Prince Edward Island - 20 of The Best Things to Do

The classic children’s novel Anne of Green Gables was first published in 1908 by the Canadian author Lucy Maud Montgomery. Lucy Maud Montgomery lived on the beautiful Prince Edward Island (PEI). A place known for its beautiful natural scenery. If you’re looking for something different, Charlottetown is the place to visit. As the capital of Prince Edward Island, this town has a few interesting things to see and do, but don’t expect to see a big city…

Best things to do on Prince Edward Island

In Charlottetown, you’ll find some of the best theatres and museums. If you have the time, go watch a play about Anne of Green Gables.
Also in town, you can: Tour the historic cathedral – St Dunstan’s Basilica.
Take a stroll along Victoria Park’s boardwalk and if you have kids, enjoy the waterpark.
Victoria Row is the place to go in Charlottetown – A beautiful street with coffee shops, eateries, and much more.
See the Government house and stop at Cow’s ice cream shop where they make their own waffle cones fresh – the best place to stop for ice cream in town.
Avonlea Village (Charlottetown is located about thirty miles from the fictional village of Avonlea.) Visit Green Gables Heritage Place / The picturesque setting of Green Gables Farm (the inspiration behind the story) will take you back to the days of life in the storybook – walk through the Haunted Woods and visit Lucy Maud Montgomery Homeplace. The Ann of Green Gables Museum (Silver Bush) is also worth a visit. (GPS Co-ordinates 46.53092 Latitude -63.54416 Longitude). You’ll find all things Anne of Green Gables related on PEI, even chocolate…
A stop at the Confederation Centre of the Arts and Lorimer Art Gallery for art lovers is a must.
Take a boat tour – departing from Peake’s Warf.
You can explore Charlottetown with an Emerald Isle Horse-drawn carriage tour.
You can wander around at Victoria Harbor Village.
Visit or cross The Confederation Bridge (The longest bridge in Canada has a toll gate and it will take you about 8 to 10 minutes to cross depending on traffic and driving speed.)
The farmers’ market on Saturdays is a real treat for fresh produce, gifts, and much more.
Explore Prince Edward Island National Park situated along the North shore of the island.
Island Hill Farm – A working goat farm. As they describe themselves as “The Cutest Place on Earth” you can naturally expect many cute animals on your visit. While you’re there attend one of their Goat Yoga sessions. It’s super cute and a unique experience. (Book online)
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Parish Church is a pretty setting for photo opportunities.
I know it might sound strange to many people, but the Canadian Potato Museum & Antique Farm Machinery Museum is really worth a visit. You can’t miss the giant potato in front. Inside you can shop at the Potato Blossom Boutique and marvel at the beautiful antique machinery on display. A very interesting stop.
All around the island you’ll find lots of beautiful beaches, with Basin Head Beach being one that you should definitely not miss. It is home to the singing sand: the sand makes a funny sound as you walk on it.
Take a scenic ferry ride to Nova Scotia.
Enjoy a local lobster dinner (more details below)
If you love cycling – Cycle the Confederation Trail.

Explore Charlottetown with its beautiful Victoria Row

Fun activity: Goat Yoga at Island Hill Farm

Cycling the Confederation trail

This beautiful cycling route through some spectacular scenery spans the entire province and the 435 km of the trail is mainly flat which makes it suitable for all fitness levels. (You can get your detailed map at the tourist office, and rent a bike to enjoy this splendid activity.)

Frequently asked questions

Best time to visit PEI

Summer time is the best as you can enjoy all the fantastic outdoor activities and you’ll have the opportunity to visit beautiful places and see the gardens in all splendor. However visiting Charlottetown during Christmas time is also fabulous as you can immerse yourself in the fantastic open-air Christmas market.

During Christmas time you can enjoy things like: Sing-alongs and Christmas caroling, the official tree lighting ceremony, Christmas parade, and more.

How much time do you need

In my opinion I would say at least a minimum of 3 to 5 nights. There are really a lot to see and experience and you just have to take some leisure time in consideration as well.

What is Prince Edward Island known for

The province is best known for for Anne of Green Gables, world class seafood, and its beautiful sandy beaches.

Can you swim in the ocean at PEI

Definitely. The water is warm enough to brave the sea.

“The majority of PEI’s beaches are sandy and located in provincial or national parks. Because PEI can be crossed in 2-3 hours, day trips to the beach are easy. No matter where on the island you end up, the rugged, natural beauty of its beaches are a special attraction.” – theswimguide

What language do they speak

English is spoken everywhere, so you don’t have to worry about a language barrier.

Travel Tip - Prince Edward Island

Ask the locals where to go for a “lobster dinner“. This is the thing to do on the island and you will get the best info from the locals. There are quite a few brilliant places to enjoy fantastic lobster dinners. After all, the island is famous for its seafood.