Discover one of Canada’s best-kept secrets, Prince Edward Island located on the perimeter of eastern Canada. The island is filled with red-sand beaches, Victorian government buildings, and historical lighthouses to explore. Devour world-renowned lobster and mussels during meal time. The capital city of Charlottetown is home to modern conveniences and cultural happenings and provides ideal backdrops for picture-perfect sunsets. Prince Edward Island comes alive in the summer, with tourists flocking to family-friendly resorts to spend their holiday on the soft sandy beaches, enjoying fresh seafood and a dose of culture and history. Beachfront cottages are also among the top picks of those seeking a tropical escape. If you wish to have an immersive experience, keep reading to find our comprehensive guide on the top things to do in Prince Edward Island, Canada.
1. Stroll through picturesque Green Gables Shore (from USD 84.0)
Take advantage of this half-day tour from Charlottetown to visit the region of Green Gables Shore, the inspiration behind the famed 1908 novel, Anne of Green Gables. From lush rolling hills to sandstone cliffs and unbeatable views, experience the stunning landscapes of the region with a guide to take you through the history and significance of the area. Visit the Green Gables House and the Prince Edward Island Preserve Company to shop artisan preserves and local brands during your time here. The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, a driver and guide for the day.
Island Drive & Anne of Green Gables Tour
Duration: 4 hours
2. Take a lesson in history at Province House National Historic Site
The Province House National Historic Site is the the birthplace of Confederation and site of the Charlottetown Conference. Although the site itself has been closed since 2015 for conservation remodeling, it is set to reopen in 2020. Until then, visit the Story of Confederation exhibit at Confederation Centre of the Arts located next door where you can experience interpretive panels and new exhibitions and the feature film, “A Building of Destiny”.
Province House National Historic Site
Address: 165 Richmond St, Charlottetown, PE C1A 1J1
Website: Province House National Historic Site
Opening hours: 1 July - 4 September: Mon - Sat: 9am - 5pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm; 6 September - 8 October: Mon - Sat: 11am - 4pm (closed on Sun)
3. Visit the seaside promenade of Victoria-by-the-Sea (from USD 352.0)
Taking a half day tour from you stay in Charlottetown, visit the famed red-sand beaches on the coastline of Prince Edward Island. Learn about the historical sites that you will pass along the way, including, the Confederation Bridge and Gateway Village. The scenic drive along the coast is one you would not want to miss out on so keep your eyes peeled for the rolling hills, red cliffs, and winding rivers. One of the most charming villages you would ever have the pleasure of visiting, Victoria-by-the-Sea is one not to be missed during your stay on Prince Edward Island.
Shore Excursion: Charlottetown South Shore and Confederation Bridge
Duration: 4 hours
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4. Stop by island lighthouses and wineries (from USD 74.0)
Highlighting the best of Prince Edward Island, this tour brings to focus two historic lighthouses and an award-winning winery for sightseeing, a history lesson and wine tasting. Rossignol Estates Winery is known for its double-gold-winning blueberry wine and many other options which you can sample during your day, all in the background of outstanding landscapes, from coastal cliffs and beaches to the lush green forests, vast farmlands, and the majestic sea. The lighthouses, Point Prim, built in 1845, and Wood Island Lighthouse, built in 1876, both hold exceptional places in Prince Edward Island’s history.
Coastal Lighthouse and Winery Tour
Duration: 4 hours
5. Plan a family picnic at Prince Edward Island National Park
No list of the best places to visit in Prince Edward Island without a mention of its National Park. This destination hosts a variety of landscapes and spaces as a result of its location, including several broad sand beaches, sandstone bedrock, sand dunes, freshwater wetlands, and salt marshes. Over 60 km (37 miles) in length, the park is a natural habitat for a variety of animal species, 400 different species of plants, and birds and their migratory patterns, and has even been designated a Canadian Important Bird Area.
Picnics are a great way to enjoy the park, pick a space where you can lounge, go on long walks and enjoy the scenery. Walk through Green Gables or have tea at Dalvay-by-the-Sea, a Victorian-era mansion which operates as an inn.
