalk of the popular and beautiful waterfront green space of Victoria Park in Charlottetown. One of Charlottetown’s largest parks, Victoria Park covers an area of 63 acres (25.5 hectares) and has many attractions like tennis courts, ball diamonds, skateboard park, boardwalk, swimming pool, etc. The lush green waterfront park attracts thousands of visitors each year and is the perfect place to take a long walk while taking in the superb views of the water.
Victoria Park
Address: 100 Brighton Road, Charlottetown, PE, Canada
6. Learn about Canada through arts at the Confederation Centre of the Arts
Opened in 1964, Confederation Centre of the Arts aims to educate the public about the origins and evolution of Canada by means of cultural programmes. The Centre bridges the gap between the past, present, and future of Canada with the help of musical performances, theatre, visual arts, and many other interactive experiences. The Centre also holds performances of super-hit theatre acts like Jesus Christ Superstar, Anne of Green Gables – The Musical, as well as guided tours and historical reenactments of the story of the Confederation. Take your pick from a variety of art options and pay a visit to the Confederation Centre of the Arts in Charlottetown.
Confederation Centre of the Arts
Address: 145 Richmond St, Charlottetown, PE C1A 1J1, Canada
Website: Confederation Centre of the Arts
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 8pm; Sun: 10am - 3:30pm
7. Discover the wonderful 1850s gable house, Sir Andrew MacPhail Homestead
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Take a step back in time to the 1850s when the celebrated local author, Sir Andrew MacPhail, lived in Charlottetown. Embark on a tour of the remarkable gable house, Sir Andrew MacPhail Homestead, where you can admire the period furniture and early life of the celebrated author. You can also enjoy a delicious lunch at a restaurant on the property or take a leisurely stroll through the surrounding MacPhail Woods.
Sir Andrew MacPhail Homestead
Address: 271 McPhail Park Rd, Vernon Bridge, PE C0A 2E0, Canada
Website: Sir Andrew MacPhail Homesteadn
Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 9am - 5pm (closed Sat - Mon)
8. Explore the iconic St. Dunstan's Basilica
A fine example of High Victorian Gothic Revival style of architecture, St. Dunstan’s Basilica in Charlottetown is a Roman Catholic church that is also a National Historic Site of Canada. The giant French Gothic spires of its exterior culminate in 10-foot (3 metres) tall crosses that stand out against the skyline of the city. Inside, you will be mesmerised by the stunning beauty of the stained glass windows, elaborately carved statues of angels and saints, the beautiful high altar, and many more such outstanding features. When in Charlottetown, take some time to visit the peaceful sanctuary of the iconic St. Dunstan’s Basilica and admire its majestic beauty.
St. Dunstan's Basilica
Address: 65 Great George St, Charlottetown, PE C1A 4K1, Canada
Website: St. Dunstan’s Basilica
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily) (actual times may vary as per Mass schedule)
9. Enjoy hearty grub and brews at Hopyard
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
At this casual Charlottetown bar and grill, you can dig into scrumptious grub and cold brews while grooving to your favourite music. Hopyard is known for their constantly rotating menu, which serves the best dishes from around the world. Each menu has a theme like Moroccan, Singaporean, Japanese, Mexican, etc. and features speciality dishes from that region. Pair the yummy food with a selection from their craft beer on tap or local favourite ales. Hopyard also has an extensive collection of vinyl that you can choose from which the friendly staff will play it for you. Enjoy hearty food and brews every night at the Hopyard!
Hopyard
Address: 151 Kent St, Charlottetown, PE C1A 1N5, Canada
Website: Hopyard
Opening hours: Mon - Wed: 11am - 11pm; Thu: 11am - 12am; Fri: 11am - 1am; Sat: 10am - 1am; Sun: 10am - 10pm
10. Discover the historic Prince Edward Battery
Prince Edward Battery has much military, strategic, and historical importance attached to it and is a high-profile landmark in early Canadian history. Its main attraction is the historic cannons and many plaques along the stone wall where visitors can learn about the remarkable history of the place. Prince Edward Battery also has a boardwalk and makes for an interesting place to enjoy the scenery, take in the views of the water and the harbour, or go on a long walk.
