Charlottetown
See where the United States’ neighbor to the north was united with a journey to Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. This picturesque oceanside community is known as the birthplace of Canada and famed novel namesake, Anne of Green Gables. Stop here and discover a celebrated history and thriving community nestled in the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
History on Display
History buffs are invited to stroll through Charlottetown’s historic district alongside the Confederation Players, a troupe of actors who tell the story of Canada’s forefathers through daily reenactments in July and August. Check out the Confederation Centre of the Arts to learn more about the story of Confederation, when the nation’s early founders gathered in 1867 to cement Canada’s status as a country. Amble along Peake’s Wharf and walk in the footsteps of Canada’s first settlers and pop into any of the dozens of shops along the waterfront, or catch a boat and cruise Charlottetown’s harbor—keep your eyes open for seals, or try your hand at lobster fishing!
Hit the Links
Experience outdoor recreation at its most relaxing with a tour of the links at one of Charlottetown’s public golf courses. If you fancy an afternoon on your bicycle, hit the Confederation Trail for some scenic offroad beauty that’s best viewed by tourists on two wheels. For adventurers who can’t get enough of the sea, kayaks and paddleboards are perfect for traveling up the North River, the historic Hillsborough River and the Victoria Park coastline.
Going Gothic
Experience Victorian Gothic architecture at its best on a visit to All Souls’ Chapel on Rochford Square, and to St. Dunstan’s Basilica on Great George Street. All Souls’ Chapel was constructed from native sandstone in 1888. The basilica is built from materials that remained after the first church structure damaged by fire in 1913. Canadian pioneers and early residents were protected by, and in many cases served in, the PEI Regiment. The military unit was officially so named in 1875 but existed as a colonial volunteer militia as early as 1769. The PEI Regiment Museum displays artifacts from the regiment’s history of service as well as exhibits and memorabilia.
Famous Book
Fans of the Anne of Green Gables stories will have found their literary mecca in Charlottetown, where summer and fall bring are the time to enjoy musical theater productions based on L.M. Montgomery’s beloved characters. Charlottetown welcomes visitors to enjoy other productions during its festival at the Confederation Centre of the Arts, from June to October.
Princely Playing
Take a gamble on a good time at Red Shores Racetrack & Casino, and you’ll come away a winner. Live harness racing, slot machines and gaming tables are the top attractions at this entertainment destination. The Summerside Raceway at Red Shores is believed to be Canada’s oldest continuously operating racetrack, hosting races since 1886.
For More Information
Discover Charlottetown
800-955-1864
Tourism PEI
800-463-4734