Welcome to Prince Edward Island, a beautiful island in Eastern Canada that boasts an array of captivating activities for every traveller. This enchanting province is home to historic sites, including those associated with the beloved author Lucy Maud Montgomery, and the world’s longest bridge connecting it to the mainland.
The rolling sand dunes and beautiful beaches offer a perfect setting for both adventure and relaxation. With numerous PEI parks to explore, this nature lover’s paradise features stunning landscapes, red sandstone cliffs, and sandy shores.
As Canada’s smallest province, getting around and discovering all the amazing things to do in PEI is a breeze. So, whether you’re seeking thrilling experiences or tranquil moments, Prince Edward Island has something for everyone. Start planning your unforgettable trip today!
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Visit Prince Edward Island via Their Coastal Drives
Prince Edward Island is best explored by car, and three scenic coastal drives offer visitors a unique opportunity to see the island’s beauty.
No matter your route, you’re sure to be enchanted by Prince Edward Island’s natural beauty.
Points East Coastal Drive
The Points East Coastal Drive is a 475 km stretch of coastline where you will find unique harbours, beaches with unparalleled views in every direction as well as farmland that defines what it means to be Canadian at its finest
The red cliffs along the way provide spectacular scenery. You can also hike various trails.
North Cape Coastal Drive
Along Prince Edward Island North Cape Coastal Drive, you’ll find some houses made from bottles and witness a giant 14-foot potato. You can also sleep in a lighthouse and watch the tides collide.
Central Coastal Drive
The Central Coastal Drive takes you by picturesque settings with sandstone cliffs and white dunes in the forefront. You’ll also see the foot of the Confederation Bridge. Feel the enchantment of Anne of Green Gables, play a round of golf, and sample our culinary specialties while exploring this area.
Things to do in Charlottetown
Charlottetown is the largest city on Prince Edward Island and serves as the province’s capital city.
The city is home to a historic district full of 18th and 19th-century buildings and many museums, art galleries, and theatres. Visitors to Charlottetown can also enjoy various outdoor activities, including walking and biking trails, golf courses, and parks. The city also has many restaurants and cafes, making it the perfect place to spend a day or two exploring.
Beaconsfield Historic House
One of the best places to learn about the island’s past is the Beaconsfield Historic House. The house was built in 1877 and was home to several generations of wealthy families. Today, it is open to the public and houses a museum with exhibits on the island’s history and culture.
Visitors can also tour the house, which has been carefully restored to its Victorian-era grandeur.
Location: 2 Kent Street, Charlottetown
Summer Outdoor Concerts
There is no better way to enjoy the summer sun than by listening to some great music. The Peakes Wharf Summer Concert Series is a series of free concerts at Peakes Wharf from July 1st to August 31st. The concerts feature a wide range of musical genres for everyone to enjoy.
Location: Peakes Wharf,1 Great George St, Charlottetown
Art Galleries
Charlottetown is home to several art galleries, each with unique style and character.
The Confederation Centre Art Gallery is one of the most popular, with a wide variety of artwork displayed by local and international artists. The art gallery also hosts several events and workshops throughout the year, making it a great place to learn about the arts.
The PEI Crafts Council Gallery is another popular option, showcasing the work of Island craftspeople. Visitors can also find several smaller galleries dotted around the city, including the Guild Gallery.
Province House National Historic Site
Province House is a National Historic Site in the heart of Charlottetown. The building has been home to the PEI legislature since 1847 and is an excellent example of Victorian architecture.
Province House is open to the public for tours and remains an important part of PEI’s political and cultural heritage. Visitors to Province House can explore the legislative chambers, learn about the building’s history, and view artwork by some of Canada’s most celebrated artists.
Location: 165 Richmond St, Charlottetown
Victoria Row
One of the best places to experience Charlottetown’s character is Victoria Row. This pedestrian-only street is lined with colourful Victorian buildings, each of which houses a different business.
Whether you’re looking for shopping, dining, or entertainment, Victoria Row is the perfect place to start your exploration of Charlottetown. On a sunny day, the street is filled with people strolling among the shops and stopping to chat with friends. In the evening, the row comes alive with live music and laughter from the cafes and bars.