Prince Edward Battery
Address: 45 Victoria Park Roadway, Charlottetown, PE C1A 1M6, Canada
Website: Prince Edward Battery
11. Savour the famous chocolate-covered potato chips of Queen Street
Taste a famous speciality of Queen Street in Charlottetown at the Anne of Green Gables Chocolates shop - their famous chocolate-covered potato chips! Dipped completely in delicious and mouth-watering chocolate, these potato chips are a fantastic combination of sweet and savoury tastes. You can watch the famous chocolate-covered potato chips being made in the shop, sample them, buy them pre-packed or customise your order size from a tray full of chocolate-covered chips on display.
Anne of Green Gables Chocolates
Address: 100 Queen St, Charlottetown, PE C1A 4B1, Canada
Website: Anne of Green Gables Chocolates
12. Let your kids have fun at Bell Aliant Centre
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
At the Bell Aliant Centre, Charlottetown’s largest athletics facility, families can enjoy a fun time playing in the water and enjoying myriad activities at their aquatics facility. Bell Aliant Centre has three pools, including a 25-metre (27 yards) competition swimming pool with diving boards, a leisure pool and a toddler pool where your kids can splash around. The facility also has fun waterslides, a Tarzan rope, and a hot tub. Take your kids to the Bell Aliant Centre and watch them have fun in the water!
Bell Aliant Centre
Address: 560 University Ave, Charlottetown, PE C1A 9M8, Canada
Website: Bell Aliant Centre
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 5:30am - 9:30pm; Sat - Sun: 9am - 8pm
Price: 4 USD onwards
13. Try indoor axe-throwing at Chuck Hatchets
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
During your visit to Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island (PEI), try your hand at a different type of activity - axe throwing! At Chuck Hatchets, PEI’s only indoor axe-throwing facility, grab your friends and enjoy a round of competitive axe throwing. Chuck Hatchets is a fully licensed lounge where professional staff will guide you as you throw axe after axe at the bullseye! That is surely a fun way to spend an afternoon or evening!
Chuck Hatchets
Address: 236 Kent Street, Charlottetown, PE
Website: Chuck Hatchets
Opening hours: as per booking timings
14. Shop contemporary souvenirs at Coastal Culture
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Pop into Coastal Culture located in Peakes Quay for some lovely PEI souvenirs. The shop has an enormous collection of t-shirts, hoodies, toys, beachwear, fisherman hats, PEI-themed gifts, pirate-themed merchandise, and even a lifesize statue of a pirate that is perfect to snap an Instagram-worthy picture with! Coastal Culture also stocks Anne of Green Gables merchandise and PEI red dirt shirts dyed to the colour of PEI soil. At Peakes Quay in Charlottetown, shop for contemporary souvenirs for the whole family!
Coastal Culture
Address: 10C Lower, Great George St, Charlottetown, PE C1A 7K6, Canada
Website: Coastal Culture
Opening hours: 9am - 10pm (daily)
15. Unwind at City Cinema in Downtown Charlottetown
Situated in downtown Charlottetown, City Cinema is an independent movie theatre showcasing a range of movies from a variety of genres. Opened in 1993, the 70-seater theatre screens an excellent selection of independent, mostly non-mainstream movies that can be enjoyed in a casual setting. City Cinema also has a canteen selling a variety of snacks, and the friendly staff is always available to help. City Cinema is at a convenient walking distance from landmarks, bars, and restaurants. So, unwind by watching an engaging movie at City Cinema in Downtown Charlottetown.
