Things To Do
in Summerside

Summerside is a charming city located on Prince Edward Island, Canada, known for its rich maritime heritage and vibrant arts scene. It boasts beautiful waterfront views and stunning beaches, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking relaxation and adventure. Visitors can explore historical sites, enjoy local festivals, and experience the warm hospitality of the locals.

With its picturesque landscapes and cultural offerings, Summerside is a perfect blend of nature and community.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Summerside
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Harbourfront Theatre, where you can appreciate local art and performances. After that, take a stroll along the boardwalk to enjoy the picturesque views of the harbor.

afternoon
:

Visit the Canadian Potato Museum to learn about the island's agricultural history, and then take a leisurely bike ride along the Confederation Trail.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant and enjoy a fresh seafood meal, followed by a walk along the beach to watch the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a cozy café, then head to the nearby Cousins Shore Provincial Park for a morning hike.

afternoon
:

Visit the Eptek Art & Culture Centre to explore local art exhibits, and then enjoy lunch at a local food market.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip by experiencing the local nightlife at a pub featuring live music and local craft beers.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$20-30
Coffee$3-5
🛒Groceries (Weekly)$70-100
🏨Hotel Night$100-150
🚍Public Transport Ticket$2-3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural landscapes and beaches
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals
  • Variety of outdoor activities and festivals
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Public transportation may be infrequent
  • Weather can be unpredictable

Places to Visit in Summerside

Visit one of these nice places.

Harbourfront

The scenic waterfront area is perfect for capturing stunning sunset shots over the water and the marina.

Confederation Trail

This trail offers beautiful landscapes and opportunities for nature shots, with vibrant foliage in the fall.

Cousins Shore Provincial Park

A great spot for coastal photography, featuring sandy beaches and rugged shorelines.

Culinary Guide

Food in Summerside

Summerside offers a delightful culinary scene that highlights the flavors of Prince Edward Island, particularly its seafood.

Summerside Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Lobster Roll

A fresh lobster roll filled with tender lobster meat, served in a buttery roll, is a must-try delicacy.

Must-Try!

PEI Mussels

These succulent mussels are often steamed with garlic and herbs, showcasing the island's fresh seafood.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Summerside Farmers' Market

This vibrant market features local produce, baked goods, and artisanal products, providing a taste of the community's culinary offerings.

Climate Guide

Weather

Summerside experiences a humid continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures average around 20-25°C (68-77°F), while winters can drop to -10°C (14°F) or lower. Spring and fall are transitional seasons, offering mild temperatures with beautiful scenery. Rain is common throughout the year, so it's advisable to pack an umbrella.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Canadians value politeness; saying 'please' and 'thank you' is appreciated.

Personal Space

Respecting personal space is important; maintain an appropriate distance during conversations.

Queuing

Forming a queue and waiting your turn is customary in public places.

Safety Guide

Safety

Summerside is generally a safe destination for travelers. It's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services are easily accessible, and the community is known for its friendly nature, often offering help to visitors.

Tipping in Summerside

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It's customary to tip around 15-20% in restaurants and bars, depending on the service quality.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; however, it's good to carry some cash for small vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Summer is warm and bustling with tourists, perfect for beach activities and local events.

Fall

Fall showcases stunning foliage, making it a great time for photography and hiking.

Winter

Winter can be cold and snowy, ideal for winter sports enthusiasts and enjoying cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Summerside at Night

Summerside's nightlife is vibrant but laid-back, featuring several pubs and bars that offer live music, especially during the summer months. Local breweries showcase craft beers, and many venues host events and performances. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it a great place to socialize with locals and fellow travelers.

Hiking in Summerside

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bedeque Bay Trail

A scenic trail that runs along Bedeque Bay, offering beautiful views and opportunities for birdwatching.

Linkletter Provincial Park Trail

This trail provides access to scenic coastal views and picnic areas, perfect for a family day out.

Airports

How to reach Summerside by plane.

Charlottetown Airport (YYG)

Approximately 40 minutes from Summerside, this airport offers domestic flights and some international connections, making it the main gateway to Prince Edward Island.

Getting Around

Walkability

Summerside is highly walkable, with many attractions, shops, and dining options within proximity. The downtown area is pedestrian-friendly, encouraging visitors to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and the community promotes a safe walking environment.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Acadian Community

Summerside has a significant Acadian population, contributing to the region's cultural diversity and heritage.

Tourists

The city attracts a large number of tourists, especially during the summer, increasing the multicultural atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Hockey

Ice hockey is a popular sport in Summerside, with local teams and leagues actively engaging the community during the winter months.

Golf

The region boasts several golf courses that attract enthusiasts, particularly during the summer season.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Summerside is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation is available but may have limited schedules, emphasizing the importance of planning ahead. Most attractions are within walking distance, reducing the need for extensive travel.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Summerside.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check with staff about any specific dietary needs.

Gluten-Free Choices

Some eateries provide gluten-free options; however, it's best to inquire ahead of time.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Summerside is accessible, with a local hospital and several clinics providing medical services. Emergency services are reliable, and residents have access to family doctors. Visitors should have travel insurance to cover any medical expenses.

Discover Canada

Read more in our Canada 2025 Travel Guide.

Canada Travel Guide