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Feel Lighter on Prince Edward Island

The feeling you get when you're on Prince Edward Island is unique; you'll feel relaxed yet excited, stress-free and alive - some would say you'll feel lighter here.

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Welcome to Prince Edward Island

A breathtaking destination, filled with wandering trails, endless beaches and unique experiences everywhere you look.

Explore Prince Edward Island

Festivals & Events

Many communities and venues host events throughout the year; be sure to check our events calendar.

Outdoor Adventure

Whether by pedal, paddle or your own two feet, there are countless ways to explore the Island. Big adventure awaits in Canada’s smallest province. 

Spring is a great season for golf in Prince Edward Island with fewer crowds, cooler temperatures and beautiful views.

Anne of Green Gables

Millions of fans have come to PEI to discover the land that inspired Lucy Maud Montgomery's Anne of Green Gables. Experience magical settings and attractions across the land. 

PEI and beaches. They're practically synonyms. When visitors think of Prince Edward Island, many immediately imagine the smooth warm sand, red sandstone cliffs, soft blue sky, and the white-capped waves of the surrounding seas.

Vacation Packages

Our family vacation packages focus on play by day, ceilidhs and campfires by night and ice cream anytime. Never a dull moment and memories that will last a lifetime. 

Romance & Wellness

Sunsets over miles of beaches, spa treatments, yoga and cuisine to delight your taste buds. Feel lighter!

Spring Packages

New packages available from locations across the Island for spring. 

Where to Stay

Whether your preference is waterfront, luxury, downtown, camping or the unusual - our operators take great pride in their establishments and are ready to help you have a safe and memorable vacation. Search by month of stay.

Be Inspired

The Sydney Boutique Inn & Suites

Located in the heart of Charlottetown, the Sydney Boutique Inn & Suites offers an experience that promises rest and relaxation.

Sponsored by the Sydney Boutique Inn & Suites

Experience Our Coastal Culture

Nestled among the historic streets of Downtown Charlottetown along the picturesque waterfront, Delta Hotels by Marriott Prince Edward eagerly awaits your arrival.

Sponsored by the Delta Prince Edward Hotel

Experience Timeless Elegance & Modern Comfort

At the Holman Grand Hotel, you will experience timeless elegance and modern comforts. Located in the heart of historic downtown Charlottetown. 

Sponsored by The Holman Grand Hotel

A Symphony of Color and Light

Nestled in the serene landscape of western Prince Edward Island lies a unique architectural wonder that captivates visitors with its whimsical allure.

Sponsored by The Bottle Houses and Gardens

Discover Prince Edward Island

Getting here is easy.

A Place for Everyone

Yes, Prince Edward Island is small in size, but you’ll be surprised by the abundance of adventure and activity that awaits. Explore our fishing villages, charming small towns, sprawling farming communities and thriving urban centres.

North Cape Coastal Drive

Beyond red cliffs and miles of coastline, here you’ll find houses made of bottles, a giant potato that stands 14 feet high, the Oyster capital of the world, happy Griswold and an entire alpaca herd and so much more.

In this seaside city, you are never more than a few minutes by coastal boardwalk or cycling trail to local restaurants and cafes, historic buildings, cultural attractions and entertainment.

Red Sands Shore

Green Gables Shore

The quaint fishing villages and rural communities of the north shore inspired L.M. Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables. Discover sandy beaches, amusement parks, coastal trails, world-class music and culinary delights.

Charlottetown

Feel the energy of this capital city with the perfect combination of historic and new architecture and accommodations. Discover classic pubs, fusion restaurants, modern coffee shops and cafes, festivals and events, live music and world-class theatre.

Points East Coastal Drive

The eastern end of the Island is all about the beaches - over 50 just minutes apart. Let lighthouses guide you to phenomenal parks, historic attractions, fine cuisine, artisan studios, festivals and events and welcoming places to stay.

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The 20 Absolute Best Places To Visit On Prince Edward Island (PEI) To Enjoy Island Life For Yourself

Explore the enchanting beauty of the Maritimes with our expert guide to the best things to do in Prince Edward Island. From the stunning landscapes of Cavendish Beach to the historic charm of Charlottetown, discover the best spots this picturesque island has to offer. Plan your perfect PEI getaway with our comprehensive travel tips and insights!

Brimming with gorgeous landscapes and steeped in Canadian history, Prince Edward Island beams with a heart far larger than its diminutive size might suggest.

Known around the world as the home of the beloved story character Anne of Green Gables, who captured the hearts of generations of readers through the work of Lucy Maud Montgomery, Prince Edward Island’s magic expands far beyond the pages of a storybook.

As famous for its red sandy beaches, charming lighthouses, and rolling green hills, PEI is a haven for those seeking tranquility and adventure. Whether you’re captivated by the island’s literary legacy, eager to savor fresh seafood delicacies, or yearning to explore its scenic coastal wonders, Prince Edward Island offers a myriad of experiences waiting to be discovered.

I’ve had the chance to visit Prince Edward Island several times throughout my life, from the music festivals as a child with my father’s band to fishing and seafood tours with my children as a father myself. PEI remains one of my most memorable places to visit in Canada. Even winter in Prince Edward Island is magical.

We Explore Canada’s guide to the best places to visit on Prince Edward Island will take you on a journey through the best things to do in the province. From the iconic landscapes of Cavendish to the birthplace of Canada’s Confederation.

Charlottetown

Charlottetown is the capital of Prince Edward Island and one of just two cities in the entire province. The city is rich in history, culture, and beauty, and the picturesque waterfront, lined with centuries-old buildings, makes Charlottetown one of the most scenic shopping destinations in Canada.

Charlottetown holds the distinction of being the birthplace of Canada. It was here, in 1864, that the Charlottetown Conference laid the groundwork for the confederacy. The significance of this historic event can be felt at local attractions such as the Confederation Centre of the Arts.

Stroll the cobblestone roads among the timeless Victorian architecture as you experience the city’s exciting festivals and cultural events, including the Charlottetown Festival, which showcases local talents in theatre, music, and the arts.

While you’re in Charlottetown, don’t miss the city’s eclectic culinary scene, especially the seafood offerings. Sit down for one of the island’s famous lobster suppers, or visit the Charlottetown farmers market for some farm-fresh delights.

You can find our complete guide to the best things to do in Charlottetown here .

The city of Summerside on the western shores of PEI offers a unique blend of maritime heritage, scenic beauty, and a wealth of incredible attractions.

While Charlottetown gets much of the attention, those in the know find their way to the scenic shores of Summerside to enjoy its laid-back charm and maritime history. Summerside’s seafaring past can be experienced through the Summerside Heritage Murals, a collection of street art, much of which showcases the history of the town.

Those looking for a little activity in the city can enjoy sailing and boating tours or walks along the oceanside boardwalk to the Summerside Harbour, a focal point of activity in the city that offers unparalleled views of the bay.

Anne of Green Gables Heritage Place

There is no more iconic character in Prince Edward Island culture than Anne, the delightful red-haired girl whom legendary author Mark Twain called “the dearest, most moving and delightful child since the immortal. Alice.”

The Anne of Green Gables Heritage Place, which celebrates the characters, landscapes, and legends of Lucy Maud Montgomery’s beloved novel, has become one of the best places to visit on Prince Edward Island.

The Heritage Place invites guests to immerse themselves in the charming setting of the story of Anne. Visitors can explore Green Gables House, the real-life inspiration for Anne’s home, and wander through the expansive gardens that vividly reflect the descriptions penned by Montgomery.

Anne of Green Gable Heritage Place offers guided tours that allow visitors to delve deeper into both the author’s life and the fictional world that she created. There are artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays that help bring the story of Anne to life.

Combining breathtaking coastal beauty, pristine beaches, and a wide range of great attractions that cater to every style of traveller, Cavendish is cemented as one of the best places to visit in PEI. Cavendish boasts some of the island’s most breathtaking shorelines, including the famed Cavendish Beach, where soft, sandy shores collide with jaw-dropping rose-red cliffs.

Cavendish is home to Prince Edward Island National Park, the only national park in the province. The park features a wide array of scenic hiking trails, beautiful wildlife, and panoramic views of some of the province’s most magnificent shorelines.

Cavendish blends this natural beauty with the rolling green patchwork of PEI’s most beautiful agricultural landscape, intertwined with an array of family-friendly attractions such as amusement parks, golf courses, and cultural experiences.

Thunder Cove Beach

Tucked into the northern coast of Prince Edward Island sits one of the most exciting attractions on the island. Famous for its stunning beauty and tranquility, Thunder Cove Beach features gorgeous red sandstone cliffs, majestic sea arches, and fascinating rock formations all backed by the shocking blue of the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

The otherworldly landscapes of Thunder Cove Beach, with formations such as “the Teacup” and “Thunder Cove Sea Arch,” draw tourists, photographers, and adventurers alike. But the landscapes aren’t all that this Prince Edward Island attraction has to offer. The serenity and seclusion of the beach make for a peaceful retreat. Visitors can spend hours strolling along the pristine shoreline, wandering the intricate sand dunes, or simply picnicking in front of the gorgeous cliffs.

West Point Lighthouse

Located far out on the western tip of Prince Edward Island, the West Point Lighthouse beckons travellers with its rich maritime heritage and awe-inspiring coastal vistas. Standing more than 20 metres in height, the West Point Lighthouse rises proudly above the waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Visitors can climb the tower for unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding scenery.

The lighthouse dates back to the 19th century and invites visitors to explore the gorgeous grounds, informative exhibits, and interactive displays. There are even accommodations within the lighthousekeeper’s quarters where you can enjoy one of the most unique and romantic stays on the island.

Known for its world-famous oysters, the serene charm and beautiful landscapes of Malpeque simply add to its allure.

Situated in Malpeque Bay, Malpeque oysters are harvested from the waters’ briny depths. This haven for foodies has entranced visitors with their oyster’s exceptional taste and quality, but the experience is only enhanced by the scenic backdrop and adventure activities such as kayaking, clam digging, and hiking.

Adding to the culinary allure of Malpeque, what helps the region become one of the top attractions in Prince Edward Island are the outdoor experiences. Wander among the idyllic fishing harbour or take a road or cycling trip along the region’s scenic roads. The gorgeous trails surrounding Malpeque make for a perfect place for bird-watching

Victoria by the Sea

Considered one of the most charming seaside destinations on Prince Edward Island, Victoria by the Sea offers a timeless appeal that draws in all types of travellers.

The historic centre of Victoria by the Sea is lined with delightful waterfront shops, art galleries, and cafes where visitors can shop for antiques, enjoy leisurely strolls, and explore local arts and crafts. The lanes along the coast are dotted with colourful homes and historic buildings that simply add to the town’s charm.

Don’t miss The Victoria Playhouse, a cultural gem located in town that showcases local live theatre and traditional Maritime musical performances. The area is also known for its freshly caught lobsters and oysters. Seafood feasts can be enjoyed on patios overlooking scenic landscapes and authentic maritime harbour.

Basin Head Provincial Park

First-time visitors to Basin Head Provincial Park might question their sanity when they first arrive, especially on windy days. The beach here sometimes seems to call out to visitors. In fact, it’s been dubbed the “Singing Sands.”

With 14 kilometres of bright white sand, Basin Head Provincial Park is one of the best places to visit for beach bums on Prince Edward Island. Boasting some of the warmest ocean water in Canada, Basin Head Provincial Park is an exceptional destination in the province. But the high silica count in the bright white sands takes an already spectacular beach and ups the ante.

The “Singing Sands” feature comes from the squeaking or humming sand that is often heard along the sandy beach caused by vibrations of the wind moving across the ground.

Enjoy stretching out on the beach, bathing in the gentle waves, or building sandcastles that might just sing to you. Don’t miss the Basin Head Provincial Park museum that features exhibits on the local marine ecosystem, local fishing practices, and educational programming.

Prince Edward Island National Park

Want to know a Prince Edward Island fun fact? It’s the only province in Canada with just a single National Park. But what a park!

Spanning the island’s north shore, this pristine and diverse national treasure presents visitors with striking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and a wealth of unspoiled beauty. The scenery of Prince Edward Island National Park runs the gamut from towering sand dunes to lush woodlands.

A visit to the park isn’t complete without spending some time at its star attraction, Cavendish Beach. With some of the softest sand in Canada paired with rolling sand dunes and towering red cliffs, the beach is the best of the PEI coast in a nutshell.

Take a swim in the warm, clear waters, hike the winding trails, or simply pop out your camera and capture your memories for friends and family back home.

Along with its natural beauty, the park celebrates the island’s cultural heritage through historical sites such as Dalvay-by-the-Sea National Historic Site, which features Victorian architecture that offers insight into the island’s recent history.

Confederation Trail

Spanning an astounding 449 kilometres of hiking and cycling trails, the Confederation Trail is one of the longest multi-use trails in Canada . This magnificent outdoor adventure network is one section of the grand Trans-Canada Trail, which spans the entire country.

The Confederation Trail stretches from the town of Tignish on the province’s northeast tip to Elmira in the far west. It’s so long that even a portion of the famed Appalachian Trail cuts through the route.

If you love Camino’s, hiking, or cycling, this stunning route explores some of the best places to visit in Prince Edward Island. It can be experienced end-to-end or in sections across multiple visits.

Confederation Bridge

The longest bridge covering icy waters in the world is just one of the claims to fame of the Confederation Bridge that links the town of Borden-Carleton in Prince Edward Island to the eastern tip of New Brunswick on the mainland.

This engineering marvel stretches across the Northumberland Strait for nearly 13 kilometres, making for both an efficient transportation route as well as a breathtaking thrill for road trippers. The bridge offers magnificent panoramic views of the surrounding waters and is an integral part of the Prince Edward Island travel experience.

The Links at Crowbush Cove

Considered by many to be among the best golf courses on Prince Edward Island, the Links at Crowbush Cove is a must-visit place on the island for golf lovers. Located on the north shore of the island, the Links at Crowbush Cove were designed by renowned architect Thomas McBroom. It features a championship course that seamlessly integrates into the island’s gorgeous landscapes.

With challenging but rewarding play, the course winds through rolling dunes, lush fairways, and dramatic coastal scenery with meticulously crafted holes. This is a golfer’s paradise.

Point Prim Lighthouse

Among the incredible list of lighthouses on Prince Edward Island, Point Prim Lighthouse in the south of the province stands as a favourite.

Beckoning visitors with breathtaking shorelines, this historic lighthouse dates back to 1845. The Point Prim Lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse in the province. Its unique square tapered red brick design makes it a PEI icon. Visitors can even climb the spiral staircase to the top for rewarding views of the surrounding bays and the Point Prim peninsula.

Cape Bear Lighthouse

Built in 1881 on Prince Edward Island’s southeast coast, Cape Bear Lighthouse is one of the island’s longest continually-running lighthouses.

With a light that can be seen for up to 22 kilometres and offering amazing views of the Northumberland Strait and the coasts of Nova Scotia , this beautiful lighthouse is a must-stop for those travelling in PEI.

Visitors can climb to the lantern room of Cape Bear Lighthouse and learn about the station’s unique connection to the Titanic, which sank east of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The lighthouse’s role in guiding ships through the treacherous waters of the Northumberland Strait is iconic.

Enjoy a visit to the gift shop for local handicrafts and enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the island’s most beautiful stops. While you’re visiting, consider joining in on one of the island’s premier culinary celebrations, the Fireworks Feast at Inn at Bay Fortune .

Canadian Potato Museum

One of the kitschiest places to visit on Prince Edward Island involves a giant potato and a vital link to the island’s agricultural heritage.

The Canadian Potato Museum in O’Leary is one of the most unique and engaging attractions in PEI. The museum celebrates the island’s agricultural heritage. At its heart is the humble potato. The museum showcases an extensive collection of exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays highlighting the history and modernization of potato farming, one of the principal crops of Prince Edward Island.

Whether you’re a big fan of Stompin’ Tom Connors ‘ iconic hit “Bud the Spud,” or you’re simply looking to connect with the culture of the island through one its most vital industries, the Canadian Potato Museum is one of the best places to visit in PEI.

Acadian Museum

The Acadian history of Canada’s maritime provinces offers a look back to one of the most challenging periods in the country’s history. The Acadian Museum in Miscouche is an essential stop for those looking to understand more about the French and Acadian cultures of early Canada, especially how it affected those on Prince Edward Island.

The museum is dedicated to preserving and celebrating Acadian Culture. This culture originated when France first settled on the Maritime shores. The resulting culture was eventually dispersed when the colony was taken over by the British. Many Acadians were forced overseas, imprisoned, or left to settle in regions further south, such as Lafayette, Louisiana .

Visitors can explore a rich tapestry of displays showcasing daily life, music, art, food, and the challenges faced by the Acadian people. It offers a profound view of their enduring legacy.

Are You Ready To Explore Prince Edward Island For Yourself?

Prince Edward Island, with its vast beaches, quilt work of lush farmland, and romantic lighthouses, is one of the most unforgettable places to visit in Canada . From the historic streets of Charlottetown to the majestic coastlines of Cavendish, these places to visit in Prince Edward Island will inspire even more travel to the province.

Read some of the fascinating Prince Edward Island facts before you go so you’ll have an even better understanding of the history, culture, and magic of one of the country’s maritime wonders.

Do you have a favourite attraction or restaurant in Canada? Head over to the  We Explore Canada Facebook Community  and join the conversation! You’ll find an amazing group of people in Canada who are passionate about travel and love to share their local secrets.

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Kevin Wagar is a founder and editor of We Explore Canada. He has been working in the travel media industry since 2015 when he founded his family travel website Wandering Wagars – Adventure Family Travel . Over the years Kevin has developed a deep love for his home country and aims to showcase the incredible experiences and amazing small businesses found within it.

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Prince Edward, Countess of Wessex begin visit to Canada

OTTAWA -- Prince Edward and his wife Sophie, Countess of Wessex, land in Canada today to kick off a seven-day visit.

Their trip is billed as a working visit which includes stops in Ontario and the Arctic.

The Queen's youngest son and his wife have visited Canada many times, but this will be their first trip to the North.

Their visit begins in Ottawa and will include stops in Iqaluit and the Ontario cities of Trenton, Toronto, Hamilton, St. Catharines and Midland.

The couple serve as colonels-in-chief to a number of Canadian Forces regiments and are patrons of a number of Canadian charitable and community organizations.

Tonight, they will address members of the Royal Victorian Order Association of Canada during a reception at Rideau Hall. The order rewards extraordinary, important or personal services performed for the sovereign or the royal family.

On Wednesday, the royal pair will tour the Canadian War Museum and visit the RCMP Musical Ride Centre in Ottawa. They fly to Iqaluit on Thursday.

This is Prince Edward's 33rd visit to Canada and his wife's ninth.

Britain's Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex, right and his wife, Sophie, Countess of Wessex arrive at a central London hotel for a pre-royal wedding dinner hosted by Lady Elizabeth Anson and attended by members of the British royal family and foreign royal families, in London, Thursday, April, 28, 2011. (AP / Alastair Grant)

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The sun is shining, the waves are crashing, and the sound of music fills the air. This can only mean one thing – the Cavendish Beach Music Festival is in full swing. Each summer, this PEI staple event takes over the shores of Prince Edward Island, bringing together music lovers…

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Connecting provinces and people since 1941.

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Past Royal Tours

Members of the Royal Family have made several official and personal tours of Canada over the years, further strengthening the bond between the Crown and Canada.

2022 Royal Tour

The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall visited Canada from May 17 to 19, 2022 to mark Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee.

Private and official tours since 1953

History buffs will enjoy going back in time for a look at past monarchs who toured Canada from 1786 to 1951 .

Throughout her 70-year reign, The Queen made 22 official tours of Canada, more than any other Commonwealth country. She made her first tour as Princess Elizabeth in 1951 with her husband, The Duke of Edinburgh. She travelled to all regions of the country and was a constant presence in the lives of Canadians, witnessing growth and significant change in Canadian society.

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The Best Things to Do in Canada

The BEST Things To Do in Prince Edward Island

October 23, 2021 By Matthew G. Bailey 85 Comments

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Updated: October 23rd, 2021

With a beautiful coastline and stunning red sand, Prince Edward Island has become a popular Canadian Maritime destination. It’s small and picturesque, unique in its history, and home to an incredible cuisine with some of the freshest seafood available anywhere in the world. Whether you’re looking to eat fresh mussels right next to the sea, learn about Canada’s history, get outdoors for some hiking, or go on a fun and scenic coastal road trip, Prince Edward Island should be on your Canadian bucket list.

PEI is also the smallest province in Canada, and so unlike our other provincial travel guides, we’ll focus on the entire province rather than splitting it out into different regions. After all, you can drive the entire length of the island in less than three hours. It is, however, sandwiched in-between other Atlantic provinces as well, such as New Brunswick , Nova Scotia , and Newfoundland , so if you have more time, you can always extend your trip and truly take in the splendour of Atlantic Canada.

To learn more about Prince Edward Island, including what to do, where to go, and how to get there, this travel guide is for you!

Table of Contents

Getting to Prince Edward Island

There’s a variety of ways for getting to Prince Edward Island, including driving across the Confederation Bridge from New Brunswick, taking the ferry from Nova Scotia, or flying into Charlottetown.

Getting to PEI by Plane

If you’re flying into Prince Edward Island, then you’re going to be flying into their capital city of Charlottetown. It’s serviced by Air Canada, Westjet, and some other smaller airlines. Air Canada offers the most flights to Charlottetown from Halifax, Montreal, Ottawa, Calgary, and Toronto on a year-round basis with additional capacity during the peak summer months. Westjet, as mentioned, is another option, followed by Flair Airlines (from Toronto only), Atlantic Charters, and Maritime Air Charters.

For more information about flying to PEI, please visit the Charlottetown Airport’s website .

Getting to PEI by Car

If you’re driving to Prince Edward Island, you’ll either have to cross the incredible Confederation Bridge or take the ferry from Caribou, Nova Scotia.

If you’re taking the bridge, you’ll be coming from New Brunswick. The Confederation Bridge is a 13-kilometre engineering marvel that takes approximately 10 minutes to get across. There is a toll for the bridge (approximately $50) but it’s only collected when you leave the island. If you don’t have a car, a shuttle service is available for pedestrians and cyclists arriving via ferry.

If you’re up for a scenic road trip, PEI is not only small but due to the location of the ferry and the bridge, it actually makes for a great circuit tour, as you could arrive via ferry in Wood Islands on the Points East Coastal Drive and loop your way into Charlottetown, then drive up to the central Red Sands Shore and Green Gables Shore, and finally complete the drive with the North Cape Coastal Drive in the west, leaving via the Confederation Bridge. You could also do it in reverse order.

Northumberland Ferries : Departing from Caribou, Nova Scotia, and Wood Islands, Prince Edward Island, the 75-minute car ferry trip offers a scenic way to arrive on PEI. Walk or drive aboard the vessels, enjoy the views, and have lunch at the relatively new Salt Water Café. Another cool little place we visited before departing PEI on the ferry was visiting Point Prim Lighthouse, which is the oldest lighthouse on the island.

Getting to PEI by Bus

For those keen on arriving via bus, Maritime Bus offers daily bus service between Charlottetown, Summerside and Borden-Carleton and over 40 locations across the Maritimes, with connections to Central and Western Canada. There’s also a number of companies offering shuttle services by van to and from Charlottetown (and selected other Island locations) to/from Halifax. These companies operate from various locations and on different schedules; contact each for details about their specific services.

There’s no train going to PEI but you could travel by train as far as Moncton, New Brunswick or Halifax, Nova Scotia, and continue on to Prince Edward Island by bus or rental car. VIA Rail and Amtrak (via Montréal) offer services that connect to Moncton, New Brunswick.

Getting to PEI by Cruise Ship

As a seaside location, another option for visiting PEI is to come by boat. A number of major cruise lines stop in the port of Charlottetown each year, as it’s a popular stop on Canada/New England cruise itineraries.

As you can see, there are many ways to arrive in PEI, but the most important thing is that you get there and see it for yourself!

Getting around PEI

Prince Edward Island is not the easiest place to get around if you don’t have a car. In Charlottetown, you’ll certainly find taxis and public buses, but outside of Charlottetown, it gets harder. There are some buses and shuttles going to other “major” centres, but if you’re really wanting to explore the island to its full extent, you’ll either need a car or you’ll need to join a big tour. Another popular option is cycling.

Best Time to Visit PEI

Without a doubt, the best time to visit Prince Edward Island is during the summer months between June and September. Other potential visits could occur in the late spring or early fall but during the winter, most things close down. Generally speaking, the winter in Canada is a fun time to explore this country, but due to its size, PEI is not a great place to explore in the winter as many attractions and hotels close down.

Road to 150 – Prince Edward Island

Back in 2017, we did a 150-day road trip across Canada to make a 12-part travel video series about each and every province. Prince Edwards Island was our third stop, after both Newfoundland and Nova Scotia. We started our trip by staying in Cavendish, which is home to Green Gables Historical Place and the starting point of Prince Edward Island National Park. Next, we went to Bay Fortune for an incredible feast before completing our adventure in the city of Charlottetown. There was no way for us to experience everything the island has to offer but we did experience enough to make some recommendations.

We had only five nights to explore and I truly wish we had the whole summer. Gorgeous sandy beaches, lovely people, and incredibly delicious food make this province a wonderful place to visit. It was also interesting to learn about Canada’s confederation, which fit perfectly into our series, which was inspired by Canada’s 150th birthday. The province is also home to an incredible food scene and is the perfect place for any passionate foodie. We had no idea about the love of food on the island but it didn’t take long for us to figure it out. From cooking lessons at the Table to one-of-a-kind experiences by the famous Canadian Chef, Michael Smith, our days were filled with tasty local delights.

Things to Do in PEI

Since Prince Edward Island is quite small, we’re going to start by recommending things to do in Charlottetown, followed by other things to do across the island. Since there’s no other major centre and since you can drive across the entire island in less than three hours, we won’t separate it out by region. If you have any recommendations, let us know!

Confederation Centre of the Arts and Walking Tours

One of our top memories from Charlottetown was our time with Confederation Players Walking Tours . They dress up in period clothing and act as characters from the days of Canada’s confederation. This allows for some great photo opportunities but also makes Canada’s history much more real and interesting. This is a great tour for your first day in Charlottetown as it’ll really make it come to life.

Aside from the walking tours though, the Confederation Centre of the Arts occupies an entire block and is perfect for those interested in the cultural and performing arts. The center is dedicated to showcasing works of art created by Canadians, and it also serves as the country’s official memorial to the Fathers of Confederation. Some of the highlights include a realistic replica of the original Confederation Chamber, an art gallery full of both historical artifacts and contemporary artwork, and five theatres that regularly hold live performances.

Wondering what show to watch while in town? If playing, we recommend watching Anne of Green Gables – The Musical. We’ll talk about the VERY popular Anne of Green Gables Historic Site below, but until then, why not enjoy a musical at the lovely Confederation Centre of the Arts mentioned above? This show is very popular and tells the beloved story of Anne and her adoptive parents, who have captured the hearts of readers worldwide for the past 53 years and counting.

