We're planning to visit Charlottetown in October. Do you have any cool spots where we can see the beauty of fall season as the trees around us as they are turning to orange/red?

Hi Sam,

Greetings from PEI!

It was our beloved Lucy Maud Montgomery who said, “I'm so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.”

Truly, fall is one of the loveliest times of the year to visit the Island. The foliage colours will be vibrant, and the weather should still be pleasant. 

One of the best ways to experience the fall colours is by following one of our three coastal drives. The routes mostly follow the spectacular coastlines of western, central and eastern PEI, and take you inland as well, through some of the Island’s most charming rural communities, villages and towns. While it is technically possible to do all three scenic drives in three days, I don’t recommend it, as you’ll spend all of your time in your car. Pick one scenic drive and do it really well, or pick sections of each drive and do those smaller sections really well. While doing these tours, if you’re feeling adventurous, turn onto one of the Island’s many red dirt roads you’ll come across along the way… they bring scenic to a whole new level.

Another way to soak in all the rich beauty of the season is to explore a stretch of the Island Walk PEI.

The PEI Preserve Company in New Glasgow is a wonderful place to eat, and the scenery is outstanding.  If you go, give yourself an extra hour or so to explore the Gardens of Hope (note that the restaurant is open until 4:00 p.m. until October 8; reservations are strongly recommended).

You should definitely plan to visit the Charlottetown Farmers’ Market on Saturday (9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.). It’s a hub of activity, and the bounty of the harvest will be at its peak in October. Bring your appetite, as the food is amazing!

I suggest you check out the PEI Fall Flavours Festival, which runs from October 1-15. PEI is known as Canada’s Food Island, and this festival celebrates locally-farmed/fished/produced food, as well as our music and culture.

If you’re lucky enough to be here on October 1, definitely plan to take in Farm Day in the City in downtown Charlottetown. This is the day that the farm comes to town, and it’s one of the biggest and best days of the year in the city. In addition to farmers and food producers, there’ll be artisans and entertainers, and the most amazing food stalls… it’s not to be missed!

For more information about festivals and events taking place in Charlottetown in October, visit Discover Charlottetown.

I hope this information is helpful. If you have additional questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Nicole