Summerside

PEI's second-largest city with a charming waterfront and bustling cultural scene, home to the International Shellfish Festival. The downtown features restored heritage buildings and excellent restaurants celebrating local seafood.

Things to do

• Summerside Waterfront Boardwalk — Stroll the scenic harborfront promenade lined with public art, benches, and views of Bedeque Bay, ideal for sunset walks and spotting local wildlife.
• International Shellfish Festival — Visit during late summer (typically August) to experience PEI's premier culinary event featuring oysters, mussels, scallops, and live music.
• Eptek Arts & Culture Centre — Explore visual arts exhibitions, performances, and cultural programs in this renovated heritage building showcasing regional and national artists.
• Downtown Heritage District — Walk through beautifully restored Victorian and Edwardian architecture housing boutiques, galleries, and local eateries along Water Street and adjacent blocks.
• Spinnakers Landing — Discover artisan shops, craft studios, and waterfront dining at this redeveloped historic village featuring local makers and craftspeople.
• College of Piping — Experience Scottish bagpipe and Highland dancing performances or lessons at this unique cultural institution celebrating PEI's Celtic heritage.
• Summerside Harbourfront Theatre — Catch live theatre productions, concerts, and cultural performances in an intimate venue overlooking the harbor.

Food to try

• PEI Oysters — Fresh-shucked oysters from local waters served raw on the half-shell, a signature delicacy at waterfront restaurants and the Shellfish Festival.
• Mussels Steamed in White Wine — Sweet Prince Edward Island mussels cooked in a traditional garlic and white wine broth, served with crusty bread for soaking up the sauce.
• Lobster Roll — Succulent local lobster meat tossed with light mayo and served on a toasted bun, a classic Maritime preparation found throughout Summerside's dining scene.
• Pan-Seared Scallops — Plump local scallops quickly seared and often served with local vegetables or a delicate butter sauce at fine dining establishments.
• PEI Potato Bread — Traditional soft bread made with local potatoes, a regional staple served warm with meals at heritage restaurants and bakeries.

Local customs & good to know

• Timing for Shellfish Festival — Plan your visit for late August when Summerside hosts its celebrated International Shellfish Festival, the busiest and most vibrant time of year.
• Walk-Friendly Downtown — Summerside's compact heritage downtown is best explored on foot, with parking available and most attractions within easy walking distance of each other.
• Maritime Sunset Tradition — Join locals in watching the sunset from the waterfront boardwalk, a cherished evening ritual that showcases the natural beauty of Bedeque Bay.