Historic Charlottetown

As the province’s capital city, Historic Charlottetown is full of historic buildings and landmark sites. You can explore the streets on foot, by car, or by bicycle, but another unique experience is to take a carriage ride through the side streets of the historic city center. One of the most popular areas is Victoria Row, which is closed to car traffic during the summer and offers an excellent array of shops and restaurants. If you take the walking tour we mentioned above, it will include historic Charlottetown. If not, simply grab a map from the visitor centre and do your own tour.

Beaconsfield Historic House

Designed and constructed by architect W.C. Harris, the Beaconsfield Historic House dates back to 1877 and is one of the most elegant historic homes in Charlottetown. The home still retains many of its original features, including certain conveniences that were seen as cutting-edge technology back in the day. Visitors can enjoy a guided tour, as well as occasional lectures and concerts. Hours of operation vary according to the season, but the museum is open all year round and the staff is happy to arrange tours by appointment outside of opening hours.

Government House

A national historic site of Canada, the Government House was built in 1834 as the official residence for the Lieutenant Governors of Prince Edward Island. The white wooden shingled building has a commanding view of Charlottetown Harbour and is surrounded by spacious lawns, tree-lined walks, and formal gardens. It’s a beautiful site to see and tours are available at select times.

St. Dunstan’s Basilica Cathedral

For those into beautiful cathedrals, this is one you don’t want to miss. St. Dunstan’s Cathedral Basilica is a stone French Gothic church built in 1913 from the remains of the cathedral that had been damaged by a fire that year. St. Dunstan’s is the fourth church on the site and one of the most visible landmarks in Charlottetown with its spires being some of the highest points on the City skyline. It is the only Roman Catholic cathedral and basilica in the province and one of the most elaborate churches in the Maritimes.

Saga Sailing Adventures

As they say, “When in Rome”. In this case, you’re in PEI, which means you should probably get out in a boat and enjoy the beautiful coastal waters! Based out of the Charlottetown Harbour, Saga Sailing Adventures offers a variety of tours onboard their 36-foot sloop known as Saga. You can kick back and enjoy the scenery or enjoy the opportunity to help adjust the sails or even take the helm. During the busy season, the cruises take place three times a day in the morning, afternoon, and evening, but charter tours can be arranged for almost any time of day. The boat has a maximum capacity of 12 people, and catering is available for special events.

Island Boat Adventures

Another option for getting out on the water is with Island Boat Adventures. Operating out of Charlottetown Harbour, Island Boat Adventures offers the chance to board their 42-foot Fundy Cruiser, which has space for up to 40 passengers. Guests can choose from a wide range of tours including lobster dinner cruises, deep-sea fishing tours, clam digging experiences, and seal watching tours. Each trip takes between 2 and 3 hours, and the boat is equipped with washroom facilities.

Green Gables Historical Place

One of the reasons Prince Edward Island is famous is because of the novel Anne of Green Gables. Written by Lucy Maud Montgomery back in 1908, the area that is now Green Gables Historical Place was the actual place that inspired the story. You’ll get to walk inside the “fictional” house as described in the book, learn about the history of the author, and see other areas featured in the book. For lovers of the story, this is a historical site you cannot miss. Guided tours and interpretive programs are offered from July 1st until Labour Day, and the site is closed during the winter season.

Lucy Maud Montgomery Cavendish Home

Right next to Anne of Green Gables Historic Site is the Lucy Maud Montgomery Cavendish Home , which has been designated a National Historic Site. Why? This is where the Anne of Green Gables author spent the first 37 years of her life. Although the house and farm buildings are no longer standing, there are a number of placards to be found around the site, offering quotes and pictures to help visitors gain a better understanding of the author’s life and works. An on-site museum displays original artifacts from the homestead such as lamps and photos, and visitors can purchase stamped copies of their favourite Anne of Green Gables books in the bookstore.

Anne of Green Gables Museum at Silver Bush

If you still haven’t had enough Anne of Green Gables, consider driving 20 minutes to the Anne of Green Gables Museum at Silver Bush, which is dedicated to the life and works of L. M. Montgomery, the author of Anne of Green Gables. Located on the homestead that was built by the author’s aunt and uncle in 1872, the charming home inspired Montgomery to write her famous novels and actually served as the setting for the novel Anne’s Lake of Shining Waters. The cottage houses a unique collection of memorabilia as well as beautiful gardens that you can walk around or admire via a carriage ride around the 110-acre property.

Avonlea Village

Avonlea is the fictitious name that Lucy Maud Montgomery gave Cavendish in her famous novel, Anne of Green Gables. The Village consists of purpose-built structures combined with heritage ones as a way to re-create the fictional 19th-century hometown of the loveable heroine, Anne Shirley. For lovers of the novel, this is obviously a place not to miss, but even if you don’t know about the novels, Avonlea Village offers an experience in genuine Island hospitality showcasing delicious food and quaint shopping.

Cavendish Beach Music Festival

Summer in Canada is all about festivals and If you find yourself in PEI in early July, don’t miss the opportunity to join tens of thousands of country music fans for the island’s annual Cavendish Beach Music Festival! This concert has hosted some of the biggest names in country music over the years, including Taylor Swift, Tim McGraw, Kenny Chesney, and Little Big Town.

Cavendish Beach

With some of Canada’s best beaches, PEI is a great place to soak it all in. Spend a day filled with sun, sand, and sea at the island’s most popular beach. White sand, clear water, and views of the island’s signature red sandstone cliffs are just some of the reasons that make this is one of the best beaches in the whole country.

Prince Edward Island National Park

Parks Canada does a great job of managing some of the best natural areas around the country and Prince Edward Island National Park is no exception. From white sand to red sand, we loved the array of beaches found all over the island. Established in 1937 to protect a wide range of animals as well as beaches, sand dunes, wetlands, and salt marshes, this national park is a must-visit for those wanting to see the uniqueness of Prince Edward Island’s natural beauty.

5/15 Fermentation Trail

During our most recent trip to PEI, we decided to do the new 5/15 Fermentation Trail, which is basically a self-guided road trip visiting a variety of local alcohol producers. It’s called 5/15 because the trail starts approximately 5 minutes from Charlottetown and features 5 producers, each of which is about 15 minutes apart. Each visit is different as the tour includes beer, wine, cider, spirits, and mead. Obviously, you won’t want to drink too much as the tour requires driving (or convincing someone to be the designated driver) but it’s a really cool way to sample different alcohol, meet the producers, and see different landscapes. Plus, you can pick up a Fermentation Trail Passport at the first stop, get a stamp from each producer, and then be entered to win a $150 gift card. Of all five producers, our personal favorites were Island Honey Wine Company and Deep Roots Distillery.

The Table Culinary Studio

This was our first activity on the island during our 150-day road trip across Canada and one that we’ll never forget. From baked beans to Fiddleheads, we learned how to cook local meals from 150 years ago to celebrate Canada’s 150th. We baked our own biscuits, stuffed our own mock duck, and prepared an incredibly delicious sticky date pudding. We did all of this with our own hands, as machines wouldn’t have been used back in the day. However, this is just one of the many styles of cooking classes you can take at The Table Culinary Studio . The property is beautiful, the owners are great, and this is one tasty activity that we highly recommend.

If you’re looking to experience genuine P.E.I farm life, Chore-Time should be on your bucket list. This unique, hands-on attraction and farm is home to animals like sheep, pigs, chickens, and rabbits that live outdoors in the pastures, all of which you can have the opportunity to feed and move their pens around. If you’re keen on visiting, it’s advisable to make bookings at least a day in advance and to wear clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty.

Orwell Corner Historic Village

Located on the drive between Charlottetown and the ferry to Nova Scotia, the Orwell Corner Historic Village is a great stop for those looking for a “living museum”. The village is a fascinating recreation of a 19th-century farming community with a working blacksmith shop, an old schoolhouse complete with a bonneted school teacher, and the opportunity to interact with real farm animals. Daily programs such as candle-making lessons and ice-cream-making classes are offered during the busy summer months of July and August, and visitors are welcome to stop by the tea room to sample a delicious treat or two.

Acadian Museum

Another great museum on the island is the Acadian Museum, which was opened in 1954. The museum is full of treasures and artifacts that tell the story of the Acadians of P.E.I. The permanent exhibits walk visitors through Acadian history from 1720 until the present day, while temporary exhibits cover various aspects of Acadian life throughout the years. In addition, you’ll also find a gift shop, a research center, and the lovely outdoor Heritage Trail, which is a great place to take a walk.

Basin Head Provincial Park

If you make your way to the easternmost tip of Prince Edward Island, you don’t want to miss Basin Head Provincial Park , which is located just off Route 16. It’s known for many things, one of which is its “singing sands”, which squeak when you walk on them. It’s also home to beautiful white sand beaches, warm water (during the summer months), and amenities such as a public washroom with showers, a children’s play area, and a canteen.

Fiddling Fisherman

An adventure around Prince Edward Island just wouldn’t be complete without spending some time on the water, and the Fiddling Fisherman provides an awesome opportunity to learn about the province’s traditional music and fishing industry while sailing next to the island’s signature red cliffs. Captain J. J. Chaisson is a world-class entertainer and multi-instrumentalist, and visitors who hop on his lobster fishing boat Chaisson A Dream will be given a true taste of P.E.I. culture. Guests can choose between a musical tour with song and dance and/or a special lobster dinner.

Tranquillity Cove Adventures

For more adventures on the water, Tranquility Cove Adventures offers everything from deep-sea fishing tours to starfish hunting trips. Fishing tours come with the opportunity to spot seals and other wildlife, and most tours feature the option to have your fish barbecued right on board the boat for an unforgettable meal. Private charters and customized tours are available upon request, including 4-hour wedding packages. For those who just don’t want the adventure to end, a beachside suite is available for anyone wanting to spend the night on the waterfront.

Port-la-Joye–Fort Amherst

After being founded by the French in 1720 as one of the first Acadian settlements in the country, Port-la-Joye–Fort Amherst served as the island’s first military fortification under both the control of France and Britain. Because of its rich history, the site was designated a National Historic Monument in 1958 and now offers visitors an incredible glimpse into the island’s early European history. The ruins of the fort are still visible, and interpretative panels can be found throughout the site. Visitors are also free to stroll around the well-maintained grounds, which offer excellent views of the surrounding farmland and the Charlottetown Harbour.

Frolic Fricot and Fiddles

Music and food are two things you really shouldn’t miss when in PEI, so why not combine the two with Frolic Fricot and Fiddles, which offers a unique experience that combines cooking classes with top-notch fiddle playing. A traditionally dressed Acadian Islander will demonstrate how to make traditional dishes like a hearty chicken soup known as fricot and a tasty fruit pastry called poutine à trou that guests will have a chance to make themselves. After a delicious lunch, guests are then given the opportunity to explore the village and watch performances of fiddle playing and step dancing. Reservations are required.

Weaving with Wood

Weaving with Wood is a program offered by the Island Traditions Store, a business dedicated to preserving and sharing the traditional art of ash splint basket-making. Making baskets from ash splint takes practice and dedication, so the basic workshop gives guests the opportunity to weave a basket out of reeds from the local marshes and decorate it with your choice of bark from the island’s forests. All courses are taught by professional basket makers, and the on-site store sells works by some of the most accomplished artisans in the province. For anyone into arts and crafts, this is an experience not to be missed!

West Point Lighthouse Museum

While the museum itself boasts one of the most extensive collections of lighthouse memorabilia on the island, the real gem is having the opportunity to spend the night! The four-star hotel located inside the beautiful 69-foot lighthouse offers 13 rooms, all of which offer breathtaking views of the Northumberland Strait. Some rooms also feature walk-out decks, and two rooms are located in an exclusive section of the West Point Lighthouse Museum . Spend the night, enjoy the views, and learn all about lighthouses! We actually returned here in 2021 and spent the night inside the actual lighthouse. We stayed in the Tower Room, which is the actual guestroom that would have been used for visitors over the last 100 years. It was a cool experience. However, if we return, I think we would opt for the newly-built rooms because they have balconies facing the water.

Canadian Potato Museum & Antique Farm Machinery Museum

You know potatoes are an important part of the local culture when they create an entire museum dedicated to them! The Canadian Potato Museum & Antique Farm Machinery Museum stands as a unique testament to this incredible food and the farmers who have grown it throughout history. First, you’ll be greeted by the world’s largest potato sculpture, and then you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the history and the culture of the potato through an excellent collection of displays. Tours are available if reserved in advance, and visitors are invited to try a bite of potato fudge or another delicious potato dish at the on-site restaurant.

Fall Flavours Festival

If you love food and happen to be visiting Prince Edward Island in September, you may want to check out the lineup for the Fall Flavours Festival , which brings in both local and national chefs to create delicious food experiences all across the island. During our visit, we attended Savour Victoria in Victoria-by-the-Sea, an event that brought in Food Network celebrity chef and celebrated cookbook author, Chef Lynn Crawford to help create the menu. In addition to the food, there was a short walking tour with different Eau D’oeuvres, live music, and more.

For those into driving the ball, Prince Edward Island has established itself as one of the premier golf destinations in Canada, and golfers have ample options all over the island. Some of the most popular golf courses include Cowbush Cove, Dundarave, and Mill River.

PEI Road Trips and Trails

Another thing Prince Edward Island is known for is its road trips and trail networks. Below are some of the best.

Central Coastal Drive

Perhaps the most popular drive of them all is the 253-kilometre road trip that begins in Charlottetown and loops around the central region of the province, allowing visitors to explore everything from the sandstone cliffs and rolling pastures of the southern Red Sands Shore to the beautiful beaches and walking trails along the Green Gables Shore. It’s possible to do the entire drive in one day, but visitors who have more time can easily spend several days visiting the many attractions along the road. Don’t forget to indulge in some fresh seafood along the way!

North Cape Coastal Drive

The North Cape Coast Scenic Drive is another fantastic road trip experience that should not be missed. The 350-kilometre road winds its way along the island’s stunning west coast, passing through tiny traditional fishing villages and alongside acres of fields filled with gorgeous red soil. Although the drive was named after the North Cape, the westernmost tip of the island, the beginning of the road starts just 20 minutes away from the Confederation Bridge in the lovely town of Summerside.

Points East Coastal Drive

While the North Cape Coastal Drive focuses on the eastern part of the island and the Central Coastal Drive focuses on the middle portion, the Points East Coastal Drive focuses on the easternmost portion of Prince Edward Island, giving you an insiders look at Island life. It’s considered a peaceful drive but is also chock full of adventures, including a variety of towns, 50 beaches, 13 golf courses 6 lighthouses, 34 historical and cultural attractions, 12 provincial parks, a plethora of restaurants, 6 scenic HEritage Roads, and a national park. The drive could be done in a day, but with so many things to do, you’ll want more time to really soak it all in.

Confederation Trail

Stretching 435 kilometres across the entire province, the Confederation Trail was built along the rail tracks after the P.E.I. railway was abandoned in 1989. During the summer, it’s now a popular trail for walkers, runners, and cyclists as well as a popular snowmobile trail during the winter. The trail is also a prime destination for geocaching enthusiasts with more than 1,600 geocaching sites hidden along the route. The trail is practically flat the entire way, making it suitable for people of most ages and fitness levels, and a selection of accommodation, food outlets, and other services can be found along the trail.

Art & Heritage Trail

Prince Edward Island is full of unique cultural attractions, and the Art & Heritage Trail is one of the best possible ways to experience and understand the island’s culture for yourself. The trail showcases the significant importance of the Island’s culture and will enable both visitors and residents to design customized itineraries for their ideal vacation. Choose from a wide variety of attractions, including artisan studios, museums and historic sites, art galleries, historic architecture and buildings, hands-on experiences, and performing art venues that offer both live music and theatre performances. Both physical and electronic copies of the trail guide are available on the Arts & Heritage website .

Confederation Bridge

If you’re driving to Prince Edward Island, then you’re either taking the ferry from Nova Scotia or driving across the Confederation Bridge, which at 12.9 kilometres (8 miles) in length, is the longest bridge in the world crossing ice-covered water, and is one of Canada’s top engineering achievements of the 20th century. It’s quite the thing to see and so we highly recommend driving over it if you can!

Where to Eat – PEI Restaurants

Besides red sandy beaches and Anne of Green Gables, PEI is known for its delicious food. There’s no way we could write about all of them, but we do want to mention some of our favourites.

The Inn at Bay Fortune and FireWorks Restaurant

I am so happy that we found this place. Not only is it an incredible place to spend the night but it’s also home to the FireWorks Restaurant , which was created by Chef Michael Smith and his wife. For those who don’t know Chef Michael, he is the host of Chef Michael’s Kitchen, Chef at Home, and Chef Abroad, which are seen on Food Network Canada and in more than 100 countries worldwide. We knew the food was going to be exquisite but we never imagined how cool the actual experience was going to be. “The Feast” is a 5-hour event, which starts with a variety of food stations spread out around the property. We tried fresh oysters with bloody mary crushed ice, as well as tacos with a maple spread. Once this finished, we did a toast with some Nova Scotian sparkling wine and then began the incredible 5-course dinner. Every single ingredient is grown on the property and everything is cooked by fire! Everything! No stove, no dials…just fire! Then you eat communal style, which allows you to meet people from all over the world. It was an incredible experience, and as a bonus, we got to meet Chef Michael. Unforgettable and Highly recommended!

Bonus: Although quite expensive, you do have the option of staying the night, which includes a very delicious breakfast.

Blue Mussel Café

This Blue Mussel Cafe is located right next to the North Rustico harbour. As you can imagine, you’ll find fresh delicious beer and mussels as well as many other varieties of fresh seafood. We had a delicious pan-fried haddock dinner followed by their in-house Chocolate potato cake, which as you might guess, is made with potato. It sounds strange but it turns out that the potato makes the cake fluffier and boy was it good. We even met some new friends on the balcony and watched birds capture fish in the nearby harbour. Whether you’re looking for seafood chowder, lobster, fish, or mussels, this is the place to go!

Slaymaker & Nichols Gastro House

Created by the same team behind Blue Mussel, this new, delicious, and upscale restaurant is located in the heart of Charlottetown. They feature creative meals made with local ingredients in one of the coolest settings in town. We ended up eating here three times, trying a variety of dishes such as their Seared Halibut with Jalapeno Crema, Summer Linguini with Hazelnut Pesto, and their PEI Blue Dot Sirloin. In addition to the amazing food, they also have one of the best cocktail bars in the city, something we always love to see. But perhaps even cooler than the restaurant is their three-bedroom Inn, which is located on the top floor. We’ll talk about that in our “Where to Stay” section but it’s one of the coolest rooms we’ve ever stayed in, anywhere.

Founders’ Food Hall & Market

Another great low-key place to find some food is the newly opened Founders’ Food Hall & Market, which blends together a taste of urban and rural flavours from sea and farm. It’s located near the waterfront and offers a variety of different food vendors and artisans selling everything from hot sauce to hand-made goods. The facility is quite huge and is licensed so you can easily buy food from different vendors and sit down with a beer. We decided to take a break from meat and opted for a vegan burger from Lil’ Darlings, which was actually quite delicious.

Ice Cream from Cows Creamery

Rated as one of the top 10 best ice creams in the world by Reader’s Digest, you can’t come to the island without trying some of the ice creams from Cows Creamery. We recommend eating the ice cream off of one of their freshly made waffle cones. For those into souvenirs, they have quite the gift shop as well. As an added bonus, you’ll find Cows Creamery all over the island. We tried it in Charlottetown.

Where to Stay in PEI

Prince Edward Island is a popular place to visit and there are all sorts of places to stay across the island, including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and even lighthouses.

Slaymaker and Nichols

If the name sounds familiar, it’s probably because you read about them in this article as they have one of the top restaurants in Charlottetown. Well, they also offer some of the coolest guestrooms we’ve ever seen. Located on the top floor of the restaurant, all three guestrooms are exquisitely designed with a sort of old-fashion Equestrian-Style decor that is timeless, traditional, and classic. Everything from the paint to the pillows to the stunning gold-trim bathrooms is a work of art. Each room even has a record player with a selection of records ranging from The Beatles to the Tragically Hip. We had the opportunity of staying in both the General Scott Guestroom and in the Mlle Caroline Guestroom , both of which are throwbacks to the Slaymaker and Nichols Circus that stole the spotlight away from the Fathers of Confederation when they met in PEI more than a century ago. The Mlle Caroline is the largest of the three (and has the coolest bathtub) but the General Scott does have a balcony. Included in the rate is a breakfast Charcuterie Board with French-Pressed coffee or tea.

The Great George Hotel

If you’re looking for a luxurious stay that actually adds to your experience of the island, the Great George Hotel is a perfect place to rest your head in Charlottetown. Not only is it Atlantic Canada’s Premiere Experiential Hotel, but it’s also the hotel where some of the delegates stayed during the birth of Canada’s confederation. Each day at 4:00 PM, the staff give a Historical Walking Tour and on weekday evenings, there’s a free beer and wine tasting event. Our hotel “room” was basically an entire loft-style apartment and one of the nicest places we’ve ever stayed. We had a jacuzzi tub, a stand-up rain shower, in-suite laundry, and a full kitchen. Oh, and there are endless amounts of fresh chocolate chip cookies. Need I say more?

Cavendish Maple Cottages

I really can’t imagine a better place to stay in Cavendish. Whether you’re travelling with your partner, friends, or your whole family, these cottages are perfect. Nestled amongst trees, open fields, and farms, this is a good place to relax and enjoy the PEI vibe. The cottages also have full kitchens, which is helpful for those wanting to save money on food. They also come with a fireplace, flatscreen TV, and a jacuzzi. There’s also a heated pool and hot tub on-site, as well as soccer nets and a playground for the kids. I really can’t stress enough how lovely these cottages are. They’re also a 2-minute drive from Green Gables Historical place!

West Point Lighthouse

There are not many places in the world where you can stay in a lighthouse, so this place is quite unique. We stayed in the Tower Room during our visit, which is the only room that’s in the tower itself. In fact, it’s the same room that would have been offered to guests during the time when it was operated by a lightkeeper. Another unique room is the Keepers Room, which is where the actual lightkeeper and his family would have stayed. However, they’ve now built 13 rooms with balconies that face the water. The people are so friendly and it’s such a special place to stay, not only because of the lighthouse and museum but also because of the views and the beach. The Tower Room and Keepers Room are the most popular rooms simply due to their uniqueness but the views are much better from the newer rooms with balconies. Included in your stay is a light breakfast with things such as toast, cereal, yogurt, and sliced cheese.

The Orient Hotel

If you happen to find yourself in the charming little town of Victoria-by-the-Sea, then we can highly recommend staying at the historic Orient Hotel. Established in 1900, this historic summer hotel now operates as a bed & breakfast featuring seven guest rooms & suites with water views and private baths.

Nature Space Resort & Retreat Centre

During our recent visit to PEI, we were scheduled to stay here but a family emergency popped up and we had to cancel our visit to Nature Space Resort . However, it’s high on our PEI Bucket List for the next time we come because where else in Canada can you stay in a REAL Mongolian Yurt? Yes, they actually imported all the materials from Mongolia! But in addition to the cool accommodation options, they also offer a number of activities ranging from yoga, kayaking, and more.

PEI Tourism and What to Do Next

We’ve been to Prince Edward Island a number of times now, often spending 5-7 days on the island and wishing we had even more time. Canada is not usually thought of as a beach country, but PEI may just change that. From red and white sandy beaches to rolling sand dunes, history, and delicious cuisine, Prince Edward Island is one of the top summer destinations in Canada.

Wondering what to do next? There are many things to do around Prince Edward Island, so here are some articles to get you started!

• Things to Do in New Brunswick
• Things to Do in Nova Scotia
• Things to Do in Newfoundland
• Things to Do in Quebec
• Newfoundland’s Viking Trail
• Things to Do in Halifax

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About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

Reader Interactions

April 4, 2021 at 2:48 pm

Beautiful PEI.

May 12, 2022 at 7:45 pm

My hometown PEI I love it. It is so beautiful.

May 23, 2022 at 5:51 am

Great article. I am taking my 7 year old daughter there this Summer for the first time.

It’s been years since I went, so it helped remind me of all the great things to see and do

August 26, 2022 at 7:47 pm

I’d love to visit someday!!!

April 5, 2021 at 7:46 pm

Can’t wait for next year to get back home to PEI for a summer visit and swim in the ocean. <3

April 6, 2021 at 8:14 am

You definitely need to return and spend more time on our beautiful island!

April 6, 2021 at 10:51 am

Absolutely!

April 6, 2021 at 10:22 pm

I would love to visit PEI!

April 8, 2021 at 9:38 pm

My sister took me and our younger sister to PEI a few years ago and it was wonderful. It’s such a beautiful island. It’s too bad we were there about a week before all the touristy things were open for the summer season, but we did get to see all the Anne of Green Gables places. We even stayed at the “White Sands Hotel”! aka; Dalvay by the Sea. Awesome!

April 9, 2021 at 11:21 am

This article is an amazing read to highlight the places and things to do in P.E.I. I will definitely be taking notes and ideas from it, on my next adventure on the Island.

April 10, 2021 at 2:30 pm

Can’t wait to go back!

April 21, 2021 at 6:45 pm

Can’t wait to go back My mother was a Gallant from Hunter River so I like to think I have a bit of Island blood in my veins

April 25, 2021 at 10:35 pm

Would love to visit PEI someday!

May 12, 2021 at 6:38 am

May 12, 2021 at 7:03 am

Can’t to explore PEI one day!

May 12, 2021 at 9:40 am

Can not wait to go home again 2020 was the first time in my life that I didn’t make it home, hopefully I will be able to make it late summer. I meant to take my grandchildren to show them where GaGa grew up and all the wonderful places you can go and the activities there are to enjoy.

May 13, 2021 at 1:49 pm

You mentioned Cows ice cream. But there are a TON of great ice creamerys on the island. Including St Eleanor Dairy bar and Alex’s.

May 13, 2021 at 2:34 pm

Oh awesome! Where are they? Hope to eat them when we’re back 🙂

May 13, 2021 at 2:00 pm

Oh! I love PEI! So gorgeous and charming! Great article! Thanks.

May 25, 2021 at 12:27 pm

That is so wonderful, I wish I could be there now!

May 25, 2021 at 8:16 pm

Amazing! Would love to visit there sometime

May 28, 2021 at 4:12 am

Fiddling Fisherman is the best!

May 31, 2021 at 10:42 pm

Would love to visit PEI

June 9, 2021 at 1:53 pm

Looks amazing!

June 9, 2021 at 11:54 pm

I loved so many things in PEI that you also included in your article!

June 10, 2021 at 6:57 am

I have visited Prince Edward Island twice and it is so beautiful.

June 10, 2021 at 6:33 pm

Would love to go back for a visit. Such friendly people in PEI

June 11, 2021 at 5:47 am

Love the article on PEI….I have travelled there many times in the last 30 years, as I have family there. Haven’t been there in awhile, but I have done many things that are highlighted on your list. I will have to make an effort to get back to the island. I miss the red earth & all of the friendly islanders. Plus, I have a girlfriend that moved there many years ago. She always tells me to come & visit her, but have not taken the opportunity yet. Maybe, when the COVID lock downs are over…I just might do that. Thanks for all of the great articles of our lovely country. Be a tourist in your own city & a tourist across the provinces. Cheers!

