Cheryl's Guide to Living on PEI
The Best of
Prince Edward Island
A curated, always-evolving guide to the restaurants, cafés, shops, breweries, wellness spots, outdoor adventures, galleries, and events that make life on PEI so special.
What's Happening on PEI Today
Wednesday, August 19, 2026
What's Happening on PEI This Week
Today is Wednesday August 19, and Prince Edward Island is in the peak of Old Home Week at the Eastlink Centre and Red Shores Racetrack, running through August 22. The midway, agricultural shows, 4-H exhibits, and nightly Sounds of the Island concert series continue all week, building toward the Gold Cup Parade on Friday August 21 and the $100,000 Gold Cup and Saucer final on Saturday August 22. The free Sounds of the Waterfront concert series plays daily along the Charlottetown waterfront through September 1. Tonight offers a wonderful selection of music and entertainment: the Charlottetown Farmers' Market is open today from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, Concerts in the Garden in Summerside at 6:30 PM, the Stanley Bridge Hall Ceilidh at 7:30 PM, the Malpeque Ceilidh at 7:30 PM, Music in the Park at North Rustico from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, and the Kensington Summer Music Series from 5:00 to 9:00 PM. Harbourfront Theatre in Summerside opens Simply The Best: A Tina Turner Tribute tonight, running through Saturday. Confederation Centre continues Come From Away and Anne of Green Gables-The Musical daily. The Kensington Harvest Festival opens this Friday August 21. It is peak summer on PEI, and the Island is alive with music, community celebrations, and the unhurried coastal energy that makes August here so unforgettable.
Come From Away
Theatre · Now Playing · Through Sep 26
The Tony Award-winning musical is in regular run at the Charlottetown Festival. Performances at 1:00 PM and 7:30 PM at the Sobey Family Theatre through September 26. A powerful, uplifting story about community and kindness set during the days after September 11, when 38 planes were diverted to a small Newfoundland town. Post-show talk-backs are now running every Thursday evening.
Confederation Centre of the Arts, Charlottetown
Anne of Green Gables-The Musical
Theatre · Now Playing · Through Sep 5
Canada's longest-running musical continues its summer season at the Charlottetown Festival. Shows at 1:00 PM and 7:30 PM at the Sobey Family Theatre through September 5. A beloved Island tradition and the perfect introduction to PEI's literary heritage. Catch a matinee before or after exploring Old Home Week, or an evening performance any day of the week.
Confederation Centre of the Arts, Charlottetown
Sounds of the Waterfront
Live Music · Free · Daily through Sep 1
Free, open-air live music every day along the Charlottetown waterfront from noon to 8:00 PM. Running through September 1, the lineup changes daily and features fiddle, acoustic, jazz, and everything in between. Grab a coffee or an ice cream and settle in for the afternoon. One of the best free things to do all summer, and a wonderful way to spend a relaxed August weekday after the long weekend crowds have thinned.
Peakes Quay & Founders Hall, Charlottetown
Concerts in the Garden
Live Music · Wednesday, August 19 · 6:30 PM · Summerside
A free outdoor summer concert series at Wyatt Heritage Properties in Summerside, happening every Wednesday through August 19. The next show is this Wednesday August 19, featuring local Island musicians on the outdoor stage. Bring a lawn chair, settle in on the garden lawn, and enjoy a relaxed evening of live music under the summer sky. Wyatt's famous homemade ice cream is sold during intermission. Admission is by donation. A 25-minute drive from Charlottetown, it is a lovely midweek outing that pairs beautifully with dinner at one of Summerside's waterfront restaurants.
Wyatt Heritage Properties, 50 Summer Street, Summerside
Charlottetown Farmers' Market
Market · Wed Aug 19 & Sat Aug 22 · 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
The Charlottetown Farmers' Market runs year-round on Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Belvedere Avenue location, with additional Wednesday markets through August 30. Local produce at its peak in mid-August: fresh berries, vegetables, preserves, artisan crafts, and the best people-watching on the Island. The upcoming markets are Wednesday August 19 and Saturday August 22. Arrive early for the freshest selection. It is an essential Island experience that has been connecting growers and the community for decades.
100 Belvedere Avenue, Charlottetown
Downtown Charlottetown Market
Market · Sunday, August 23 · 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Every Sunday morning through the summer from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Confederation Landing Park. Over 90 vendors, live music, prepared foods, and fresh produce. The next market is Sunday August 23, the perfect way to cap a weekend that includes the Gold Cup Parade and Old Home Week finals. The waterfront setting makes the Downtown Market one of the most scenic in Atlantic Canada.
