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Looking for the best attractions in PEI Canada? Discover top places to visit in PEI in winter, family-friendly spots, and must-see sights for one-day trips. Get your free PEI attractions map and start planning your perfect Island adventure today!
Hey there, fellow wanderlusts! If you’re dreaming of a Canadian escape that’s equal parts charming, scenic, and family-friendly, Prince Edward Island (PEI) should be at the top of your list. This tiny province, known as the "Garden of the Gulf," is a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and cozy adventures. Whether you’re a winter warrior, a summer sun-seeker, or a family looking for unforgettable memories, PEI has something for everyone. Let’s dive into the best attractions in PEI Canada, winter hideouts, family-friendly spots, and even a quick one-day itinerary. Plus, I’ll toss in a PEI attractions map guide to keep you on track!
First things first—let’s talk about the crown jewels of PEI. From lighthouses that stand guard over rugged coastlines to museums that tell tales of the island’s past, here are my top picks for attractions in PEI Canada.
Introduction: No trip to PEI is complete without a pilgrimage to Cavendish Beach. This stretch of red sand, kissed by the warm waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, is a postcard-perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, or strolling hand-in-hand with your loved one. Just a stone’s throw away lies Green Gables Heritage Place, the inspiration for Lucy Maud Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables. Fans of the book will geek out over the farmhouse, gardens, and hiking trails that feel straight out of a storybook.
Address: 8619 Cavendish Rd, Cavendish, PEI
Hours: Daily 9 AM–5 PM (seasonal, check website for updates)
Admission: CAD 10 (adults), CAD 8 (seniors/students), free for kids under 5
Transport: Drive from Charlottetown (45 mins) or join a guided tour
Introduction: A nature lover’s paradise, PEI National Park spans 25 miles of coastline, dunes, and forests. It’s a haven for hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting. Don’t miss the Gulf Shore Parkway, a scenic drive with pull-offs for photo ops.
Address: Multiple entrances along the north shore
Hours: Year-round (facilities closed in winter)
Admission: CAD 8/person/day (or buy a Parks Canada Discovery Pass)
Transport: Car or bike rental recommended
Introduction: For a deeper dive into Anne’s world, head to the Anne of Green Gables Museum in Park Corner. The museum is set in a historic farmhouse filled with artifacts from the book’s era. It’s a quieter, more intimate experience than Green Gables.
Address: 153 Green Gables Rd, Park Corner, PEI
Hours: Mid-May to mid-Oct, 10 AM–5 PM
Admission: CAD 9 (adults), CAD 7 (kids)
Transport: 20-minute drive from Cavendish
Introduction: Spanning 8 miles across the Northumberland Strait, the Confederation Bridge is an engineering marvel. It’s the longest bridge in Canada that crosses ice-covered water! Even if you’re not driving across, the viewpoints near Borden-Carleton offer epic photo ops.
Address: Connects PEI to New Brunswick
Hours: Always open (but tolls apply when leaving PEI)
Admission: Free to view; toll is CAD 50 (round trip for cars)
Transport: Drive or join a bus tour
Introduction: Famous for its "Singing Sands" (squeaky beaches!), Basin Head is a family favorite. The water is shallow and warm, perfect for little ones, and the bridge to White Sands Beach is a must-walk.
Address: Rte 16, Souris, PEI
Hours: 9 AM–9 PM (summer), reduced hours off-season
Admission: Free
Transport: 1-hour drive from Charlottetown
Introduction: Craving a road trip? The North Cape Coastal Drive winds through windswept cliffs, fishing villages, and wind farms. Stop at West Point Lighthouse for a slice of history (and pie!) or the Greenwich Dunes for hiking.
Address: Starts in Tignish, ends in Morell
Hours: Self-guided, all day!
Admission: Free (except for attractions along the way)
Transport: Car rental essential
Introduction: This tiny seaside village is straight out of a fairytale. Stroll the boardwalk, shop for local crafts, or catch a play at the Victoria Playhouse. It’s the perfect spot to slow down and soak up the charm.
Address: Victoria, PEI
Hours: Always open (shops/restaurants have seasonal hours)
Admission: Free
Transport: 30-minute drive from Charlottetown
Introduction: Step into Avonlea Village, a recreated 19th-century village with shops, eateries, and costumed interpreters. It’s a bit touristy, but the vibe is fun, and the fudge is legendary.
Address: 8779 Cavendish Rd, Cavendish, PEI
Hours: 10 AM–6 PM (summer), weekends only off-season
Admission: CAD 15 (adults), CAD 10 (kids)
Transport: 5-minute drive from Green Gables
Winter in PEI might sound like a chilly prospect, but trust me—it’s magical. Think cozy fireplaces, snowy trails, and festive events. Here are my top picks for places to visit in PEI in winter.
Introduction: Summer’s water park transforms into a winter wonderland with ice skating, tubing, and a light display. It’s a hit with families looking to burn off energy.