June 14, 2021 at 2:45 pm

Travelling to the East coast of Canada is on my bucket list !

June 15, 2021 at 5:46 pm

I’d love to go here it’s one of the few places in canada I havent.explored yet and it looks beautiful!

August 17, 2021 at 11:20 am

We’ve never been to PEI, but it’s on my bucket list to see one day. Thx very much for all of this helpful sightseeing info & gorgeous pics.

August 22, 2021 at 10:59 am

I’ve been planning on visiting PEI for the longest time. Thank you for these tips! Looking forward to visiting very soon (hopefully). 🙂

August 24, 2021 at 3:11 pm

Great guide. Richard’s is the best for fish and chips.

November 22, 2021 at 10:06 pm

I guess I’m going to have to add Prince Edward Island to my travel list now! I love fresh seafood so much, and I know that Prince Edward Island has great oyster varieties, so I would have to try some of those if I visit. Thanks for these great travel tips.

December 6, 2021 at 5:29 pm

Hoping to travel to PEI next summer, great article.

December 6, 2021 at 8:28 pm

What beautiful photos of the island. Your article makes me want to visit on a trip to the est coast.

December 10, 2021 at 5:00 am

Great info – thanks!

December 11, 2021 at 2:16 pm

Looks very nice, I would like to visit this place with my family.

February 16, 2022 at 7:09 am

Thanks for the information. Looks forward to visiting PEI one day!

February 19, 2022 at 8:33 pm

March 10, 2022 at 12:51 pm

I grew up in PEI and your photos have made me want to be back there for the summer!

March 13, 2022 at 12:33 pm

Nowhere in the world like PEI. SO lovely.

March 13, 2022 at 8:09 pm

Can’t wait to go next summer (fingers crossed)

March 14, 2022 at 7:19 pm

The best lobster around!

March 20, 2022 at 9:53 am

Can’t wait to visit here after a cancelled 2020 trip!

March 20, 2022 at 8:17 pm

March 21, 2022 at 7:04 am

Can’t wait to come back and play some great golf course this summer.

April 2, 2022 at 9:50 pm

So much to take in.

May 4, 2022 at 10:40 pm

We traveled to PEI in 1994. Always want to go back sometime! So many beautiful places to visit in our great country!! Lots of great info here!

May 5, 2022 at 5:45 am

PEI sounds like an amazing province. I can’t wait to visit.

May 5, 2022 at 8:16 am

PEI is such a beautiful province. Thanks for highlighting all the great things to do!

May 10, 2022 at 3:43 am

Our family is planning a trip out east this summer…so glad I found your article and can’t to visit some of the places you recommend! Thanks!

May 18, 2022 at 8:11 am

Had the pleasure to visit PEI last year. Little slice of heaven. Can’t wait to go back one day.

May 19, 2022 at 6:18 am

We are so in love with PEI 😍 you need to try The fryer hut! They made a delicious deep fried pineapple! We love the go to Campbell’s cove campground… it’s a long ride from Quebec city (12 hours) but the kids love it so much! The view is so wonderful 😍

May 19, 2022 at 3:12 pm

Oh wow, that sounds delicious. Thanks for letting us know 🙂

May 19, 2022 at 11:16 am

Love PEI! Such a charming place to visit.

May 19, 2022 at 8:31 pm

Best province!

May 23, 2022 at 5:58 am

This is very helpful for our visit this summer!

May 23, 2022 at 8:37 am

Pei is an absolute gem of a place. There are so many hidden treasures. Want to go to a beach, find any random road along the shore and go!!

May 25, 2022 at 4:42 am

Loved pei! So much that I moved there 😆 Will be saving this article to show friends when they come visit!

May 26, 2022 at 3:36 am

Definitely our favourite place to travel in Canada. We come back every year!!

May 26, 2022 at 7:03 am

Been dreaming of visiting PEI with family and friends. Hopefully this year we’ll do it!

May 27, 2022 at 2:49 am

We have a. PEI vacation booked this summer. We’ll be prepared after reading this article. Thanks!

May 28, 2022 at 4:27 am

Be sure to add the new “Island Walk” (the new Canadian Camino). One of my friends took their RV and started a few days ago and is loving the Island hospitality.

May 28, 2022 at 9:09 am

would love to visit

May 28, 2022 at 4:41 pm

May 28, 2022 at 8:08 pm

Wow, great informative article! We were there last September, but now we will have to go back!

May 30, 2022 at 11:03 am

So many beautiful places in Canada to see. Thank you for showing us where to go!

May 30, 2022 at 12:04 pm

Great article on PEI !

May 30, 2022 at 1:00 pm

Looks beautiful

May 30, 2022 at 1:10 pm

All the parks and trails are hidden gems.

May 30, 2022 at 4:39 pm

Great list. We’ll be on PEI this summer.

May 31, 2022 at 3:04 pm

Can’t wait to visit nova scotia one day, thanks for the informative article

June 3, 2022 at 2:27 pm

Can’t wait to explore this summer.

June 5, 2022 at 11:02 am

I’d love to go back to PEI & see more of the island!

June 5, 2022 at 11:45 am

Love PEI! My grandparents retired there and I go every chance I can. It’s such a beautiful gem in Canada. An absolute must!

June 6, 2022 at 1:25 pm

Visit Fort Amherst – it’s a shore not to be missed.

August 24, 2022 at 10:09 am

Have always wanted to visit this part of our beautiful country, hopefully soon..

August 25, 2022 at 9:51 pm

Really great, it would be awesome to see some of these attractions

August 30, 2022 at 6:44 am

Taking my granddaughter to PEI in Oct some great information here

September 3, 2022 at 2:37 pm

I need to visit PEI sometime, what a beautiful island! Great article.

September 4, 2022 at 12:38 pm

Can’t wait to go back:)

September 9, 2022 at 7:58 pm

I’d love to go golfing in PEI !

April 4, 2023 at 10:10 pm

Excellent article about PEI. It looks lovely to visit all these places. My family and I had already visited in 2006 and 2017 via bus tour. We are planning to go back this summer 2023 as part of a road trip. However the biggest drawback is that everything has to be reserved 4-5 months in advance otherwise there is no accommodations available (of the few options are exorbitant prices!). We wanted to book into one of those cute cottages/cabins but most want at least a full week+. We’re looking forward to visit PEI.

April 5, 2023 at 10:21 am

Yes, that’s a big issue there, especially in the summer. Same with Newfoundland

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“A few days in Prince Edward County feels like hitting pause on a fast-forward life.”

Prince edward county is the ideal destination for a getaway..

You might enjoy the buzz of our small towns or the bustle of the beach, but we invite you to explore and find a corner of The County that is just for you. Whether that's the lively energy of historic Main Street or the slow and steady roll of a tractor in the vineyard, you can “do” The County your own way.

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Jordan's trip: bring the kids, natalie's trip: local bites + sights, nancy's trip: indulge + inspire, rosalie's trip: an artist’s take on visiting the county, best things to do in prince edward county, wine in the county, breweries, cideries + distilleries, dine + taste, outdoor activities, pride month, nature + shorelines, wellness + spas, arts + culture, where to stay, the perfect county stay.

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12 Terrific Things to Do in Prince Edward County, Ontario

Links in this article may earn us a little money if you book/ order stuff. More here

There are Plenty of Great Things to Do in Prince Edward County, Ontario!

Trying to find a new area of Ontario to explore? Give Prince Edward County a go! “The County” sits between Toronto and Kingston on the shores of Lake Ontario – and it’s a wonderful place to visit.

As one of Ontario’s great wine regions, Prince Edward County makes a great day trip from Toronto – but there’s more to it than just wine. “PEC” has a rich history and a laid-back identity that is no longer a well-kept secret.

It’s become a popular region in all seasons – summer is for wineries, beaches, and camping, fall for colours, and winter for the natural beauty. The small towns – like Picton and Wellington – are great to explore and/or to grab supplies.

We really enjoy our visits to the County. Because we live in nearby Kingston, it’s easy to visit on a day or weekend stay . We’ve stayed at the charming Montrose Inn (loved it) and crossed the water each day – but accommodations in The County are also plentiful.

So, to help you plan your PEC adventure, here’s our detailed guide on some of the top things to do in Prince Edward County like hiking in Sandbanks Provincial Park, wandering the “Taste Trail” for local food and drinks, and much more!

Prince Edward County Quick Guide

Best Time to Visit:  Late spring/early summer for nice weather, fall for less crowds and beautiful colours. Summer is hot, but very busy !

Getting Around:  A car is the best (and pretty much only) way to get around the County. Bike rental is good, too. Book The Taxi Guy if you plan on drinking.

Top Things to Do:  Visit Sandbanks Provincial Park , taste at local wineries / breweries , explore charming towns like Picton or Wellington.

Where to Stay:   Newsroom Suites for cozy suite-style accommodations in Wellington, Merrill House for a boutique, upscale hotel in Picton, or The Lakeside Motel for those waterfront views!

Table of Contents

Things to Do in Prince Edward County

Now that we have covered the basics like how to get around and where to stay, let’s dive into all the things to do and see in Prince Edward County. To be honest, some of the best places to visit in Ontario located here so it’s worth a wander.

As we mentioned, this is not a master list…yet. We have loved our time in The County but we know there is so much still for us to explore. In fact, we are open to suggestions if you have any.

Explore Downtown Picton

Location: 44°00’26.0″N 77°08’30.5″W

If you have never been to Prince Edward County before, a great first stop is Picton. This is the largest town in the whole region and – as mentioned above – makes a nice place to explore. It’s also a great place to stop in for beach or camping supplies .

There is loads of street parking which makes it easy to just hop out and explore. The main town area isn’t too large so you can walk the whole length from Picton Harbour to 555 Brewing Co.

As you walk the main street, there are places to check out like the historic Regent Theatre and many different shops that make for great window shopping.

We stopped into a number of places from antique stores to smaller boutique shops just to see what we could find.

That said, there are also some great places to stop in for a bite to eat, a drink, or a treat. We really liked our coffee stop at Beacon Bike & Brew (shown above).

There are some top restaurants like The County Canteen and The Acoustic Grill – but we will write up a whole restaurants post another time.

We have heard that Slickers County Ice Cream is absolutely delicious. They also have a shop in Bloomfield if you don’t make a stop in Picton.

We wonder how it compares to Kawartha Dairy – one of the other top local ice cream brands in the province! In any case, Picton is full of things to check out before continuing on your County journey.

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Visit the Wineries/Go on a Wine Tour

Address for Huff Estates (shown below): 2274 Prince Edward County Rd 1, Bloomfield, ON K0K 1G0

One of the top reasons people flock to Prince Edward County is for the wineries. The area’s unique geography, climate, and soil make it one of the best regions in the province for growing grapes.

As such, The County has a “once-small but now kind of booming” wine industry with a few larger wineries and a number of smaller, more family-run operations.

We have a whole post on wineries in Prince Edward County which details our favourites. But while you are here we can definitely recommend a few stops.

Huff Estates is known as one of the most established in the region. They have a great tasting room with an onsite restaurant/patio. The guided tour was interesting and they also have an art gallery on their grounds for you to explore.

Of course, a top wine stop is Sandbanks Estate Winery . Eric visited years ago and went back recently with Lisa and it was amazing to see the winery explode in popularity.

Their Baco Noir is really, really good if you are looking for a wine to try. You might also look to visit very small wineries in the region like Sugarbush or Trail Estate!

If you are looking to do a wine tour of Prince County – like you would do a wine tour of Niagara on the Lake – then there are a few companies that cater to this.

Some do a classic car/limo private tour for groups while others cater to guided bike tours around the region. We haven’t done a wine tour in Prince Edward County but when we do you know we will be back here to update this post on which one(s) we liked.

Sample At The Breweries And Cideries

Address for Lake on the Mountain Brewery: 11369 Loyalist Pkwy, Prince Edward, ON K0K 2T0

Aside from wineries, Prince Edward County (an Ontario, in general) has seen a renaissance of craft beer in the recent decade or two.

The County has a history of growing hops and other fruits needed for cider – such as apples, obviously. PEC makes a great stop if you are into craft beer and want to try what small-batch brewers can come up with!

We have a whole article dedicated to breweries in Prince Edward County but to give you a taste (see what we did there?) we really liked Lake on the Mountain Brewery for the beers, the free popcorn, and the nice wooded outdoor space.

We also really enjoyed our stop at Parsons Brewing Company , one of the major players in the brewery scene.

The beer was nice and the food was also really good with a buzzing atmosphere if you want to be social. Of course, there are much smaller breweries you can check out as well.

Lastly, if you are more into cider, The County Cider is responsible for creating that delicious Waupoos branded cider you see on restaurant menus in Ontario.

They also have other fruit ciders and a great tasting barn to try them all out. We liked the Pear Cider… as you can tell by the bottle we bought to take home!

Experience the Taste Trail

Loosely linked to the stops you might find above, if you are well into food and drink then you might want to make it a point to follow the Prince Edward County Taste Trail.

The Taste Trail is a designation given to restaurants, wineries, and breweries that make a significant effort to source and promote locally grown products in their dishes and drinks.

They are noted by the blue signs (shown above). They signify a nod to the area’s rich agricultural heritage and help to promote the “farm-to-table” movement that is so strong in The County!

A major stop would be Huff Estates Winery while the sign above was shot at Waupoos Estates Winery and Restaurant !

Visit Sandbanks Provincial Park

Address for Main Office/Gate: 3004 County Rd 12, Picton, ON K0K 2T0

If there is one thing Prince Edward County is known for (besides wine), it’s Sandbanks Provincial Park! This unique park in Ontario (and Canada, for that matter) is so popular/cool because of its geography. The name is also a bit of a giveaway.

Read More: Our very detailed guide on Sandbanks Provincial Park

Sandbanks is home to one of the largest – if not the largest – bay mouth barrier sand dune formation.

This is science talk for when sand and sediment gets pushed by water currents to form a long barrier/island that shields another opening of water – in this case, actually forming a new separate lake (or more) altogether!

For visitors, all you need to know is that there is lots and lots of sand to explore in the shape of large rolling dunes and along the beaches.

The area is also covered in unique marshland and woodlands that make hiking and camping possible. Overall, Sandbanks is a beautiful area to explore for lots of reasons.

Planning a visit to Sandbanks can honestly feel a little bit daunting but it’s not that complicated. There are Day-Use areas for those who want to just park for the day to hike and go to the beach.

Then there are also overnight campgrounds in the park for those staying longer. We have never camped at Sandbanks overnight but plan on doing it soon for the experience. You can learn more about Sandbanks Provincial Park here .

Of course, if Sandbanks is busy, there are a few other parks in the region – some of which we have mentioned in this post. Notably, check out North Beach Provincial Park (mentioned right below) for another nice beach.

Head For The Beach

Address for North Beach Provincial Park: 440 North Beach Rd, Consecon, ON K0K 2T0

Speaking of sand, if you want to enjoy a day at the beach in Prince Edward County, you have options! There’s also a good chance you will not be alone in wanting to enjoy the beach but hey, that’s summer sunshine for you.

The region is loaded with great beaches – many of which are clustered on the west edge of the County close to where the Sandbanks meet Lake Ontario.

We only know the beaches in/around Sandbanks since Eric has been to two of them: Dunes Beach and Outlet Beach. The other beach of the three at Sandbanks Provincial Park is Lakeshore Beach. They get busy in the summer but they have good amenities and parking.

Dunes Beach – located off one of the “Day-Use” areas – is like being in another world. Walking the sand dunes is a strange but cool experience. You can learn more about the Sandbank Beaches here .

Of course, there are other beaches across the region that are not close to Sandbanks. Of note, you might want to check out these beaches as alternatives to Sandbanks.

• North Beach – in North Beach Provincial Park
• Wellington Beach – walking distance from downtown Wellington.

Explore Wellington

Location: 43°57’06.5″N 77°20’54.9″W

While much of the emphasis is placed on exploring Picton – the “hub” of the region – the other largest centre is Wellington. You can definitely stop there to check it out.

We mention a number of the things to do in Wellington in this post – there is a museum, brewery, top-rated hotel , and beach in the town. There is also a boat launch in the middle of town which makes it useful to visitors and locals.

Fun Segway: Right by the boat launch is a lakeside restaurant called North Docks Kitchen & Drinks which is lovely. I (Eric) ate there years ago and want to take Lisa back for the food and views of the lake!

Bike/Hike the Millennium Trail

If you are looking to head to the County to get a little bit active and enjoy the country air, then a hike or bike ride might be for you. For this, The County has a number of trail options – but one, in particular, is unique to the region: The Millennium Trail !

This is a public trail – formed along an abandoned railway line that used to cut the region – that runs from Carrying Place all the way to Picton.

Although the trail weaves through numerous centres along the way (Wellington and Bloomfield), the trail is mainly rural which allows you to enjoy the quiet and natural side of the region’s farming land.

The whole trail is just shy of 50 kilometres long so it would be a trek to do the whole thing on foot. Biking it could be done in the course of a nice day.

You might even consider doing one portion of it at a time. Of course, if you come to Prince Edward County for the libations, there’s even a version of the route where you can turn it into a beer route . Just be sure to enjoy responsibly!

Having offered up the Millennium Trail, there are lots of other hiking and biking trails around the region – many of them located in the designated parks or conservation areas.

For example, Sandbanks Provincial Park (mentioned above) has a number of trail loops. One, in particular, is called the Dunes Trail which you can access from the Day-Use Parking Lot.

Enjoy Lake On The Mountain

Address: 296 County Rd 7, Prince Edward, ON K0K 2T0

Speaking of trails, while there are a number of conservation areas and parks to explore in the region, there is one in particular which usually draws a crowd or two: Lake on the Mountain!

The place is exactly what it sounds like – a lake that is located high atop a ridge well above Lake Ontario. The lake itself is clean and lovely – probably because motorized boats are not allowed on it.

The curious thing about the lake is that it confused geologists because there’s apparently no clear source of freshwater feeding it… so they didn’t understand how it formed and how it remains.

In any case, you can park across the street and enjoy views of the lake from the walking paths.

Nearby in the little town, there is a resort by the same name that owns The Inn where you can go for a drink or a bite to eat with lake views.

Down the road towards the Glenora ferry, one of our favourite breweries – Lake on the Mountain – is ready to welcome you for a flight of their freshly brewed craft beer! You can learn about visiting Lake on the Mountain park here .

There are some other conservation areas and parks around Prince Edward County. Some are large while others are just a few walking paths and a nice view but hold a “conservation area” distinction nonetheless. You can also check out places like:

• Macaulay Mountain Conservation Area – close to downtown Picton and home to “Birdhouse City”
• Little Bluff Conservation Area – known for the views of Lake Ontario below.

Discovery Local History

Address Wellington Heritage Museum: 290 Main St, Wellington, ON K0K 3L0

If you are not into indulging in wine and beer (or even if you are), another great way to learn about and appreciate the area is to have a deep dive into its history. The County was originally established in the late 1700s as a little growing settlement.

Today, there are a number of places you can visit around Prince Edward County that dedicate their existence to preserving and re-telling various parts of the region’s backstory.

Shown above is the Wellington Heritage Museum which is right on the main street in Wellington. There you can learn about the region’s connection to the canning industry, among other things!

Another popular historic stop is the Ameliasburgh Heritage Village which – like many other heritage villages in Ontario – allows you to walk through and experience a glimpse of what life was like “back in the day”.

Go Antiquing Around the County

Given that there is such a rich history to The County, a popular activity among the locals and visitors is to go antiquing! There are a plethora of items from furniture to jewelry, toys, signs, and many other items to be found across the region.

Half the time you don’t even have to look up a place to go in advance.

If you just drive around the County there’s a good chance you will come upon a barn by the side of the road ( MacCool’s Re-Use ) with an arrow sign pointing towards it that says “Antiques”. Usually, this is a sign that you are welcome to stop in and have a poke around!

We went into a store in downtown Picton that was absolutely loaded with items from old cameras to metal signs. We’re looking forward to heading back to The County to check out more – ideally for furniture items with a bit of character.

Discover Local Art

Address for Mad Dog Gallery: 525 County Rd 11, Picton, ON K0K 2T0

If you are looking to explore the local art scene, PEC should definitely be on your radar. The County is home to a very strong creative vibe forged by several artists that live in the area or travel to the area to create, display, and sell their works.

As such, there are a few art galleries, display shops, and numerous small artisan craft places dotted around the area – and not just centred around the town centres!

You can find everything from handmade metal decor to glassworks, paintings, sculptures, and much more. Below are a few ideas for places to look into to get some inspiration for your visit.

• Oeno Gallery at Huff Estates Winery
• Mad Dog Gallery
• Armstrong Glassworks

Things to Consider Before Visiting Prince Edward County

Before we head off into The County, there are a number of things you might want to consider before you visit.

These are topics like the best time to visit, where to stay (if you choose to stay overnight), and how to get around – since the region is deceivingly large, made up of different “neighbourhoods”, and technically it’s an island.

Best Time to Visit Prince Edward County

Of course, the answer to “when is the best time to visit Prince Edward County” is greatly dependent on what you are looking to do while there.

The busy season for Prince Edward County is from May to September (basically following the warm weather) with a trickle of visitors into the fall for autumn colours, harvests, art galleries, and markets.

Summer is understandably the popular time for day trips to the wineries and breweries, for going to the beaches, being active cycling or out on the water, for camping, etc.

Keep in mind, the prices in the heart of the summer season – June to August – can be pretty high. This is especially true when it comes to accommodations.

You can visit Prince Edward County in the winter for the tranquillity and the natural beauty. The frozen shoreline makes for great photos and snowshoeing is a great way to explore Ontario’s wintery outdoors .

Some places that cater heavily to the summer tourism industry do shut down or reduce their hours in the dead of winter.

However, many of the restaurants, wineries, and breweries stay open and make a great place to hang out and warm up in. There are also a number of winter festivals to aim for!

How to Get to/Around Prince Edward County

If you are looking for directions to get to Prince Edward County, you are in luck… we have them. The catch: You really need a car .

Prince Edward County is located about 2 hours east of Toronto (traffic depending) and about 1 hour west of Kingston. You could drive down from Ottawa in under 3 hours, if you wanted.

Since The County is a geographical landmass that extends into Lake Ontario, there are only so many ways to get onto the island.

A major route (from Toronto) would be to take Highway 401 east to Belleville, then head south on Highway 62 and cross over a large bridge (The Bay Bridge). You can then drive all the way to the heart of the County, Picton.

From Kingston, you can drive Highway 401 westbound and get off earlier than the exit above to take County Road 49 south all the way to Picton. Or you can choose the fun option and take the Glenora Ferry into the County from Loyalist Parkway/Highway 33 from Kingston along the waterfront.

If you don’t have a car, you, unfortunately, have limited options. The ViaRail train runs from Toronto to Belleville, but then you would need to get a cab into The County since there isn’t a transit system in place.

Once you are in Prince Edward County, it’s also kind of important to have a car because the region is very spread out.

A popular first stop is Picton or Wellington where you can find shops and street parking. You could also then rent bikes from one of these hubs and adventure for the day before looping back.

Another play is to park at a place like Sandbanks and explore the area on foot/bring your own bikes to go from there.

If you are doing tastings, the wineries usually have large parking areas so at least that’s easy – but have a designated driver if you are doing this. You might also book a local taxi/driver like The Taxi Guy if you plan on engaging in beverages!

In short, there is no one “right way” to get around because it depends on what you plan on doing!

Where To Stay In Prince Edward County

Given that Prince Edward County is a popular summertime destination, there are a number of accommodations to support the visitors.

There are very few major hotels but there are a number of bed and breakfasts, inns, and holiday apartments in the centres (especially Wellington). There are also campsites, resorts, and even cottage rentals to consider.

Check here for Accommodations in Prince Edward County !

Specifically, check out the Merrill House for a boutique, upscale hotel in Picton or Newsroom Suites for a cozy suite-style rental in Wellington. The June Motel is a popular trendy hotel if you are looking for one near-ish to Picton.

We have written a whole guide on Prince Edward County Accommodations so we will not get too much into the details here in this post. Our advice would be that if you know you are visiting, book ahead of time as much as possible.

Related Articles

If you need more knowledge on Prince Edward County, check out our other PEC posts!

• Lovely Wineries in Prince Edward County
• Best Places to Stay in Prince Edward County
• Breweries and Cideries in Prince Edward County

And there you have it – some great things to do in Prince Edward County. Of course – as we mentioned above – this is not an extensive list of the things to do and see.

We know there are more history museums, farmers’ markets, more wineries and breweries, and scenic spots to check out – this is just the beginning. We will make this an “ultimate” post as we go along! Have fun in PEC!

As always, Keep Exploring, eh? – E&L

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Eric Wychopen

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The 15 Best Things to do in Prince Edward Island, Canada

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Often abbreviated as simply PEI, Prince Edward Island is located just off the eastern coast of Canada. Small but dense, it’s home to storybook towns, quaint seaside sights, 19 th -century lighthouses, and some of the freshest seafood you can imagine.

The island has something for everyone, but it’s especially well-known for two very different attractions. The first is the many award-winning golf courses found all over the island, and the second is its special literary heritage as the inspiration behind the internationally beloved Anne of Green Gables books.

Nature lovers will be spoiled for choice with the number of unique geological features the island boasts. Go on an adventurous mountain biking excursion, cruise along the Central Coastal Drive, or visit a “singing” beach. PEI is also home to the nationally-renowned Confederation Centre for the Arts, where you might catch a special staging of Anne of Green Gables: The Musical or hot-off-the-press local shows.

With so many things to see and do, you might not know where to begin. So we’ve compiled our list of the absolute best things to do on Prince Edward Island. Stick to these fun and unique PEI bucket list recommendations, and there’s no doubt you’ll have an amazing time exploring this beautiful, historic island off Canada’s stunning eastern coast!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

15 Fun and Unique Things to do in Prince Edward Island, Canada

1. experience pei the way anne of green gables did.

Prince Edward Island was the home of Anne of Green Gables ‘ creator, Lucy Maud Montgomery, and many of the historic sites that inspired the novel have been preserved as must-visit Prince Edward Island attractions for fans of Anne Shirley.

Begin at Green Gables Heritage Place , a charming farmhouse nestled amidst rolling hills and vibrant gardens. Step into Anne’s world as you explore the rooms filled with period furnishings and artifacts, transporting you back to the late 19th century.

Continue your exploration at Avonlea Village , a meticulously recreated 19th-century village that replicates many of the landmarks in Anne’s hometown, alongside buildings important to Montgomery’s life on PEI, like the schoolhouse she once taught in and the church she attended. After that, meander through streets lined with quaint shops and delightful boutiques, where you’ll find unique treasures and handcrafted souvenirs.

To complete the experience, you can even attend a live performance of Anne of Green Gables: The Musical at the Confederation Centre for the Arts in Charlottetown. With nostalgic melodies and captivating performances, you’ll be transported into the heart of Anne’s enduring legacy.

2. Visit the Green Gable Alpacas Farm

The idyllic Green Gable Alpacas farm offers one of the most wholesome and unique things to do in Prince Edward Island. Spend a leisurely afternoon mingling with these endearing animals, feeling the velvety touch of their coats, and reveling in their gentle nature.