Confederation Landing Park, Charlottetown
Stanley Bridge Hall Ceilidh
Live Music · Wednesday, August 19 · 7:30 PM
The weekly Wednesday ceilidh at Stanley Bridge Hall features The Chaissons with rotating guest fiddlers. The next show is Wednesday August 19 with guest fiddler Troy MacGillivray. Traditional Island music, step dancing, and the warm community atmosphere that makes ceilidhs such a beloved PEI tradition. About 30 minutes west of Charlottetown near the north shore. A wonderful midweek outing that combines great music with a scenic drive through the countryside.
Stanley Bridge Hall, 4897 St. Marys Road, Breadalbane
Friday Night Ceilidh Series
Live Music · Friday, August 21 · 7:30 PM
The beloved weekly ceilidh series continues every Friday at the Benevolent Irish Society with a rotating lineup of Island musicians and step dancers. The next ceilidh is Friday August 21 at 7:30 PM. Doors open at 6:30 PM. Tickets $20 adults, $5 children 12 and under. A wonderful way to experience Island music, hospitality, and community spirit on a summer evening. A true Charlottetown tradition that pairs perfectly with the Gold Cup Parade earlier that day.
Irish Cultural Centre, 582 North River Road, Charlottetown
C'MON IN! A Kitchen Party
Theatre · Tue, Wed & Thu · 8:00 PM
A high-energy Charlottetown Festival production at The Mack Theatre celebrating Island music, storytelling, and community spirit. Running Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at 8:00 PM through August 29. The next performances are Wednesday August 19 and Thursday August 20. An entertaining evening that captures the warmth of an old-fashioned kitchen party. Tickets are available at the Confederation Centre box office.
The Mack Theatre, Charlottetown
Polka Dot Door
Family · Free · Daily at 11:00 AM
A free outdoor children's musical now playing at the Confederation Centre Amphitheatre. Inspired by the beloved Canadian TV series, this playful sing-along adventure celebrates kindness and imagination with an all-Island cast. Shows daily at 11:00 AM through August 22. Perfect for families with young visitors. Pack a blanket and enjoy the sunshine in the beautiful Confederation Centre courtyard.
Confederation Centre Amphitheatre, Charlottetown
Watermark Theatre
Theatre · Now Playing · North Rustico
Two plays running in repertory this summer: Alan Ayckbourn's British comedy Relatively Speaking and Kristen Da Silva's romantic comedy Sugar Road. Intimate professional theatre in the picturesque fishing village of North Rustico, just minutes from Cavendish and the beautiful beaches of the PEI National Park. A lovely evening out away from the bustle, with dinner at a nearby seafood restaurant before the show.
Watermark Theatre, North Rustico
Confederation Centre Ghost Tour
Heritage · Evenings · Daily through Nov 7
An evening walking tour through Charlottetown's historic streets led by the Confederation Centre Heritage Players. Live performers share ghostly tales and true stories of the capital city's haunted past, from grand hotels to quiet laneways. Tours run at 6:30, 7:00, and 7:30 PM most evenings through November 7. The next tour is this evening. A wonderful way to see a different side of Charlottetown, and a memorable outing for visitors who enjoy stories and history. Book ahead; these popular tours fill quickly in summer.
Confederation Centre of the Arts, 145 Richmond Street, Charlottetown
Bootleggers and Barbacks Tour
Heritage · Daily · 4:30 PM
A prohibition-era walking tour through Charlottetown's hidden corners, led by the Confederation Centre Heritage Players. Discover the speakeasies, secret bars, and colourful characters of the city's bootlegging past, with true stories served with a wink. Tours depart daily at 4:30 PM through September 25. A clever, entertaining way to spend a late afternoon, and a great pairing with an early dinner and an evening show at the festival.
Confederation Centre of the Arts, 145 Richmond Street, Charlottetown
Live Acts at The Mack
Live Music · Now Playing · Through Sep 25
The Confederation Centre's intimate concert series at The Mack Theatre on Richmond Street. A rotating lineup of Atlantic Canadian and national touring artists covering folk, indie, rock, and roots music. Shows at 8:00 PM on select dates through September 25. Check the schedule for upcoming performances. An excellent way to experience live music in a warm, welcoming venue right downtown.
