This friendly bayside city features a lively harbour, charming historic downtown district, curious museums and fascinating art galleries.
Experience Prince Edward Island at the city of Summerside. Immerse yourself in the island’s culture in galleries and museums. The bustling port offers varied activities for family-friendly fun. Bike and hike along miles of accessible trails.
Summerside HarbourOpens in a new window, a working port and commercial and entertainment center, is the heart of the city’s tourist activities. Browse handicraft stores, dine on freshly caught seafood and watch street performers at Spinnakers Landing. Explore the waterfront boardwalk by foot or guided Segway tour. Rent a kayak and paddle along the city’s seashore.
In the Eptek Art and Culture CentreOpens in a new window, admire works by local artists and view demonstrations of artisan trades. Watch a musical performance or concert by Canadian musicians at the Harbourfront Theatre. Shop for handmade pottery and locally grown produce at the Summerside Farmers Market.
Stroll around the historic downtown, where tree-lined streets are framed by colorful clapboard houses. Wyatt Historic House Museum features displays of antiques and furniture that belonged to an affluent city family. Peek inside artist studios at Lefurgey Cultural Centre. Learn about the island’s fame as the world’s headquarters for fox ranching in the 1900s at the International Fox Museum and Hall of FameOpens in a new window.
Walk or bike on the Confederation Trail. This 270-mile-long (435-kilometer) pathway cuts through the city center and follows the course of the island’s former railway. View rolling green hills and scenic coastlines as you travel between towns. Pick up a trail guide at the Summerside Visitor Information Centre in the Harbourfront Theatre.
Summer is a time for celebration, when festivals liven up the city streets and harbor. Attend July’s Summerside Lobster Festival, which honors lobster-fishing traditions with events including concerts, cooking demonstrations and lobster suppers.
Summerside is Prince Edward Island’s second-largest city, located 37 miles (60 kilometers) west of Charlottetown. Reach Summerside by flying to Charlottetown Airport and renting a car. The downtown and harbor are near each other, making the city a great destination to explore on foot.