Green Gables Alpacas offers many different activities for visitors of all ages – you can join a guided tour to learn fascinating tidbits about the alpacas’ personalities and their daily lives. You can also join in on the fun and spend an afternoon working alongside the farmers. And, if you want to discover the art of spinning, weaving, and custom-dying alpaca wool, book a session at the Fibre Studio!

Before bidding farewell to these lovable creatures, visit the charming Fiber House Boutique, where you can find a delightful array of alpaca-related products. From cozy sweaters and scarves to soft toys and exquisite yarn, take a lasting memento of your time spent with these adorable animals.

This farm has been operational since 2009 and is run by a mother-daughter team and a crew of PEI locals, so you’re sure to get personalized treatment on a visit to this alpaca sanctuary.

3. Golf Up and Down the Island Green

Prince Edward Island is a haven for golf enthusiasts. Beginners and seasoned players alike can find a perfect match in the courses located all over the island.

If you’re looking for golf-centric Prince Edward Island activities, tee off at the Links at Crowbush Cove on the north shore of PEI, known for its rolling dunes and stunning ocean vistas. Awarded five stars by Golf Digest , this is one of the best courses in Canada, offering a combination of beauty and challenge.

Alternately, discover the beauty of Stanley Thompson’s Green Gables Golf Club , nestled in Cavendish. This classic course features pristine fairways surrounded by picturesque woodlands, along with a nostalgic view of the Anne of Green Gables house.

For a coastal golfing adventure, visit  Dundarave Hills Resort & Golf Club . This 18-hole championship golf course will provide unique bunkering patterns set amidst the island’s iconic red sandstone.

These are just a handful of the over 25 courses in PEI. No matter where you stay, there’s sure to be an award-winning course 10 minutes away – at most. Immerse yourself in PEI’s natural beauty while getting your game on!

4. Visit COWS Creamery in Charlottetown

If you’re searching for delicious things to do in Prince Edward Island, indulge in the beloved tradition of COWS Handmade Ice Cream – a treat that’s embraced by both locals and visitors to Charlottetown. COWS serves up world-famous ice cream, and it all began on PEI! Whether you’re exploring the city or enjoying a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, this creamery in downtown Charlottetown is a must one your Prince Edward Island bucket list.

Walking in, the aroma of freshly made waffle cones will greet you. Delight in over 32 flavors, all of them meticulously crafted with locally sourced ingredients. From classic favorites to unique creations, there’s a perfect scoop to please every palate.

For an insider’s perspective, you can even embark on a delightful behind-the-scenes tour of the COWS ice cream factory. Witness the dedicated team in action, carefully crafting each batch of ice cream with precision. You’ll gain a new appreciation for all the work that goes into creating each delightful flavor.

This is a must-stop for every sweet tooth or foodie visiting Prince Edward Island. We love the nostalgia at COWS. There’s nothing quite like a classic ice cream cone dipped in sprinkles, made even sweeter by the brand’s commitment to sustainable packaging and supporting local farms.

5. Go on a Deep-Sea Fishing Adventure

Experience the thrill of deep-sea fishing, with the catch of your choice, with Campbell’s Deep Sea Fishing .

Head to Covehead Harbour, where you’ll step aboard a well-equipped fishing vessel and set sail into the Atlantic Ocean. Cast your line into the bountiful waters as you’re guided by experienced captains. You can reel in a variety of species, from cod to bluefin tuna, with expert guidance from the crew.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, schedule a charter excursion or a special lobster expedition. Enjoy the coastal views and refreshing sea breeze as you wait for a bite. If you’re lucky, you might even spot whales or seals. All necessary fishing gear is provided, and the crew will clean and package your catch for you.

Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, Campbell’s Deep Sea Fishing offers some of the most unforgettable Prince Edward Island activities. Embrace the rhythm of the waves, create lasting memories, and savor the excitement of a successful day on the water.

6. Visit the Eptek Art & Culture Centre

The Eptek Art & Culture Centre is the foremost hub of art and culture in Prince Edward Island, a place where you can immerse yourself in a diverse range of artistic exhibits and engaging cultural experiences.

Located in the beachy town of Summerside, a great place for a day trip, this exhibition building always has something new going on, with exhibits that rotate frequently and different events and games being held in the galleries. The center showcases local and regional artwork that will give you a taste of the unique perspective of PEI’s artists.

Kids will enjoy the scavenger hunt game that’s built into many of the exhibits, and before you leave, you’ll be able to step into a carefully curated gift shop. This hidden gem is full of pieces made by local artists and artisans, which would make for a wonderfully unique gift for the artist in your life.

7. Catch a Show at the Confederation Centre of the Arts

Immerse yourself in the vibrant arts and culture scene of Prince Edward Island with a visit to the nationally renowned Confederation Centre for the Arts . Located in Charlottetown, this premier cultural hub offers a diverse range of cultural experiences that celebrate Canada’s rich artistic history and its contemporary innovations.

Founded in 1964 as a memorial to the Fathers of Confederation, the center was actually funded by every single Canadian province, all of them coming together to put up this historic monument, now home to some of Canada’s finest performing arts.

If you’re looking for cultural things to do in Prince Edward Island, indulge in the world of live performances at the center’s renowned theaters. Be swept away by captivating plays like Anne of Green Gables: The Musical or musical and dance performances that showcase the talents of local and visiting artists.

You might also pop in for a look at the center’s art gallery, which often showcases as many as 20 exhibits, all by Canadian artists, including the Robert Harris Archives.

8. Shop Victoria Row

Discover the charming ambiance of Victoria Row, a quaint pedestrian street nestled in the heart of Charlottetown. This vibrant destination offers a delightful mix of shops, dining, and entertainment.

As you stroll along the cobblestones at Victoria Row, you’ll be captivated by the historic architecture and the lively atmosphere. Explore the eclectic collection of boutiques and shops that line the street, each offering a unique and curated selection of goods.

Stop by The Anne of Green Gables Store , a beloved shop known for its unique Anne of Green Gables souvenirs, including limited edition books. You might stumble upon items signed by members of L.M. Montgomery’s family and other treasures on your visit!

Other boutiques on the row stock locally-made crafts and artisanal products. Browse through a delightful array of handmade jewelry, pottery, textiles, and more, all crafted with care and reflecting the island’s rich artistic heritage. Find the perfect keepsake or gift that embodies the spirit of Prince Edward Island.

The best time to visit is in the summer when Victoria Row is awash with live entertainment, including talented musicians and street performers, which you’ll be able to enjoy on charming outdoor patios.

9. Bike Across the Island on the Confederation Trail

The Confederation Trail winds its way through the picturesque landscapes of Prince Edward Island. Stretching across the island for over 273 kilometers, this trail was built on a decommissioned railway line that ran through the island’s many small towns, so following it is also the best way to do some serious Prince Edward Island sightseeing.

Cyclists will delight in the opportunity to pedal along the nearly flat and well-maintained trail. You’ll pass through charming villages, rolling farmlands, and peaceful forests, accompanied by a gentle breeze, as you explore the diverse landscapes that make Prince Edward Island truly enchanting.

For those seeking a more leisurely stroll, the Confederation Trail provides a tranquil path for walking or hiking. Meander through lush greenery and take in the serene countryside. Discover hidden gems along the way, from quaint picnic spots to scenic viewpoints that offer breathtaking vistas.

For the truly adventurous, parts of the trail can even be traversed on horseback for a truly unique experience of the island. With its accessibility and gentle gradients, the Confederation Trail is an ideal destination for family outings. No matter where you are, places to rest and snack are open all along the trail.

10. Enjoy the Water in Summerside

If you’re looking to hit the water, there’s no better place on PEI than the dreamy seaside town of Summerside. Hit the island’s only beach bar, grab a paddleboard, and finish up the day with a platter of fresh seafood.

One of the best ways to enjoy the water at Summerside is to actually head for West River, where you’ll be able to paddleboard or kayak across smooth sheltered water and spot many of PEI’s woodland inhabitants: bald eagles, foxes, kingfishers, and more!

If you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping things to do in Prince Edward Island, why not go mountain biking with some expert guides? Meridian63° MTB has got you covered. It’ll be a ride to remember, and you’ll have a completely different experience depending on the season.

If you need a break from your Summerside adventures, stop by Knot Beach Bar . Conveniently, Knot also rents bikes and kayaks, so you can begin and end your day with a refreshing glass of New World Canadian wine to lounge with by the water.

11. Visit Basin Head Provincial Park

Basin Head Provincial Park is one of the must-visit Prince Edward Island attractions if you’re on the eastern shores. The park features a well-maintained beach where you can experience a fascinating natural phenomenon called the “singing” sands.

Due to its naturally high silica content, the sand at this beach will “sing,” or more accurately, make a soft sizzling noise when you step on it. You’ll have to listen for yourself to decide! It’s also pure white sand, making it a stunning sight to both see and hear.

Enjoy the beach, or turn toward the day park side of things. You’ll have plenty to do during a day trip out here. Visit the ice cream stand, an island tradition, before gazing out at the sea under the gazebo, catching a game of beach volleyball, or walking the coastal gardens.

We also can’t forget to mention PEI’s other most defining feature: the red sand beaches! Local favorites include Argyle Shore, Tea Hill Beach, and Chelton, but you’re sure to see many more along the island’s southern coast.

12. See the Orwell Corner Historic Village

Orwell Corner Historic Village is one of the most charming PEI attractions. This living museum captures the mood of the island as it was in the late 1800s, complete with a village tearoom, horse-drawn wagon, town shops, and ranch animals.

Spend the day exploring the restored historic buildings, including a blacksmith shop, schoolhouse, and farmsteads, that provide insight into the island’s agricultural history. PEI still produces a large share of Canada’s potatoes, a required ingredient in poutine, the national dish.

You’ll meet interpreters dressed in period costumes who bring the village to life with fascinating stories about the island and demonstrations of traditional skills and crafts. Participate in hands-on activities, from woodworking to butter churning, and enjoy traditional games and dances that were once popular in the community.

Take a break at Anna’s tearoom, where you can savor homemade treats and beverages in a cozy setting. Orwell Corner Historic Village also hosts special events throughout the year, offering even more opportunities to immerse yourself in the island’s cultural heritage. It does close in the off-season, so check the hours before you go!

13. Visit PEI’s 63 Lighthouses

Prince Edward Island’s many famous lighthouses are an inextricable part of the island’s rich maritime heritage. With so many options, even we had trouble deciding which ones to mention, but here are a few to put on your list.

The iconic West Point Lighthouse, perched on the western tip of the island and surrounded by the red sand beaches of Cedar Dunes Park, offers panoramic views of the coastline. You’ll also be able to enjoy history exhibits dedicated to PEI’s past.

Point Prim is the oldest lighthouse on the island, having been built in 1845 and majestically situated on a rocky point overlooking the Northumberland Strait. Uniquely, it’s one of only three round lighthouses in Canada.

Other honorable mentions include the Cape Bear Lighthouse, North Rustico Harbour Lighthouse, and Cape Tryon Lighthouse.

14. Hang Out at King’s Castle Provincial Park

This is one of the must-do things in Prince Edward Island for families. King’s Castle Provincial Park is situated along the Murray River beach, and kids will love the sheer number of fun things to do here. The area is super well-maintained, with convenient facilities like washrooms, cooking spots, picnic tables, and a canteen serving up ice cream and other treats.

You’ll be able to enjoy the basketball court, play Frisbee on the open fields, hunt for statues in the forest, or jump and climb on the play structure. Plus, the beach is right there if you need a break from land.

Kid-friendly facilities aside, this park is also a hidden gem of peace and tranquility by the riverside, where you might take a breath and have a little walk in the woods. Feel free to bring along furry family members, too! It’s dog-friendly.

15. Cruise Down Central Coastal Drive

There’s no better way to do some serious Prince Edward Island sightseeing than by taking a leisurely cruise along the Central Coastal Drive, a route spanning approximately 250 kilometers and encompassing many of the must-see Prince Edward Island attractions.

Begin your drive in the vibrant capital city of Charlottetown, where you’ll be able to enjoy a theater show or a day of shopping on Victoria Row. As you head west, immerse yourself in the island’s diverse landscapes, from the dramatic coastline to rolling hills and picturesque fishing villages. You’ll drive through Prince Edward Island National Park, which is home to the island’s iconic red cliffs and sandy dunes.

Along the southwest shore, you’ll find Chelton Beach Provincial Park, the site of one of the island’s most beautiful red sand beaches, so called for the color imparted them by their high iron content. Or, head northwest to find Cavendish, home of Anne of Green Gables and an amazing golf destination.

Need a break? You can cruise right into the Brackley Drive-In Theatre and watch a movie on your way up. The Central Coastal Drive really has all this and more, and you’re sure to be tempted to stop at every storybook destination you see along the way!

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Prince Edward Island. What’s your favorite thing to do in PEI?

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Val grew up in Portland, Oregon but moved to Oahu on a whim back in 2013. She sold her house and all of her belongings and bought a one-way ticket. Since then she’s taken two around-the-world trips and has visited 60-ish countries while living out of a duffel bag. Val started documenting the Wandering Wheatleys travels back in 2013 as a way to update friends and family about her whereabouts and to relay humorous daily interactions. The only readers were her mom and her mother-in-law but that didn’t stop her! These days you’ll find Val dreaming up future trips, creating new travel content, managing a team of amazing travel enthusiasts, and chasing around her two adorable but naughty kids.

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14 of the best things to do in Prince Edward Island, Canada

Posted on Last updated: August 17, 2023

Discover the best things to do in Prince Edward Island in Canada: 14 essential experiences for your visit to PEI, from sandy beaches and historic lighthouses to walking trails and delicious seafood.

* This site contains affiliate links , where I get a small commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

AD: Brought to you in association with Canada Keep Exploring

An unspoilt island of rolling farmland, red cliffs, white lighthouses, golden sand dunes and shining lakes – Prince Edward Island is a different type of Canadian adventure. PEI, as it’s better known, is one of the three Maritime provinces on Canada’s east coast. At just 139 miles long and 40 miles wide it’s the country’s smallest and only island province but it packs a lot into a small space, with plenty of things to do in Prince Edward Island.

Generations know Prince Edward Island as the home of Anne of Green Gables . But although Anne is the star of the book, PEI is her gorgeous co-star, with luscious descriptions that make you want to walk through the woods or sit by the lake yourself.

But there’s more to the island than Green Gables, with a beautiful coastline, delicious food and fascinating history. So here are my 14 of my favourite things to do in PEI.

Map of things to do in Prince Edward Island

1. Go lighthouse spotting

You can’t get a more classic Maritime Canada view than a white and red lighthouse among the sand dunes. Lighthouse spotting is high on many people’s Canada bucket list and one of the top things to do in Prince Edward Island. PEI has 63 lighthouses and whether they’re round or square, plain or striped, tall or short, wood or brick, they were all built around the mid-19th century to protect passing ships from the treacherous seas.

Not many of PEI’s lighthouses are used for navigation now, but they’re still looked after by local conservation groups and each lighthouse has its own story to tell. You’ll find them all around the island, but if you want to get a taster then head along the Points East Coastal Drive in Eastern PEI which has six lighthouses open to visitors in summer.

Among them are Point Prim, PEI’s first, oldest and only round brick lighthouse, Cape Bear where the first distress signal from the Titanic was heard, and East Point which has had to be moved twice after the coastline eroded. And if you’re a big lighthouse fan you can even sleep in one in the West Point lighthouse in the west of the island.

2. Find Anne at Green Gables

For over 100 years, children around the world have grown with stories of red-haired Anne of Green Gables , the 11-year-old orphan girl who’s sent to live with a middle-aged brother and sister by accident when they’d asked for a boy to come and help on their farm.

Visiting Green Gables Heritage Place on PEI’s north shore is like walking into a chapter of the book, with its white clapboard house, green shutters and an old carriage parked outside. In real life the house once belonged to author Lucy Maud Montgomery’s cousins, a brother and sister who inspired the characters of Matthew and Marilla.

The interiors of the house have been recreated from the stories, right down to Anne’s bedroom in the east gable with her beloved puff-sleeved dress. You can also take a walk through the Haunted Wood, where you’ll find Lucy Maud’s grave at the end of the path.

As well as Green Gables Heritage Place, Anne fans can get their fix at Avonlea, a recreated 19th-century village in Cavendish with replicas of buildings in the book and places to eat. Both the New London house Lucy Maud was born in and the Silver Bush house where she got married have also been turned into museums. And Charlottetown has two Anne-themed musicals – Anne of Green Gables: The Musical and Anne and Gilbert .

3. Discover the story of Confederation

Prince Edward Island might be small, but it’s played a major role in the history of Canada. It was in Charlottetown that the Fathers of Confederation – representatives from the British colonies Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Quebec and Ontario – met in Province House in September 1864 for the Charlottetown Conference, which led to the formation of Canada.

Follow in their footsteps along Great George Street, one of just two streets in Canada designated a National Historic District. Province House is currently being renovated but you can see a replica of the original Confederation Chamber at the Confederation Center of the Arts – also well worth a visit for its Canadian artworks.

You might also see the Confederation Players out and about in Charlottetown during the summer. These costumed guides dressed in period clothes play characters from 1860s PEI and run guided walking tours where they share the history of Charlottetown.

4. See red sandstone cliffs

As you travel around Prince Edward Island you’ll see flashes of its unusual bright red soil. It gets its colour from the high levels of iron in the island’s sandstone which oxidises and rusts when it comes in contact with the air. As well as being great for farming the sandstone makes for gorgeous views, especially contrasted with PEI’s green fields or blue waters.

Along the north shore you can see red sandstone cliffs in Prince Edward Island National Park, Thunder Cove and Cape Tryon, with weird and wonderful rock formations which glow at sunset. You’ll also find more stunning sandstone scenery on the south shore at Argyle Shore Provincial Park and Port-la-Joye-Fort Amherst National Historic Site.

5. Eat all the seafood

Prince Edward Island is famous across Canada and beyond for its seafood, with some of the juiciest oysters, silkiest lobster and tastiest clams, scallops and mussels around. Sit on the waterfront with a buttery lobster roll with a dash of lemon and you’ll see why. Seafood is available all over the island – from high-end restaurants to simple waterfront stalls.

You can feast on oysters at the Claddagh Oyster House in Charlottetown or Malpeque Oyster Barn in Malpeque Bay. Try clams at the Clam Diggers Beach House and Restaurant in Georgetown and mussels at the Blue Mussel Cafe in North Rustico. Or enjoy crispy fish and chips on the deck at Richard’s Fresh Seafood in Covehead.

A much-loved PEI’s tradition is the lobster supper. These community dinners started as a way to honour the island’s lobster fishermen, and are still held as fundraisers. You can also join in lobster suppers at New Glasgow Lobster Suppers, who’ve been serving lobster to the locals since 1957, and Fisherman’s Wharf Lobster Suppers in North Rustico.

If you really love seafood, autumn’s the best time to visit the island for the PEI International Shellfish Festival . Held each September, there are tastings, music, cookery demos and a record attempt for the world’s longest lobster roll. And if you want to catch your own, you can try digging for clams and shucking oysters or join a fishing expedition.

6. Visit a scenic small town

Prince Edward Island is full of charming small towns packed with character, and the island’s compact size means you can easily visit a few in one day. Explore artists’ studios and shop for handmade jewellery, pottery and fabrics in Victoria-by-the-Sea, learn about its seafaring history at the Victoria Seaport Museum and visit the red sand beach.

Watch the fihging boats come in with the day’s catch in North Rustico, and take a walk along the boardwalk to the beach for sunset. Try wine from the Newman Estate Winery and spot wildlife as you walk along the Beck Trail in Murray River.

Or learn about the history and culture of Eastern PEI at the Garden of the Gulf Museum in Montague, followed by a local brew at the Copper Bottom Brewery and a drive along a stretch of the scenic 233-mile-long Points East Coastal Drive.

7. Walk the boardwalks

A walk along the boardwalk, breathing in the sea air, was one of my favourite things to do in Prince Edward Island. The 2.7km-long Greenwich Dunes Trail in Prince Edward Island National Park includes a boardwalk with a floating section taking you over marshland, past grasslands and the area’s protected parabolic sand dunes to the ocean.

It’s a flat and easy walk that’s perfect to do with all the family. Or in Charlottetown you can join the early evening parade of joggers, walkers and cyclists in Victoria Park, where there’s a boardwalk which runs along the edge of the park and on past the remains of a historic fort, alongside lines of boats to Peake’s Wharf and the harbour.

8. Ice cream heaven at Cows Creamery

Whatever the time of year, eating a cone of Cows is a Prince Edward Island must-do – ice cream so tasty it’s been voted the best in Canada. Cows Creamery started in PEI and opened their first store in Cavendish in 1983. Since then they’ve expanded across the country and have six stores around the island, including their HQ outside Charlottetown where you can take a tour to see how it’s made and pick up their trademark cow pun t-shirts.

Cows ice cream is extra creamy, made to a secret recipe with milk from PEI cows and served in handmade waffle cones. There are over 30 different flavours, including seasonal specials – my favourites were Wowie Cowie (vanilla ice cream with toffee, chocolate flakes and moo crunch) and PEI Apple Crisp (apple ice cream with apple crumble).

9. Cycle (or snowmobile) the Confederation Trail

The Confederation Trail is a 270-mile-long former railway line making up Prince Edward Island’s portion of the Trans Canada Trail – the world’s longest recreational trail. It stretches from Tignish at one tip of the island to Elmira at the other, with branches connecting it to Charlottetown, the Confederation Bridge and beachside towns.

The route’s gentle gradients make it perfect for walking or cycling, however fit you are, with beautiful views along the way. The Confederation Trail runs though a mixture of farms, wetlands, forests, meadows and lakes, with plenty of little villages to stop off in.

You can hire a bike (or an ebike to cover more ground) in Charlottetown in summer and try out geocaching, with over 1600 geocache sites along the trail. Or in winter the trail is transformed into a snowmobile route, with tours available if you want to give it a try.

10. Have a drink on Victoria Row

Victoria Row – aka The Row – is one of Charlottetown’s prettiest streets with its Victorian red brick buildings, cobbled streets and shady trees. The street is lined with a mix of bars and restaurants, coffee shops, galleries and independent shops selling art, antiques and gifts – and of course there are few Anne of Green Gables goodies in there too.

From May to October Victoria Row is pedestrianised, so you can grab a table outside for a sunset drink on a summer’s evening while you listen to street musicians, or head up to the rooftop patio bar at Fishies on the Roof for views out over the city’s rooftops.

11. Hit the beach

If you fancy a day at the beach, Prince Edward Island has 500 miles worth of them, ranging from white sand to red, and with some of the warmest waters north of Florida. One of the island’s most famous is Singing Sands in Basin Head Provincial Park, which gets its name from the high-silica-content sand which squeaks when you walk on it.

Head to Prince Edward Island National Park for Cavendish Beach’s 37-mile stretch of red sand or quieter Greenwich Beach with its golden sand dunes. Or Brackley Beach is only a 25-minute drive from Charlottetown and is home to the quirky Dunes Gallery.

There are so many beaches on the island though it’s easy to pack a picnic and find your own stretch of sand away from everyone else – you can camp by the beach at Cabot Beach, Panmure or Red Point Provincial Parks or Cavendish Campground too.

12. Cross the Confederation Bridge

Built in 1997, the 12.9-kilometre-long Confederation Bridge connects Prince Edward Island with New Brunswick in mainland Canada. This impressive piece of engineering has to stand up to the tough weather conditions on the Northumberland Strait and is the world’s longest bridge over ice-covered waters and tall enough for cruise ships to sail underneath.

Many visitors to PEI use the Confederation Bridge to travel to the island, but even if you don’t it’s worth heading to to the west of Prince Edward Island to take a look at it. You get great views of the bridge from Borden-Carlton Historical Park, or if you don’t have a car there’s a half-day tour * from Charlottetown which includes a stop at the bridge.

13. Go mouse spotting in Charlottetown

When you’re walking around the streets of Charlottetown, keep your eyes out for the nine tiny bronze mouse statues hidden around the city. They’re part of a scavenger hunt based on Eckhart the Mouse – a curious mouse with a long tail – who’s a character from the book The True Meaning of Crumbfest , written by local PEI author David Weale.

It’s a great game to play if you’re visiting Charlottetown with kids, and you can download a PDF with clues on where to find them along with some historical details about the places along the route (I only managed to find six so it’s harder than it sounds!).

14. Feast your way around the island

There’s more to PEI’s food than seafood – it’s been nicknamed Canada’s Food Island for all its amazing produce. You can taste some of the delicious local flavours at the weekly Charlottetown Farmers’ Market , which takes place every Saturday plus Wednesdays from July–October As well as food and drink there are also art, craft and gift stalls.

Or you can visit Prince Edward Island’s food and drink producers as you explore the island. Some of our favourites are Prince Edward Island Preserve Company for jam and chutney, Rossignol Winery for fruit and maple wines, Myriad View Distillery for spirits, PEI Brewing Company for craft beer and Island Chocolates for handmade chocolates.

And don’t miss the bizarre-sounding chocolate-covered potato chips – a local speciality.

Looking for somewhere to stay in Prince Edward Island?*

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Thursday 25th of January 2024

Thank you for this list. It's really helpful for my trip planning. :)

Lucy Dodsworth

Friday 26th of January 2024

You're very welcome – great to hear it's been useful!

Wednesday 12th of August 2020

I didn't know about the mice in Charlottetown! Great list. Another fun thing to do is to get your old fashioned photo taken at Grandpa's Antique Photo Studio! There's also some neat geocaches around the island.

Friday 14th of August 2020

The photoshoot sounds brilliant – I'm going to have to go back!

16 Best Things to do in Prince Edward Island (PEI)

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: October 31, 2022

Looking for the best things to do in Prince Edward Island? Keep reading! Home of Anne of Green Gables, PEI potatoes, and red sand beaches. It may be the tiniest of Canadian provinces but there is a lot to do in Prince Edward Island making it the perfect stop on any east coast road trip.

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Things to do in Prince Edward Island, Canada

Prince Edward Island, known as PEI here in Canada, may be small, but it has a lot going on. And these are some of the best ideas for things to do in PEI when you visit.

1. Explore Charlottetown

Charlottetown is a beautiful waterfront town with outdoor patios, art centers, and boutique shops. It’s the perfect town for taking a stroll to explore the heritage buildings and its bustling downtown. We stayed at the waterfront Delta Hotels by Marriott and had the opportunity to walk everywhere.

Places not to miss when visiting Charlottetown are Victoria Row’s sidewalk cafes, shopping, and the Anne of Green Gables Shop. For history buffs, don’t miss the historic Province House which in September 1864 was home to the Charlottetown Conference. Province House was the start of a series of meetings that eventually led to the Dominion of Canada. V

2. Charlottetown Festival

The Charlottetown Festival is the main draw in the summertime with a production of Anne of Green Gables put on at the Confederation Centre of the Arts. It has been running since 1965 and holds the Guinness Book of World records for the longest-running musical. ( Psst, I once auditioned for it convinced I would get the role of Anne. That didn’t happen )

But it is not the only things to see here, this performing arts centre has two studio theatres, a cabaret-style theatre, an art gallery and memorial hall. Even if you don’t see the musical, it is worth going in.