The Mack Theatre, 130 Richmond Street, Charlottetown
Simply The Best: A Tina Turner Tribute
Concert · Aug 19 to 22 · 7:30 PM · Summerside
A high-energy tribute to the Queen of Rock 'n' Roll at Harbourfront Theatre in Summerside. Simply The Best celebrates Tina Turner's greatest hits with a live band and powerhouse vocals, from Proud Mary to What's Love Got to Do with It. Shows run Wednesday August 19 through Saturday August 22 at 7:30 PM. Check the Harbourfront Theatre website to confirm dates and grab tickets, then make an evening of it with dinner at one of Summerside's waterfront restaurants.
Harbourfront Theatre, 124 Harbour Drive, Summerside
Charlottetown Food Walking Tour
Food · Daily in Summer · Confederation Landing
A guided walking tour that takes you through downtown Charlottetown's best food spots with local Islander guides. Taste Island classics like seafood chowder, lobster rolls, and PEI potatoes, and cap the experience with a hands-on oyster shucking ceremony. Tours meet at the Confederation Landing Park Gazebo and run daily through the summer. A delicious way to discover the flavours that make PEI's food scene so special. Perfect for visitors who want to taste their way through the capital city.
Confederation Landing Park, Charlottetown
New Glasgow Lobster Suppers
Food · Daily in Summer · New Glasgow
A beloved Island institution for more than 60 years, serving fresh lobster, mussels, salad, seafood chowder, and dessert in the heart of PEI's Cavendish region. Arrive hungry and settle in for a generous, family-friendly meal. About 30 minutes from Charlottetown on the way to the north shore beaches and Prince Edward Island National Park. A classic summer food experience that makes a perfect day trip with the Anne of Green Gables and Cavendish attractions nearby.
5454 Route 258, New Glasgow
Old Home Week & Gold Cup & Saucer
Festival · August 14 to 22 · Charlottetown
PEI's signature summer event is now in full swing at the Eastlink Centre and Red Shores Racetrack, running through August 22. The Gold Cup and Saucer harness racing trials have concluded and the $100,000 final is Saturday August 22. The Gold Cup Parade on Friday August 21 draws thousands to downtown Charlottetown. Agricultural shows, 4-H exhibits, a midway, live music, barbeques, and family entertainment run throughout the festival, with the nightly Sounds of the Island concert series in the Trade Centre. This week is the perfect time to catch the midway and harness races as the excitement builds toward finals weekend. Tickets for the grandstand are available through the Eastlink Centre.
Eastlink Centre & Red Shores Racetrack, Charlottetown
Gold Cup Parade
Parade · Friday, August 21 · 10:00 AM · Free
The Gold Cup Parade is the largest parade east of Montreal and one of the highlights of Old Home Week. Marching bands, colourful floats, antique cars, and giant balloons wind through downtown Charlottetown on Friday August 21 starting at 10:00 AM, drawing crowds from across the Maritimes. The route begins at Queen Charlotte Intermediate School on North River Road, travels south to Brighton Road, and continues down Great George Street through the heart of the city. Arrive early to claim a spot along the route and soak in one of the Island's most joyful traditions.
Downtown Charlottetown (route via Gold Cup Parade)
Kensington Harvest Festival
Festival · August 21 to 25 · Kensington
An old-fashioned community exhibition at the Credit Union Centre in Kensington featuring a Mammoth Street Parade, talent show, food demonstrations, live entertainment, BBQ, and more. A five-day celebration that captures the warmth and hospitality of small-town Island life. A 25-minute drive west of Charlottetown, it is a wonderful way to experience the community spirit that makes Prince Edward Island so special.
Credit Union Centre, 25 Garden Drive, Kensington
Malpeque Ceilidh
Live Music · Wednesday, August 19 · 7:30 PM · Malpeque
Now in its 30th year, the Malpeque Ceilidh returns on Wednesday August 19 at 7:30 PM at the Malpeque Community Centre. Hosted by Michael Pendergast, the evening features local fiddlers, musicians, and step dancers in one of PEI's most beloved ceilidh traditions. About 35 minutes west of Charlottetown in the beautiful Malpeque Bay area, known for its famous oysters and stunning coastal scenery. The perfect midweek Island experience combining traditional music with a scenic drive through the countryside.
Malpeque Community Centre, Malpeque
Kings Ceilidh at Kings Playhouse
Live Music · Wednesday, August 19 · Georgetown
A lively PEI kitchen party at the historic Kings Playhouse in Georgetown on Wednesday August 19. An all-Island cast of musicians brings traditional fiddle tunes, step dancing, and Maritime hospitality to the stage in one of the province's most charming performance venues. About 45 minutes east of Charlottetown in the heart of Kings County, the evening pairs beautifully with dinner at one of Georgetown's waterfront restaurants before or after the show. A wonderful way to experience Island culture away from the crowds.