Prince Edward Island National Park
Address: Dalvay by the Sea, PE C0A 1P0, Canada
6. Catch a live musical performance at Confederation Centre of the Arts
Confederation Centre of the Arts is located in the heart of Charlottetown and can be a great way for visitors to understand the culture and history of Prince Edward Island. Experience a wide range of programs and events, from performance and visual art shows to interactive programs. Get to appreciate these art forms a little more, knowing that many pay homage to the island’s culture. Architecture fans will also be in awe of the intricate details combined with a formidable structure. Enjoy performances in the amphitheater where a live brass quintet features as part of regular shows and programs.
Confederation Centre of the Arts
Address: 145 Richmond St, Charlottetown, PE C1A 1J1, Canada
Website: Confederation Centre of the Arts
Opening hours: Box office: Mon - Sat: 9am - 8pm; Sun: 10am - 3:30pm
7. Bask in the sun or swim in the waters at Basin Head Provincial Park
Better known as “Singing Sands”, Basin Head Provincial Park boasts a pure white sandy beach, ideal for summer days spent soaking up the sunshine between dips into the water. With food available on site, a children’s play area, washroom and shower facilities, the park is a great way to spend a day with family and friends. Dogs are also allowed on the beach but need to be on a leash. Take advantage of the mobi-mat that allows access from the wharf to the water or visit the nearby Basin Head Fisheries Museum.
Basin Head Provincial Park
Address: 318 Basin Head Rd, Souris, PE C0A 2B0, Canada
Website: Basin Head Provincial Park
Opening hours: 11am - 7pm (daily)
8. Indulge your sweet tooth at Holman's Ice Cream Parlour
Holman’s Ice Cream Parlour is known for its lavish flavours, pushing the boundaries on the ordinary. Strawberry-rhubarb sorbet, maple walnut, berry cheesecake, and apple pie are amongst the most popular of the ice creams available, all served in their freshly made waffle cones. Catering to everyone, including the lactose-intolerant and those wanting a sugar-free alternative, Holman’s is a great space to cool down from the summer heat and enjoy the freshly made ice cream.
Holman's Ice Cream Parlour
Address: 286 Fitzroy St, Summerside, PE C1N 1J2, Canada
Website: Holman’s Ice Cream Parlour
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 12pm - 10pm (closed on Sun)
9. Go on thrilling drives through Confederation Bridge
Confederation Bridge links Prince Edward Island with mainland New Brunswick, Canada and is the world’s longest bridge over ice-covered water, approximately 12,900 metres (42,322 feet) long. Experience magnificent views along your drive, with the blue waters and open skies engulfing your journey along this world engineering feat.
Confederation Bridge
Address: Confederation Bridge, Borden-Carleton, PE, Canada
Website: Confederation Bridge
10. Marvel at the mesmerising architecture of St. Dunstan's Basilica Cathedral
St. Dunstan’s Basilica is named in honor of the Anglo Saxon saint from Glastonbury and is the the Cathedral of the Diocese of Charlottetown. Located on the historic Great George Street, St. Dunstan’s is a key part of the town’s culture and environment, particularly after it was designated as a National Historic Site of Canada in 1990. Opened in 1907, St. Dunstan’s Basilica continues to welcome those of all faiths to visit the premises.
St. Dunstan's Basilica Cathedral
Address: 65 Great George St, Charlottetown, PE C1A 4K1, Canada
Website: St. Dunstan’s Basilica Cathedral
Opening hours: Mass: Mon - Fri: 9am, 12:05pm; Sat : 9am, 5pm; Sun: 10:30am, 5pm
11. Hike the trails at Cedar Dunes
Beautiful beaches, a few swimming spots and several hiking trails are what you have waiting for you at Cedar Dunes Provincial Park on the North Cape Coastal Drive. Stretching across for miles, the beaches provide a relaxing atmosphere for families to entertain their children easily or those looking for a quiet space to soak in the scenes. There are many camping grounds, both serviced and unserviced sites for your choosing, and you can easily walk to the lighthouse from many of the sites.