Get the complete set of books here before you travel to PEI

3. Anne of Green Gables Heritage Place

Canadians grew up with Anne of Green Gables. This beloved character was a staple of my childhood. Written by Lucy Maud Montgomery it follows the journey of an orphan named Anne (with an “e”) who was mistakenly sent to work on a farm in PEI. Mathew and Marilla Cuthbert wanted a boy to help with farm work, but they got Anne. Hijinks ensue and it is one of the most beloved books of all time. There have been movies, mini-series and spin offs here in Canada. Most notably Road to Avonlea starring Sarah Polley.

4. Cavendish

There is no doubt that Cavendish is a big draw for visitors to Prince Edward Island. Montgomery lived in Cavendish and there is a lot dedicated to her.

The LM. Montgomery’s Cavendish National Historic Site is located on the farm where Montgomery lived, and the Anne of Green Gables Museum is at a neighboring farmstead that inspired the novel. Take a tour and follow the footsteps of Anne of Green Gables. Here you’ll walk through sites featured in the book like Avonlea Village, Haunted Wood Trail, Balsam Hollow Trail, and Lover’s Lane.

5. Lighthouse Tour

PEI is tiny, yet it has 63 lighthouses on the island. 35 are still active and they are magnificent tourist attractions. You can go lighthouse hopping around Prince Edward Island to see the pristine lighthouses. Why so many? In 1996, PEI formed the lighthouse society to help preserve the heritage.

Seven of the lighthouses are national historic sites and nine lighthouses are open to visitors. No matter where you go in Prince Edward Island, you are bound to run into a lighthouse.

6. Points East Coastal Drive

Points East Coastal Drive has six lighthouses you can tour including some of the best lighthouses to see in Prince Edward Island.

This is an excellent drive to see Point Prim Lighthouse, Panmure Lighthouse, East Point Lighthouse aka “Canada’s Confederation Lighthouse”, and Wood Islands Lighthouse. Not only is it famous for its abundance of historic lighthouses, but there are also picturesque towns, beaches, and cultural and historic sites.

7. Fishing Villages

Prince Edward Island has beautiful fishing villages that are just waiting to be seen. Pull off the main roads in search of hidden gems, fish houses and picturesque harbours.

8. Malpeque boat Tours

One of the most charming villages we stumbled upon was Malpeque. Located on Malpeque Bay (Mik`maq word meaning “big bay”) Malpeque is the perfect place to get on the water. Lobster fishermen moor their boats on the picturesque pier where you can take boat and kayak tours, stop for some seafood and do a bit of souvenir shopping.

There are kayak tours that leave from here, but we ran into a friendly local named Will who offered to take us out on his boat for a sightseeing tour. This coast is beautiful!

9. Victoria by the Sea

The historic fishing village of Victoria by the sea has become a popular stop on Prince Edward Island as artists have set up shops in this part of the island.

10. East Coast Lobsters

Read any article about the east coast of Canada and you’ll see something about Lobsters. Prince Edward Island is no different. When in PEI, indulge in seafood. One of the best places to enjoy a traditional lobster dinner is at New Glasgow Lobster suppers in New Glasgow PEI.

11. Cavendish Beach

Prince Edward Island boasts 23 beaches on its smalls shores. The most popular beach on this Island province, Cavendish Beach is busy. Close to Avonlea, this 8km (5 mile) stretch of sand has everything you could want. There’s a campground nearby, a golf course, and cottages. It’s a great place to set up shop for a few days to experience the beaches of PEI. With plenty of restaurants and shopping, there’s everything you need.

12. Cavendish Cliffs at Thunder Cove Beach

A little farther up the coast is Thunder Cove Beach. This is where you’ll find those famous Cavendish Cliffs. The sea erodes the red sandstone into rock formations, sea stacks, and caves. The shore looks like pancakes stacked upon one another.

13. Basin Head Provincial Park

Another Prince Edward Island beaches to visit is Basin Head beach in Basin Head Provincial Park. It boasts has 14 km (9 miles) of squeaky white sand known as singing sands. It has some of the warmest waters in Canada. While there you can also go to the Basin Head Fisheries museum to learn a bit more about the culture of PEI’s inshore fishing. Inshore fishing is when smaller vessels fish closer to shore.

14. Red Sands of PEI

Growing up, all I ever heard about PEI was its red sands and potatoes. I had to see what this was all about! The red sands are created when the iron in the sand oxidizes with the air. This island is famous for its red sand beaches and you really can’t miss them.

So why PEI potatoes? They are world famous and the iron-rich soil is perfect for growing potatoes retaining the right amount of moisture for its crops. And now you know. Prince Edward Island potatoes are so important, there is a potato museum in O’Leary on the north of the island.

Greenwich Dunes Trail – Prince Edward Island National Park

It’s always a good idea to go to a Canadian National Park and the Prince Edward Island National Park offers something different. The Greenwich Dunes Trail is completely opposite of the red sand beaches. This boardwalk takes you through the marshland out to the famous sand dunes of PEI. Located on a peninsula that separates St. Peters Bay from the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the protected ecosystem houses the golden parabolic dunes.

There are two other hiking trails ranging from 1 to 4.5 km in length (besides the 2.7km-long Greenwich Dunes Trail) and Greenwich Beach is a long sandy stretch with a sandy bottom that’s good for swimming.

15. Confederation Trail

Confederation Trail is 449 km (278 miles) of flat hiking and biking trails. The main trail starts from Tignish and ends in Elmira. Plus a portion of the Appalation trail cuts through the Confederation trail. Accommodation can be found along the route, so why not do something epic and challenge yourself to a big hike this year.

16. Confederation Bridge

Confederation Bridge is the first thing you’ll see when entering PEI as it’s the only way to get there. (unless you fly into Charlottetown). This bridge spans over the Northumberland Strait connecting the two provinces. It is the longest bridge to cross over a frozen body of water and it is Canada’s longest bridge.

When entering Prince Edward Island, you don’t have to pay to cross the bridge, but be prepared on the way out, it is steep fee of $48.50.

Meet the People of PEI

We have always said that East Coasters of Canada are the friendliest people in the world. Between PEI, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, we have never experienced such hospitalitiy. People go out of their way to ensure you are having a good time. So when traveling through Prince Edward Island, make sure to get out of your car and strike up a conversation.

They’ll tell you about hidden gems and a bit about their own history and culture of the island. Part of the charm of visiting Canada’s maritime provinces is the people. Don’t leave without making new friends!

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How to Get to PEI

You can fly into Charlottetown to explore PEI. We crossed the Confederation Bridge from New Brunswick. There is no charge on the way in, but when you drive out of Prince Edward Island, there is a $50 fee.

Northumberland Ferries also cross to Prince Edward Island from Nova Scotia.

If you enjoyed all these things to do in Prince Edward Island, share it to Pinterest for future travel planning.

And these are the best things in Prince Edward Island that we did. So, what are you waiting for, start planning your Canada East Coast adventures today!

Read More about Canada travels:

• 25 Best Things to do in New Brunswick, Canada
• 24 Fantastic Things to do in Saint John New Brunswick
• Things to do in Halifax, Nova Scotia
• Best Things to do in Nova Scotia – The Ultimate Travel Guide

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15 Reasons You Need to Visit Prince Edward Island

Prince Edward Island (or PEI) is the smallest Canadian province. It’s known as the “Birthplace of Canada ,” since the island hosted the inaugural meeting towards the country’s 1867 Confederation. Situated in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, northeast of Maine, it offers a unique fusion of land and sea traditions that draw on Scottish, Irish, English, and French heritages that converged with the native Mi’kmaq people during the colonial period. Here are 15 reasons why Prince Edward Island is a travel destination that can’t be missed.

For people who love to cycle , PEI offers a number of routes that range from easy to challenging. The Confederation Trail for example, follows an abandoned rail line that moves through woodland areas, rolling hills, and pretty coastlines. You can even cycle the length of Prince Edward Island in just a day. Another lesser-known but still beautiful route is the 10-kilometre multi-use trail along the Gulf Shore Parkway in Prince Edward Island National Park. The tourist offices on the island are generous towards cyclists, providing trail maps and other resources.

Outdoor Adventures

Even if cycling is not your preferred outdoor sport, there are still plenty of other activities offered across the island. You can go horseback riding, for example, or go birdwatching, camping, sailing, or kayaking. There are even parasailing and whale and seal-watching tours available.

Another common activity on PEI is fishing—which is also a vital way of life for many residents of the island. Visitors can opt for deep sea and freshwater fishing via many guided and charter tours, or go digging for clams along the peaceful shorelines.

On that note, the culinary experiences available in PEI revolve around one of the island’s greatest resources: shellfish. The lobster, oysters, mussels, and scallops, along with fresh produce and famous PEI potatoes, are sold around the world—but nothing compares to eating it fresh while vacationing on the island.

Anne of Green Gables

Of course, Anne of Green Gables and Lucy Maud Montgomery are synonymous with PEI culture. First published in 1908, the book and its author are beloved around the world, with many (if not most) tourists flocking to PEI to experience the setting of the story in person. You can visit the homestead or head over to Avonela Village with the whole family. One of the island’s highlights is a musical rendition of the classic novel that has been running for 50 years. Buy a straw hat with dangling red braids and join the Anne crowd.

PEI is alive with music, ranging from folk singers in bars and cafes to ceilidhs held in community halls. During the summer months, Richmond Street in Charlottetown becomes a haven for concerts and musicals offered by local and international musicians. Additionally, there’s the Mack Theatre (operated by the Confederation Centre of the Arts ), offering plays and various musical theatre productions.

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Charlottetown

Although PEI is most renowned for its natural beauty, the provincial capital town should not be overlooked. Charlottetown is located on the south shore of the island, and home to around 36,000 people. The town offers an ideal mix of warm hospitality, history, charm, shopping, food, and culture. It’s a great place to either stay or visit.

PEI hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, including the Shellfish Festival in autumn, the Charlotte Festival (featuring the original stage production of the musical Anne of Green Gables), and the island-wide Fall Flavours food festival. There’s always something new happening, particularly during the warmer months.

Lighthouses

Although they are mostly obsolete now due to modern GPS navigation systems, many of the lighthouses dotting the shores of PEI have been turned into interpretive centres and tourist attractions—such as the West Point Lighthouse Museum . Bringing to mind a bygone era of sea born travel, there are several examples of colonial or “first-generation” lighthouses, or those built before 1873. The oldest lighthouse on the island is Point Prim, constructed in 1846, and it also happens to be one of the few lighthouses of brick constructed in Canada. Point Prim marks the entrance to Hillsborough Bay, approaching Charlottetown Harbour on the southern side of the island.

PEI is famous for its scenic beaches, characterized by the distinctive rusty red colour of the sand and dunes. Formed from soft sandstone, the colour is due to high iron oxide content. PEI has 1,100km of shoreline in total. In particular, the northern shore of the island is shaped by postcard-perfect beaches, with windswept dunes and the Gulf Stream waters lapping onto the beach—all just minutes from Charlottetown. Swim, sunbathe, collect stones and seashells, or simply be lulled by the colour and water—these are among the best beaches in Canada .

Coastal Drives

Visitors can also enjoy the scenic views that are offered by three distinct and clearly marked coastal drives around the Island: Points East Coastal Drive, Central Coastal Drive, North Cape Coastal Drive. Each one is unique, offering insight into PEI’s local scenery and ecology. Drivers can pause at their leisure to take photos, have picnics and chat with local residents.

Landscapes & Scenery

Beyond the coastal views, PEI’s landscapes are distinctive and known for their natural beauty. Particularly worthy of note are Malpeque Harbour, the fishing village of Murray Harbour, the Greenwich sand dunes, the High Bank cliffs, and Cape Bear lighthouse. Visitors can also head over to Prince Edward Island National Park , which also offers rich wildlife and breathtaking views.

Local Culture & Crafts

Visitors to the island can gain insight into the lives of local fisherman, farmers, chefs, musicians, and artisans, by taking part in not only the local festivals, but also going on tours that allow you to try your hand at skills such as weaving, catching and cooking your own lobster. Visitors can also make art or participate in a famous culinary bootcamp . Other activities include harness racing and visiting chocolate or potato vodka factories. All of these add depth to the PEI experience.

For golf lovers, PEI is becoming increasingly recognized for its abundance of golf courses and driving ranges. 10 of the over 30 courses on the island have been listed among “Canada’s Top 100 Courses,” and in 2011 PEI was honoured as “The World’s Best Undiscovered Golf Destination of 2011.”

Despite being bombarded by well over a million tourists every year, the people who call Prince Edward Island home have a reputation for warmth and hospitality. Wherever you are on the island, people are sure to help you out and make you feel at home. Their island is rich with history and beauty, and they are more than willing to generously share their time and resources with respectful visitors.

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4 Ways You Can Visit Prince Edward Island, And How To Navigate Them

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Prince Edward Island seems to be on everyone’s travel wish list and for good reason. Canada’s smallest province offers an oversized amount of fun. Gorgeous beaches, hiking trails, and delectable seafood are just some of the treats that await a visitor. But in order to enjoy it all, you first need to get to the island! Here are your options for visiting Prince Edward Island.

1. Taking The Ferry

My very first time on the ferry that links Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia did not go well. In fact, you might just say it was tragic. I saw what I thought was corn chowder on the menu and begged my parents to buy me a bowl of my favorite soup. They acquiesced and I soon realized that the chowder in question was clam, not corn. There is no trauma for an 8-year-old quite like unexpected shellfish! Thankfully, all of my subsequent crossings have been much less remarkable, in the best possible way.

Northumberland Ferries links Wood Islands, Prince Edward Island, to Caribou, Nova Scotia. The 75-minute sailing takes place three times a day in the off-season and many more times during the summer months. Those traveling by automobile are required to arrive 40 minutes prior to crossing, while pedestrian and bike passengers should show up 30 minutes before departure.

The trip from Caribou to Wood Islands has no fee. That’s because, traditionally, you don’t pay a fee to enter PEI (be it by boat or by the bridge), but you do pay a fee to depart. Everyone likes to joke that you might love the island so much, you’ll stay forever — and save yourself a few bucks in the process. Another way to look at it is that both the ferry and the bridge charge roundtrip fees — but you only pay when you leave. However, things have recently changed, in part because of COVID-19. Now, reservations are strongly recommended for all ferry trips. If you go this route and reserve in advance, you’ll pay $82 for your crossing to PEI, the exact same price you normally pay for the departing trip. However, should you decide to come back the same way, that $82 covers the entire roundtrip. 

I’m personally a fan of crossing onto PEI via the Confederation Bridge (free!) and departing via Wood Islands and the ferry (paying the usual $82 and also having a reservation). I think it’s just really nice to enjoy both experiences. My friend Tracy agrees. She loves PEI so much she got married there! She says: “For those who have never been, take the bridge to the island and take the ferry home — different experiences and a way to do both!”

Regardless of what way you go, onboard you will find a small cafe (yes, they do indeed serve seafood chowder). Seasonally, a COWS ice cream shop is open and there is often live music as well. However, amenities are limited at the ferry terminals where you wait to board the boat. If you’re planning on showing up early and then passing the time by grabbing something to eat, chances are it won’t work out. I highly recommend stopping in nearby Montague, PEI (20 minutes), or Pictou, NS (10 minutes), instead.

Pets are welcomed on the ferry and can either stay in your car or be on the outer decks, with a leash. I recently traveled with my dog Oliver and he was very happy to sit outside with me. The floors of the outer decks are often damp and that means wet fur, so you might want to bring along some old towels for your pooch to sit on.

2. Driving Over The Bridge

The Confederation Bridge is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and has no reservation system. You just drive on over whenever you want and then do the exact same when you want to leave — though those departing PEI do have to make a quick stop to pay the bridge toll of $48.50 per car, an easy process as cash, debit, and all major credit cards are accepted. While cyclists and pedestrians are not allowed on the bridge, a shuttle operates to serve their needs and it costs just a few dollars.

This 8-mile bridge connects Border-Carleton, PEI, with Cape Jourimain, New Brunswick. It is the longest bridge in the world to cross ice-covered water and remains one of Canada’s finest engineering marvels. However, you cannot really see any of the views while you’re driving, as the sides are too high. Personally, I think the best views are right after you arrive in PEI. The Marine Rail Park is right next to the area where the Confederation Bridge touches down in PEI and it offers an interpretive center, a lighthouse, and lots of walking space to admire the bridge. My friend Julia says: “One time, my dad and I pulled off just after we got onto the island, crossing the Confederation Bridge. We walked down on the rocks and we touched one of the bridge posts just to say we did. I don’t know why that was a must-do for us but we did it!”

In addition to the Marine Rail Park, you’ll find quite a few amenities in Border-Carleton, including some eateries and several souvenir shops. However, things are more sparse on the New Brunswick side. The Cape Jourimain Nature Centre offers some lovely beaches and hiking trails but otherwise offers limited amenities. To find those, you’ll have to head to Port Elgin (where there is a gas station and convenience store) or even into Sackville (a 40-minute trek from the bridge) where there’s a wide selection of restaurants and other tourist-focused services. It’s worth noting that just a short drive from Sackville, en route to the bridge, is the tiny community of Aulac. Aulac is home to the eighth generation Trueman Blueberry Farm and serves up homemade ice cream. Having tried endless scoops of its creations this summer, I can wholeheartedly recommend this destination. Plus, it offers freshly baked bread and a huge selection of homemade jams, pickles, and preserves

3. Flying Into Charlottetown

Charlottetown Airport is the hub for those flying in and out of PEI. Most flights connect with either Toronto or Montreal. This tiny airport has limited services. There’s one restaurant (which operates on both sides of security) and a small shop with local souvenirs and the usual assortment of travel essentials.

4. Taking The Buses

Maritime Bus operates a bus service in eastern Canada and includes PEI destinations like Charlottetown and Summerside, with connections to New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Quebec. Those who take the bus to Sackville, New Brunswick, can connect to that community’s Via Rail train station, which then goes on to multiple destinations.

A Note On Preparing For COVID Restrictions

At present, in order to visit PEI, you must have a PEI Pass. This is an online application that requires visitors to fill out a health questionnaire and upload their COVID-19 vaccination certificates. Upon arrival in PEI, you’ll be asked to present your identification and vaccination certificates and answer some questions about your travel history. Depending on circumstances, you may be required to have a rapid COVID test, which takes place at your zone of entry. My family and I visited PEI this summer and had to complete all the paperwork with the PEI Pass. One person from our vehicle had to have a rapid COVID test (it’s the non-invasive one that just swabs your nostrils, and results come within a few hours.) Overall, we found the experience to be organized, efficient, and very friendly. Considering that PEI managed to all but eliminate COVID from its population, a little bit of advanced planning is well worth it in order to keep the island safe and healthy.

Once you arrive on Prince Edward Island, here are some activities you may enjoy:

• My Favorite Hikes On Canada’s Prince Edward Island
• Eating Local On Prince Edward Island: 6 Delicious Foods To Try
• Literary Road Trip: 8 Anne Of Green Gables Sites On Prince Edward Island

Vanessa Chiasson is an award-winning freelance writer, editor, and blogger from Canada bringing warmth and depth to travel and human interest narratives. In the industry since 2012, Vanessa coaches writers from all backgrounds, areas of focus, and experience levels on developing business strategies that support their artistic endeavors. She chronicles her cozy travel adventures at TurnipseedTravel .

The top 10 attractions on Prince Edward Island

Things to do

Canada's littlest province brings big attractions to the table, from the setting of a global best-seller to one of the world's longest bridges.

Confederation Centre of the Arts

It was in Charlottetown, PEI in 1864, that a small group of elected officials gathered. This historic event led to the founding of Canada. That important moment in time is memorialized and honored in the Confederation Centre of the Arts External Link Title , which puts the best of Canadian artistic talent on display. Covering a full city block, the center comprises an art gallery and five theaters, so visual and performing arts both have a permanent place in those walls. Enjoy an authentic PEI experience and watch Anne of Green Gables - The Musical TM  as part of the Charlottetown Festival. The art gallery, meanwhile, hosts traveling exhibits in addition to a permanent collection that includes the best Canadian works in traditional arts forms, photography, digital media, installations and more.

Green Gables Heritage Place

When you bring up PEI, for millions of people around the world the first thing that comes to mind is Anne of Green Gables. If you want to really experience this province, a stop at the Green Gables Heritage Place External Link Title  is a must. For fans of the story, this is the house where it all began, the house that inspired the setting for L.M. Montgomery's novels. Walk through the rooms of the Victorian home, restored to the period of the late 1800s, and picture yourself as the red-headed girl. Experience farm life in the barn, granary and woodshed. Stroll the 'Haunted Woods' and 'Balsam Hollow' trails described in the book. And if you haven't read the book, the Green Gables Heritage House still provides a unique look back at an historic period on this beautiful island.

Prince Edward Island National Park

What's an island vacation without a little swimming? The 37-mile Prince Edward Island National Park External Link Title captures the beautiful north shore of the province, including the many picturesque white and red-sand beaches. And you may need to take a dip after spending the day hiking, cycling, golfing, or geocaching! If you can't manage to do everything in one day, you can always pitch your tent, relax by a campfire, and set off for round two in the morning.

Greenwich, PEI National Park

St. Peter's, Greenwich External Link Title , is home to an extensive and fragile dune system -- a delicate ecosystem that is extremely uncommon in North America. An extensive trail system and a floating boardwalk allow you to explore some of the 900-acres of dunes at your own pace. Then, take some time to relax on Greenwich's soft sand beaches, or pay a visit to the Greenwich Interpretation Centre, which features 20 interactive and multimedia exhibits about the region, and the 10,000 years of history that shaped it.

Confederation Trail

If you think your local bike path is cool, just wait until you visit the Confederation Trail External Link Title . This 270-mile walking, cycling and snowmobile trail is a former railroad route that runs from one tip of Prince Edward Island to the other. Confederation Trail is essential exploring for anyone who loves the outdoors. Cyclists flock to the trail every year, and there are a number of local guides and tours which ensure you're as comfortable as can be on two wheels. Regardless of how you're traveling the trail, over 1,900 geocaching sites are located along the route, making for a fun challenge if you're in the mood to explore. The trail also touches a number of waterfront communities, so you can hop off, have a meal, live like the locals do, and climb back on your bike. Ditch the car and experience PEI in a different way.

Victoria Row

Victoria Row is a popular shopping destination in downtown Charlottetown External Link Title . Historic Victorian buildings line the cobblestone road, which is blocked to cars in the summer, making it a hub of pedestrians hoisting both shopping bags and doggy bags. Restaurants open their patios so diners can enjoy the great weather while listening to the many musicians who set up along the street. A multitude of shops and boutiques provide you with a huge variety of locally-produced wares, whether you're in the market for a souvenir or just in the mood to browse.

Basin Head Provincial Park

One of the best beaches in Canada is located in Basin Head Provincial Park External Link Title . What's not to like about a nine-mile white sand beach whose waters are actually quite warm in the summer? The beach is often dubbed the "singing sands," because the fine sand squeaks as your feet press into it. Locals here love to jump off a small bridge into a small water channel that divides the beach, so keep an eye out. After a day on the beach, visit the Basin Head Fisheries Museum for a look back in time at the history of local fisheries. Before beachgoers dominated the area, fisherman would haul their catch right off the shores here.

West Point Lighthouse

If you're bored with hotel rooms, The West Point Lighthouse External Link Title is an active lighthouse and inn that definitely provides a unique setting in which to rest your head. Located on a beach behind sand dunes, the almost 70-foot-high lighthouse was built in 1875 and stands out for its great 'zebra' paint job and square structure. In the early 20th century, the lighthouse helped guide ships and airplanes through winter storms. Now, its tower and keeper's quarters provide interesting sleeping arrangements and unrivaled views of the Northumberland Strait to lucky visitors.

Confederation Bridge

The eight-mile Confederation Bridge External Link Title is an absolute feat of engineering, and is the longest bridge in the world that spans ice-covered waters. Locally known as the 'Fixed Link,' the curved bridge connects Prince Edward Island to New Brunswick and the rest of Canada, allowing visitors to drive to the Island rather than forcing them onto ferries. If you're not traveling by car, a shuttle takes passengers and cyclists across the bridge 24/7.

The Links at Crowbush Cove

If you're a golfer, the Links at Crowbush Cove External Link Title is a beautiful golf course overlooking the north shore of PEI. The course has earned high praise from those in the know. It was named one of the top two in Canada for value by SCORE Golf Magazine and was given a five-star rating from Golf Digest. It's not hard to see why. The beautiful setting combines with a challenging but enjoyable course comprising nine water holes and eight dunes holes. Golf icons like John Daly and Mike Weir have played the course; now it's your turn.

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Royal Tours of Canada

Article by Carolyn Harris

Published Online December 6, 2012

Last Edited March 10, 2023

There have been royal tours of British North America , then Canada, since the late 18th century. Early tours focused on the relationship between the monarchy and the military , while later tours included diplomacy, philanthropy, and the Crown ’s relationship with Indigenous peoples .

Early Royal Tours

In the 18th century, two of King George III’s sons visited British North America during their respective naval and military careers. Prince William, the Duke of Clarence (the future King William IV), visited Newfoundland as captain of the HMS Pegasus in 1786. Prince Edward, the Duke of Kent ( Queen Victoria ’s father), was posted to Halifax and Quebec City and toured what is now Ontario in the 1790s. He was named commander-in-chief of the British North American forces in May 1799 but left the following year due to ill health. The Duke of Kent was the first public figure to describe both English and French Canadians as “all his Britannic Majesty’s Canadian subjects.” Prince Edward Island is named in his honour.

Queen Victoria’s Family

Prime Minister John A. Macdonald invited Queen Victoria to open Canada’s first post- Confederation parliament on 1 July 1867. However, she declined and never visited Canada in person. Her son, the Prince of Wales (the future King Edward VII), and her grandson, the Duke of Cornwall and York (the future King George V), made high-profile tours of Canada in 1860 and 1901, respectively. These tours were organized to acknowledge Canadian contributions to the Crimean War (1853–56) and the Second Boer War (1899–1902). They also provided a framework for future tours, including speeches, meetings with First Nations representatives, visits to prominent Canadian sites, gift exchanges and philanthropy. The presence of the Duchess of Cornwall of York (the future Queen Mary) on the 1901 tour led to greater recognition for Canadian women’s organizations and more social events with both men and women.

Resident Royalty

In addition to tours, royalty have lived in Canada for extended periods of time. Queen Victoria ’s son-in-law, Lord Lorne , and daughter, Princess Louise Caroline Alberta , lived at Rideau Hall for long periods during Lorne’s term as governor general (1878–83) and made the first royal tour of British Columbia in 1882. Queen Victoria’s third son, Prince Arthur, Duke of Connaught , served as governor general from 1911 to 1916 and lived in Ottawa with his wife Margaret, Duchess of Connaught . His daughter, Princess Patricia , became honorary colonel-in-chief of Princess Patricia’s Light Infantry Regiment during the First World War . Patricia’s cousin, Princess Alice of Albany, Countess of Athlone , was vice regal consort from 1940 to 1946, while her husband, the Earl of Athlone , was governor general. Royal tours by the Connaughts and the Athlones focused on the military, wartime charities and preparations for war.

