Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island: History, Location, Landmarks, and Attractions

Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island (PEI) is one of those places that you might not have heard of, but once you visit, you’ll wonder how it managed to stay under your radar for so long. Nestled on the shores of this idyllic island, Charlottetown is a small community that feels like a well-kept secret. From its stunning coastal views to its charming local culture, Charlottetown offers a perfect slice of PEI life—quiet, unpretentious, and deeply connected to the land and sea.

View of Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada with small fishing boats in the calm harbor.
View of Charlottetown. Photo credit: Jenn Allen.

A Brief History

Charlottetown’s roots stretch back to 1764 when Captain Samuel Holland, the Surveyor-General of Great Britain, selected the current site of Charlottetown as one of the primary towns of St. John’s Island — which was later renamed Prince Edward Island. He then named the area Charlottetown in honor of Queen Charlotte, the wife of King George III, and was officially established as the capital city of the province in 1765. 

In September 1864, one of the most significant events in Canadian history took place in Charlottetown. Delegates from the colonies of British North America gathered at Province House to discuss the idea of forming a union. This gathering would be known as the Charlottetown Conference, which ultimately led to the creation of Canada in 1867. Today, Province House is considered a national historic site and popular tourist destination, often referred to as the “Birthplace of Confederation”.

Location

Charlottetown is located on the southern shore of PEI, overlooking the Northumberland Strait — a body of water that separates PEI from the mainland provinces of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. This ideal location not only offers residents and visitors stunning views of the city’s waterfront but also positions Charlottetown as a central destination for exploring the rest of the island and the surrounding Maritime provinces.

Charlottetown offers a unique balance between urban and rural atmospheres. Despite being the capital and largest city on the island, it has managed to maintain a small-town feel and sustain the natural beauty that PEI is known for. The city is surrounded by rolling farmlands and old-fashioned villages that make Charlottetown so appealing to both locals and tourists alike.

A majestic cruise ship docked at the picturesque port of Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island.
Cruise Ship in Charlottetown. Photo credit: Depositphotos.

Notable Landmarks

Charlottetown is a city filled with important landmarks that show its rich history, such as the previously mentioned Province House National Historic Site where the Charlottetown Conference took place. The building offers guided tours that give visitors a glimpse into the early days of Canadian nationhood.

Other notable landmarks in the city include St. Dunstan’s Basilica, a stunning cathedral located in the heart of downtown. Victoria Row is another must-visit destination with its beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings and wide range of shops, restaurants, and cafes. There’s also the Confederation Centre of the Arts that houses a museum, art gallery, and theater, and the Beaconsfield Historic House for a peek into Victorian-era Charlottetown.

Buildings in Charlottetown with red-brick facades and Victorian architecture alongside modern shops and cafes.
Buildings in Charlottetown. Photo credit: Depositphotos.

Outdoor Activities and Natural Beauty

Charlottetown isn’t just rich in history, it’s also a gateway to the natural beauty that PEI is famous for. The city itself has several parks, like Victoria Park, one of its most popular outdoor spaces where visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities. The park also features historical landmarks like Fort Edward, adding a touch of history to your visit.

If you’re into cycling or hiking, you can visit the Confederation Trail, a 279-mile trail that spans the entire island. It’s a well-maintained trail and is easily accessible from the city. You can even enjoy lovely views of the countryside in the section that passes through the city.

When it comes to maritime activities, you can visit Peake’s Wharf down by the waterfront, where you can enjoy the fresh sea breeze, watch boats coming in and out of the harbor, and even catch some live music in the summer. It’s also a great spot to hop on a boat tour and explore the waters around the island.

A church in Charlottetown with classic architectural details and a Canadian flag displayed.
Church in Charlottetown. Photo credit: Depositphotos.

Culinary Delights

PEI is known for its seafood, and Charlottetown is no exception. Its local dining scene offers a mix of traditional and modern cuisine, with restaurants offering everything from classic seafood to unique farm-to-table dishes.

One of the most popular restaurants in the area is Lobster on the Wharf where you can enjoy fresh lobster while enjoying the views of the city waterfront. Claddagh Oyster is also a must-visit, offering a wide selection of local oysters and other options that highlight the best of PEI’s cuisine. 

Final Words

So if you find yourself on PEI, take a detour from the usual tourist spots and head to Charlottetown. It might not have the name recognition of some other destinations, but that’s exactly what makes it so magical. In Charlottetown, you’ll find the kind of genuine, unspoiled beauty that’s becoming harder and harder to find in today’s world. And once you experience it, you’ll understand why those who know about Charlottetown are happy to keep it as their little secret.

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