City Cinema
Address: 64 King St, Charlottetown, PE C1A 1B3, Canada
Website: City Cinema
Opening hours: as per show timings
Price: 5.35 USD onwards
16. Discover delicious ice cream and cheese at COWS Creamery
At COWS Creamery in Charlottetown, discover a world of wonderful dairy products that will tantalise your taste buds! Well-known across the world for their superb ice cream made from all-natural ingredients and award-winning cheeses, a COWS Creamery treat is a must-have on any trip to Charlottetown. Try their recommended ice cream flavours like Wowie Cowie, Moo Crunch or Gooey Mooey. Cheeses to try at COWS Creamery are COWS Applewood Smoked Cheddar, Avonlea Clothbound Cheddar or COWS Extra Old cheddar.
COWS Creamery
Address: 12 Milky Way, Charlottetown, PE C1E 2E2, Canada
Website: COWS Creamery
Opening hours: 9am - 10pm (daily)
17. Soothe your soul at Grand Senses Spa
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Located inside the luxurious The Holman Grand Hotel, Grand Senses Spa offers you a calming space to unpack all your stresses and soothe your soul while you get a relaxing massage. Choose from a range of treatments like massages, body wraps, facials, smoothing salt glows, manicures, pedicures, etc. and give yourself time to relax and rejuvenate in a tranquil setting. Registered massage and treatment specialists will attend to you in a professional yet serene environment so that you leave refreshed from your spa experience.
Grand Senses Spa
Address: The Holman Grand Hotel, 123 Grafton Street, Charlottetown, PE, Canada
Website: Grand Senses Spa
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 8pm; Sat: 9am - 5:30pm (closed on Sun)
18. Take a helicopter tour of PEI with Green Isle Air
Try a different way of seeing the beauty of PEI with a helicopter tour through Green Isle Air. Experience soaring through the skies with your family as you take in panoramas of red cliffs, vibrant fields, lighthouses, and the majestic ocean all aboard a safe and certified helicopter with a professional pilot. Tours of various durations are available and you can even customize a helicopter tour as per your requirements. Perfect for special occasions or celebrations, check out helicopter tours of PEI with Green Aisle Air in Charlottetown.
Green Isle Air
Address: 25 Queen St, Charlottetown, PE C1A 4A2, Canada
Website: Green Isle Air
Opening hours: as per tour timings
Price: 75 USD onwards
19. See Charlottetown aboard the Harbour Hippo amphibious vehicle
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Another unique kind of tour, Harbour Hippo, offers a tour of historic Charlottetown by land and sea aboard an amphibious vehicle. Experience the sights and sounds of the historic streets of Charlottetown and then gently glide into the water for a cruise of the harbour. On the Harbour Hippo tour, you will see points of interest like Province House, Victoria Park, downtown Charlottetown, Peakes Quay, and more.
Harbour Hippo
Address: Prince St, Charlottetown, PE C1A 0C4, Canada
Website: Harbour Hippo
Opening hours: as per tour timings
Price: 24 USD onwards
20. Embark on the scenic North Cape Coastal Drive
Embark on an epic road trip down the 217 miles (350 km) west coast of Prince Edward Island and take in the sights, sounds, cultures, food, and activities on offer. Enjoy breathtaking coastal vistas, stop and visit quaint towns and villages, partake in the cultural activities, sample the local food, and experience the hospitality of the various peoples inhabiting this part of the Island. Fuel up your car, pack your bags, and escape on a journey to the scenic North Cape Coastal Drive!
North Cape Coastal Drive
Address: West coast of Prince Edward Island, Canada
Website: North Cape Coastal Drive
21. Jog or ride along the Confederation Trail
Confederation Trail is a 270-mile (435 km) trail that extends from tip-to-tip of Prince Edward Island. This unpaved stone trail branches off into the heart of Charlottetown and is the perfect place to go jogging, horseback riding, golfing or even walking your dog. Many hiking and biking trails are available across the Confederation Trail, and you also get opportunities to observe local wildlife and enjoy beautiful views of rolling hills, quiet seaside fishing villages, and panoramic ocean vistas.
