Summerside
· CA

Summerside

Summerside, Prince Edward Island, Canada

Welcome to Summerside, a charming coastal town located on the beautiful Prince Edward Island in Canada. Summerside is a delightful destination for both locals and tourists alike, offering a perfect blend of history, cult…

#Summerside#Prince Edward Island#Canada#coastal town#Maritime province
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Summerside.

Top Hotels in Summerside

Top Flights to Summerside

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Summerside.

Tours

Explore the Historic Downtown

Join us for a journey through Summerside's historic downtown, where you'll explore charming streets filled with heritage buildings, local shops, and vibrant cultural attractions.

Visit the Harbourfront Theatre

Catch a live show at the Harbourfront Theatre, featuring performances ranging from plays to music concerts.

Scenic Drive to Summerside's Lighthouses

Enjoy a scenic drive with stops at Summerside's captivating lighthouses offering panoramic ocean views.

Shopping

Craft Shopping at Spinnakers' Landing

A waterfront marketplace offering a variety of crafts, souvenirs, and local art, providing a unique shopping experience.

Art and Antique Shopping in Downtown Summerside

Discover unique arts and antiques in the charming shops located downtown, a haven for collectors and art enthusiasts.

Outdoor

Nature Walks at the Confederation Trail

Embark on a serene walk along the Confederation Trail, with lush scenery and tranquil environments perfect for nature lovers.

Beach Day at Linkletter Provincial Park

Enjoy a relaxing day on the sandy beaches of Linkletter Provincial Park, a perfect spot for swimming and picnicking.

Kayaking Adventure on Bedeque Bay

Explore Bedeque Bay by kayak, an adventure activity offering scenic views and the chance to observe local wildlife.

Cycling Tour of the Waterfront Boardwalk

Experience Summerside's beautiful waterfront by bike, perfect for seeing the sights and enjoying the fresh air.

Fishing Experience on the Summerside Wharf

Try fishing from the wharf, an experience suited for anglers of all skill levels.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Summerside.

Currency
$ | CAD | Canadian Dollar
Population
16,000
Languages
English, French
Average weather
Summerside
Jan
snow
-3°-11°
Feb
snow
-2°-10°
Mar
cold
2°-6°
Apr
cloud
8°0°
May
rain
15°5°
Jun
sun
21°11°
Jul
sun
25°15°
Aug
sun
24°14°
Sep
cloud
19°10°
Oct
rain
13°5°
Nov
cloud
6°0°
Dec
snow
0°-7°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Summerside.

What people love

Summerside, located on Prince Edward Island, Canada, offers several pros for travelers:

  1. Scenic Beauty: Summerside is known for its picturesque landscapes, including sandy beaches, red cliffs, and rolling countryside. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and explore the pristine natural surroundings.

  2. Outdoor Activities: Summerside is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and golfing. The city is also close to several national parks and nature reserves, providing ample opportunities for outdoor adventures.

  3. Rich History and Culture: Visitors to Summerside can immerse themselves in the region's rich history and vibrant culture. The city is home to historic sites, museums, art galleries, and cultural events that showcase the island's heritage and traditions.

  4. Culinary Delights: Summerside boasts a thriving culinary scene, with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and food markets offering fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional island dishes. Visitors can savor delicious meals made with ingredients sourced from the region.

  5. Friendly Locals: Travelers to Summerside will be welcomed by the warm hospitality of the locals, who are known for their friendliness and helpfulness. Visitors can interact with residents and learn more about the island's unique way of life.

Overall, Summerside offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and culinary delights, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a relaxing and enriching vacation.

What to know

Summerside, located in Prince Edward Island, Canada, is a beautiful destination with many attractions and activities to offer. However, there are a few potential cons to consider when traveling to Summerside:

  1. Limited public transportation: Summerside is a smaller city, and public transportation options may be limited compared to larger cities. This could make it more challenging to get around the area without a personal vehicle.

  2. Seasonal weather: Prince Edward Island experiences seasonal weather extremes, with cold winters and warm summers. Travelers should be prepared for varying weather conditions depending on the time of year they visit, which could impact outdoor activities and sightseeing.

  3. Limited nightlife: Summerside is known for its quaint charm and family-friendly atmosphere, but it may not offer a vibrant nightlife scene compared to larger cities. Travelers seeking a bustling nightlife with clubs and late-night entertainment may find Summerside lacking in this aspect.

  4. Limited shopping and dining options: While there are some shops and restaurants in Summerside, the selection may be more limited compared to larger urban centers. Travelers looking for a wide variety of shopping and dining options may find themselves wanting more choices in Summerside.

  5. Remote location: Summerside is located on Prince Edward Island, which is an island province on the east coast of Canada. Travelers should be aware that reaching Summerside may require additional travel arrangements, such as taking a ferry or flying in, which could add to the overall travel time and expenses.

Overall, Summerside offers a peaceful and picturesque setting for travelers looking to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Prince Edward Island. However, these potential cons should be considered when planning a trip to this destination.

Summerside, located on Prince Edward Island, Canada, is the second-largest city on the island and has a rich history that reflects its development over the years.

Early History

Summerside's history dates back to the early 19th century. The area was initially settled by Europeans in the late 1700s and early 1800s. The town was named after an inn called Summerside House, which was operated by Joseph Green, one of the early settlers.

Development and Growth

  • 1840s-1850s: Summerside began to develop as a community in the mid-19th century. It became a significant shipbuilding and trading hub due to its strategic location on the island's western shore along Bedeque Bay.
  • 1877: Summerside was officially incorporated as a town. The shipbuilding industry, along with agriculture, particularly the production of potatoes and dairy, drove the local economy.

Significant Events

  • Railway Arrival: The arrival of the Prince Edward Island Railway in the late 19th century connected Summerside to the rest of the island and contributed to its growth as a commercial center.
  • World War II: During World War II, Summerside was home to a Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) training base. The base trained pilots under the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan, a significant contribution to the war effort.

Historical Figures

  • George D. Pope: A prominent businessman in the 19th century who contributed to the economic development of Summerside, particularly in the shipbuilding industry.
  • J. Watson MacNaught: A political figure from Summerside who served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) and was influential in local politics.

Important Landmarks

  • Summerside Armoury: Built in 1911, this historic building served military purposes and is a notable landmark.
  • St. Mary's Anglican Church: Constructed in 1900, it is one of the oldest churches in Summerside and reflects the community's early religious heritage.
  • Wyatt Historic House Museum: This museum offers a glimpse into the life of a prominent Summerside family, showcasing artifacts and stories from the town's past.
  • Harbourfront Theatre: An important cultural venue that hosts various performances and events, reflecting the vibrant arts scene in Summerside.

Modern Day

Today, Summerside is known for its beautiful waterfront, cultural festivals, and as a tourist destination. The city continues to celebrate its heritage while embracing modern development, making it an essential part of Prince Edward Island's cultural and economic landscape.

Summerside remains a charming city with a blend of historical significance and contemporary appeal, offering residents and visitors a unique glimpse into both the past and present of Prince Edward Island.