King Edward VIII

As Prince of Wales, the future King Edward VIII first visited Canada in 1919 to acknowledge Canadian contributions to the First World War . During the 1919 tour, Edward purchased a ranch in Alberta , which he kept after his abdication as king in 1936 and did not sell until 1962. Edward made official visits to Canada and private visits to his ranch in the 1920s and 1930s, achieving celebrity status. The prince, his Canadian tours and his ranch are mentioned in novels by Canadian authors, including Robertson Davies , Lucy Maud Montgomery and Timothy Findley . Edward was the first member of the royal family to describe himself as a Canadian on his tours of Canada. In a 1919 speech in Calgary , he stated, “I came to Canada as a Canadian in mind and spirit.”

The 1939 Royal Tour

King George VI was the first reigning monarch to tour Canada. In 1939 , he and his wife, Queen Elizabeth (the Queen Mother) , travelled across the country by train and made a four-day visit to the United States. It was one of the most popular royal tours in Canadian history and reinforced critical Anglo-Canadian and Anglo-American relations on the eve of the  Second World War .

Queen Elizabeth II

Queen Elizabeth II is the most traveled monarch in history and has visited Canada on more than 22 occasions, including the opening of the St. Lawrence Seaway in 1959, Canada’s Centennial and Expo 67 in 1967, the Montreal Olympics in 1976, and the patriation of the Canadian Constitution in 1982. During these tours, she has acted in her official capacity as Queen of Canada, opening Parliament for the first time in 1957 and delivering the Speech from the Throne in 1977. The Queen’s most recent visit to Canada was in 2010, when she and the Duke of Edinburgh celebrated Canada Day on Parliament Hill. At a 2010 official dinner at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel in Toronto , Prime Minister Stephen Harper delivered a hockey -themed speech that praised the Queen as Canada’s “Most Valuable Player.”

Modern Royal Tours

Since the mid-1990s, Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh , the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall ( Charles and Camilla ), and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge ( William and Catherine ) have made official visits to Canada, where they are formally invited and received by the prime minister . Other members of the royal family make working or private visits organized at the provincial level with their charities and military patronages in Canada. Recent official visits include Charles and Camilla’s visit to Nunavut , Ontario and the National Capital Region to mark the 150th anniversary of Canadian Confederation in 2017, William and Catherine’s 2011 tour of Ontario, Quebec , Prince Edward Island , the Northwest Territories and Alberta (their first overseas tour as a married couple) and their 2016 tour of British Columbia and the Yukon with their children, Prince George and Princess Charlotte. Recent working visits include Prince Harry ’s visit to Toronto in 2017 in his capacity as patron of Invictus Games (his first public appearance with his future wife, Meghan ). Sophie, Countess of Wessex (now Duchess of Edinburgh), visited Toronto in 2019, touring hospitals where she is patron and promoting a new initiative to support women in financial careers. Royal tours were suspended temporarily during the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020.

Interested in the monarchy?

Further Reading

Philip Buckner, Canada and the End of Empire (2004)

Arthur Bousfield and Garry Toffoli, Home to Canada: Royal Tours 1786-2010  (2010)

Ian Radforth, Royal Spectacle: The 1860 Visit of the Prince of Wales to Canada and the United States (2004)

External Links

The Royal Visit A video documentary of the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Royal Tour of Canada in 1939. From the National Film Board of Canada.

CANADIAN TOUR OF HRH THE PRINCE OF WALES Watch an extended video featuring scenes from the 1919 cross-Canada tour of HRH The Prince of Wales. From British Pathé on YouTube.

Recommended

Constitutional monarchy, king charles iii, camilla, queen consort, prince william (hrh the prince of wales), catherine (hrh the princess of wales), prince harry (the duke of sussex), meghan (the duchess of sussex).

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• DESTINATION GUIDE

The essential guide to visiting Canada

Here’s what you need to know about the world’s second largest country—when to go, where to stay, what to do, and how to get around.

Why you should visit Canada

The majesty of Niagara Falls and Banff National Park . Champagne powder at British Columbia ski resorts. Dense forests, teal waters. Polar bears and spirit bears and loons. Poutine in Montreal , lobster rolls in Halifax. The most lakes of any country in the world.

Best time to visit Canada

Spring: Whale-watch at Clayoquot Sound (pronounced clack-what) as some 20,000 gray whales migrate past the coast, a UNESCO Biosphere Region. A million tulips bloom in Ottawa as part of a spring festival .

Summer:   This is prime season for canoeing Ontario’s many lakes, driving the glorious Sea-to-Sky Highway   from Vancouver to Whistler, rock-climbing at Squamish, and golfing at a world-renowned seaside course, like Nova Scotia’s Cabot Cliffs or Cabot Links . End of summer sees the stars come out at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).

Autumn:   Polar bears gather in large numbers in Churchill , Manitoba , waiting for ice to form on Hudson Bay so they can hunt seal. For fall colors, take a boat trip up the Saguenay River, in Quebec.

Winter:   Dogsled, ice-fish, and snowshoe at the Carnaval de Québec winter festival. Ski or snowboard at any of a score of high, steep, powdery ski resorts that populate the west, including Whistler Blackcomb , Kicking Horse , and Revelstoke , the last being one of the snowiest places on Earth. At Whistler, ride the bobsleigh track featured at the 2010 Winter Olympics.

Lay of the land

Cities:   Mountains and ocean sandwich outdoorsy Vancouver.   Lakefront Toronto’s dramatic skyline is interspersed with museums and vibrant ethnic neighborhoods. Sophisticated cobblestoned Montreal is where Canadians go to let their hair down. Colorful houses cling to the rock of St. John’s while icebergs drift offshore. “Any boat ride that has you entering St. John’s Harbour at dusk is a divine experience,” says legendary Newfoundland folk-rock musician Alan Doyle .  

West:   In British Columbia, get lost among the islands of Haida Gwaii,   home to some of the densest, most concentrated coastal temperate rainforest left on Earth. In Desolation Sound,   cultural interpreter and bear guide Klemkwateki (Randy) Louie teaches visitors how to weave with cedar bark and to carve miniature canoe paddles. He also takes guests by boat up the Toba Inlet (Yekwamen), among whales, orcas, seals, and sea lions, to the Klite River to watch grizzly bears in their natural habitat. “I’ve been involved in my Coast Salish teachings for 30 years, singing, drumming, dancing, giving visitors some Klahoose history. We’ve handed this down to the younger generation and to our guests to help with building a connection in working together.”

The 47-mile backcountry West Coast Trail (WCT) crosses beaches studded with flowerpot rock formations, and passes through groves of old-growth trees. Down the Vancouver Island coast is the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail , a shorter but more hilly option. “Both trails zigzag through thick coastal rainforest with lots of muddy sections and ladders to help you up and down the steep slopes,” says Taryn Eyton, founder of HappiestOutdoors.ca .

North:   In the Northwest Territories (NWT), paddle the Nahanni River through Canada’s deepest river canyons, along rapids, and past Virginia Falls, nearly twice the height of Niagara. NWT is also where you can canoe and swim in enormous Great Slave Lake and spot the northern lights , visible here 240 nights per year.  

Prairie provinces:   Elk Island National Park , in Alberta , is home to bison, elk, and more than 250 bird species. Nearby on the banks of the North Saskatchewan River, Métis Crossing features a cultural center, historic exhibits, and dome accommodations with transparent ceilings for night-sky viewing. In early fall, Jasper National Park holds a Dark Sky festival with family-friendly events like night hikes.

Fly in by floatplane to lodges in Saskatchewan or Manitoba for trophy catches of northern pike, walleye, and lake trout. “Since there’s very little fishing pressure, the fish are typically giants, and more than willing to hit just about any lure you show them,” says Patrick Walsh, editor of Outdoor Canada   magazine.  

Ontario:   Charter a boat and cruise the 120 miles from the capital Ottawa down the 19 th- century Rideau Canal (the oldest continuously operated canal system in North America), through a series of lakes, locks, and rivers. Drive west alongside Lake Ontario to Prince Edward County , one of the hottest vacation spots in Canada, known for its wineries, food, hip hotels, and historic small towns like Wellington and Picton. Climb the immense sand dunes of Sandbanks Provincial Park, the largest freshwater barrier beach and dune system in the world. Continuing west along the lake, a new Canadian Canoe Museum opened in Peterborough in May 2024.

Quebec:   Montreal comes alive in summer with a series of events, such as the Festival International de Jazz de Montréal . In compact, French-speaking Quebec City, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were in a charming town in northern France. Off the beaten path, drive the Gaspé peninsula, encompassing four national parks and iconic offshore limestone formation Percé. Stop in at the International Garden Festival at Grand-Métis, Quebec.

Atlantic Canada:   A magical place of mountains and verdant coastline, Gros Morne National Park,   in Newfoundland , is one of the few places where you can stroll atop the Earth’s mantle , exposed when two continental plates collided. Visitors can hike to the top of Western Brook Pond fjord for an iconic view , or board a boat . The oldest known European settlement in North America—beating Columbus by centuries—is at L'Anse aux Meadows . Windswept homes of timber, peat, and sod, the Viking site lay undiscovered until 1960.

At the Cliffs of Fundy UNESCO Geopark in Nova Scotia   marvel at the world’s highest tides in action.  

Cape Breton Island is home to one of the world’s great drives, the 185-mile Cabot Trail. A few hardy types bike the steep winding hills. Offshore, visitors whale-watch or fish enormous bluefin tuna.

Getting around Canada

By plane:   Leading carrier Air Canada has more than 900 flights daily. Floatplanes operated by small companies connect remote locations. U.S.-bound passengers can pre-clear U.S. customs and immigration at nine Canadian airports.  

B y train:   Rail is the time-honored way to see Canada, and operators run specialized services for tourists, like Rocky Mountaineer’s deluxe routes from Vancouver through the Canadian Rockies to Banff or Jasper. Regular train service by Via runs a limited number of routes.

By bus:   Intercity bus service has declined across Canada.

By car:   A car is essential for moving about within regions of Canada, but some top tourist spots—like Churchill for polar bears—are accessible only by plane or train.

By boat:   Bounded by three oceans and with an abundance of lakes and rivers, a cruise or boat trip is a great way to see the country.

Know before you go

Cultural heritage:   Native rights and the debts owed by settlers have become front and center in the public discourse, with land acknowledgements , which originated in Canada, now standard practice. Canada’s newest (1999) territory, Nunavut , is governed by the Inuit , and Torngat Mountains National Park , on the northern tip of Labrador, is owned and managed by the Inuit, the first of its kind.

The transcontinental railway helped establish Canada as a nation, but at the same time pushed aside Indigenous peoples and their rights. Blasting through the Canadian Rockies, untold numbers of imported Chinese workers died and were buried by their fellow countrymen, often in unmarked graves.

Canada became a self-governing dominion in 1867, but when Great Britain declared war in 1914 Canada automatically joined too as it did not yet control its own foreign affairs. Canada gained legislative independence from Britain in 1931, an official flag of its own only in 1965, and constitutional independence from the U.K. as recently as 1982.

Hours: Bars in Canadian cities typically stay open until 2 a.m. Drinking age is 18 or 19, depending on province or territory, while some remote northern communities place restrictions on alcohol use. Marijuana is legal for both recreational and medicinal uses.

LGBTQ+:   Canada is consistently ranked the world’s best country for LGBTQ+ rights and safety of travelers. The country legalized same-sex marriage in 2005—at the time only the fourth country in the world to do so. Pride Toronto (June) is one of the largest organized gay pride festivals in the world.

How to visit Canada sustainably

Greenpeace was founded in Canada and today the country ranks a respectable 14 th out of 76 countries on the Green Future Index . Keep your distance from wildlife. Bring your own reusable water bottles, coffee cups, and toiletries. Put all garbage and recyclables into designated bins. Support Indigenous peoples by taking guided walks and visiting Indigenous art galleries.

What to read and watch

Anne of Green Gables , by Lucy Maud Montgomery. This globally loved 1908 children’s book set on Prince Edward Island was adapted most recently into a Netflix series. November 30, 2024, will mark the 150th anniversary of the birth of Montgomery.

Ducks: Two Years in the Oil Sands , by Kate Beaton. This autobiographical comic from Cape Breton’s Kate Beaton recounts her experience as one of the few women working in the rough-and-tumble oil patch of northern Alberta. Beaton’s story also captures the never-ending tale of Canadians from the Atlantic provinces migrating westward for work.

The Inconvenient Indian: A Curious Account of Native People in North America , by Thomas King. This history of Indigenous peoples in North America has been turned into a 2020 documentary .

The Sleeping Car Porter ,   by Suzette Mayr. The award-winning 2022 novel focuses on a 1920s Black closeted gay Canadian working as a railway porter to save money to attend dental school.

The Hockey Sweater , by Roch Carrier. This 1979 short story about a Quebec boy who receives a hated Toronto Maple Leafs jersey in error has been an enduring favorite of Canadians, managing to capture the importance of both hockey and winter to Canadian children, and also serving as an explainer of relations between English and French Canada.

Schitt’s Creek.   The pandemic’s surprise hit series was written by and stars Canadians, and more than anything has a gentle, Canadian-defining vibe to it. If these characters are your people, you’ll feel at home in Canada.

Kim’s Convenience.   Written by Ins Choi, this sitcom about a Korean-Canadian family who own a corner store in downtown Toronto captures the intimate feel of the city’s many ethnic neighborhoods, as well as the common multi-generational immigrant experience in one of the world’s most international metropolises.

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How to Spend a Day in Prince Edward Island (PEI Day Trip)

Table of Contents

Nestled in the gentle embrace of Canada's East Coast lies a hidden gem, a place of picturesque landscapes, captivating history, and a serene way of life. Welcome to Prince Edward Island, where time seems to slow down, and every moment is a brushstroke on the canvas of tranquility.

A visit to this island province feels like a step back in time, where life unfolds at a more leisurely pace, and each corner holds the promise of a new discovery. Whether you're a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or a culinary adventurer, Prince Edward Island has something to offer every traveler. So! If you're planning a day trip to this charming island, you're in for a treat! Read on to take notes on expert tips on how to make the most of your day in PEI. 

Is it worth it to go to PEI for a day?

While spending just one day in Prince Edward Island may seem short, it's undeniably worth it. PEI's compact size allows you to capture the essence of this charming island, from its lush landscapes and sandy beaches to its rich cultural heritage and delectable cuisine. 

You'll be amazed at how much you can experience in a day—visiting the iconic Green Gables, savoring fresh seafood, exploring historic sites, and immersing yourself in the island's laid-back charm. While a longer stay would allow for deeper exploration, a day trip to PEI offers a delightful taste of its unique beauty and culture, leaving you with fond memories and a desire to return for a more extended visit.

PEI Tours: Your Passport to Island Adventure

Can you drive around PEI in one day?

Yes, it is possible to drive around Prince Edward Island in one day. PEI is relatively small, with a circumference of approximately 700 kilometers. This means you can feasibly complete a circular tour of the island in a single day.

What to do in PEI on a Day Trip?

A day trip to Prince Edward Island promises a delightful array of experiences that capture the essence of this charming Canadian province. Here’s a meticulously planned PEI day-trip itinerary to help you make the most of your time here. However, to truly appreciate the island's beauty, attractions, and experiences, it's recommended to allocate more time if possible. While a one-day drive can provide a glimpse of PEI's coastal scenery and some of its key attractions, a longer visit allows for a deeper exploration, including stops at charming villages, historical sites, and leisurely breaks to savor the island's unique atmosphere.

Morning Explorations!

Sunrise at cavendish beach.

Begin your day early by catching the sunrise at Cavendish Beach. The tranquil waves, red sand dunes, and the first rays of sunlight create a serene atmosphere that will set the tone for your adventure.

Anne of Green Gables Museum

After the beach, head to the Anne of Green Gables Museum, a literary gem that will transport you to the world of L.M. Montgomery's beloved novel. Explore the author's childhood home and the surrounding landscapes that inspired her writing.

Breakfast at a Local Cafe

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at one of PEI's charming local cafes. Indulge in some classic dishes like lobster benedict or a potato frittata, made from the island's famous potatoes.

Explore PEI's Hidden Gems with Expert Guides

Midday Delights!

Green gables heritage place.

Continue your literary journey by visiting the Green Gables Heritage Place , where you can explore the original Green Gables farmhouse and immerse yourself in the story of Anne Shirley - the beloved character from Anne of Green Gables novel. 

Explore the Capital: Charlottetown

Spend your midday in the capital city, Charlottetown. Stroll along the historic waterfront, visit the Confederation Centre of the Arts, and grab lunch at a charming bistro.

Art Galleries and Local Shops

Charlottetown boasts a vibrant arts scene and unique boutiques. Spend some time exploring local art galleries and shops, where you can find handmade crafts and souvenirs.

Afternoon Adventures!

Prince edward island national park.

Head back to nature in the afternoon and visit PEI National Park. Enjoy a hike along the scenic trails, have a picnic by the ocean, or simply relax on the sandy shores.

Adventure in Cavendish Beach

For adventure enthusiasts, Cavendish offers exciting activities such as kayaking, horseback riding, and zip-lining. Choose your adventure and make the most of your afternoon.

Seafood Feast

As evening approaches, savor a seafood feast at one of the island's renowned seafood restaurants. Don't miss out on trying PEI's world-famous lobster.

Evening Charm!

Sunset at victoria-by-the-sea.

End your day with a breathtaking sunset at the picturesque village of Victoria-by-the-Sea. The charming streets, artisan shops, and the view of the sun setting over the ocean make for a perfect conclusion to your PEI adventure.

Top PEI Day Trips and Tour Packages

Best of pei tour.

Experience the beauty and culture of Prince Edward Island with this all-inclusive tour that begins and ends with a complimentary pickup and drop-off from your Charlottetown accommodations. Your journey starts with a narrated drive through the charming streets of Charlottetown, providing insights into the city's history and vibrant atmosphere.

Anne of Green Gables Heritage Place

As the tour progresses, you’ll make two captivating stops at the Dalvay by the Sea Outlook and the Cavendish Cliffs Outlook. Here, you'll be captivated by the stunning coastal vistas, red sandstone cliffs, and the endless expanse of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Next, you’ll delve into the literary world of Anne of Green Gables at the Heritage Site , where you can explore the iconic Green Gables farmhouse, stroll through enchanting gardens, and immerse yourself in the world of this beloved character by L.M. Montgomery.

Lastly, satisfy your palate with a visit to the Prince Edward Island Preserve Co. , where you can sample artisanal jams and gourmet creations made from the island's finest ingredients. The tour wraps up with a convenient drop-off back at downtown Charlottetown, completing a day of exploration and cultural immersion.

PEI Preserve Co.

Walking Tour of Charlottetown PEI

PEI Charlottetown Skyline

This walking tour of Charlottetown PEI , starting at 49 USD per person only, will take you on a captivating journey through the heart of Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. Starting at the idyllic Confederation Landing on the city's waterfront, you'll be greeted by the gentle breeze of the sea and by an expert guide, setting the perfect tone for your exploration. As you make your way through the cobblestone streets, the rich history of this island gem comes to life.

Your itinerary is a tapestry of iconic landmarks and hidden gems: Great George St. welcomes you with its charming architecture, while Bishop's Palace and Basilica Cathedral offer a glimpse into the island's opulent past; Province House resonates with the echoes of the historic meetings that shaped Canada; The Confederation Centre of the Arts showcases the island's vibrant artistic soul, and Confederation Court Mall invites you to discover unique boutiques and local treasures; City Hall stands as a testament to Charlottetown's civic pride; Rochford Square exudes a sense of community and culture; Beaconsfield Historic House transports you to another era; and the Government House of Prince Edward Island unveils the regal history of the province.

Province House, Charlottetown

As your tour draws to a close, the return journey along Victoria Boardwalk offers a picturesque route that takes you past the Culinary Institute of Canada, the Queen Charlotte Armoury, the PEI Convention Centre, and Peakes Quay. This scenic walk provides a perfect conclusion to a day filled with history, culture, and the undeniable charm of Prince Edward Island's capital city, leaving you with lasting memories of your unforgettable adventure.

So, whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or simply seeking a memorable stroll through a picturesque city, join us for an unforgettable journey through Charlottetown. Book your tour today and let us be your guide to the heart and soul of PEI's capital.

Private Tour of PEI

Embark on an exclusive and personalized journey through the enchanting Prince Edward Island with this private tour of PEI . Your adventure begins with a hassle-free pick-up right from your downtown Charlottetown accommodations. As you settle into our comfortable vehicle, a knowledgeable guide will provide a captivating narrative, taking you on a narrated drive through the historic streets of Charlottetown. You'll gain insights into the city's rich history and vibrant culture, setting the stage for your day of exploration.

The tour then whisks you away to two breathtaking viewpoints that showcase the island's natural beauty in all its glory. First, the Dalvay by the Sea Outlook offers stunning vistas of PEI's pristine coastline and the iconic Dalvay Beach. Then, the Cavendish Cliffs Outlook allows you to stand atop dramatic red sandstone cliffs, gazing out over the Gulf of St. Lawrence. 

The tour ensures you don't miss out on any of the island's must-see attractions, including a visit to the Anne of Green Gables Heritage Site , where you can step into the world of Lucy Maud Montgomery's beloved literary character. And what's a visit to PEI without indulging in its culinary delights? The tour concludes with a visit to the Prince Edward Island Preserve Co. , where you can sample artisanal jams and gourmet creations made from the island's finest ingredients. Finally, your journey comes full circle with a drop-off back at downtown Charlottetown, leaving you with cherished memories of your private PEI tour and a deep appreciation for the island's unique charm.

Don't wait any longer to experience the best of Prince Edward Island. Book your private tour today and embark on a day of discovery like no other!

Charlottetown Food Walking Tour

Indulge your senses on a gastronomic journey through Charlottetown with this mouthwatering Charlottetown Food Walking Tour . Your adventure begins as your tour guide greets you at the main entrance of Founders Hall, and from there, you're in for a treat. You’ll kick things off with a piping hot bowl of creamy seafood chowder that sets the stage for a culinary exploration of Prince Edward Island's finest flavors.

As you stroll through the picturesque Confederation Landing Park and along the charming Peake's Wharf, the sea breeze heightens your anticipation for the next culinary delight – fresh oysters, sourced right from the island's pristine waters. The walk takes you through historic landmarks like St. Dunstan's Basilica, Province House , and the Confederation Centre of the Arts, each steeped in history and culture.

But fear not, your taste buds won't be neglected, as we make sure you savor the rich flavors of lobster poutine, a delectable fusion of PEI's culinary treasures. To top it all off, you’ll conclude your flavorful journey with a scoop of ice cream, leaving you with a heart full of appreciation for Charlottetown's culinary treasures as you make your way back to Founders Hall. Book your tour now for a culinary adventure you won't forget!

Let’s Wrap it Up!

All in all, spending a day in Prince Edward Island is like stepping into a storybook world where the coastline stretches endlessly, the landscapes are painted in vibrant hues, and the charm of a simpler life still thrives. From the historic streets of Charlottetown to the breathtaking viewpoints of Dalvay by the Sea and Cavendish Cliffs, and the enchanting Anne of Green Gables Heritage Site, PEI offers a day trip filled with rich experiences.

So, if you've been convinced by this account of the island's beauty, culture, and culinary delights, don't delay your adventure! Book your PEI tour today and let the enchantment of this maritime paradise continue to unfold before you. Your next adventure awaits!

Latest Articles

The Best Time to Visit Prince Edward Island

Anne of Green Gables' Destinations to Visit on Prince Edward Island

Fun & Unique Things to Do in PEI

Things to do in Prince Edward Island

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10 of the best beaches in Canada

Jan 22, 2024 • 7 min read

From a popular beach in Toronto to remote sands on Prince Edward Island, here are Canada's best beaches © Cavan Images / Getty Images

In Canada , a visit to the beach doesn't just mean ice cream, basking in the sun and a bracing dip in the ocean.

If you're lucky, it might also include a bear encounter, a windswept walk amid driftwood and a chance to lob a snowball rather than a pebble into the surf.

Depending on where you are, the incoming ocean tide won't necessarily destroy your sandcastles. With only six of Canada's 13 provinces and territories enjoying ice-free access to open ocean, many of the nation's sandiest beaches abut large freshwater lakes. 

Narrow down your waterside options with our guide to the best beaches across Canada.

1. San Josef Bay, British Columbia

Best beach for wilderness

With a reputation for tempestuous weather and tricky access, northern Vancouver Island  in British Columbia excels in wild, lonesome beaches. The 1.6-mile (2.5km) trail to San Josef Bay starts at the end of a 43-mile (70km) unpaved logging road from Port Hardy. When the forest finally parts, you'll be delivered onto a windswept expanse of crashing surf and forested sea stacks where bushes and trees have been contorted by fierce Pacific storms.

Planning tip: Bring a tent and binoculars. You can camp right on the smooth sandy beach and spy on the resident wildlife, including eagles and ospreys.

Wondering where locals go in Canada? Check out some of our writers' favorite spots .

2. Stanhope Beach, Prince Edward Island

Best beach for avoiding the crowds

The huge, dune-rimmed beach at Stanhope , on the north shore of Prince Edward Island , sees far fewer tourists than neighbors like Cavendish Beach . For a quiet ramble, free of bustle and bounding dogs, head to the boardwalk that traverses the park's marram-grass dunes, an important nesting site for the piping plover.

Continue west, and you'll encounter the Covehead Harbour Lighthouse, a white clapboard structure that exudes PEI charm. Track east, and you'll end up at Dalvay by the Sea , a handsome Queen Anne revival-style hotel built in 1895.

3. Wasaga Beach, Ontario

Best beach for swimming

Canada may be less known for its beaches than for its stupendous  national parks or cosmopolitan cities , but it can legitimately claim to possess the longest freshwater beach in the world.

Wasaga Beach, in the Ontario town of the same name, is an 8.7-mile-long (14km) expanse of soft sand that kisses the shores of Georgian Bay in Lake Huron. The beach is part of a provincial park , meaning it's equipped with trails and opportunities to spot owls and woodpeckers. Since this is the closest full-fledged beach resort to Toronto , thousands of visitors pile in every summer, and the elongated strip can get rowdy. 

Planning tip: The sand is split into six zones. Areas 1 and 2 are the most heavily trafficked, 5 is best for families, and 6 is the one to go to if you are looking for some space. All have warm, shallow water that's safe for swimming.

4. Chesterman Beach, British Columbia

Best beach for surfing

Choosing your favorite beach in Canada's surfing capital, Tofino , is like choosing your favorite deluxe sports car: they're all ridiculously good. Most surveys list Long Beach at No. 1 because it's, well, long – but many Tofitians (locals) rank the surfer's hub of Chesterman as the most complete scimitar of sand. Ringed by rock pools, islets and a narrow sand spit, it's beautiful in both early-morning mist and fiery orange-ripple sunset. The surfing, of course, is sublime.

Planning tip: Unlike Long Beach, Chesterman is close enough to town to reach by bike (with your surfboard clipped to a special bike rack) and firm enough to cycle on if you need some leg exercise before cresting the Pacific waves.

5. Kitsilano, British Columbia

Best urban beach

Kitsilano  is arguably Vancouver's (and Canada's) best urban beach and feels like a freewheeling nugget of Southern California transported 1000 miles north. Backed by cool cafes and an attractive park, Kits (as the locals call it) exudes a sporty, laid-back vibe, especially in summer.

