Great George St.

Nestled along the picturesque waterfront, the enchanting Great George Street weaves its way for six blocks, showcasing an exquisite array of architectural styles that have evolved over time. Delight in the impeccable preservation of Georgian Architecture on one side of the street, while on the other side, Gothic Revival reigns supreme. The harmonious blend of these styles makes for a truly stunning spectacle that will leave you spellbound.

The crown jewel of Great George Street is none other than the majestic St. Dunstan's Basilica Cathedral. Revered for its iconic silhouette that has come to define the charming city of Charlottetown, this landmark stands tall as a testament to the nation's birth and its rich architectural heritage dating back to the Confederation era. It's no wonder that this captivating street was granted national historic site status in 1990, cementing its place as a must-visit destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike.

What to Know

Great George Street in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, is a beautiful and historic street that perfectly encapsulates the city's rich heritage. From its 18th-century origins to its subsequent development as one of the city's primary streets, Great George Street remains a focal point for visitors and locals alike. The street's iconic endpoint, Province House, serves as the historic seat of Island government and the birthplace of Confederation, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Canadian history. As you stroll down the street, you'll be greeted by a stunning array of homes and public buildings, many of which have been lovingly preserved to retain their original charm.

At its core, Great George Street is a living, breathing testament to the evolution of Canadian architecture. From the earliest buildings influenced by British classicism to the newer structures designed in a variety of styles, the street's graceful architectural evolution has allowed for an incredible array of buildings to seamlessly blend together. The result is a harmonious streetscape that reflects the cultural and historical richness of the city. Whether you're admiring soaring stone church towers or simple wooden and brick buildings, Great George Street is a must-visit destination that will leave you with a clear sense of its place in our national history.

How to Get There

Great George Street in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, can be accessed via various modes of transportation, including car, bike, or public transport. However, the best way to reach this charming colonial street is by booking a Charlottetown Tour. By opting for a tour, you will not only have a hassle-free journey, but you'll also get to explore other hotspots of PEI, such as Victoria Row, and Province House, making it a great value for money.

Best Time to Visit

While Great George Street in Prince Edward Island is open to visitors year-round, the ideal time to experience the full glory of this charming colonial street is between June and September. During these summer months, the island comes alive with a plethora of festivals, events, and activities that showcase the best of its culture, history, and cuisine. The warm and pleasant weather also provides the perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll down this stunning street, lined with beautifully preserved Georgian and Gothic Revival architecture. From the majestic St. Dunstan's Basilica Cathedral to the historic Province House, Great George Street Historic District is a visual feast that will leave you mesmerized. So pack your bags, and head to Prince Edward Island to explore this captivating destination during the best time of the year.

Features

Great George Street Historic District is a stunning six-block-long street located in the heart of Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, that starts at the waterfront and extends north to include Province House National Historic Site of Canada. The street features a beautiful collection of buildings of various domestic architectural styles and functions, all arranged in a harmonious and coherent viewscape due to their similar scale and setback. The official recognition of the Great George Street Historic District National Historic Site of Canada spans from Richmond Street to Province House and the waterfront, making it an essential destination to visit for those interested in Canadian history and architectural evolution.

History

Great George Street, a charming stretch of colonial architecture in Charlottetown, was designated a national historic site of Canada in 1990 for its deep ties to the birth of the nation and its abundance of well-preserved domestic architecture dating back to the Confederation era. This enchanting street has remained true to its original colonial plan and maintains a close association with the water, providing a glimpse into the past that the Fathers of Confederation would have experienced as they made their way to the Charlottetown Conference in 1864.

At the heart of Great George Street lies Province House, the historic seat of Island government, where the Fathers of Confederation met to discuss the formation of the Dominion of Canada. This iconic landmark, along with the stunning St. Dunstan's Basilica Cathedral, stands as a testament to the nation's birth and the rich architectural heritage that has evolved over time. From British classical to Neoclassical, Italianate, Queen Anne Revival, and Gothic Revival, the variety of architectural styles on display is remarkable yet harmonious, providing the street with an overall coherence that is a delight to behold.

As you stroll down Great George Street, you will be transported back in time, where you can witness the evolution of the streetscape over time, from the Confederation era to the post-Confederation era. The richness of domestic architecture on display speaks to facets of economic, political, and social life experienced by many Canadians as the young country matured. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking to soak up the charm of this enchanting street, Great George Street is a must-visit destination that will leave you spellbound.