Cedar Dunes Provincial Park
Address: 265 Cedar Dunes Park Rd, O'Leary, PE C0B 1V0, Canada
Website: Cedar Dunes Provincial Park
Opening hours: 9am - 8:30pm (daily)
12. Marvel at the designs and furnishings of Beaconsfield Historic House
Posted by Beaconsfield Historic House on Tuesday, 24 July 2018
Beaconsfield Historic House was built in 1877 as a home for Charlottetown resident’s James and Edith Peake. Today, the property stands to be a testament to exquisite craftsmanship, intricate interior design details and the finest Victorian architecture of the 1800s. See the original features that have been preserved when you visit for any of the events that are hosted in the house- lectures, concerts and performances are regularly held here, so best check out their event calendar to be part of the local scene in Charlottetown.
Beaconsfield Historic House
Address: 2 Kent Street, Charlottetown, PE C1A 1M6, Canada
Website: Beaconsfield Historic House
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
Price: From 4 USD
13. Learn about the local history of Summerside at Eptek Art & Culture Centre
Browse through exhibits here to learn about history, art,and culture. With a permanent collection of paintings by the late PEI artist, Dr. Georgie Read Barton, combined with exhibits changed throughout the year, and various programs held at the centre, visitors and locals alike can enjoy the perspectives showcased here. The winter months offer travel films once a week and a regular book club is also available for those who want to be immersed with the Centre.
Eptek Art & Culture Centre
Address: 130 Heather Moyse Dr, Summerside, PE C1N 5Y8, Canada
Website: Eptek Art & Culture Centre
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 5pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm
Price: By donation
14. Browse through the exhibits at Bideford Parsonage Museum
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
The beautiful home that was once lived in by Lucy Maud Montgomery is now a restored and furnished museum, providing a look back in time with great antiques and stories from a bygone era. A well curated space, you can wonder through the artifacts and descriptions throughout the home and enjoy your lunch outside in the lovely garden area. For those who are fans of the Green Gables, it is a wonderful place to stop and take in the same inspiration that Lucy Maud Montgomery may have experienced during her time here.
Bideford Parsonage Museum
Address: 784 Bideford Road, Rte. 166, North Cape Coastal Drive, Bideford, PE C0B 1J0, Canada
Website: Bideford Parsonage Museum
Opening hours: 10 June - 9 October: 9am - 5pm (daily); 10 October - 31 October: By appointment
15. Learn about foxes at International Fox Museum and Hall of Fame
Part of Prince Edward Island’s history is intertwined with fox ranching and the rare silver-black fox and the fox industry overall. Walk through documents, pictures, equipment, furs, and tags that are displayed in the museum, talk to other fox enthusiasts’ and learn from those who run the museum all about the current fox industry on the island and how fox farming became a worldwide industry. Situated across from City Hall, the building itself is a historic one, filled with heritage and a story of its own.
International Fox Museum and Hall of Fame
Address: 33 Summer St, Summerside, PE C1N 0A2, Canada
Website: International Fox Museum and Hall of Fame
Opening hours 27 June - 1 September: Mon - Sat: 10am - 5pm (closed on Sun) or by appointment
Price: By donation
16. Go biking along Confederation Trail
Walking and cycling in the summer and a snowmobile trail in the winter, Confederation Trail is the place to be for exhilarating outdoor activities in Prince Edward Island. It was once a railway line spanning across the island. Take in the best of Canadian views with verdant hills and seascapes. The trail is part of the greater Trans Canada Trail and is Prince Edward Island’s contribution to the larger trail.
Start your hike in Tignish at kilometre 0 and make your way through the seaside villages of Souris, Georgetown, Montague, Wood Islands, Murray River, and Murray Harbour throughout your journey.
Confederation Trail
Address: Tignish
Website: Confederation Trail
17. Shop your heart out at Victoria Row
Posted by Victoria Row, Charlottetown on Monday, 13 June 2011
Victoria Row is a street mall in downtown Charlottetown, located on Richmond Street between Queen and Great George Streets. Ideal to visit when you need to amp up your holiday with some new gear, Victoria Row with its boutiques, sellers of local handicrafts, and other artisans provide many opportunities for retail therapy. Walk cobblestone streets that date back to the Victorian era and enjoy the numerous cafes, restaurants and live music that keeps the space buzzing till the early hours of the morning.
