Horse Drawn Historical Guided Tour

Discover Charlottetown with a Horse-Drawn Historic Tour

Thinking about exploring Charlottetown’s history without the fuss of walking or the expense of a large bus? The Horse Drawn Historical Guided Tour offers a charming, leisurely way to see the city’s most iconic sights. Whether you’re a history buff, a romantic couple, or traveling with family, this 40-minute ride promises an authentic glimpse into the past, all wrapped up in the timeless appeal of a horse-drawn carriage.

Our review highlights three favorite aspects of this experience: the knowledgeable guides who bring stories to life, the beautiful scenery and historic landmarks along the route, and the sense of stepping back in time that this tour imparts. That said, it’s worth noting that some travelers felt the ride was shorter than expected, so keeping that in mind will help set your expectations. This tour suits those who appreciate history, charming settings, and a relaxed atmosphere—perfect for a quick, scenic overview of Charlottetown.

Good To Know

• Authentic Experience: A delightful way to see the city from a perspective that feels authentic and nostalgic.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides are friendly, well-informed, and passionate about local history.
• Iconic Landmarks: See key sites like Confederation Centre, Province House, and St. Dunstan’s Basilica.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for all ages and easy to access from cruise ports or downtown.
• Value for Money: At approximately $37 per person, it offers a memorable, scenic snapshot of Charlottetown.
• Limited Duration: The 40-minute ride is perfect for fitting into a busy sightseeing schedule, though some find it a little quick.

A Closer Look at the Horse Drawn Historical Guided Tour

An Introduction to the Tour Experience

Starting at 6 Prince Street, the tour is a cozy, intimate experience with a maximum of 20 travelers—ideal for those who prefer a smaller, more personal group. The mobile ticket system makes booking straightforward, and the tour is designed to be accessible and easy to fit into a day of sightseeing. The experience is generally suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals, and is conveniently located near public transportation.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the combination of the slow, scenic ride and the storytelling that accompanies it. The guides, described as “very entertaining and welcoming” by reviewers, are often locals with a deep knowledge of Charlottetown’s past. In fact, one reviewer mentioned the guides as “lovely couple” who made the experience fun, informative, and personable.

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour hits several essential stops that are central to Charlottetown’s history and charm. Here’s what you can anticipate from each:

Confederation Centre of the Arts:
This is where the journey begins, underlining Charlottetown’s role in the creation of Canada. The centre is a hub for arts and culture, and while the tour doesn’t delve deeply into its exhibits, it offers a visual connection to the city’s national significance. Reviewers appreciated the informative commentary about the site, with one mentioning how the ride “was very informative about the city.”

Province House:
A highlight of the tour, Province House is the birthplace of Canadian Confederation, hosting the historic debates of 1864. Sitting in the carriage, you’ll get a sense of the gravity of these historic moments, which are often explained with enthusiasm by guides. Guests have noted how the guide’s stories made the building’s importance come alive.

Beaconsfield Historic House:
This Victorian mansion is a stunning example of 19th-century architecture, and the tour provides a chance to view it from the outside, capturing its charm. Travelers enjoy learning about the lives of the merchant families who once called it home, with one reviewer mentioning the “beautifully preserved” mansion as a highlight.

St. Dunstan’s Basilica:
The Gothic Revival architecture of this Catholic cathedral is visually striking. The tour offers a quick glimpse at its impressive façade, and guides often share stories about its role in community life. Reviewers have remarked on the “impressive architecture” and the guide’s storytelling.

What to Expect During the Ride

The 40-minute journey is relaxed and scenic, providing a pleasant overview rather than an exhaustive tour. The carriage is pulled by two majestic horses, and the rides are generally described as comfortable, with good visibility of the surroundings. The slow pace allows ample opportunity for photos and listening to stories, which are delivered in a friendly, informal style.

While most reviews are positive, some mention the ride being “a bit slow,” or shorter than expected—so if you’re hoping for an in-depth history lesson, this might be more of a highlight reel. However, the intimacy and personal nature of the ride compensate for this, especially given the engaging commentary.

The Practicalities

The tour costs around $37.12 per person, offering good value considering the personalized experience and local insights. It’s a short, 40-minute activity, making it ideal for travelers who want a quick, relaxing sightseeing option without the fatigue of walking or crowded buses. The meeting point at Prince Street is centrally located, and the activity ends back at the start, which makes planning subsequent activities or meals straightforward.

The tour operates in good weather; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Since the tour can host up to 20 travelers, it maintains an intimate ambiance, and booking in advance is recommended—especially since it’s booked over 10 times last week alone.

Why We Think This Tour Is Worth It

This horse-drawn carriage ride is a wonderful way to get a feel for Charlottetown’s character without rushing or feeling overwhelmed. The experience combines scenic views with engaging storytelling, giving you a sense of the city’s past and present in just a short amount of time. The guides’ enthusiasm and local knowledge shine through, making every story memorable.

It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate a slower pace, want to learn about key landmarks in a relaxed setting, or are traveling with family or loved ones. The affordability makes it a smart choice for travelers wanting to maximize their cultural exposure without breaking the bank.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

Those interested in history and culture will find this tour particularly enriching, especially as it offers context to some of Charlottetown’s most significant sites. Families will love the friendly, informal atmosphere, and couples might enjoy the romantic, nostalgic feel of a horse-drawn carriage. It’s also perfect for cruise travelers or those with limited time, thanks to its short duration and central meeting point.

Final Thoughts

The Horse Drawn Historical Guided Tour provides a charming, accessible, and informative way to explore Charlottetown’s core. While it might not be the longest or most in-depth experience, it captures the essence of the city’s heritage and scenic beauty in a cozy, traditional setting. The combination of friendly guides, iconic landmarks, and scenic views makes it an experience worth considering, especially if you’re after a memorable, authentic taste of PEI’s capital.

For travelers seeking a relaxed, storytelling-rich introduction to Charlottetown, this tour hits the mark. It’s an affordable, family-friendly activity with high marks for authenticity and local flavor—perfect for a short but sweet cultural escape.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 40 minutes, making it a quick but memorable way to see the city.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at 6 Prince Street in Charlottetown.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly and accessible for most travelers, including children.

Can I book this tour online?
Yes, booking is done via a mobile ticket, and it’s recommended to reserve in advance due to its popularity.

What sites will we see during the tour?
You’ll visit Confederation Centre of the Arts, Province House, Beaconsfield Historic House, and St. Dunstan’s Basilica.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Reviewers describe them as very entertaining, welcoming, and well-informed about Charlottetown’s history.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people can join the tour?
A maximum of 20 travelers ensures an intimate experience.

Is it wheelchair accessible?
This specific detail isn’t provided, but the tour is generally considered accessible and easy to join.

How much does it cost?
The price is around $37.12 per person, which is reasonable considering the personalized experience.

This horse-drawn carriage tour offers a thoughtful peek into Charlottetown’s history, wrapped in a charming, nostalgic package. Whether you’re new to the city or a repeat visitor, it’s a delightful way to spend part of your day exploring PEI’s capital.