Charlottetown
Charlottetown is the capital city of Prince Edward Island (PEI) and is widely known as the "Birthplace of Confederation." This small yet vibrant city on the island's southern shore combines historic charm with cultural richness.
Quick Facts
- Province: Prince Edward Island
- Population: Around 40,000 (metro area)
- Official Language: English
- Time Zone: Atlantic Time Zone (AT)
- Demonym: Charlottetonian
History
Charlottetown was established as a town in 1764 and named after Queen Charlotte, wife of King George III. It rose to historical prominence in 1864 when it hosted the Charlottetown Conference — the first formal meeting that led to the creation of Canada in 1867.
The city was incorporated in 1855 and became the provincial capital when PEI joined Confederation in 1873.
Economy
Charlottetown’s economy is built around:
- Government and public administration
- Healthcare and education
- Agriculture and food processing
- Tourism and hospitality
- Technology and small business
Major Attractions
- Province House – site of the 1864 Charlottetown Conference
- Confederation Centre of the Arts
- Victoria Row – historic pedestrian street with shops and cafes
- Beaconsfield Historic House
- Charlottetown waterfront boardwalk and Peake’s Wharf
- Victoria Park
Education
Charlottetown is home to two of PEI’s main institutions:
- University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI)
- Holland College
Culture and Events
Charlottetown is known for its arts scene and summer festivals:
- Charlottetown Festival – home to the musical Anne of Green Gables
- PEI Jazz and Blues Festival
- Art in the Open
- Victorian Christmas Weekend
Neighborhoods
- Downtown Charlottetown
- Brighton
- East Royalty
- Sherwood
- West Royalty
Transportation
Charlottetown has a regional airport (YYG) and public transit operated by T3 Transit. The city is connected to the mainland via the Confederation Bridge and also receives seasonal ferry service.
Did You Know?
- Though Confederation was born in Charlottetown, PEI didn’t join Canada until 1873 — six years after the original Confederation.
- Province House is Canada’s second-oldest legislature building still in use.
- Charlottetown is walkable and compact, making it one of Canada’s most pedestrian-friendly cities.