Victoria Row
Address: 146 Richmond St, Charlottetown, PE C1A 1J1, Canada
Website: Victoria Row
Opening hours: 6:30am - 3am (daily)
18. Go thrill-seeking at Sandspit Cavendish Beach
Sandspit Cavendish Beach provides carnival fun for the whole family, from exciting rides to snacks and entertainment. This tourist attraction in Prince Edward Island also houses the largest roller coaster in Atlantic Canada, the Cyclone. Not for the faint-hearted, the Cyclone has three heart-racing drops and dive bombs, multiple corkscrew turns, and speeds that will have anyone clinging on tight.
For those looking not to push their boundaries, the other county fair rides should keep you entertained during your visit. Check out the giant Ferris wheel which boasts a fantastic view of the park and the nearby beaches, the bumper cars, a miniature golf course, and an exciting go-kart racing track.
Sandspit Cavendish Beach
Address: 8986 Cavendish Rd, New Glasgow, PE C0A 1N0, Canada
Website: Sandspit Cavendish Beach
Opening hours: 10am - 11pm (daily)
Price: From 10 USD
19. Support the locals at Charlottetown Farmers' Market
A Saturday staple for locals and visitors alike is the weekly Charlottetown Farmers’ Market that brings together local farmers, craft and food artisans, and local producers from the region. In addition to the chance to meet the community of Prince Edward Island and take in the local charm, the Farmers Market provides an opportunity to purchase the best local, organic produce, fish, meats, baked goods, preserves, roasted coffee and speciality teas. Be sure to come with an open heart and empty stomach as you sample the ready-to-eat meals and a variety of ethnic foods during your visit.
Charlottetown Farmers Market
Address: 100 Belvedere Avenue, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Website: Charlottetown Farmers Market
Opening hours: Sat: 9am - 2pm (closed from Sun - Fri)
20. Spend the day at Shining Waters Family Fun Park
Salty's Birthday is finally here! ? Come enjoy cake by the pool at 1:30 ? Don't forget to take a ride on the Buccaneer Bay Bullet and visit all the other great attractions while you're here! ?
Posted by Shining Waters Family Fun Park on Saturday, 29 June 2019
Featuring four large waterslides, three children’s slides and a large splash pool, the Shining Waters Family Fun Park is ideal for a day out with children of all ages. Smaller kids will enjoy designated play areas the Turtle Twister and Slippery Salamander, whereas the older ones will enjoy taking speedy turns on the slides and plunging into the pools.
As several entertainment options are available for the children including a petting farm with pygmy goats, miniature horses, lambs, bunnies, and an alpaca, visiting this attraction is certainly a fun thing to do with the family in Prince Edward Island.
Shining Waters Family Fun Park
Address: 8885 Cavendish Road, Cavendish, PE, Canada
Website: Shining Waters Family Fun Park
Opening hours: 10am - 7pm (daily)
Price: From 13 USD
21. Grab a beer at Hopyard
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Big thanks to @charlottetownchamber for a great event last night! We were honoured to accept the Emerging Business...
Posted by HopYard on Thursday, March 25, 2021
With a comprehensive, always-rotating range of craft beers on tap and a menu that also changes regularly, Hopyard is a must-visit for foodies, beer connoisseurs and vinyl music lovers alike. Taste local delicacies and favourites with food choices that cater to all and prepare to be surprised and excited with every dish that you order.
Hopyard
Address: 151 Kent Street, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Website: Hopyard
Opening hours: Mon - Wed: 11am - 11pm; Thu: 11am - 12am; Fri: 11am - 1am; Sat: 10am - 1am; Sun: 10am - 10pm
22. Sample authentic Irish fare at Olde Dublin Pub
Some traditions are worth investing in, and nowhere is that truer than at Olde Dublin Pub in Charlottetown. An Irish pub that serves up bar fare, a sizable beer selection, and frequent live entertainment, this place guarantees you to a good time. Even get to meet friendly faces in this lovely place on any night of the week. Supporting the local suppliers, the pub serves up delicious lobsters when they are in season–only the finest seafood catches in town to give you a great meal that will have you coming back.