Location: 146 Richmond St, Charlottetown
Victoria Park
Charlottetown’s Victoria Park is one of the city’s most beloved green spaces. The park has nearly 12 hectares and is also home to several historical monuments, including a statue of Edward, Prince of Wales, who visited Charlottetown in 1860.
Today, the park is a popular spot for picnics, afternoon strolls, and winter sledding. The park has become popular for weddings and other special events in recent years. Whether you’re looking to relax in nature or explore Charlottetown’s history, Victoria Park is sure to please you.
PEI Small Towns to Visit
Murray River
Nestled in the heart of Prince Edward Island’s picturesque countryside, Murray River is a charming small town that offers visitors a glimpse into the island’s rich history and culture.
Murray River was once a thriving hub of shipbuilding and lumber mills. Today, the town is best known for its beautiful sandy beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing.
Visitors can also explore the town’s many shops and restaurants or stroll along its scenic waterfront walking trails.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday or an authentic rural experience, Murray River is sure to charm you with its old-world charm and natural beauty.
North Rustico
North Rustico is a small town located on the north coast of Prince Edward Island.
The town is best known for its picturesque fishing village, which is home to many traditional fishing boats. Visitors to North Rustico can enjoy fresh seafood at the town’s seafood market or one of the local restaurants.
Whether you’re looking for fresh seafood or a unique dining experience, North Rustico is definitely worth a visit. The town is home to the Blue Mussel Cafe, which offers fresh seafood and lobster rolls. For a truly unique dining experience, visitors can head to Fisherman’s Wharf Lobster Suppers to enjoy a meal overlooking the water.
Things to do in Cavendish
Cavendish is a small town located on the north shore of Prince Edward Island. While it may be best known as the setting for Anne of Green Gables, there is much more to this charming community than meets the eye. Here are just a few of the many things to do in Cavendish.
Anne of Green Gables | Green Gables Heritage Place
Prince Edward Island’s Green Gables Heritage Place is one of the province’s most popular tourist destinations. This Unesco World Heritage Site is best known as the setting for Lucy Maud Montgomery’s beloved Anne of Green Gables novels.
Visitors can explore the grounds where Anne Shirley spent her childhood and visit the green gables farmhouse, which has been turned into a museum. The house is furnished with period furniture, artifacts, and exhibits on Montgomery’s life and work.
Green Gables Heritage Place is a must-see for any fan of Anne of Green Gables, and it’s easy to see why this place is such an important part of Canadian heritage.
Cavendish Beach
Cavendish Beach is a beautiful sandy beach located on the north shore of Prince Edward Island. Cavendish Beach is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the incredible views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The beach is also great for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. There are several restaurants, cafes, and a few hotels and campgrounds.
Location: 590 Graham’s Ln, New Glasgow
Gulf Shore Parkway West
Gulf Shore Parkway West is a great place for a nature hike. There are numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty levels, so there is something for everyone. The scenery is also beautiful, with lush vegetation and stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. In addition, the parkway is well-maintained, and the trails are well-marked, so it is easy to find your way around. Whether you are an experienced hiker or a beginner, Gulf Shore Parkway West is a great place to enjoy a day in the outdoors.
Other PEI Things To Do
Cedar Dunes Provincial Park
Cedar Dunes Provincial Park is a beautiful natural oasis located on the north shore of Prince Edward Island. The park is best known for its sand dunes formed over thousands of years by the wind and waves.
Visitors to the park can explore the sand dunes. Cedar Dunes Provincial Park is also popular for birdwatching, picnicking, and camping.
Location: 265 Cedar Dunes Park Rd, O’Leary
Confederation Trail
The Confederation Trail is a popular destination for outdoor lovers of all ages.
Stretching from one end of Prince Edward Island to the other, the trail offers stunning views of the island’s coastline and plenty of opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife spotting, and picnicking.
Whether you’re looking for a stroll or a challenging hike, the Confederation Trail has something to offer everyone. And with so many access points along the way, it’s easy to hop on and off the trail whenever you like.
Deep Sea Fishing Excursion
Fishing is a great way to spend some time outdoors while enjoying the company of your friends or family.