Kings Playhouse, 65 Grafton Street, Georgetown
Music in the Park at North Rustico
Live Music · Wednesday, August 19 · 6:00 to 8:00 PM · Free
A free summer concert series every Wednesday from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Seawalk Park in North Rustico, running through August 26. Local Island musicians perform on the outdoor stage overlooking the harbour. Bring a blanket or a lawn chair and enjoy the seaside setting. The next show is Wednesday August 19. A short drive from Cavendish and the PEI National Park, it makes for a perfect evening out after a day at the beach.
Seawalk Park, 106 Riverside Drive, North Rustico
Kensington Summer Music Series
Live Music · Wednesday, August 19 · 5:00 to 9:00 PM · Free
Free live music at the Kensington Railyard every Wednesday evening from 5:00 to 9:00 PM through August 26. Local musicians perform in the heart of this charming town, with the summer series drawing visitors and locals alike. The next show is Wednesday August 19. A 25-minute drive west of Charlottetown, it is a lovely midweek evening outing. Grab dinner at a local restaurant and enjoy the music under the open sky.
Kensington Railyard, 27 Commercial Street, Kensington
PEI Gran Fondo
Cycling · August 28 to 29 · Charlottetown
A two-day cycling event through PEI's scenic coastal landscapes, starting and finishing in Charlottetown. Choose from multiple distances suitable for recreational and experienced cyclists alike. The route takes riders through rolling countryside, past red sand beaches, and along the Confederation Trail. Registration is open now. A fantastic way to experience the Island's beauty on two wheels.
Charlottetown (start line details via Cycling PEI)
Charlottetown Dragon Boat Festival
Sporting Event · August 29 · Victoria Park
The 2nd annual Charlottetown Dragon Boat Festival takes place on Saturday August 29 at Victoria Park. Teams of paddlers race traditional dragon boats on the Charlottetown Harbour, with music, food vendors, and family activities throughout the day. A vibrant community event that celebrates teamwork, fitness, and the waterfront. Spectators are welcome and encouraged.
Victoria Park, Charlottetown
Under the Spire Concert Series
Live Music · Weekly · June to September · Kensington
An intimate concert series held at the historic St. Mary's Church in Kensington, running throughout the summer. The acoustics of this beautiful stone church provide a stunning setting for an eclectic lineup of Island and visiting musicians covering folk, classical, bluegrass, and traditional Celtic. Concerts take place weekly through September. About 25 minutes west of Charlottetown, a visit pairs beautifully with dinner at one of Kensington's local restaurants. Check the schedule for this week's performance.
Historic St. Mary's Church, 4470 Route 2, Kensington
Cymbria Lions Club Ceilidh
Live Music · Sunday, August 23 · 7:30 PM · Rustico
The Cymbria Lions Club in Rustico hosts a weekly Sunday ceilidh every week in August at 7:30 PM. The next ceilidh is Sunday August 23, featuring traditional Island fiddle music, step dancers, and the warm community atmosphere that makes these gatherings a cherished PEI tradition. About 20 minutes north of Charlottetown near the beautiful Rustico Bay. A lovely way to cap a weekend that includes the Gold Cup Parade and Old Home Week finals, with dinner at one of Rustico's excellent seafood restaurants before the show.
Cymbria Lions Club, 2159 Route 243, Rustico
DiverseCity Multicultural Festival
Festival · Sunday, August 30 · Souris
A free, family-friendly celebration of culture, food, and community visiting Souris on Sunday August 30. Live performances from around the world, international cuisine, artisan vendors, and activities for children make this a vibrant and welcoming experience for all ages. The DiverseCity tour has been crisscrossing Island communities all summer, and this stop in the beautiful eastern town of Souris is the perfect way to experience the cultural richness of modern PEI. About 90 minutes east of Charlottetown, the drive through Kings County is stunning in late August.
Souris (venue details via DiverseCity Festival)
PEI International Shellfish Festival
Food Festival · October 2 to 4 · Charlottetown
Mark your calendar for Atlantic Canada's premier shellfish celebration at the Charlottetown Event Grounds. The PEI International Shellfish Festival brings together the Island's world-famous oysters, mussels, clams, and lobster for a weekend of tastings, chef competitions, cooking demonstrations, and live music. Friday through Sunday, October 2 to 4. Tickets go on sale in late summer and sell quickly. A perfect autumn weekend to plan ahead for, especially if you are considering a fall visit to PEI to see the Island in its most colourful season.