Olde Dublin Pub
Address: 131 Sydney St, Charlottetown, PE C1A 1G5, Canada
Website: Olde Dublin Pub
Opening hours: Sun - Wed: 11am - 11pm; Thu: 11am - 1am; Fri - Sat: 11am - 2am
23. Relax and rejuvenate at Cocoon Wellness Spa
From facials to body massages and hair treatments, spoil yourself at the full-service Cocoon Wellness Spa. The spa offers a variety of treatments including Reiki, the art of Japanese energy work, Thai massages, and wellness treatments for the whole body. Laser skin treatments for targeted results are also available, with medical-grade lasers and light therapy technology offered.
Cocoon Wellness Spa
Address: 18 Queen St, Charlottetown, PE C1A 4A1, Canada
Website: Cocoon Wellness Spa
Opening hours: Mon: 9am - 7pm; Tue: 9am - 5pm; Wed: 9am - 7pm; Thu: 9am - 5pm; Fri: 9am - 7pm; Sat: 9am - 5pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm
24. Play golf at Countryview Golf Club
Located just a short drive away from Charlottetown is Countryview Golf Club, the island’s most up-and-coming 18-hole golf course. With the rolling hills of Fairview in its backdrop, the course is green, lush and involves a challenging terrain. Countryview usually plays in four hours or less, is easily walked, and is the locals’ choice to play their rounds. Visitors can use the fully stocked Pro Shop for any equipment or items they may need, and stay for a meal at Greenside Bistro boasting views over the course from a panoramic deck and air-conditioned lounge.
Countryview Golf Club
Address: 2462 PE-19, Fairview, PE C0A 1H2, Canada
Website: Countryview Golf Club
Opening hours: 6:30am - 7pm (daily)
Price: From 20 USD
25. Knock down some pins at North Rustico Lions Club Bowling
Posted by North Rustico Lions Club on Friday, 9 November 2018
From an entertainment center, bar, and bowling alley, North Rustico Lions Club Bowling is an ideal way to spend an evening with friends or family through casual games of bowling. Summer leagues are also available for those you want regular teammates and nights of entertainment. In addition, trivia nights and karaoke sessions are also worth participating in at the club.
North Rustico Lions Club Bowling
Address: 17 Timber Ln, North Rustico, PE C0A 1X0, Canada
Website: North Rustico Lions Club Bowling
Opening hours: 11am - 11pm (daily)
26. Hit the target at PCSC Miscouche Range
Practice your accuracy and control when target shooting at PCSC Miscouche Range, without forgetting to bring your own targets and stands. Group sessions are held weekly on Wednesday evenings with drop-ins welcomed to give the sport a try and pick up some skills.
PCSC Miscouche Range
Address: MacLean Road, Lot 17, PE C0B 1T0, Canada
Website: PCSC Miscouche Range
27. Chase the sunset on a Chinese junk boat (from USD 60.0)
Set sail from Peakes Wharf in beautiful downtown Charlottetown and experience an evening on a Chinese junk boat that was built in Hong Kong and is still a key feature of life in Hong Kong. Hear about the experiences of Admiral Zheng He in his explorations of the seas and get a glimpse into the experiences of Chinese immigrants. There are several times of the day which you can take the cruise; the daytime cruises are often visited by the wild seals swimming near you in the water, while the sunset cruises provide exceptional lighting for photos and dinner for those interested.
Sunset Chinese Junk Boat Tour In Charlottetown
Duration: 2 hours
28. Tour the charming North Shore (from USD 355.0)
Enjoy a private, personalised and fully customisable tour of the North Shore of Prince Edward Island, with a guide and a private vehicle. Build your day based on seeing as much or as little as you would like, roaming through the seaside fishing villages, tasting and experiencing local culture and cuisines, or just lounging on the soft sandy beaches. The guides have great suggestions for those who may not want to do their own research and leave it up to the experts on the day. Some of the North Shore highlights include Green Gables Heritage Place, Island Honey Wine, Cows Ice Cream, Cavendish, and Brackley Beach.
