(about Charlottetown, PE Canada, last edited on Oct 02, 2007)
Named after Queen Charlotte, Charlottetown is famous for hosting the 1864 conference and it is the province's political and cultural capital home to some 40,000 people.
It is a town that ranks among the most atmospheric and attractive places to stay in the entire Atlantic Canada. It succeeds in making itself feel as an undiscovered treasure.
Located on a point of land between two rivers and within a large protected harbor, the small settlement was considered ideal, a lovely setting for the early settlers and is still ideal for the locals who love their quiet town.
It still keeps the feel and look of on old town and being compact makes it quite easy to explore visiting the whole city taking only a day. The town being centrally located is also perfect as a base for exploring other sites if you plan on staying more than one day. There is the Brudenell Provincial Park, Green Gables in the nearby area.
Once you arrive in town you will quickly find your way and your first stop should be at the Visitor Information Centre where you can park your car and get all the information you need, maps and free walking tour brochures and then plan your tour of the city that should include parks, residential areas, downtown, Great George Street and the waterfront.
A good tip is to start your visit with the waterfront home to the popular Peake's Wharf, an attractive touristy place where people gather in summer to check out its many boutiques and restaurants but aiming especially at tourists the place has little to do with local feel. Kent Street is a better choice for those who want to accompany them in their walk. You can also see the town from another perspective, from the water. This can easily be arranged if you sign up with a tour.
Still on the waterfront if you follows the edge of the harbor you will get to Victoria Park another place that offers fine water views including Northumberland Strait. You can sit down for a picnic and enjoy the beautiful view. There are other more modern parks like Confederation Landing Park which offers relaxation and views just as beautiful plus a marina where you can see the boats come and go.
Still near the water this time near the Hillsborough Rive is the Charlottetown Driving Park known for the harness racing that take place during summer afternoons.
With a mix of business, modern and Victorian commercial buildings, culture, and government, downtown is the city's core. Elegant homes dating from various eras are its highlights and many of them can be found on Great George Street lined with beautiful trees.
Among the famous buildings is the Confederation Centre of the Arts, Province House and the 1834 Government House home to the lieutenant governor. The Confederation Centre of the Arts is a home to numerous shows and musicals favored by those who fancy high culture.
Among the venues mostly checked for evening entertainment are the City Cinema, the restaurants and pubs on Richmond Street favored by the young crowd. You can listen to some music while having a bite at Olde Dublin Pub. There is also a wide range of restaurants want everyone to walk away happy, and full making each experience different.
Charlottetown offers 90% charm and relaxation without being too touristy and keeping its particular appeal. Its neighbourly atmosphere and beautiful scenery create a warm community full of opportunity for all those who visit or live here.