Charlottetown Event Grounds, 17 Exhibition Drive, Charlottetown
North Shore Kayak & Beach Day
Outdoor · Daily · PEI National Park
Late August is the perfect time to explore PEI's north shore by kayak, when the waters are warm and the summer crowds have begun to thin. Guided tours depart from multiple locations along the Prince Edward Island National Park, including Cavendish, Brackley, and Stanhope. Paddle through sheltered bays, past red sandstone cliffs, and along the famous white sand beaches that make the north shore so beloved. Tour operators provide all equipment and guides. A half-day on the water followed by an afternoon on the beach is one of the finest ways to spend a late summer day on the Island.
Multiple departure points, PEI National Park (Cavendish to Stanhope)
Golf Courses
Where are the best golf courses on PEI?
PEI is one of Canada's premier golf destinations, and it is easy to see why. The Island is home to over 30 courses, many of them set along stunning coastlines with views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Northumberland Strait. Championship layouts, links-style fairways carved through sand dunes, and tucked-away gems where the pace is unhurried and the greens are immaculate. Whether you are a seasoned player or picking up a club for the first time, golf here is about more than the game. It is about the light on the water, the salt air, and the kind of round that makes you want to come back tomorrow.
The Links at Crowbush Cove
Championship Links
A links-style masterpiece along the Gulf of St. Lawrence, with dramatic dunes, coastal winds, and views that will make you forget your scorecard. Consistently ranked among the best public courses in Canada.
Dundarave Golf Course
Championship
A stunning championship layout with over 120 red sandstone bunkers and sweeping views along the Brudenell River. Part of the Brudenell River Resort, it is a true test of golf wrapped in Island beauty.
Green Gables Golf Course
Historic Links
Set inside Prince Edward Island National Park, this Stanley Thompson-designed course plays through sand dunes and coastal terrain in Cavendish. Golf where literary history and natural beauty meet.
Glasgow Hills Resort & Golf Club
Scenic Views
Perched above Tracadie Bay with panoramic views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. A Les Furber design that rewards both the eye and the game, with rolling terrain and thoughtful doglegs.
Fox Meadow Golf Course
Local Favourite
A locally loved course just outside Charlottetown with beautifully maintained greens and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. The kind of course where you can walk 18, enjoy the Island air, and feel right at home.
Eagles Glenn Golf Course
Championship
A Graham Cooke championship course in Cavendish with rolling terrain, abundant mounding, and a layout that keeps every hole interesting. A challenging but enjoyable round in a beautiful part of the Island.
Brudenell Golf Course
Resort Course
A scenic 18-hole course set along the Brudenell River at Rodd Brudenell River Resort. Tree-lined fairways, water hazards, and a relaxed resort atmosphere make it a great choice for a leisurely round in eastern PEI.
Stanhope Golf and Country Club
Community Club
A welcoming golf course in the Stanhope area of PEI with a relaxed atmosphere and a scenic layout. A great spot for both seasoned players and those new to the game.
Andersons Creek Golf Club
Scottish-Style Design
A Graham Cooke championship course in Stanley Bridge with rolling hills, water on nine holes, and a Scottish-inspired links feel. Bagpipes often play in the background, making for one of the most memorable rounds on PEI.
What is it like to live in Charlottetown?
Living on Prince Edward Island is about more than a postal code. It's a daily experience of community, landscape, food, and pace. Charlottetown offers a walkable downtown, a thriving restaurant and arts scene, and a sense of belonging that's hard to find elsewhere. This page is a living guide to the places and moments I share with clients, friends, and anyone discovering the Island for the first time.
Dining
Where are the best restaurants in Charlottetown?
One of the things I love most about living on PEI is how the food scene keeps getting better. From waterfront seafood shacks to farm-to-table restaurants that showcase local growers, there is always somewhere worth trying. These are a few of my favourites.
Brickhouse Kitchen & Bar
A Charlottetown favourite on Sydney Street with a seasonal, locally sourced menu and a warm, social atmosphere.
The Pilot House
A historic Grafton Street restaurant serving locally sourced seafood, Island AAA beef, and an extensive wine list in three distinct dining spaces.
Slaymaker & Nichols Gastro House
Elevated comfort food in a beautifully restored heritage building on Fitzroy Street. Perfect for a special evening out.
Salt & Sol
A stylish spot on the Charlottetown waterfront for cocktails, seafood, and one of the best sunset views in the city.