Charter a boat captain for your high-seas adventure and enjoy your meal, whether you’re hungry for fresh mackerel or want to battle a huge bluefin tuna. Then, learn more about the fishing culture by listening to the fish tales of river enthusiasts and local fly fishermen.
Play the Links at Crowbush Golf Course
Prince Edward Island is home to some of the world’s most beautiful golf courses, including the famed Links at Crowbush Cove, which is widely considered one of the best golf courses in Canada.
Nestled among rolling hills and dramatic cliffs, the course offers stunning views of the Northumberland Strait. The layout is also challenging yet fair, making it a great test for players of all skill levels.
And with its convenient location just a short drive from Charlottetown, the course is easy to get to from anywhere on the island. Whether you are a seasoned golfer or a casual player, a round at the Links at Crowbush Cove is an unforgettable experience.
Location: 710 Lakeside Rd, Morell
Basin Head Provincial Park
Basin Head Provincial Park is a beautiful natural area on Prince Edward Island’s east coast. The park is home to various plant and animal life and a stunning sandy beach.
Visitors to the park can enjoy swimming, hiking, and picnicking. The park also offers an accessible boardwalk, making it possible for everyone to experience the area’s beauty.
In addition to its recreational opportunities, Basin Head Provincial Park is also an important conservation area. The park is home to several rare plant species and several nesting birds.
Prince Edward Island National Park
Prince Edward Island National Park is a beautiful place to visit, no matter what time of year it is. The beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring in the summer. The rolling hills are ideal for hiking, and there are plenty of picnic spots to enjoy a nice lunch.
In the fall, the leaves change colour and create a stunning landscape. The park is also a great place to see wildlife, as many animals come to it to mate or raise their young.
Winter brings its special charm with the snow-covered trees and sparkling lakes. The PEI National Park is sure to delight you no matter which season your visit takes place.
Location: 41 Dalvay Crescent, Dalvay by the Sea
Greenwich National Park
Greenwich National Park is located on the north coast of Prince Edward Island, in the town of Greenwich. The park is best known for its golden dunes, formed over thousands of years by wind and water erosion. The dunes are a popular spot for picnics and nature walks and offer stunning views of the Northumberland Strait.
The park also includes a variety of trails through woodlands and meadows, as well as a boardwalk that winds through a tidal salt marsh.
In addition to its natural beauty, Greenwich National Park is also home to several historical sites, including an abandoned lighthouse and the remains of an ancient Aboriginal settlement.
Confederation Bridge
The Confederation Bridge is one of the most popular attractions on Canada’s East Coast. Stretching 12.9 kilometres (8 miles) from New Brunswick to Prince Edward Island, the bridge is the longest in the world that spans ice-covered waters.
The bridge is an essential link for both tourists and residents. The Confederation Bridge is a true engineering marvel, and it’s no wonder it’s become such an iconic part of Canadian culture. A stop at the Confederation Bridge is a must for anyone planning a trans-Canada highway road trip on Canada’s East Coast.
Location: Confederation Bridge, Borden-Carleton
Canadian Potato Museum
The Canadian Potato Museum tells the story of the potato and its importance to the island’s history and economy. Visitors can learn about the potato’s place in Canadian culture, try traditional recipes, and see artifacts from the island’s history. Exhibits showcase the island’s potato industry, from early farming techniques to modern processing methods. The museum also features a research library and an exhibit on the Great Famine of Ireland.
Location: 1 Dewar Ln, O’Leary
Orwell Corner Historic Village
The Orwell Corner Historic Village is a living history museum that gives visitors a glimpse of life in rural Prince Edward Island during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Whether you’re interested in history or just looking for a unique place to visit, the Orwell Corner Historic Village is definitely worth a stop. Visitors can explore historic buildings such as a one-room schoolhouse and a blacksmith shop and see how islanders lived and worked during this period. There are also plenty of opportunities to learn about the local culture and traditions.
Location: RR 2, Vernon Bridge
Bottle Houses
Built entirely out of recycled materials, including over 25,000 glass bottles, the houses are a testament to the power of recycling. The houses’ walls are made of bottles cemented together in beautiful designs. The PEI Bottle Houses offer a unique and eco-friendly way to live, and they serve as a reminder that even the most mundane objects can be reused in creative ways.
