When visiting for a day from a cruise ship, how is our short time there best spent?

Hi Ellen,

Thank you for contacting Ask An Islander.

Here are suggestions for experiences to do in Charlottetown when you only have one day:

Founders' Food Hall & Market: The best blend of urban and rural, bringing together PEI’s most savoury flavours all under one roof. This building combines artisan shops with local cuisine and farmer's market style shops. It's truly a great experience for all who visit.

The Historic Great George Walking Tours: Explore one of Canada’s most historic streets and learn about Prince Edward Island’s role in shaping history. From the Island’s first inhabitants to Confederation and beyond, this tour is a wonderful entry point into Canadian history. Tours happen daily at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM until November 1st.

Ghost Tours: Led by a mysterious gravedigger, this spooky stroll is full of tales about Charlottetown’s historic downtown and its dark, mysterious, sometimes haunted past. Tours happen daily at 10:30 AM, 6:30 PM, 7:00 PM, and 7:30 PM until November 1st.

Inside Island History: Soak in the fascinating stories of Prince Edward Island’s past at this engaging cabaret-style presentation. An expert in Island history will guide you through engrossing tales, rare images, and little-known facts. Whether you’re a history buff, a curious visitor, or a proud Islander, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for the people, events, and forces that shaped this remarkable place. This experience runs until October 30th.

Confederation Centre Art Gallery: One of the country’s two national art galleries, this striking exhibition space presents Canadian artists in contemporary and historic exhibits and public talks and programs that inspire dialogue and appreciation of our diverse cultural heritage. Exhibitions rotate regularly.

Harbour Hopper Tours: Charlottetown’s only land-and-sea adventure is the perfect blend of history, stunning architecture, and waterfront charm. This 55-minute guided tour is an unforgettable way to experience the heart and soul of Charlottetown—on land and sea!

Also, I would suggest sampling some of our exquisite local cuisine at the following establishments:

Lobster on The Wharf and MacKinnon's Lobster Pound: "Charlottetown's premier seafood restaurant", Lobster on the Wharf has earned this honorable title since its opening in 1986. Enjoy the freshest of Island seafood as you watch the boats come and go from their wharf decks or enjoy the indoor air-conditioned comfort. Be sure to stop by their lobster pound on the way out to stock up for later or order seafood for the trip home.

Water Prince Corner Shop: Fresh seafood, carefully prepared, and generous portions. Nothin’ fancy, just plain, “good food”. Join them for lunch or supper or pickup seafood to prepare yourself or even arrange to take some for travel to enjoy with those who couldn't make this trip. Specializing in seafood since 1991.

Enjoy your time on PEI!

Have a great day,

Jonah