Papa Joe's
A longstanding local institution on University Avenue, consistently excellent Italian and a go-to for family dinners.
Sims Corner Steakhouse
A classic Charlottetown steakhouse on University Avenue known for prime cuts, excellent service, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Out of Town but Worth the Drive
Some of the best meals I have had on PEI were a short drive outside Charlottetown. The Island is only 140 miles long, so nothing ever feels too far, but these restaurants are worth every minute of the trip. Each one has its own character and a reason to visit that goes well beyond the plate.
Blue Mussel Café
North Rustico
In North Rustico, right near the harbour, the Blue Mussel Café is everything a PEI seafood spot should be: fresh, uncomplicated, and right on the water. They skip the deep fryer entirely and let the quality of the seafood do the talking. The mussels are outstanding, the lobster rolls are generous, and the patio on a summer evening is hard to beat.
Fin Folk Food
Grand Tracadie
Head out to Grand Tracadie Beach and you will find Fin Folk Food tucked at the edge of the sand. It is a beachside spot with a wrap-around patio, ocean views, and the kind of casual, feel-good atmosphere that makes you want to stay for hours. Fresh seafood, comfort food, and a setting that reminds you exactly why you came to the Island.
The Dunes
Brackley Beach
The Dunes at Brackley Beach is one of those places that captures the creative spirit of PEI beautifully. It is part art gallery, part café, and entirely worth the visit. Browse the studio and gallery filled with Island-made work, then settle in for a meal surrounded by the gardens and the coastal landscape. It is a destination in itself.
Landmark Oyster Bar
Victoria by the Sea
In the charming village of Victoria by the Sea, the Landmark Oyster House is a must for anyone who loves shellfish. Sit at the bar and watch them shuck your oysters right in front of you. The chowder, the lobster rolls, and the Po' Boys are all excellent, and the covered patio makes it a comfortable stop any time of day. Pair it with a wander through the village and you have one of the best afternoons on the Island.
Inn at Bay Fortune
Bay Fortune
If you want a dining experience unlike anything else on PEI, the FireWorks Feast at the Inn at Bay Fortune is it. Chef Michael Smith and his team prepare a multi-course, farm-to-table meal around a 25-foot wood-burning hearth, using ingredients from their own culinary farm and local producers. It is communal, it is theatrical, and every course is exceptional. Reservations are essential, and it is worth planning well ahead.
Coffee
What are the best coffee shops on PEI?
Whether you are meeting a client, catching up with a friend, or settling in with a good book, PEI has a wonderful collection of independent coffee shops. These are the ones I find myself recommending again and again.
Receiver Coffee
A Charlottetown staple with two locations: the Brass Shop on Water Street and the café on Richmond. Great coffee, pastries, and a relaxed vibe.
The Kettle Black
A cozy spot on Queen Street known for excellent espresso and a welcoming atmosphere right in the heart of downtown.
Leonhard's
A bakery-café on Great George Street with outstanding breads, pastries, and coffee. The kind of place that makes mornings better.
Alambé Coffee
A small-batch roaster on Kent Street with a focus on quality and a loyal local following. Worth seeking out.
The Shed Coffee
A laid-back café on Pownal Street with great drinks and a genuine community feel. Popular with locals.
The Gallery Cafe
A charming café on Great George Street that combines coffee, art, and Island culture in one inviting space. A lovely spot to slow down and enjoy the view.
Shops
Where can I find local shops and boutiques?
Charlottetown's downtown is full of independent boutiques and artisan studios. The kind of shops where you find something you didn't know you needed, and where the people behind the counter actually love what they do.
PEI Craft Council Retail Gallery
Two floors of handmade work from over 120 Island artisans: jewelry, textiles, ceramics, woodwork, and more.
Founders Hall
A charming stationery and art boutique at Founders' Food Hall & Market. Locally designed prints, cards, and gifts.
JEMS Boutique
A curated clothing boutique on Queen Street with a focus on quality pieces and personal service.
Garnish
An open metalsmith studio specializing in minimalist silver and gold jewelry inspired by Island nature.
The Cook's Edge
A specialty kitchen shop on Queen Street with carefully chosen cookware, local ingredients, and food gifts.
Peakes Quay Shops
A collection of charming waterfront boutiques and artisan studios at Peakes Quay Marina, featuring Island-made gifts, crafts, clothing, and Maritime souvenirs.
Breweries & Patios
Breweries & Patios
PEI's craft beer scene has exploded in recent years, and the patios are some of the best places to spend a summer afternoon. These are the breweries and outdoor spots I always point people toward.
