The provincial capital of Canada's Prince Edward's Island, Charlottetown, is a fabulous trip destination with many things to do.
On the Charlottetown waterfront is the educational attraction known as Founders' Hall. This building is on the site where delegates arriving for the Charlottetown Conference first set foot on Canadian soil prior to heading over to Province House for the meeting. At Founders' Hall you can receive a narrated history lesson from Canada's birth through the present. High tech and interactive displays combined with an audio tour create an experience that entertains and educates visitors of all ages.
Directly in front of Founders' Hall visitors will find the Visitor Information Centre where maps, pamphlets, and brochures are available. Additionally, well-informed staff members can direct visitors to locations and attractions that fit their interests and desires including tours of historical sites, reenactments, brewery tours, and visits to haunted buildings in Charlottetown.
Visitors interested in history and politics must make a stop at the Province House National Historic Site of Canada. This is the official site of the Charlottetown Conference in 1864 and now is home to the provincial legislature of Prince Edward Island. Visits to this historic building begin with an exciting movie then move into an informative guided tour through that allows visitors to see where the laws are debated and created.
A stroll down the boardwalk along Charlottetown's waterfront is a wonderful way to experience all this town has to offer. Peake's Wharf is a destination along the boardwalk that offers many restaurants, eclectic shopping, and places to sit and relax. The Wharf is a great place to meet for breakfast or lunch for a leisurely break with family or friends.
Another superb location for walking is Victoria Park. This 37 acre park offers walking paths, biking, tennis, playgrounds, and great picnic spots overlooking the harbor. At sunset, couples and groups of friends often meet to watch beautiful sunsets from the park's boardwalk.
Another must-see if you are interested in history is Beaconsfield Historic House. This yellow and white Victorian mansion was one of the first residences in Charlottetown, built in 1877. Tours, exhibits, and other special events are held throughout the year in this restored home and its adjoining garden.
The Confederation Centre Art Gallery & Museum offers visitors an opportunity to view some of the best art found in Canada and the world! This museum has both historical and contemporary art, in addition to hosting traveling exhibits that bring new pieces that keep the collection fresh and different.
Lighthouse enthusiasts will want to take in the impressive sight of Blockhouse Point Lighthouse. This is the second oldest lighthouse on PEI and has not been restored. While it was built in 1851, the lighthouse did not become automated until 1962. Today Blockhouse Point Lighthouse serves to help boats from small crafts to cruise ships navigate near and around Prince Edward Island.
The city of Charlottetown is a historical and beautiful destination for individuals and families. In addition to the previously mentioned destinations, Charlottetown also hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. The summer months are when the majority of travelers visit Prince Edward Island and its capital city of Charlottetown.
