Holland America's ms Maasdam docked at Charlottetown cruise port

Founders' Hall

Founders Hall is built on the spot where, in 1864, representatives of the North American Biritish colonies arrived on the steamship HMCS Victoria for the historic Charlottetown Conference. The highlight of a visit to the Hall is an enjoyable multi-media presentation that recounts the early history of Canada. You’ll also find the Charlottetown Visitor Information Centre in the building, a useful source of information, brochures and local maps. Founders Hall is next to the cruise ship pier.

Province House

Province House was the venue for the 1864 conference. Delegates from New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia and the Province of Canada spent 9 days discussing the possible confederation of the British colonies north of the 49th parallel. Province House is open daily to visitors throughout summer.

Beaconsfield House

Beaconsfield House was constructed in 1877 for a prosperous Charlottetown shipbuilder. The magnificent Victorian-era house boasts a multitude of original features, and many of the rooms are faithfully decorated in period-style. There’s also a small gift shop on site.

Historic Walk/Harborfront Boardwalk

A great way to see Charlottetown is to follow the Historic Walk trail to Victoria Park, enjoy a stroll around the park, and then follow the Boardwalk back to the cruise port. The Historic walk visits Founders Hall, Province House and Beaconsfield House, and the Boardwalk returns by the Marina, Peake’s Wharf, and Confederation Landing Park.

Green Gables Heritage Place

A favorite shore excursion from Charlottetown is Green Gables Heritage Place. See the house that gave Lucy Maud Montgomery the setting for her wonderful book Anne of Green Gables. You can explore the original house, 19th century gardens, farmyard and walking paths, including Lovers Lane and the Haunted Wood. Green Gables is 25 miles north west of Charlottetown, an hour’s ride by bus.