BUILD YOUR OWN North Shore Private Tour
29. Admire the impressive structures of The Bottle Houses (from USD 6.0)
The Bottle Houses are a must-visit experience for those interested in recycling, for nature lovers and photographers. Built by the late Edouard Arsenault in the 1980s over four years, this attraction will let you experience what 25,000 bottles can look like when a heavy dose of creativity is included. Walk through the house, tavern, and church and take in the landscaped gardens during your time here. Featured in “Ripley’s Believe It or Not” and “1000 Places to See Before You Die”, do not miss this out on this one.
PEI Bottle Houses - A Garden and Glass Art Destination
30. Hunt for local treasures on the beach (from USD 248.0)
Join the search for rare sea glass and preserved seashells at an undisclosed beach on Prince Edward Island National Park, with experienced local driver-guides. For four hours, you will be guided on this humble hunt for treasure and you can keep anything you can find as a souvenir of your day. Guides are knowledgeable about the sea glass and other ocean treasures. This is surely an ideal morning activity for those looking for an adventure.
The Great Sea Glass & Seashell Hunt Private Tour
31. Tour the vast Mill River Golf Course
Mill River Golf Course opened way back in 1971. It was designed by Canadian architect Robbie Robinson and in 1996 Grahame Cooke redesigned six of its holes. With wide rolling fairways, slight elevation differences, well-bunkered greens, lakes, and streams, each hole of the course will create a different challenge for the players.
Mill River Golf Course
Address: 180 Mill River Resort Rd., Route 136, PO Box 399, Woodstock, Prince Edward Island, Canada C0B 1V0.
Website: Mill River Golf Course
Opening hours: 7am - 8pm (daily)
32. Learn about Prince Island in the 1800s at Orwell Corner Historic Village
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Situated in Prince Edward Island, Canada, this living history museum recreates a 19th-century rural village, providing a fascinating glimpse into the island’s past. At Orwell Corner, costumed interpreters portray the daily life of early settlers, showcasing traditional crafts, farming techniques, and historic buildings. You’ll experience the ambiance of a schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, and general store, all authentically restored to their original charm.
The village comes alive with interactive exhibits and engaging demonstrations, allowing you to participate in hands-on activities and experience history firsthand.
Orwell Corner Historic Village
Address: RR 2, Vernon Bridge, PE C0A 2E0, Canada
Website: Orwell Corner Historic Village
Opening hours: 8:30am - 4:30pm (daily)
33. Treat yourself to an ice cream at Cows Creamery
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
It’s #NationalIceCreamDay and all of our COWS locations are also participating in Ice Cream For Wishes today through...
Posted by COWS on Sunday, July 16, 2023
Treat yourself to ice cream at Cows Creamery in Prince Edward Island, Canada, for a delicious and delightful activity. Cows Creamery is a renowned and beloved ice cream shop known for its rich and creamy handmade ice cream.
Cows Creamery is Located across Prince Edward Island and offers a wide range of creative and mouthwatering flavors, from classic favorites like chocolate and vanilla to unique combinations like Wowie Cowie and Gooey Mooey. Each ice cream flavor is made with high-quality ingredients, including fresh, locally sourced fruits and toppings, ensuring a delectable and authentic taste.
Cows Creamery
Address: 12 Milky Wy, Charlottetown, PE C1E 2E2, Canada
Website: Cows Creamery
Opening hours: 10am - 10pm (daily)
Pursue the outdoors on Prince Edward Island
If you are visiting Prince Edward Island in the summer months, and we highly recommend you do, visit the sandy beaches, swim in the warm seas, and over-indulge in the local seafood for a happy summer holiday. Explore Charlottetown and its ode to Victorian architecture and Canadian culture, and take in the setting behind ‘Anne of Green Gables’ with rolling hills and flourishing green landscapes across the island.
Frequently asked questions about the top things to do in Prince Edward Island, Canada
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