Address: 8649 Cavendish Rd, Cavendish, PEI
Hours: Weekends in Dec–Feb, 10 AM–8 PM
Admission: CAD 20 (all-day pass)
Transport: 40-minute drive from Charlottetown
Introduction: If you’re visiting in February, don’t miss Winterlope in Summerside. This festival features ice sculptures, live music, and outdoor games. It’s a celebration of all things winter!
Address: Downtown Summerside
Hours: Varies (check website)
Admission: Free (some events have fees)
Transport: 20-minute drive from Charlottetown
Introduction: Cozy up by the fireplace at Trailside Café, a hidden gem in Mount Stewart. They serve hearty meals, live music, and even offer winter lodging.
Address: 12138 PEI-2, Mount Stewart, PEI
Hours: Wed–Sun, 11 AM–9 PM
Admission: Free entry (food/drinks paid à la carte)
Transport: 25-minute drive from Charlottetown
Introduction: For adrenaline junkies, PEI’s 300+ miles of groomed snowmobile trails are a dream. Rent a sled and explore forests, fields, and frozen beaches.
Address: Trails across the island (check PEI Snowmobile Association)
Hours: Daylight hours
Admission: Trail permit required (CAD 50/day)
Transport: Snowmobile rental shops in Charlottetown
Introduction: Held in January, this carnival in Charlottetown features horse races, dog sled demos, and a giant snow slide. It’s a blast for all ages.
Address: Charlottetown Driving Park
Hours: Check schedule (usually a weekend event)
Admission: CAD 10 (adults), CAD 5 (kids)
Transport: Walkable from downtown
PEI is a playground for families, with attractions that cater to kids of all ages. From farms to forts, here are my top PEI attractions for families.
Introduction: Located in Cavendish, Sandspit is a classic amusement park with roller coasters, bumper cars, and mini-golf. It’s a great way to spend a sunny afternoon.
Address: 8484 Cavendish Rd, Cavendish, PEI
Hours: 10 AM–6 PM (summer), weekends only in spring/fall
Admission: CAD 35 (all-day pass)
Transport: 45-minute drive from Charlottetown
Introduction: Kids will love this interactive aquarium, where they can touch sea stars, crabs, and even baby sea turtles. The staff are super friendly and knowledgeable.
Address: 8649 Cavendish Rd, Cavendish, PEI
Hours: 10 AM–5 PM (summer), weekends only off-season
Admission: CAD 12 (adults), CAD 8 (kids)
Transport: Next to Shining Waters Park
Introduction: A year-round market with local produce, baked goods, and crafts. Let the kids pick out snacks or watch artisans at work.
Address: 100 Belvedere Ave, Charlottetown
Hours: Sat 9 AM–2 PM, Wed 9 AM–2 PM (summer)
Admission: Free
Transport: Walkable from downtown
Introduction: This quirky museum in Cavendish is packed with oddities, from shrunken heads to a two-headed calf. It’s a hit with curious kids (and adults!).
Address: 8859 Cavendish Rd, Cavendish, PEI
Hours: 10 AM–6 PM (summer), reduced hours off-season
Admission: CAD 20 (adults), CAD 15 (kids)
Transport: 5-minute drive from Green Gables
Introduction: A must-stop for foodies, this farm in New Glasgow offers free samples of jams, chutneys, and baked goods. The kids will love the "make-your-own" ice cream station.
Address: 2841 New Glasgow Rd, New Glasgow, PEI
Hours: Daily 9 AM–5 PM
Admission: Free (food/drinks paid à la carte)
Transport: 20-minute drive from Charlottetown
Navigating PEI is a breeze, thanks to its compact size. Here’s a quick guide to the PEI attractions map and how to plan your route.
PEI is divided into three counties: Prince, Queens, and Kings. Most attractions cluster around Charlottetown (Queens) and Cavendish (Prince). A loop around the island takes about 3–4 hours by car.
Day 1: Start in Charlottetown (Province House, Beaconsfield), drive to Cavendish (Green Gables, Sandspit), end in Summerside (Credit Union Place).
Day 2: Explore the North Cape Coastal Drive (West Point Lighthouse, Wind Energy Centre), then loop back via Victoria-by-the-Sea.
Short on time? No sweat! Here’s how to cram the best of PEI into a single day.
A: Absolutely! From beachcombing and lighthouse hopping to Anne of Green Gables tours and lobster suppers, PEI is packed with activities. Whether you’re into history, nature, or just kicking back with a book, you’ll never be bored.
A: Three things: the people (they’re the friendliest!), the scenery (red cliffs, green fields, blue sea), and the food (lobster, potatoes, and mussels, oh my!). Plus, it’s affordable and easy to navigate.
A: If you’re visiting on a weekend, check local festivals (like the Charlottetown Farmers’ Market or a live theater show), hit the beach, or rent bikes to explore the Confederation Trail.
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