The tiny Canadian province of Prince Edward Island has the most charming capital city Charlottetown. This PEI city offers a mix of traditional and modern style. Explore the best of beautiful Charlottetown.
Charlottetown, PEI: A Charming Capitol
Charming Charlottetown, the vibrant provincial capital of Prince Edward Island, combines its rich history with a contemporary style. From its historic district where you can experience the island's culture from a past era, to modern restaurants, theatres, and shops, to the natural beauty of its famous beaches, Charlottetown has something for everyone. If you are looking to discover the city's old tales, sample the local flavors, or get active in the great outdoors, Charlottetown provides a quaint yet dynamic setting for any visitor.
Culture and History
Visit the stately Province House - a national historic Site of Canada. Head down to Founder's Hall Canada's Birthplace Pavilion - and travel back in time to the Charlottetown Conference in 1864. Take a tour of the nearby historic district. Costumed guides will re-enact stories from the era.
Take a stroll down Historic Great George Street and take a look at the storyboards on street corners. These storyboards show interesting tidbits from the city's past. During August, check out Old Home Week a local family fun fair that has been running since 1888.
Anne of Green Gables
Charlottetown would be remiss if it didn't pay homage to Prince Edward's Island's famous daughter - "Anne of Green Gables." Charlottetown celebrates Anne' (the lovable character from Lucy Maud Montgomery's novel) in fine style. Fans of the famous character can shop at Precious Moments Fine China, Gifts & Collectible Inc. for fine figurines of Anne before catching one of the Anne productions at the Confederation Centre of the Arts. Their Showcase Giftshop also stocks Anne-related gifts. The Confederation Centre of the Arts showcases the Canadian arts and its artists throughout the year.
The Anne of Green Gables Store has a myriad of themed keepsakes or you can pop in to The Two Sisters at The Confederation Court Mall for their Anne wares. The Lucy Maud Dining Room may not be Anne-themed but the namesake and fine cuisine will satisfy Anne fans after a hard day's shopping.
Arts and Crafts
Firehorse Studios features an open workshop about the craft of stained glass. Visit Marcela Rosemberg Glass Studio and be amazed at the stunning fused glass pieces. Pop into Happy Glass for gorgeous lampwork glass jewelry. Browse the Pilar Shepard art gallery or try the Gallery at the Guild and then watch local and emerging artist performances.
Shopping
This island town is brimming with specialty shops. Visit the Confederation Court Mall for locally crafted items or Peake's Wharf Historic Waterfront Merchants - for shopping and a relaxing meal. Luna Eclectic Emporium features unique clothing, jewelry, and home dcor pieces.
Pick up some winter warmers at Northern Watters Knitwear or a hand-dyed shirt in the island's customary red from P.E.I. Dirt Shirt. The Riverview Country Market and Green Valley Market carry an abundance of local produce such as vegetables, breads, eggs, and meat, as well as homemade crafts. "Cows" ice-cream is simply delicious and ice cream lovers can chose from 35 flavors.
Dining
Harry's Bar offers tasty appetizers while Mavor's Bistro & Bar serves up delectable desserts. For fine dining, try The Selkirk at the Delta Prince Hotel and Sim's Corner Steakhouse and Oyster Bar. Enjoy a tender steak at Chambers Restaurant & Bar or pop into Grandma's Tearoom for their Tea Sniffing Bar.
Claddagh Oyster House and Fishbone's Osyter Bar & Seafood Grill has fine seafood on their menus. Enjoy the amazing view at Lobster on the Wharf. Visitors can always don their chef whites and get cooking at a Culinary Boot Camps session for an unforgettable experience. The city of Charlottetown is full of local flavor and vibrant cultural influences as well as a rich historical presence.
