3 Days in Charlottetown: A Solo Road Tripper’s Guide to the Best Things to See & Do
- Lyn (aka Jazz)
- 2 hours ago
- 8 min read
Walking the sun-drenched, red-brick streets of Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island (PEI) feels like stepping into a living postcard where Victorian elegance meets modern maritime energy. Whether you are hunting for the perfect lobster roll, tracing the footsteps of the Fathers of Confederation, or seeking out that famous "Anne" energy, here's a list of my favourite things to do in Charlottetown.
Charlottetown was another stop on my solo cross-Canada road trip. After weeks of driving across the country, arriving in the "Cradle of Confederation" was a chance to explore a place that I had taught about during my teaching career. This small but mighty city is a place where the history of Canada’s birth in 1864 is still visible in the Great George Street historic district, the harbour, local fisheries, and in each bite of the Island’s famous agriculture.
This guide builds on my previous Road trip through Prince Edward Island, which highlights the winding coastal routes that lead to this vibrant capital. Grab a coffee, and let’s dive into how to spend three perfect days in Charlottetown.
Where to Stay: Choosing Your Home Base
Finding the right spot to rest your head is essential, especially if you are following my Maritimes road trip itinerary. Charlottetown offers a diverse range of accommodations, each catering to different travel paces.
Historic Downtown (Great George Street area):Â If you want to be in the centre of the action, this district is home to luxury boutique hotels and charming heritage inns. You are steps away from Province House and the cafes of Victoria Row, making it ideal for those who want to park the car and forget about it for a few days.
The Waterfront & Peake’s Wharf: This area is perfect for solo travellers or those looking for a lively evening atmosphere. Staying near the harbour means you wake up to the smell of salt air and are perfectly positioned for sunset walks. While it can be a bit more expensive due to the prime location, the proximity to live music and seafood makes it worth the splurge.
Brighton & the West End: For a quieter, more residential feel, head toward the West End near Victoria Park. This neighbourhood is filled with leafy streets and stunning Victorian architecture. It’s a bit of a longer walk to the main tourist hub, but the peace and quiet—and the lower price point of local B&Bs—offer a lovely "local" experience.
Camping in Cornwall or Meadowbank: If you are adventuring in a camper van or enjoy the great outdoors, there are several well-maintained campgrounds just a 10-to-15-minute drive outside the city. Locations like the Cornwall/Meadowbank area provide a budget-friendly alternative with beautiful water views, allowing you to enjoy the island’s natural beauty while staying close to city amenities.
Things to Do: A 3-Day Charlottetown Itinerary
To truly appreciate Charlottetown's layers, I recommend organizing your visit around three distinct themes. This allows you to soak in the historical gravity of the city, indulge in its literary and culinary fame, and finally, breathe in the salty coastal air that defines life on the Island. This route is designed to be walkable within the downtown core, with a short drive or cycle for the final lighthouse loop.
Day 1: Historic Roots & Harbour Breezes
Your first day is all about grounding yourself in Canada's story. Charlottetown is incredibly proud of its role in the nation's founding, and you can feel that pride in every preserved brick and manicured garden.
Great George Street Historic District
This is the perfect starting point for your morning walk. This designated historic district is one of the most architecturally significant areas in Canada, featuring a stunning collection of 19th-century buildings. As you walk up the gentle incline toward Province House, notice the "Great George Street Gallery"—a series of outdoor storyboards that explain the street's role in the 1864 Charlottetown Conference. It is free to explore and accessible 24/7.
Province House National Historic Site
Located at 165 Richmond Street, Province House is the building where the Fathers of Confederation met for the first time to discuss the creation of Canada. While the interior is currently undergoing a massive restoration project (check the Parks Canada website for current tour availability), the exterior remains a majestic example of neo-classical architecture. Even from the sidewalk, you can feel the weight of the history that happened within these walls.
Beaconsfield Historic House
Head toward the water to find this 1877 gem at 2 West Street. Beaconsfield Historic House was once considered the most elegant home in the city. Today, it is a museum showing off Victorian craftsmanship and Island heritage. It’s open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM during the summer months, and admission is roughly $7.00. Don't miss the wraparound veranda—it offers a beautiful view of the harbour.
Government House (Fanningbank)
Just a short walk from Beaconsfield, you’ll find Fanningbrook, the official residence of the Lieutenant Governor at 1 Terry Fox Drive. Surrounded by nearly 10 acres of pristine grounds and gardens, this is the "People's House." During July and August, free guided tours of the public rooms are usually offered between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, but even if you don't go inside, the gardens are a tranquil place for a solo stroll.
