Charlottetown Essentials

OVERVIEW

Gain an overall understanding of Charlottetown through three vastly different landmarks, each one historical in its own way. The largest of the city’s greenspaces, Victoria Park has provided a serene waterfront setting since 1873. While strolling the shaded paths that wind through the colorful gardens, you may come across some of the original survey stones. At Province House – a National Historic Site that overlooks Queen Square – you will discover how Canada was formed as the result of a watershed conference held in the building in 1864. That event led to Canada becoming a federation, the reason Charlottetown became known as the Birthplace of Canada. St. Dunstan’s Basilica earned its National Historic Site designation for being the most elaborate church in the Maritime provinces and a fine example of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture. Pope Pius XI granted St. Dustan’s the title of basilica in 1929 for its historical significance.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit two National Historic Sites that lend great insight into Charlottetown’s past.
• Stroll through Victoria Park, the city’s largest urban oasis.
• Pause at the site of the 1864 conference that led to the formation of Canada.
• See one of only 20 churches in Canada that the pope has designated as a basilica.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.