Hopyard
Charlottetown's go-to craft beer spot on Kent Street, a great tap list, solid food, and one of the best patios downtown.
PEI Brewing Company
The Island's flagship brewery on Kensington Road. Tastings, tours, and a taproom that's become a local institution.
Lone Oak Brew Pub
A newer addition to the Charlottetown scene with excellent craft beer and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Charlottetown Beer Garden & Seafood Patio
An open-air beer garden on Kent Street, fresh seafood, local brews, and a great patio for warm-weather dining.
The Gahan House
A Charlottetown original, craft beer brewed on-site in a historic building on the waterfront.
For Dog Lovers
For Dog Lovers
PEI is an incredibly pet-friendly place. There are off-leash parks, dog-friendly beaches, and a community that genuinely welcomes your four-legged family members. If you are moving here with a dog, you will feel right at home.
Upton Farmlands Off-Leash Area
One of the largest dog parks in Canada: 20 acres with waterfront access, tidal areas, and plenty of room to run.
Hillsborough Park Dog Park
A fully fenced park off Acadian Drive with separate areas for large and small dogs. Clean, well-maintained, and popular with locals.
Kinlock Beach
A dog-friendly beach in Charlottetown with beautiful red sand and red rock cliffs. Best at low tide for a long walk.
Blooming Point Beach
A quiet, scenic beach near Mount Stewart where leashed dogs are welcome. A local favourite for peaceful walks.
Shear Pawfection
A trusted local groomer on Capital Drive, gentle, professional care for dogs of all sizes.
Recreation & Sports
Recreation & Sports
Life on PEI means you are never far from the water, the trail, or the golf course. The Island packs an extraordinary amount of outdoor recreation into a small footprint, and it is one of the reasons so many people choose to live here.
Atlantic Pickleball Club
A popular indoor pickleball facility in Charlottetown with courts, leagues, and drop-in play for all levels. A fast-growing community sport that brings people together on and off the court.
Confederation Trail
A scenic trail network spanning the island, perfect for walking, cycling, and exploring PEI's countryside at your own pace.
Paddles PEI (Explore More Watersports)
Kayak, paddleboard, and watersport rentals right downtown at Peakes Quay Marina, perfect for a morning on the Hillsborough River.
MacQueen's Bike Shop
Rentals, guided tours, and everything you need to explore the Confederation Trail and Charlottetown by bike.
Deep Sea Sport Fishing
Head out on the water with one of PEI's charter operators for a day of deep sea sport fishing. From mackerel and tuna to shark, the offshore waters around the Island offer an experience that is hard to find anywhere else in Atlantic Canada.
ParaSport and Recreation PEI
PEI's leading adaptive sports and recreation organization, offering a wide range of programs for people with physical disabilities, including wheelchair basketball, boccia, para ice hockey, and swimming. A valuable community resource that reflects the Island's commitment to inclusive, accessible recreation for all.
Cycling & Mountain Biking
Prince Edward Island is a cyclist's paradise, with kilometres of paved Confederation Trail, coastal road routes, and growing mountain biking terrain. From casual rides through farmland to more adventurous single-track, the Island offers options for every skill level in a setting that is hard to beat.
Boating & Sailing
From leisurely harbour cruises to full-day sailing excursions, PEI's sheltered bays and coastal waters are made for time on the boat. Charlottetown's waterfront marinas offer rentals, charters, and sailing lessons, and the Northumberland Strait provides calm, scenic waters perfect for exploring from the water.
Beaches & Parks
Prince Edward Island is renowned for its stunning red sand beaches, protected coastal parks, and natural beauty. From the dramatic cliffs of the National Park to quiet, sheltered coves, the Island's beaches and parks offer endless opportunities for walking, swimming, and soaking in the coastal landscape.
Wellness
What wellness and spa options are on PEI?
One thing that surprises people about PEI is how much the Island has to offer when it comes to taking care of yourself, physically and mentally. Whether you are looking for a quiet spa afternoon, a yoga class to start your morning, or a naturopathic practitioner you can trust, Charlottetown's wellness community is warm, skilled, and growing. These are the people and places I recommend when clients ask where to go.
Cocoon Wellness Spa
A boutique day spa on Queen Street in the heart of downtown Charlottetown. Massage, facials, and body treatments in a calm, beautifully designed space. A go-to for anyone who needs to slow down.
Grand Senses
A spa and wellness studio on Grafton Street offering massage therapy, aromatherapy, and relaxation treatments. The kind of place where you leave feeling genuinely restored.