Beach volleyball is the game of choice, although there are also enough grassy expanses to spread out and toss a frisbee or football. The yellow arc of sand is sugary and clean, with views across the water toward Vancouver's glass skyscrapers and the North Shore mountains opposite.

Planning tip: If swimming in boat-filled English Bay doesn't entice you, Kits also has an enormous nearly 450ft (137m)-long saltwater pool, one of the largest of its kind in the world.

6. Shallow Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador

Best beach for kayaking

The bay is shallow, the beach long and the sunsets spectacular. This gentle swathe of sand protected within the boundary of Newfoundland 's  Gros Morne National Park  has a mellow Caribbean feel – at least until you dip your toes in the 59ºF (15ºC) waters of the Gulf of St Lawrence. 

Kayaking is a popular activity here. You can cast off from the beach and navigate the sheltered waters of Belldowns Islands, where arctic terns nest before undertaking their marathon migration south. Whales can sometimes be spotted out at sea, and when the weather turns chilly, beachside paths turn into cross-country skiing trails.

7. Annette Lake, Alberta

Best beach for wildlife

Landlocked Alberta  relies on its lakes to entertain summer beachcombers. While the province has plenty of watery escapes to lure the sand-starved, few are as perfect as tiny Annette Lake in Jasper National Park , with its forested shoreline, dramatic mountain backdrop and invigoratingly cold glacial waters. Short and narrow, Annette's patch of sand is barely the length of a frisbee throw – yet this makes for some special quirks.

Planning tip:  This is one of those rare beaches where you might want to pack some bear spray alongside your blow-up raft: grizzlies are sometimes spotted in the area. Elk and mule deer provide more innocuous company.

8. Plage de la Grande Échouerie, Québec

Best beach for kitesurfing

Administratively, the Îles de la Madeleine archipelago is in Québec ; geographically, it's much closer to the Maritimes. Possessing an astounding 217 miles (350km) of beaches juxtaposed with iron-rich red cliffs, its pièce de la résistance is this 6-mile (10km) sweep of pale sand on the Anglophone island of Grosse Île .

Extending northeast from Pointe Old Harry into the wetlands of the 1690-acre (684-hectare) East Point National Wildlife Reserve, Grande Échouerie invites hours of uninterrupted meditation amid tufted dunes frequented by horned grebe and piping plover.

Planning tip: The archipelago's stiff winds make it one of the best places in Canada for kitesurfing or, for the less athletically inclined, kite-flying.

9. Dunes Beach, Ontario

Best beach for dunes

The aptly named Sandbanks Provincial Park , a 2.5-hour drive east of Toronto, juts into eastern Lake Ontario, forming the world's largest bay-mouth barrier dune formation. There are three fabulous beaches here.

The two most popular, Outlet and Lakeshore, face west onto the main body of Lake Ontario. A little quieter and a lot more interesting is Dunes Beach, which abuts the cleaner, calmer waters of sheltered West Lake. Here, giant dunes dotted with trees and bushes rise steeply from the shore. While most beaches invite rest and relaxation, Dunes tempts you to indulge in short, sharp hill climbs before tumbling at full pelt back down into the lake. 

10. Parlee Beach, New Brunswick

Best beach for families

With the warmest sea water in Canada and International Blue Flag certification proclaiming its safety, accessibility and environmental credentials, Parlee  is far and away New Brunswick's finest beach, its ribbon of sand soft and golden and the water shallow and positively balmy. In high summer, lifeguards patrol at all hours, making it a favorite among families. Commercialization is kept to a minimum, and grassy dunes buffer a manicured strip of showers, change rooms and poutine-plying spots to eat. The Beach Boys once played a concert at Parlee, which is still reflected in the beach's carefree rock' n' roll spirit today.

Planning tip: Locals in the know save their appetites for the nearby lobster capital of Shediac. 

This article was first published Mar 30, 2021 and updated Jan 22, 2024.

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P.E.I. National Park opens for 2024 with new trails, new playgrounds and a new accessible boardwalk

Repairs and cleanup after post-tropical storm fiona also allowed the expansion and improvement of services.

Visiting P.E.I. National Park this summer? You'll notice a few changes

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P.E.I. National Park's facilities are open to the public today, and visitors will see a number of changes to the park since last summer.

Jessica Foster, manager of visitor experience for the park, said post-tropical storm Fiona left Parks Canada with a lot of work — but also an opportunity to expand some of the services. "We saw a lot of erosion and damage to the coastline, as well as a lot of trees that were downed, so there was a lot of cleanup to do," she said.

• Fiona's impact 'stark' at P.E.I. National Park
• A drone's eye view of Fiona damage at P.E.I. National Park (2022)

Some of the changes include a completed multi-use trail from Brackley Beach to Robinsons Island, a new playground in Stanhope located further away from the coastline, and new automated entry gates at the Brackley and Graham's Lane, Cavendish entrances, where holders can scan park passes for entry. There will also be a large, accessible boardwalk structure leading to Stanhope's main beach.

Miles MacPhee, the technical services coordinator for P.E.I. National Park, said the boardwalk and ramp structure were built to replace the previous structure, destroyed by Fiona. It's designed to be adaptable to severe weather. "The first 20 sections of the structure leading down to the beach are completely removable," he said.

Multi-use trail to Robinsons Island

Vehicles are no longer able to make the approximately 3.5 km trip from Brackley Beach to the island, but Foster says there are accessibility options. "We have something called a 'trailrider.' It's sort of similar to our beach wheelchairs, but this is designed for use on trails. So visitors can reserve those." These specialized wheelchairs have been available in Greenwich, Stanhope, and Cavendish Campground for two years, but this is the first year they've been available at Brackley Beach.

Fewer stationary surfguards in the park

Parks Canada has reduced the number of stationary surfguards from six to four. Ross Lane and the Cavendish Campground beach will now rely on mobile surfguards, who will check beaches along the National Park. The Cavendish, Brackley, Stanhope, and Greenwich beaches will continue to be staffed by stationary surfguards.

Foster said Parks Canada is 'always reviewing what works well,' and has chosen to have stationary surfguards in areas with the largest number of visitors. "I would encourage visitors to choose a location that best suits what they're looking for," she said.

"I know a lot of families who perhaps have young children, or are inexperienced swimmers, like to choose locations that have these stationary surfguard services." She said safety is of the utmost importance to Parks Canada, and she encourages visitors to familiarize themselves with beach safety.

• 'A number of near misses': Residents call for Parks Canada to bring lifeguards back to North Rustico beach

According to a press release from Parks Canada, other updates to the park include a newly constructed lookout platform and interpretive panels at Oceanview Lookout, a new "generator-free" tents-only camping loop at Cavendish Campground, and two new roofed "bunkie" accommodations — one in Stanhope and one in Cavendish — that include a queen bed, a trundle bed, and a mattress loft. Cavendish and Stanhope campgrounds will open to campers on June 11.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sam Wandio is a researcher at CBC P.E.I., working with the digital team. He is a graduate of Holland College's journalism program and he holds a bachelor's degree in English from the University of Prince Edward Island.

with files from Sheehan Desjardins

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British Columbia destinations

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Manitoba destinations

Forts Rouge, Garry and Gibraltar National Historic Site

Linear Mounds National Historic Site

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Prince of Wales Fort National Historic Site

Riding Mountain National Park

Riding Mountain Park East Gate Registration Complex National Historic Site

Riel House National Historic Site

St. Andrew's Rectory National Historic Site

The Forks National Historic Site

Wapusk National Park

York Factory National Historic Site

New Brunswick destinations

Boishébert and Beaubears Island Shipbuilding National Historic Sites

Carleton Martello Tower National Historic Site

Fort Beauséjour – Fort Cumberland National Historic Site

Fort Gaspareaux National Historic Site

Fundy National Park

Kouchibouguac National Park

Monument Lefebvre National Historic Site

Saint Croix Island International Historic Site

St. Andrew's Blockhouse National Historic Site

Newfoundland and Labrador destinations

Akami-Uapishkᵁ-KakKasuak-Mealy Mountains National Park Reserve

Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site

Castle Hill National Historic Site

Gros Morne National Park

Hawthorne Cottage National Historic Site

Hopedale Mission National Historic Site

L'Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site

Port au Choix National Historic Site

Red Bay National Historic Site

Ryan Premises National Historic Site

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Terra Nova National Park

Torngat Mountains National Park

kitjigattalik - Ramah Chert Quarries National Historic Site

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Aulavik National Park

Nahanni National Park Reserve

Nááts'ihch'oh National Park Reserve

Pingo Canadian Landmark

Saoyú-ʔehdacho National Historic Site

Thaidene Nene National Park Reserve

Tuktut Nogait National Park

Wood Buffalo National Park

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Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site

Beaubassin and Fort Lawrence National Historic Sites

Bloody Creek National Historic Site

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Charles Fort National Historic Site

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Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site

Marconi National Historic Site

Melanson Settlement National Historic Site

Port-Royal National Historic Site

Prince of Wales Tower National Historic Site

Royal Battery National Historic Site

Sable Island National Park Reserve

St. Peters Canal National Historic Site

Wolfe's Landing National Historic Site

York Redoubt National Historic Site

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Auyuittuq National Park

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Sirmilik National Park

Tallurutiup Imanga National Marine Conservation Area

Ukkusiksalik National Park

Wrecks of HMS Erebus and HMS Terror National Historic Site

Ontario destinations

Battle Hill National Historic Site

Battle of Cook's Mills National Historic Site

Battle of the Windmill National Historic Site

Battlefield of Fort George National Historic Site

Bead Hill National Historic Site

Beausoleil Island National Historic Site

Bellevue House National Historic Site

Bethune Memorial House National Historic Site

Bois Blanc Island Lighthouse National Historic Site

Bruce Peninsula National Park

Butler's Barracks National Historic Site

Carrying Place of the Bay of Quinte National Historic Site

Fathom Five National Marine Park

Fort George National Historic Site

Fort Henry National Historic Site

Fort Malden National Historic Site

Fort Mississauga National Historic Site

Fort St. Joseph National Historic Site

Fort Wellington National Historic Site

Georgian Bay Islands National Park

Glengarry Cairn National Historic Site

HMCS Haida National Historic Site

Inverarden House National Historic Site

Kingston Fortifications National Historic Site

Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area

Laurier House National Historic Site

Merrickville Blockhouse National Historic Site

Mississauga Point Lighthouse National Historic Site

Mnjikaning Fish Weirs National Historic Site

Murney Tower National Historic Site

Navy Island National Historic Site

Peterborough Lift Lock National Historic Site

Point Clark Lighthouse National Historic Site

Point Pelee National Park

Pukaskwa National Park

Queenston Heights National Historic Site

Rideau Canal National Historic Site

Ridgeway Battlefield National Historic Site

Rouge National Urban Park

Saint-Louis Mission National Historic Site

Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site

Shoal Tower National Historic Site

Sir John Johnson House National Historic Site

Southwold Earthworks National Historic Site

Thousand Islands National Park

Trent-Severn Waterway National Historic Site

Waterloo Pioneers Memorial Tower

Woodside National Historic Site

Prince Edward Island destinations

Ardgowan National Historic Site

Dalvay-by-the-Sea National Historic Site

Green Gables Heritage Place

L.M. Montgomery's Cavendish National Historic Site

Prince Edward Island National Park

Province House National Historic Site

Skmaqn–Port-la-Joye–Fort Amherst National Historic Site

Quebec destinations

57-63 St. Louis Street National Historic Site

Battle of Restigouche National Historic Site

Battle of the Châteauguay National Historic Site

Carillon Barracks National Historic Site

Carillon Canal National Historic Site

Cartier-Brébeuf National Historic Site

Chambly Canal National Historic Site

Coteau-du-Lac National Historic Site

Forges du Saint-Maurice National Historic Site

Forillon National Park

Fort Chambly National Historic Site

Fort Lennox National Historic Site

Fort Ste. Thérèse National Historic Site

Fortifications of Québec National Historic Site

Grosse Île and the Irish Memorial National Historic Site

La Mauricie National Park

Lachine Canal National Historic Site

Louis S. St-Laurent National Historic Site

Louis-Joseph Papineau National Historic Site

Lévis Forts National Historic Site

Maillou House National Historic Site

Manoir Papineau National Historic Site

Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve

Montmorency Park National Historic Site

Obadjiwan–Fort Témiscamingue National Historic Site

Pointe-au-Père Lighthouse National Historic Site

Québec Garrison Club National Historic Site

Saguenay–St-Lawrence Marine Park

Saint-Louis Forts and Châteaux National Historic Site

Saint-Ours Canal National Historic Site

Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Canal National Historic Site

Sir George-Étienne Cartier National Historic Site

Sir Wilfrid Laurier National Historic Site

The Fur Trade at Lachine National Historic Site

Saskatchewan destinations

Batoche National Historic Site

Battle of Tourond's Coulee / Fish Creek National Historic Site

Cypress Hills Massacre National Historic Site

Fort Battleford National Historic Site

Fort Espérance National Historic Site

Fort Livingstone National Historic Site

Fort Pelly National Historic Site

Fort Walsh National Historic Site

Frenchman Butte National Historic Site

Grasslands National Park

Motherwell Homestead National Historic Site

Prince Albert National Park

Yukon Territory destinations

Chilkoot Trail National Historic Site

Dawson Historical Complex National Historic Site

Dredge No. 4 National Historic Site

Former Territorial Court House National Historic Site

Ivvavik National Park

Klondike National Historic Sites

Kluane National Park and Reserve

S.S. Keno National Historic Site

S.S. Klondike National Historic Site

Vuntut National Park

57-63 St. Louis Street is a grouping of three two and two-and-a-half- storey early eighteenth and nineteenth century stone houses within the walls of Quebec City’s Upper Town at the foot of Cavelier du Moulin Park, forming part of the panoramic townscape of Old Quebec Fortifications of Québec...

Located in Labrador, the glacially-rounded, bare rock summits of the Mealy Mountains reach up to 1180 meters to overlook Lake Melville. The pristine landscape of mountain tundra, marine coasts, boreal forests, islands and rivers are home to numerous boreal species. For thousands of years,...

Meet the man who would forever transform the modern world. Feel Alexander Graham Bell’s remarkable legend come to life while touring full-scale replicas, touching his personal artefacts and taking part in exhilarating behind-the-scenes tours.

Stroll the serene and grand grounds surrounding Ardgowan, the former Charlottetown home of William Henry Pope, one of Canada’s Fathers of Confederation who resided and entertained in this cottage-style house during the Charlottetown Conference of 1864.

A major fur trade transportation route traversed by David Thompson and other early adventurers during the mid 1800s.

Located in Canada’s Northwest Territories, Aulavik is among the country’s most remote national parks. But it rewards adventurers with untouched tundra, pristine rivers, archaeological sites and ample wildlife, from muskoxen to seals and other marine mammals.

Home to spectacular natural landmarks like the Akshayuk Pass, Thor Peak and the Penny Ice Cap, Auyuittuq is the “land that never melts” in Inuktitut.

Founded in 1885, Banff is Canada’s first national park and part of the first national park system in the world. With its soaring peaks, azure lakes and abundant wildlife, this Rocky Mountain park attracts millions of visitors every year.

Explore the oldest natural history museum in western Canada and its 5,000+ vintage botanical and zoological specimens — from bears and bighorns, to birds and bees.

One of Banff National Park's greatest traditions is visiting the Upper Hot Springs for a soothing soak in the hot, mineral-rich water. Relaxing in the outdoor pool among the jagged peaks of Rundle and Cascade Mountains is a magical experience that has drawn visitors to Banff since 1886.

Ride into history on a wagon pulled by Percheron horses to discover the life of a ranching cowboy from the late 1800s. Back-dropped by the Rocky Mountains - it’s a true Alberta experience!

Experience life as a Métis settler in the village community of Batoche and discover the history of the last battle of the Northwest Rebellion/Resistance of 1885, scene of Louis Riel’s last stand.

Battle Hill National Historic Site is located on a rolling landscape in the valley of Battle Hill near Highway 2 (also known as Longwoods Road) west of Wardsville, Ontario. The site is associated with the Battle of Longwoods, which occurred on March 4, 1814 on an open landscape near what is now...

The Battle of Cook's Mills National Historic Site is a rolling semi-rural landscape east of the Welland Canal bordering the north bank of Lyon’s Creek in the City of Welland, Ontario. It was the site of an engagement between British and Canadian troops and American forces during the War of 1812....

Relive the last naval battle between France and England for possession of American territory at the Battle of Restigouche National Historic Site. As well, discover the remains of the wreck of the Machault which has been under water for over 200 years!

This is the scene of an important victory for the Métis resistance in their fight against the Northwest Field Force of the Dominion of Canada. Discover the story of Fish Creek and the Battle of Tourond's Coulee.

Discover the strategies behind the significant day of October 26, 1813 when outnumbered Canadian troops defeated the invading American army. Ride 14 kilometres by bike or car across the actual battlefield!

Visit the Battle of the Windmill National Historic site to see one of Canada’s most historically significant windmills, and learn how British redcoat and Canadian loyalists waged a battle to protect Upper Canada from invaders.

Battlefield of Fort George National Historic Site is located near Fort George National Historic Site in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. The rolling open landscape near the shore of Lake Ontario at Two Mile Creek was the site of one of the fiercest and most important battles of the War of 1812.

Bead Hill National Historic Site of Canada is located within the boundaries of Rouge Valley Park in the lower Rouge River Valley in Scarborough, Ontario near the confluence of the Rouge River and the Little Rouge Creek.

A thriving Acadian settlement here became a pivotal site in the struggle between Great Britain and France for control of the Isthmus of Chignecto region.

Welcome to the world’s largest freshwater archipelago—home to a boat-access nature preserve situated where the windswept white pines and granite shores of the Canadian Shield turn to dense deciduous woodland. Here, adventure is easy. Cycle wooded trails, overnight at secluded campsites or...

Follow staff in period costume on a tour of Bellevue House. Hear stories about Canada’s first prime minister, who made history here in the 1840s. Feel a Lake Ontario breeze in an heirloom garden. 

A revered icon to China. A medical pioneer. A wartime hero. A political activist. Dr. Norman Bethune’s lasting worldwide influence is on display in a perfectly preserved Victorian-era home and interactive Visitor Centre.

Two circles of land mark the sites of two battles, which took place in 1711 and 1757, between British forces and allied French and Indigenous forces over the possession of Acadia.

On the shores of Lake Erie, the Bois Blanc Lighthouse, a classic limestone tower, guided sailors for more than a century. A walk around the site gives visitors a chance to imagine what life there must have been like for the light keepers who stood watch. 

Uncover the trials and triumphs of centuries past. Connect with history on a Voyageur Canoe adventure. Interact with lively historical recreationists. Stroll through old-growth pines and discover the captivating stories of Boishébert and Beaubears National Historic Sites.

Bruce Peninsula National Park beckons hikers to travel woodland trails, swimmers to refresh in clear waters, explorers to discover the rugged limestone coast and campers to revel at a stunning night sky.

Butler’s Barracks is a historic military complex comprised of five wooden buildings located at the edge of the Commons behind the Fort George National Historic Site in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Wander an interpretive trail to unveil vital history. Uncover the secrets of an 18th century settlement. Be amazed by the war-torn remains of a stone fortress. Canso Islands National Historic Site brings to life the stories of Atlantic Canada.

A third of the world-famous Cabot Trail winds through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, renowned for stunning ocean vistas, deep-cut canyons, 26 diverse hiking trails, spectacular campsites and glorious sandy beaches.

Atop a headland at North America’s easternmost point, Cape Spear Lighthouse overlooks a parade of drifting icebergs and waters teeming with whales and porpoises. Its restored interior offers a glimpse into 19th century lightkeeping along Newfoundland’s unforgiving coast.

Today, there is little sign of the military occupation – after the garrison departed, the building was renovated and served as a hotel for travelers. Since 1940, it has housed the Argenteuil Regional Museum.

Watch boats pass through the Carillon Canal lock, navigating a 20-metre drop in a single operation. Stop in at the museum to inspect an interpretive panel about the history of the Ottawa River’s 19th century travelers.

Built around the time of the War of 1812, Carleton Martello Tower once protected New Brunswick’s most important port against American overland invasion. The site features restored barracks, interactive exhibits, and commanding harbour views.

Carrying Place of the Bay of Quinte National Historic Site is located on the isthmus at the west end of the Bay of Quinte on Lake Ontario. The site, at the intersection of the Trenton and Carrying Place roads, marks the location where Sir John Johnson and the Chiefs of the Mississauga...

Follow the trail of Jacques Cartier and witness his meeting with the St. Lawrence Iroquois in this magnificent urban park.

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A mere 20 kilometres from Montreal, an oasis awaits cycling and outdoor enthusiasts: the Chambly Canal NationalHistoric Site. Observe the locks and bridges providing passage to boaters, and in August, admire the hot-air balloons darting between the clouds. It's magical.

Charles Fort National Historic Site marks where the colony that would eventually become Nova Scotia got its start in 1629. The original fort has been buried under centuries of history but visitors can still imagine the dramas of early settlers.

Hike a legendary trail through the northern Coast Mountains, from Alaska’s Taiya Inlet to the headwaters of the Yukon River in northern British Columbia. 

The Coteau-du-Lac site is a natural stop for history lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. As the first fortified lock structure in North America, the canal is the direct ancestor of the St. Lawrence Seaway.

1873 attack on Assiniboines by wolf hunters, North West Mounted Police restored order Fort Walsh, Saskatchewan.

Surrounded by sand dunes, beaches and a lake, Dalvay-by-the-Sea is a peek into a luxurious Victorian estate. Explore the interior, cycle the shoreline, stroll the grounds or simply relax in an Adirondack chair with a view.

Important collection of buildings from the Klondike Gold Rush Dawson, Yukon Territory Klondike National Historic Sites.

Not long after gold was discovered in large quantities in the Klondike, dredges were brought into the Yukon, the first dredge being built in the fall of 1899. One of the two dozen dredges that worked this area, Dredge No. 4 rests on Claim No. 17 Below Discovery on Bonanza Creek near the spot...

It was in this area, in 1746, that Duc d’Anville camped along the shore on a failed expedition from France to recover Acadia.

Experience first-hand the story of the bison and how it was saved from near extinction at Elk Island National Park, where an active conservation program replenishes herds around the world.

Fascinating limestone flowerpots, pristine freshwater, lush cliff-edge woodland, serene backcountry campsites, historic lightstations and exciting scuba-sites make Fathom Five National Marine Park an awe-inspiring Great Lake escape.

Touch the first oil well in Western Canada and imagine how hard it was to explore for oil so far from civilization. The oil well failed but sparked the passion to explore for oil in Alberta.

Grab the wheel as a “master mariner” at Fisgard Lighthouse, the oldest on the Canadian west coast, and wander through a rare Garry Oak meadow.

From 1730 to 1883, the Forges du Saint-Maurice produced a variety of iron and cast iron products for military and domestic use. Enter the Grande Maison and immerse yourself in the history of the first industrial community in Canada.

Forillon is a place where you can paddle with seals, watch passing whales and swim off a magnificent sandy beach all on the same day. You may even see a beaver on a walk through the forest.

The Former Territorial Courthouse, is located in Dawson Historical Complex National Historic Site. Built between 1900 and 1901, the Courthouse is closely associated with the establishment of a federal presence in the Northwest and the exercise of Canadian sovereignty. It is one of two remaining...

Dating to the early 1600s, Fort Anne on Nova Scotia’s Annapolis River is Canada’s first administered National Historic Site. A new innovative interpretive exhibit complements the historic grounds, whose earthen walls and restored buildings speak to centuries of struggle.

Uncover the central but little-known role of Fort Battleford in the Conflict of 1885. Discover the stories of the First Nations, Métis, North West Mounted Police, and settlers in these difficult times.

Discover a time when Britain and France were caught in a tug-of-war for dominance in Acadie, and be moved by the stories of soldiers and settlers who lived and died around the historic star-shaped fort.

Roughly 30 kilometres southeast of Montreal, Fort Chambly rises proudly at the foot of the Richelieu River rapids. Built in 1711 to defend the colony, this stone fortification was preceded by three wooden forts.

Fort Edward is home to North America’s oldest blockhouse, a two-storey defensive structure built by the British in 1750 to secure their hold over Nova Scotia. Visitors today can visit the grounds and blockhouse to see a piece of Canada’s military history.

Once standing proud between Saskatchewan’s prairies and the tranquil banks of the Qu’Appelle River, Fort Espérance’s history tells the tangled tale of the North West Company’s bid to dominate the fur trade in the West.

Built by French troops in 1751 to prevent the English from penetrating the Chignecto Isthmus, Fort Gaspareaux served particularly as a provisioning base for the forts of Acadia.

Discover the history of The War of 1812 by speaking with costumed interpreters, touring historic buildings, and watching demonstrations at Fort George.

Fort Henry National Historic Site is a 19th century British military fortress situated on Point Henry between the mouth of Kingston harbour and a second natural harbour at the mouth of the Cataraqui River.

Experience life as a 19th century voyageur at Fort Langley, where the colony of British Columbia was born. Mingle with fur traders, pan for gold, learn the blacksmith’s art and camp in an HBC-themed oTENTik.

Built on Île aux Noix between 1759 and 1760, Fort Lennox reopened its doors in June 2023 after major restoration work. This mythical site was at the heart of the French defense against the British invasion by the Richelieu River, and the ferry ride to get there is worth a visit in itself.

Perched on a hill on stony ground, surrounded by patches of alder groves and hawthorn trees, the site of Fort Livingstone marks the first HQ of the North West Mounted Police.

Discover the history of the War of 1812 and the Rebellions of 1837-38 with costumed interpreters, historic buildings, and more at Fort Malden.

From the 1880s and for more than half a century, Fort McNab played a key role in the Halifax Defence System, guarding one of the British Empire’s (and then Canada’s) most significant naval stations.

Completed after the War of 1812, the fort and its central tower were located at a strategic position at the mouth of the Niagara River to protect the British/Canadian side of the Niagara frontier and to serve as a counterpoise to Fort Niagara.

More than just a way of life, the fur trade was the industry on which this nation was forged.  Fort Pelly offers a glimpse into the enterprise that helped shape the economic, social and political development of western Canada.

Tour through secret bunkers, military command posts and original 19th century buildings at Fort Rodd Hill, a west coast artillery fortress on active duty from 1895 to 1956. Be touched by the personal stories of soldiers and their families. Camp overnight in a group-friendly oTENTik.

The land upon which the original fort was built has now eroded away; a Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada cairn, which marks the site, is situated near the original location of the fort.

Take a self-guided audio tour, meet costumed interpreters, witness a world-famous chicken race and delight your taste buds at the Home Stretch Diner.

Visit Fort St. Joseph National Historic Site, 92 km south east of Sault Ste. Marie on the southern tip of St. Joseph Island, to learn about the once-vital British stronghold on Upper Canada’s western front.

To permit the French army offensive against the Iroquois nations and to put an end to their attacks, a series of forts was built in 1665 and 1666 at the most strategic spots along the Richelieu River.