Peake’s Wharf & Confederation Landing Park
End your day where the city meets the sea. Peake’s Wharf (11 Great George St.) is a bustling hub of colourful shops, seafood stalls, and live music. Right next door is Confederation Landing Park, a beautifully landscaped green space that marks the spot where the Fathers of Confederation landed. There is no cost to wander here, and it’s the best spot in town to grab an ice cream and watch the boats come in as the sun starts to dip.
Day 2: The "Anne" Experience & Coastal Views
You simply cannot visit Prince Edward Island without acknowledging the red-haired girl who made it world-famous. While Cavendish is the heart of "Anne Country," Charlottetown offers a sophisticated tribute to Lucy Maud Montgomery’s legacy through theatre, sweets, and seaside strolls.
Anne of Green Gables Store & Anne of Green Gables Chocolates
Start your morning at 110 Queen Street, the Anne of Green Gables Store. This isn’t just a shop; it’s an experience for the senses. While the store offers every "Anne" keepsake imaginable, the chocolate shop is the real star. You must try the Cow’s creamery butter fudge or their famous chocolate-covered potato chips. It’s free to browse, though you'll likely spend a few dollars on treats! Open daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM in the summer.
Victoria Row
For lunch, head to this pedestrian-only block of Richmond Street (between Queen and Great George). The red sandstone buildings house charming boutiques and restaurants with sprawling patios. It is the perfect place to sit back and experience the local flavours I highlighted in Eating Your Way Around Canada’s Eastern Provinces. There is no cost to walk the row, and local musicians often busk under the trees.
Anne and Gilbert: The Musical
Spend your afternoon at the theatre. While "Anne of Green Gables: The Musical" is a staple, Anne and Gilbert tell the story of their burgeoning romance as young adults. Performed at the Florence Simmons Performance Hall (140 Weymouth St), it’s an intimate and moving production. Tickets generally range from $45 to $65; checking the schedule and booking in advance is highly recommended.
Prince Edward Battery & Victoria Park
Clear your head after the theatre with a walk along the waterfront boardwalk to Victoria Park. At the southern tip, you’ll find the Prince Edward Battery, a historic defensive site with cannons still facing the harbour. The park is free to the public, and the boardwalk offers a spectacular, cooling breeze—something I truly appreciate during a humid Island afternoon.
Day 3: Lighthouses & Local Flavours
On your final day, it’s time to venture slightly outward to see the iconic lighthouses that dot the island and have guided mariners into the harbour for generations. This day blends the city's architecture with the rugged beauty of the coast.
Charlottetown Farmers’ Market
Start your morning like a local at 100 Belvedere Ave. If your visit falls on a Wednesday or Saturday, the Charlottetown Farmer's Market is the place to be. It’s a sensory delight of fresh Island produce, handmade crafts, and ready-to-eat treats. Entry is free, and it’s the perfect place to stock up on snacks for your afternoon lighthouse tour. Open from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
St. Dunstan’s Basilica
Before leaving the city centre, visit the stunning St. Dunstan's Basilica at 45 Great George St. Its twin spires dominate the skyline, and the interior is equally breathtaking with its intricate woodwork and stained glass. As a designated National Historic Site, it is free to visit, though visitors are asked to be respectful of ongoing services.
Brighton Beach Range Lighthouse
A short drive to the end of Brighton Road brings you to this iconic red-and-white structure. Range lighthouses work in pairs to guide ships through narrow channels. While you can't go inside, the lighthouse is a favourite for photographers, especially against the backdrop of the blue Northumberland Strait. There is no cost to visit the exterior.
Haszard Point Range Lighthouses
Located about 15 minutes east of the city in Bellevue, these lighthouses sit on a picturesque point overlooking the water. They are a bit more "off the beaten path" than the Brighton light, offering a quieter, more reflective experience. Address: 121-155 Haszard Point Rd. It’s a wonderful spot to sit on the red cliffs and watch the waves and marine traffic.
Beyond the City: Day Trips
While Charlottetown is a brilliant base, the rest of the Island beckons with its own unique stories. If you have an extra day, I highly recommend driving west to explore the things to do in Summerside, PEI. This "City by the Sea" offers a more laid-back pace, where you can stroll the Harbourfront area or delve into the local history. It is the perfect complement to the bustle of the capital and showcases a different side of Island life.
For those who haven't quite had their fill of red pigtails and slate boards, a trip to the North Shore is non-negotiable. My Anne of Green Gables Day Trip guide will take you through the hallowed grounds of Cavendish, including the Haunted Woods and Lovers' Lane.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are visiting for the history, the culture, or the coastal views, Charlottetown leaves a mark on your heart. It certainly did on mine. As you plan your own trek across our beautiful country, make sure to leave plenty of room in your schedule for this Island gem.
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