The Best 10 Things to Do on Prince Edward Island

Updated August 1, 2022.

It’s been a while since my trip to Prince Edward Island (PEI), but it remains one of my most favorite trips! If you ever read Anne of Green Gables or any of the books in the series, you know why PEI is so special. Even if you haven’t read the books, though, there’s still plenty for you to do! Check out my top 10 list of the best things to do on PEI!

10. Visit St. Dunstan’s Basilica

This beautiful Catholic church is located in Charlottetown. While this is not the first church built on this site, this particular building has been here since 1919. Because it had previously been destroyed by fire, the new structure was designed to be the largest most fire-resistant cathedral in the Maritimes. It’s open 9:00am-noon, and 1:00pm-4:00pm Monday-Friday.

Read on: How to Be a Prepared Traveler

9. Tour Beaconsfield Historic House

This Victorian-style mansion was once the home of a successful ship builder, James Peake, Jr. It was completed in 1877, and it has been restored to that time period so that visitors can see how prominent people of the time lived. In its heyday, the Peaks hosted grand parties at the house for prominent guests, including Queen Victoria’s daughter, Princess Louise!

It also serves as the offices for the PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation staff members, so it’s still a “living” piece of history! It’s open for tours from 10:00am-4:00pm daily.

Helpful info: The Best Tips for Driving in Canada

8. Browse the Great George Street Historic District

This 6-block stretch of downtown, historic Charlottetown boasts charming local, Confederation-era architecture. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1990 for its historic significance to the founding of the Canada. The street begins at Peak’s Quay at the waterfront, and ends at the Province House National Historic Site.

Also helpful: Everything You Need to Know Before You Visit Canada

7. Visit Cavendish Beach

“Warmest waters north of the Carolinas!” You can swim here in the summers, but if that’s not your cup of tea, you can certainly admire it. If you’re headed to Green Gables, this is a perfect place to stop along the way. You can even stay here at one of the nearby hotels, cottages, or bed and breakfasts!

More here: My Top 10 Packing Hacks

6. Explore Prince Edward Island National Park

Also around Green Gables you’ll find Prince Edward Island National Park, which includes over 30 miles of hiking and biking trails, seven beaches, and some of the most beautiful landscapes you’ve ever see. It’s on the island’s north shore, and includes Dalvay-by-the-Sea National Historic Site as well.

Keep reading: What to Know Before You Visit Prince Edward Island

5. Spend Some Time on Victoria Row

This pedestrian street (in the summer months) is famous for its local shops, great eateries–some outdoors–and galleries. It’s a perfect place for breakfast, and don’t skip the Anne of Green Gables store for some “carrot”-haired braids, or even Diana’s raspberry cordial!

Thirsty for more? Check out my World Foods Page!

4. Hike or Bike the Confederation Trail

The Confederation Trail runs from Tignish to Elmira, and it serves as PEI’s section of the Trans Canada Trail. You can hike, bike, walk, or run the 170 miles from one end of the island to the other. Want more? Connecting trails stretch the length to 279 miles!

More here: The Ultimate List of Hiking Tips

3. Eat the Lobster!

My mom, brother, and I had the best lobster rolls of our lives on PEI! You can get yours at Dave’s Lobster. While you’re at it, stop off for a lobster tour, too, to see how it’s done! We were surprised to get a mini-tour included with our Anne of Green Gables tour.

More here: The Best Places to Eat in Canada

2. Explore Victoria Park

There are lots of nice things about Victoria Park, but my favorite is definitely the boardwalk by the waterfront! Besides that, you’ll find greenspace, ball fields, swimming pool, playground, tennis courts, and more!

Read next: How to Plan a Trip: Your Step-by-step Guide

1. All the Anne of Green Gables Sites

If you’re coming to PEI, you’ve probably got Green Gables at the top of your list! But don’t stop there. See the Anne and Gilbert play, shop at the Anne of Green Gables Store, see all the sites, and don’t hold back!

More here: The Ultimate Anne of Green Gables Getaway

Want more? Check out my Canada Page!

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