Experience life with James Morrow Walsh and his NWMP troops in the 1870s. Barter for buffalo robes at the trading post, smell sweet lodge pole pines on a hike through the Cypress Hills.

At Fort Wellington, one of the fortified posts the British built to defend its colonies against American invasion in 1812 and 1838, you can relive this precarious period when the fate of Canada hung in the balance.

Explore the Fortifications of Québec with Parks Canada and live more than three centuries of history through authentic buildings.

Mingle with Louisbourg’s lively 18th century citizens, hearing their stories and tasting their food while soldiers march, cannons blast, children play and women mend clothes on a typical 1740s day in the French fortified town.

Forts Rouge, Garry and Gibraltar National Historic Site of Canada is located on three different positions at the forks of the Red and Assiniboine rivers in downtown Winnipeg, Manitoba. The only original surviving above-ground element is the north gate of Fort Garry II located in Upper Fort...

Walk in the footsteps of warriors and government militia men in a timeless landscape which still bears the scars of a key battle in the 1885 Northwest Rebellion/Resistance

Just inside the Alberta border, the site of this tragic event is laden with memories of lives lived and lost: archaeological remains, a cemetery, and depressions in the earth representing the church, the mill, the milk house, stables… remnants of old wagon trails still exist. Frog Lake became...

The world’s highest tides await visitors at Fundy National Park. Kayak on the Bay of Fundy, explore the seafloor when the tide recedes, hike or bike through native Acadian forests and more at one of Canada’s best-known national parks.

A drumlin created by glacial deposits thousands of years ago, Georges Island sits in the centre of Halifax Harbour and was at the heart of military action for hundreds of years.

Swim in Lake Huron’s clear waters. Cycle wooded island trails. Hike paths that meander between ecosystems. Unwind at a cosy cabin. Welcome to an inspiring and beautiful place. Welcome to Georgian Bay Islands National Park.

Climb the mound at Gitwangak Battle Hill and survey the site of a legendary Gitxsan village fort. See the oldest collection of totem poles in British Columbia retained in their original context at nearby Gitwangak Village.

Glacier is known for steep alpine hikes, lush cedar forests and unparalleled backcountry skiing. At the heart of the park, history comes alive at Rogers Pass, the key to completion of Canada’s transcontinental railway.

Conical stone monument, with stairway, to the Glengarry and Argyle Regiment, erected in 1840 Cairn Island, Ontario.

Discover powerful Acadian stories within a picturesque landscape. Successes and struggles are illuminated through multimedia presentation and engaging displays, a splendid Victorian garden and a Memorial Church. This is Grand-Pré National Historic Site, monument to Acadian culture and deportation.

At Grasslands National Park, expanses of dinosaur fossils harken back to a time before history. Tipi rings are testament to First Nations communities, and ruins of prairie homesteads tell of settlers intent on taming the prairie.

Grassy Island Fort National Historic Site is the remnant of 18th century British fortifications situated on Grassy Island.

Be charmed by an encounter with Canada’s iconic redheaded sweetheart, Anne of Green Gables. Relive the fictional orphan’s youthful adventures at the Island farmstead that inspired author Lucy Maud Montgomery.

Cruise sheer-walled fjords and hike diverse landscapes from windswept shorelines to sub-Arctic summits. Explore rare geological oddities that earned Gros Morne UNESCO World Heritage status, and relax amid the culture of Newfoundland’s coastal communities.

Grosse Île was once the main immigration gateway to Canada and served as a quarantine station for the port of Quebec from 1832 to 1937.

Scattered throughout the Salish Sea, the Gulf Islands teem with wildlife, a haven for rare species and threatened eco-systems and a playground for hikers, campers, cyclists, boaters and kayakers.

Tour a historic Fraser River salmon cannery, through a herring reduction plant and interactive fishing displays. Learn about local marine life on the Fish Wall and be inspired by the industrious fishery of BC’s past.

Amid lush rainforest islands and seas rich with wildlife, Gwaii Haanas harbours rare sites of carved poles and longhouses, making this park culturally important to the Haida people who co-manage cooperatively manage the region with Parks Canada.

Discover HMCS Haida National Historic Site in Hamilton, Ontario. Learn about the ship's role in the Second World War, the Korean Conflict and more.

Where better to get your Halifax bearings than at the Halifax Citadel, which in its current form has been a core part of this culturally vibrant city since 1828. Halifax’s original guardian has many tales to tell, plus affords spectacular views and promises engaging activities.

Hawthorne Cottage was the Newfoundland home of legendary Arctic explorer Captain Bob Bartlett. See exhibits and artefacts from his voyages while admiring the nearly 200-year-old cottage, a fine example of the picturesque architectural style in Newfoundland.

A complex of large, wooden buildings constructed by the Moravian Church at Hopedale, Labrador stand starkly silhouetted against the rocky shoreline of the vast, barren landscape. Official recognition refers to the cultural landscape comprised of the mission buildings on their shoreline site.

Used by generations of First Nations as a route east from the Columbia River Valley through the rugged Rocky Mountains, Howse Pass now sees fewer travelers.

Inverarden House, once the home of wealthy North West Trading Company partner John McDonald of Garth, is a classic example of the 19th century Regency style architecture once popular in eastern Ontario.  

Rafters from around the world meet up in Ivvavik National Park. The Firth River slices through canyons and mountain valleys to the Arctic Ocean.  A fly-in base camp offers hikers access to an Arctic landscape of tors, peaks and rolling hills untouched by the last Ice Age. 

The archaeological remains of an 1829 fur trade post.

Abundant in natural beauty, wildlife, lakes, waterfalls and mountains, Jasper is a wild and wondrous place to visit year-round.

Built in 1913, is one of the finest and most influential examples of the rustic design tradition in Canada's national parks.

Explore 4,000 years of Mi’kmaw heritage. Camp lakeside amidst Acadian forest. Spot harbour seals from a singing beach. Be enthralled by a Dark Sky Preserve. There are many sides to Kejimkujik and you can discover them all.

From the Kicking Horse Pass on the Trans-Canada Highway, look down onto a monumental 19th century transportation corridor to the West. See ingeniously engineered “Spiral Tunnels” burrowing from one elevation to another through the steep Canadian Rockies.

Kingston Fortifications National Historic Site is located in and around the harbour area of Kingston, Ontario. Situated at the mouth of the Cataraqui River, and overlooking the confluence of Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River, the fortifications consist of five separate 19th-century military...

Step back into the days of the 1898 Klondike Gold Rush. Prowl a paddlewheeler. Explore goldfields. Magical Dawson City is a frontier town where history mingles with everyday life.

With vast icefields and 17 of Canada’s 20 highest peaks, Kluane offers outstanding alpine scenery, rich First Nations culture and history, and a mix of extreme adventure and accessible outdoor recreation.  

A cairn at Kootenae House National Historic Site marks where the Ktunaxa people traded with the North West Company in the 1800s and celebrated explorer David Thompson launched expeditions to survey the majestic Columbia River.

With diverse terrain embracing everything from arid grasslands to glaciers, Kootenay National Park offers the full Rocky Mountain experience along the historic Banff-Windermere Highway. Take a scenic drive or stay and explore the park’s treasures.

Golden sand dunes, estuaries brimming with life, warm ocean beaches, Mi’kmaq and Acadian culture, the starry spectacle of a Dark Sky Preserve and snowbound winter activities weave together the compelling tapestry of Kouchibouguac National Park.

Tour the only known Viking site and the earliest known evidence of European presence in North America. Experience Norse life and see original 11th century artifacts at this UNESCO World heritage site.

L.M. Montgomery’s Cavendish National Historic Site is a cultural landscape that embraces the landscape near Cavendish, Prince Edward Island, that author L. M. Montgomery knew so well and made famous in her “Anne of Green Gables” books. The designated area includes the Green Gables house,...

With its 536 km2 area, La Mauricie National Park is the ideal place for an outdoor escape. Hills, forests and streams are accessible any season of the year.

A veritable open-air museum, the Lachine Canal recounts the beginnings of industrialization in Montreal. Explore the ingenuity of this 1825 structure. Follow its urban course, sail through the locks by boat, and enjoy an oasis in the city. 

Home to more than 70 fish species and 50 shipwrecks, Lake Superior is one of the world’s largest protected freshwater areas and offers outdoor activities ranging from fishing and swimming to snowshoeing and surfing.

Two of Canada’s most important Prime Ministers, Sir Wilfrid Laurier and the Rt. Hon. William Lyon Mackenzie King, resided in this Victorian Ottawa mansion where they entertained dignitaries and politicians while often conducting the nation’s business. 

Linear Mounds was designated as a national historic site of Canada in 1973 because the site contains some of the most spectacular and best-preserved examples of mortuary mounds belonging to the Devil's Lake-Sourisford Burial Complex. Located near the Souris River in southern Manitoba, the...

Buildings dating from 1839 to 1843 are set on a picturesque property with a garden filled with trees and flowerbeds, most of which existed in Prime Minister Louis S. St. Laurent’s time.

November 6, 1837: the house of Louis-Joseph Papineau, leader of the Patriotes, is attacked by the Doric Club, an Anglophone paramilitary organization. Fortunately, the attackers failed to get inside. This Old Montréal building bears witness to one of the most tormented times in Quebec and...

Standing on the bank of the Red River for more than 180 years, Lower Fort Garry tells inspiring tales of innovation, discovery and struggle. Chat with a 19th century Red River settler and immerse yourself in the daily life of the Fort’s inhabitants.

The last of a series of three detached forts built between 1865 and 1872, Fort No.1 bears witness to remarkable technological innovations.

Fine example of 18th century Quebec town architecture, 1736 Québec, Quebec Fortifications of Québec National Historic Site.

Constructed in between 1935 and 1942, are what remain of an early lodge complex on the shores of Maligne Lake.

Classified as a historic monument, the Manoir-Papineau immerses visitors into the heart of the 19th century with its romantic allure of a feudal castle on a riverbank. Explore the magnificent gardens, admire the barn, and take time to reflect in the funeral chapel.

Discover how the wireless age began at a museum chronicling inventor Guglielmo Marconi’s achievements in carrying out the world’s first transatlantic wireless telegraph experiments in Nova Scotia at the turn of 20th century.

The archaeological remains of the Melanson Settlement paint a vivid story of the pre-Deportation Acadians living on the banks of the Annapolis River during the 17th and 18th centuries. A short trail with interpretive panels recounts the story.

Built in 1832-33, the blockhouse is the largest and the most impressive of the four blockhouses built along the Rideau Canal for its defense and the second largest blockhouse surviving in Canada.

Miette Hot Springs, located in Alberta’s Jasper National Park, feature the hottest hot springs in the Canadian Rockies.

The first word that springs to mind at the mention of the Mingan Archipelago is “remote”. Far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Mother Nature enchants with limestone sculptures, prolific marine and bird life, and the seductive sound of the sea.

Located on the shoreline of the Niagara River in Niagara-on the-Lake, Ontario, Mississauga Point Lighthouse National Historic Site marks the site of the first lighthouse built on the Great Lakes in 1804.

Mnjikaning Fish Weirs National Historic Site is located on portions of the bottom of the Narrows between Lakes Simcoe and Couchiching, a part of the Trent-Severn Waterway.

Located at the top of Côte de la Montagne in the historic district of Old Québec, Montmorency Park has been a cemetery, a seat of religious and civil power, a strategic military site and an urban park.

The Monument-Lefebvre is a 19th century heritage building where visitors experience the triumphs of the Acadians through artefacts, film, performances, and the permanent exhibit, “Reflections of a Journey – The Odyssey of the Acadian People.”

Hear prairie songbirds sing and smell the sweet hay as you help feed the horses. Re-connect with Canada’s homestead life and bake bread with flour ground from grain harvested from the golden fields outside.

Stroll through brilliant wildflower meadows, or lie back in awe atop a mountain peak. From lush green valley to mountain summit, all is within a leisurely day’s drive at Mount Revelstoke National Park.

Murney Tower National Historic Site is a squat stone defensive tower located on a point of raised ground known as Murray Point on the west shore of Kingston Harbour. Murney Tower is also a component of Kingston Fortifications National Historic Site.

Remote granite pinnacles lure top alpinists, wilderness river tripping opportunities attract paddlers, interpreters share cultural and natural history with river trippers, campers and day flight visitors.   

Navy Island National Historic Site is a heavily wooded, uninhabited island on the Canadian side of the Niagara River just above Niagara Falls, Ontario.

In the headwaters of Tehjeh Deé (South Nahanni River) Nááts’įhch’oh National Park Reserve is a place where culture and nature are intertwined. Nááts’įhch’oh offers whitewater paddling and off-the-grid hiking in the Northwest Territories for experienced adventurers.

Stand at the spot where an important trading post operated for two centuries. Travel into the past and enjoy a natural setting on the shores of Lake Témiscamingue.

Catch a wave, or spread a blanket and watch the sun dip below the horizon. From rainforests on land to marine kelp forests at sea, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve embodies the rich natural and cultural heritage of Canada’s west coast.

The Peterborough Lift Lock National Historic Site of Canada is located on the Otonabee River section of the Trent Canal in the City of Peterborough, Ontario. It is a large concrete structure along the Trent-Severn Waterway designed to lift boats 19.8 metres.

Pingo Canadian Landmark protects a unique arctic landform: ice-cored hills called pingos. Rising out of the flat tundra, these hills provide a distinctive backdrop to the community of Tuktoyaktuk, Northwest Territories.

Visit the Point Clark Lighthouse where waves still crash on the shore below. Walk beside the tall limestone tower, gaze up at its 12-sided lantern as you imagine its beams safely guiding Lake Huron sailors.

Explore the Southernmost point of mainland Canada at Point Pelee National Park. Enjoy walking and cycling trails, paddling, birding, swimming and more.

The Pointe-au-Père navigational aid station, among the most important in Canada, helps us better understand the complexity of the St. Lawrence River and the role played by its lighthouse, one of the tallest in the country.

See prehistoric artifacts from four ancient Aboriginal cultures that inhabited Newfoundland’s rugged northwest coast. Visit an ancient burial ground, hike coastal trails and see prehistoric artifacts including slate spears, harpoon tips and ivory daggers.

Converse with costumed interpreters as they share their knowledge and tell the story of a colony of intrepid French inhabitants. Experience the early 17th century lifestyle in the reconstructed Habitation at Port-Royal. You will also learn about the way of life of the first people on this land –...

Prince Albert National Park offers accessible wilderness and extensive outdoor recreation in central Saskatchewan. Hike boreal forests, canoe pristine lakes and see free-range bison, with the town of Waskesiu as a convenient base.

Cliff and dune-lined beaches, woodlands and wetlands rich with wildlife, and all levels of outdoor activities make Prince Edward Island National Park a diverse and accessible natural destination for a seaside escape, restful or active.

Stone remains of the star-shaped, 18th century Prince of Wales Fort stand on Hudson Bay’s tundra shore, offering a glimpse into a remote Hudson’s Bay outpost amid a wild subarctic landscape alive with polar bears, birds and beluga whales.

Built in 1796-97 to protect against French attack, the Prince of Wales Tower was the first of its kind in North America. Visitors can explore its history, architectural features and significance as a defensive structure.

The birthplace of Confederation and the seat of Prince Edward Island's provincial legislature since 1847, Province House National Historic Site is a Charlottetown highlight. Stroll the grounds to experience the magnificent neo-classical architecture of this majestic building and view interpretive...

This is Ontario’s only wilderness national park, defined by pink-and-slate granite shores, Great Lake temperaments and near-endless stretches of spruce, fir, pine and hardwoods. Biodiverse coastal regions—where wetland, lake and forest meet—are home to iconic Canadian species like bald eagles,...

A home for the endangered Peary caribou and a traditional Inuit hunting and fishing area on Bathurst Island in Nunavut’s High Arctic.

Queenston Heights is the Niagara battlefield where Major General Sir Isaac Brock, Commander-in-Chief of British forces in Upper Canada died while leading British regulars, local militia and First Nation warriors against an American invasion.

Inuktitut for “land at the top of the world”, Quttinirpaaq is Canada’s northernmost national park, a vast arctic wilderness on Ellesmere Island.

Only private military club in Canada perpetuating the British colonial tradition of assembling military officers in a social environment, 1879 Québec, Quebec Fortifications of Québec National Historic Site.

One of British Columbia’s top natural hot springs is found in Kootenay National Park. This family-friendly facility offers plenty of space to relax and soak in the expansive hot pool or cool off with the kids in the swimming pool.

Red Bay was once the largest and most important commercial whaling station in the world. See the restored chalupa, explore archaeological treasures and original artifacts from the period at this UNESCO World Heritage site.

An historic 19th century military waterway linking rivers and lakes across Eastern Ontario’s countryside, the Rideau Canal is now a popular natural playground, perfect for boating, paddling, fishing, camping, hiking and cycling the canal’s wooded pathways.

Ridgeway Battlefield National Historic Site is located within a four-hectare parcel of parkland in the small community of Ridgeway in southwestern Ontario, approximately five kilometres west of the Town of Fort Erie.

Explore 3000 km2 of thrilling outdoor possibilities in Riding Mountain National Park where the boreal forest, aspen parkland and fescue prairie meet.

Canada’s last remaining early 1930s-style national parks entrance, the East Gate Registration Complex stands as a carefully maintained example of this form of traditional architecture.

Travel back to spring 1886, six months after the death of Louis Riel. Visit his family home and discover what life was like for the Riel family and Métis who lived along the banks of the Red River.

Discover a historic trading post along the North Saskatchewan River and immerse yourself in stories of Indigenous Peoples and legendary explorers.

Discover the role Rogers Pass played in the transcontinental Canadian Pacific Railway. Follow an abandoned rail line to the ruins of a Victorian-era resort, where legendary Swiss mountain guides forged popular trails and climbing routes.

A rich assembly of natural, cultural and agricultural landscapes, Rouge National Urban Park is home to amazing biodiversity, some of the last remaining working farms in the Greater Toronto Area, Carolinian ecosystems, Toronto’s only campground, one of the region’s largest marshes, unspoiled...

Royal Battery National Historic Site, located within the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site in Nova Scotia, is an archaeological site that dominates the north shore of Louisbourg Harbour. Appearing as a low grassy ridge, the outline of the battery’s ditch and glacis are still evident,...

On Bonavista’s scenic harbour, knowledgeable interpreters, diverse exhibits and displays within the Ryan Premises’ restored buildings bring to life a 19th century Newfoundland fishing enterprise and tell the tale of Canada’s East Coast fisheries dating back 500 years.

The S.S. Keno was part of the fleet that played a major part in the history of the Yukon Territory. Without the riverboats, the gold of the Klondike and the silver, lead, and zinc of the Mayo district would have remained in the hills for at least another half century, and the development of the...

Steam-powered sternwheelers were the Yukon’s link to the outside world for almost a century. The S.S. Klondike National Historic Site in Whitehorse honours these vessels, so vital to the settlement of the North.

SGang Gwaay Llnagaay (Nan Sdins) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is located in a sheltered bay on the east side of the island. Visitors can explore upright and fallen poles, house pits, and standing posts and beams of longhouses.

A home to wild horses, submerged shipwrecks, rare birds and basking grey seals, Sable Island National Park Reserve defines the word “remote.”

Watch whales and learn about the fascinating mammals and their habitat. The Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park is recognized as one of the best places in the world for whale watching.

In June of 1604, French nobleman-courtier Pierre Dugua, Sieur de Mons and his expedition established a settlement on St. Croix Island. In the milder months, they built houses, a storehouse, kitchen and chapel, and formed strong Aboriginal trade alliances. In the territory they called...

Beneath Dufferin Terrace hides the remains of the residence and seat of power of French and British governors for over 200 years.

Site of Huron village destroyed by Iroquois in 1649.

Stroll through Darvard Island and enjoy recognizing many species of trees and birds. Have a family picnic while watching the lockage of pleasure craft. Children will be fascinated by the fish ladder, a structure unlike anything else in the world. 

Opened in 1843, the Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue Canal was the main entry point for the waterway between Montreal and Kingston. Take a trip through 150 years of history. Then go to the pier for a picnic and watch the lock in operation.

Saoyú-Ɂehdacho National Historic Site celebrates the traditional lifestyles of the Sahtúgot’įnę – “the people of the Sahtú.” Visitors to Canada’s largest National Historic Site learn about the teaching, healing and spiritual places as conveyed through oral history.

Tour the Sault Ste. Marie Canal with an informative Parks Canada guide and you’ll soon understand the vitally important role this innovative piece of engineering made to water transportation in Canada. 

Shoal Tower National Historic Site is a circular stone defensive tower located on a shoal in the harbour, directly offshore from the site of the historic City Hall and the site of the former Market Battery in Kingston Ontario.

Signal Hill celebrates St. John’s rich communications and military history, amidst spectacular city and ocean views. Enjoy military and musical performances, stirring ceremonies, coastal hikes, dramatic fortifications, and the iconic Cabot Tower.

The only Victorian-style house open to the public in the city, Sir George-Étienne Cartier’s home in Old Montreal offers an opportunity to become better acquainted with one of the Fathers of Confederation.

Sir John Johnson’s house is located in the village of Williamstown. Built in 1792, it is one of the oldest buildings in the province.

Discover the life and work of famed Prime Minister Wilfred Laurier and admire an imposing collection of artifacts and old furniture in his former home, a typical house from the 19th century, in the St. Lawrence Valley.

Narwhals, belugas, polar bears and thousands of seabirds thrive in the Arctic landscape of Bylot Island and Baffin Island’s Borden Peninsula.

Established in 1720, Port-la-Joye was the entry point for European settlers coming to Île Saint-Jean to embark on a new life. There are centuries of history to discover in this historic location, declared a national historic site in 1967.

Skoki Ski Lodge has been welcoming skiers and hikers to the idyllic Skoki Valley for nearly a century. Built as a backcountry ski lodge in the 1930s, it is both a beautiful example of the rustic building tradition and a living link with the earliest days of ski tourism in Canada. The lodge and its...

Walk where Canada's earliest inhabitants did and imagine the Attiwandaron longhouses and palisade walls that once stood at Southwold Earthworks.

Built just after the War of 1812 began, St. Andrews Blockhouse recalls an era of conflict along the New Brunswick harbour and US border, when townspeople united to protect family and community from American raiders.

Learn about the significance of the St Andrew’s Rectory, an excellent example of mid-19th century Red River Hudson’s Bay Company architecture. Imagine the day to day lives of the Reverend and his Red River settler parishioners in the 1800s.

Located in one of Canada’s oldest European settlements, St. Peters Canal links the Atlantic Ocean with the Bras d'Or Lakes as well as Canada’s historic trading past to Cape Breton Island’s vibrant future.

Stanley Park National Historic Site of Canada is a magnificent green oasis in the midst of the heavily built urban landscape of Vancouver.

A cosmic ray station was built on Sulphur Mountain as part of the International Geophysical Year in 1957-1958 and Canadian scientists made important contributions to the research. Geophysicists studied cosmic rays and space particles entering the atmosphere from the station perched above the...

Explore Tallurutiup Imanga’s breathtaking Arctic landscape where narwhals live side by side with thousands of seabirds in an area adjacent to vibrant Inuit communities and majestic fiords and glaciers.

A dramatic Atlantic shoreline, fringed in long headlands and fjords with views of whales and icebergs, gives way to marshland, tranquil ponds and wildlife-filled boreal forest – Terra Nova is accessible, wild Newfoundland for outdoor enthusiasts and nature-lovers of every age.

Located at the eastern end of Great Slave Lake in the Northwest Territories, Thaidene Nene National Park Reserve is part of a larger group of protected areas around the East Arm and Artillery Lake regions. Thaidene Nene means ‘Land of the Ancestors’ in the Dënesųłiné—or Chipewyan—language.

Delve 6,000 years into the past at Winnipeg’s “Meeting Place” while soaking up the bustling ambience. Learn how two great rivers at the heart of the continent connected the prairies to the world.

Strategically located on the fur trade route, this storage building recounts the lives of the voyageurs. Stop in at this enchanting waterfront setting in Lachine and discover the inner workings of the trade that helped shape Canada.

Granite islands speckle the St. Lawrence River in a transition zone between Canadian Shield and Adirondack Mountains. Explore by boating, paddling, or hiking. Awesome Thousand Islands National Park awaits, a few hours from Toronto or Montreal.

Amid jagged peaks and vast glacial valleys, polar bears and caribou roam the Torngat Mountains, for centuries the homeland of Inuit who today now welcome visitors to experience a dramatic landscape where nature and culture meet.

Discover a newfound fascination with engineering along the Trent-Severn Waterway. This navigational wonder adds up to 44 locks, 104 operable dams and six heritage lockstations along a 386-km scenic string of canals and waterways.

Arctic rivers, waterfalls, canyons and tundra combine to provide habitat for caribou, muskoxen, wolves and other arctic species.

Book a backcountry stay in a historic log tea house in the Canadian Rockies. Or stop on a day hike at Twin Falls Tea House to view the phenomenal side-by-side cascades of Twin Falls from this historic spot.

An area rich in arctic wildlife and Inuit history where hundreds of archaeological sites dot the landscape surrounding Wager Bay.

Explore untouched northern landscapes and learn the story of the Vuntut Gwitchin people and their relationship to the land and animals of the northern Yukon. 

A vast subarctic wilderness of tundra and boreal forest, Wapusk protects one of the world’s largest known polar bear maternity denning areas, as well as more than 200 bird species, caribou, wolverine, arctic hare and foxes.

Visit the Waterloo Pioneer Memorial Tower, admire its Swiss-style copper roof, fieldstone construction and Conestoga wagon weather vane and remember the hard work of the Pennsylvania–German pioneers it honours.

The prairies of Alberta meet the peaks of the Rocky Mountains in Waterton Lakes National Park.

Wolfe’s Landing National Historic Site is located in Kennington Cove, on the east coast of Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia. Contained entirely within the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, the site is bounded by a rocky beach to the south, and a rolling landscape of grasses and forest...

Wood Buffalo National Park is our country's largest national park and one of the largest in the world. It protects an outstanding and representative example of Canada's Northern Boreal Plains.

Discover the Victorian childhood home of Canadian Prime Minister William Lyon Mackenzie King at Woodside National Historic Site in Kitchener, Ontario.

Learn about Sir John Franklin’s legendary 1845 expedition and the role of Inuit knowledge in the discoveries of the shipwrecks.

Referred to by early fur traders as “leather pass” is a major transportation route through the Rocky Mountains.

In the shadow of the Great Divide, Yoho’s towering rockwalls, spectacular waterfalls and soaring peaks reveal the secrets of ancient life, the power of ice and water and the stories of plants and animals that continue to evolve today.

Perched incongruously amid vast tundra wilderness, York Factory was the Hudson’s Bay Company’s major trading and administration centre for centuries. Its grounds and grand Depot, filled with artifacts, provide profound insights into a pivotal period in Canada’s founding days.

An integral part of Halifax’s Defense Complex, York Redoubt helped protect this strategic port city from military attack for over 200 years. Walking paths and interpretive panels help tell its impressive story.

Site actively quarried from 5,000 to 600 years ago for Ramah chert, a visually distinctive and important stone type used by several ancient cultures of the northeast in the manufacture of tools and other objects. Torngat Mountain National Park, Newfoundland and Labrador.

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