Modo Yoga Charlottetown
A hot yoga and movement studio on Prince Street with a focus on community, accessibility, and mindful practice. Welcoming to beginners and experienced yogis alike.
Charlottetown Yoga Space
A dedicated yoga studio on Pownal Street offering a range of classes from gentle and restorative to more dynamic flow. Small classes with attentive, experienced instructors.
The Health Associates
A multi-disciplinary wellness clinic on McAulay Court with practitioners in naturopathic medicine, chiropractic care, acupuncture, and registered massage therapy. A trusted resource for holistic health under one roof.
Mysa Nordic Spa & Resort
PEI's first Nordic spa, set on 18 acres along the shore of St. Peters Bay in Saint Peters Bay. The thermal experience guides you through a cycle of hot, cold, and rest: Finnish saunas, barrel saunas, steam rooms infused with essential oils, cold plunges, and quiet relaxation spaces overlooking the water. It is the kind of place where the outside world just fades away. Sustainability is woven into the whole operation, from the renewable biomass heating to the way the property blends into the surrounding landscape. Whether you spend a few hours or stay overnight in one of the renovated bay-view cottages, it is a genuinely restorative experience and well worth the drive from Charlottetown.
Daniel Schulman
An acupuncturist in Charlottetown offering traditional acupuncture and holistic treatments. A trusted practitioner for clients seeking a natural, whole-body approach to wellness.
The Root Cellar
A community-focused health food store on University Avenue with organic produce, bulk goods, supplements, and a thoughtful selection of natural wellness products. A great resource for anyone looking to eat well and live intentionally on the Island.
Art Galleries
Art Galleries
PEI has a quietly vibrant art scene: galleries, studios, and creative spaces that reflect the Island's landscapes, history, and community. These are well worth a visit, whether you are collecting or simply curious.
Details Fine Art Gallery
A curated gallery on Richmond Street featuring Island and Atlantic Canadian artists. Thoughtfully presented and always worth a browse.
Gallery at The Guild
Located in The Guild building on Richmond Street, a rotating collection of contemporary Island art in a beautiful heritage space.
Confederation Centre Art Gallery
A public art gallery on Great George Street featuring rotating exhibitions of Canadian and Island artists.
Glass Roots PEI
A glass art studio and gallery on Great George Street where you can watch artists at work and find one-of-a-kind pieces.
The Dunes
A third-floor gallery on Fitzroy Street featuring original paintings and mixed media inspired by PEI landscapes.
Christopher Griffin Art Studio
A working art studio and gallery showcasing original works by PEI artist Christopher Griffin, with pieces inspired by Island landscapes and coastal living.
Events
What events are happening on PEI right now?
PEI runs on community, and the events calendar reflects that, from farmers markets and food festivals to live music and holiday celebrations. These are some of the gatherings that give the Island its character throughout the year.
Charlottetown Farmers' Market
Every Saturday year-round (and Wednesdays in summer) at 100 Belvedere Avenue. Local produce, baking, preserves, and artisan goods.
The Charlottetown Festival
Atlantic Canada's largest musical theatre festival, running all summer. A beloved Island tradition.
Summerside Lobster Carnival
A mid-July celebration of PEI's lobster industry and harness racing heritage, with live races, a midway, lobster suppers, and live music.
Rollo Bay Fiddle Festival
Three days of traditional fiddle music, step dancing, and Island culture on the eastern shore in mid-July.
PEI Potato Blossom Festival
A week-long celebration of PEI's agricultural heritage in O'Leary with potato peeling contests, community dinners, and parades.
DiverseCity Multicultural Festival
A free, family-friendly celebration of culture, food, and community visiting multiple Island communities throughout the summer.
PEI International Shellfish Festival
An early-October celebration of PEI's world-famous shellfish: tastings, competitions, and live music.
Scarecrow Festival
A month-long October celebration with creative scarecrows, ghost tours, and markets throughout downtown Charlottetown.
Downtown Farmers' Market
Sunday mornings in summer at Confederation Landing Park, over 90 vendors with fresh food, prepared goods, and crafts.
"The thing I love most about PEI is that the lifestyle sells itself. When people visit and experience a Saturday at the farmers' market, a walk on a red sand beach, or dinner on a harbour patio, they start to imagine what life here could look like. That's when the conversation gets exciting."
Cheryl Burns, REALTOR® · License #29733 · 25+ years & 1,000+ homes sold
Ready to make PEI
your home?
The best way to learn about life on the Island is to experience it. Let's talk about what matters to you and explore your options together.