Location: 6891 PE-11, Wellington
Iconic Lighthouses to Visit
Cape Bear Lighthouse
The PEI Cape Bear Lighthouse is a historic landmark located on the Eastern tip of Prince Edward Island.
The lighthouse was built in 1829 and has been in continuous operation ever since. Visitors to the lighthouse can explore the tower’s ground floor, which houses a small museum.
The museum tells the story of the lighthouse, its keepers, and the shipwrecks that have occurred off the coast of PEI.
Location: 42 Black Brook Rd, Murray Harbour
East Point Lighthouse
East Point Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on the east end of Prince Edward Island. The lighthouse was built in 1866 and is one of the oldest lighthouses in Canada. It was used to guide ships into Charlottetown Harbour and to warn them of the dangerous shoals nearby.
The lighthouse is now a national historic site, and visitors can tour the lightkeeper’s house and learn about the lighthouse’s history. The East Point Lighthouse is an important part of Prince Edward Island’s history and culture and is a popular tourist destination.
Location: 404 Lighthouse Rd, Elmira
PEI West Point Lighthouse Museum
The PEI West Point Lighthouse Museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions on Prince Edward Island. The museum is located in the former lighthouse keeper’s cottage, which was built in 1876.
Visitors can learn about the history of the island’s lighthouses and see how they were operated. The museum also has a collection of maritime artifacts, including ship models and navigation equipment.
In addition, the museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits, such as a simulated storm at sea. The PEI West Point Lighthouse Museum is great for learning about the island’s rich maritime history.
Location: 364 Cedar Dunes Park Rd, West Point
Where to Stay in Prince Edward Island
The Great George Hotel
The Great George Hotel is a luxurious and historic boutique hotel located in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. The hotel is centrally located within walking distance of the Confederation Centre of the Arts, Government House, and other important landmarks.
The Great George has been rated as one of the best hotels in Charlottetown, and it boasts an impressive array of amenities, including a concierge service. The accommodations at the Great George are spacious and well-appointed, and the staff is attentive and professional. If you’re looking for a 5-star experience, the Great George Hotel is the perfect place to stay during your visit to Prince Edward Island.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is PEI Famous For?
Prince Edward Island (PEI) is famous for its stunning landscapes, beautiful beaches, and rolling sand dunes. It is also well-known for its red sandstone cliffs, historic sites, and as the home of the beloved author Lucy Maud Montgomery, who wrote the classic novel “Anne of Green Gables.” Additionally, PEI is connected to the mainland by the world’s longest bridge, the Confederation Bridge, making it an easily accessible destination for travellers.
How Long Should I Spend on Prince Edward Island?
The ideal duration for a visit to Prince Edward Island depends on your travel preferences and the activities you wish to experience. However, a stay of 3 to 5 days is generally recommended to explore the island’s main attractions, enjoy its beautiful beaches, and immerse yourself in its rich history and culture. For a more comprehensive experience, you may want to consider spending a week or more to fully discover all that PEI has to offer.
How Long Does It Take to Drive Around the Island of PEI?
Driving around the entire island of PEI can take approximately 5 to 6 hours without stopping, considering the island’s size and the speed limits on its roads. However, to truly appreciate the island’s beauty and visit its attractions, it is recommended to allow for a few days of exploration, including stops at various points of interest, scenic lookouts, and charming towns and villages along the way.
What Are Some Popular Things to Do on Prince Edward Island
Prince Edward Island offers a variety of popular activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. One must-visit destination is Thunder Cove Beach, known for its unique rock formations and stunning coastal views. Another iconic site is the Point Prim Lighthouse, the island’s oldest lighthouse, which offers panoramic vistas and a glimpse into maritime history.
For those interested in the island’s fishing heritage, the Basin Head Fisheries Museum provides an engaging experience, showcasing the region’s rich fishing traditions and cultural stories. After a day of exploration, unwind and indulge in delicious local seafood at Clam Diggers Beach House, a popular dining spot with picturesque coastal views.
With so many wonderful experiences to choose from, visitors to Prince Edward Island are sure to create lasting memories while exploring this beautiful and diverse destination.