Confederation Trail
Address: 29 Edward Street, Charlottetown, PE, Canada
Website: Confederation Trail
22. Go golfing at Belvedere Golf & Winter Club
Spread across 150 acres (60 hectares) of Charlottetown, Belvedere Golf & Winter Club is one of the most foremost and premiere championship golf courses in Canada and North America. Recently renovated by architect Graham Cooke, this golf course layout winds through hardwood-lined fairways, is well-laid out, and has plenty of challenging areas. The 18-hole golf course is well-groomed and suitable for amateurs as well as experienced golfers. On your visit to Charlottetown, go golfing at the Belvedere Golf & Winter Club.
Belvedere Golf & Winter Club
Address: 1 Greensview Dr, Charlottetown, PE C1A 6C3, Canada
Website: Belvedere Golf & Winter Club
Opening hours: 6am - 8pm (daily)
Price: 19 USD onwards
23. Get craftsy at PEI Potters Studio
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
PEI Potters Studio is a 30-year-old co-operative pottery studio in Charlottetown, Canada that offers a creative space to both professionals as well as beginners. The studio offers 10-week pottery classes to adults and children. They also conduct specialised workshops on specific pottery-related subjects. At the PEI Potters Studio, you can learn to make traditional vases, pots, bowls, and plates as well as uniquely crafted showpieces that you can take home with you. So, go on and get craftsy at PEI Potters Studio.
PEI Potters Studio
Address: Victoria Park, Charlottetown, PEI, Canada
Website: PEI Potters Studio
Opening hours: as per workshop timings
24. Explore the eclectic shops along Victoria Row
Closed to vehicular traffic during the summer months, Victoria Row is a beautiful shopping, dining, and entertainment street with a Victorian-era charm. This cobblestone street is a major tourist attraction and hosts many live music events in the summer. Victoria Row is a perfect shopping destination with several quaint boutiques, galleries, artisanal stores, etc. stocking souvenirs, apparel, accessories, local specialities, and more! Shop to your heart’s content at one of the many shops lining this street and then stop for a bite or drink at one of the many al fresco dining options on this magnificent 18th-century street.
Victoria Row
Address: 146 Richmond St, Charlottetown, PE C1A 1J1, Canada
Opening hours: 6:30am - 3am (daily)
25. Tour Beaconsfield Historic House
Built in 1877, Beaconsfield Historic House is one of the most elegant and charming houses in Charlottetown. A perfect example of Victorian architecture, sophisticated craftsmanship details can be seen throughout the house. Made from the finest materials available at that time, visitors can explore the furniture, rooms, and artefacts of the era and learn more about the lifestyle of its residents. After touring this magnificent Victorian house, you can also drop by the gift shop for souvenirs, prints, books, pottery, etc.
Beaconsfield Historic House
Address: 2 Kent St, Charlottetown, PE C1A 1M6, Canada
Website: Beaconsfield Historic House
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
Price: 2.99 USD onwards
26. Sail on a traditional Chinese junk boat along Charlottetown harbour
Set sail along the Charlottetown harbour aboard an authentic Chinese junk boat that was designed for long voyages across the ocean. Built in 1968, this bright red traditional boat takes you around the harbour and gives you an opportunity to learn about the history of Chinese oceanic exploration, more particularly about Admiral Zhang He, and Chinese immigration to the New World. Along the way, you also get to observe local wildlife like seals swimming in the water. Be mesmerised by Chinese history and the natural beauty of Charlottetown harbour as you set sail into the sunset!
Historic and beautiful Charlottetown, Canada
A charming town on the picturesque Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown is a town peppered with many historic buildings and landmarks along with spectacular views of the harbour and water. Plenty of activities, sights, and sounds are available in Charlottetown to delight visitors of all types and ages. So, take some time and visit the amazing town of Charlottetown in Canada.
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