With a new conference facility expected in 2013, P.E.I.’s coastal capital offers groups the perfect blend of culture, charm and hospitality, delivered with urban flair. written by Don Douloff

fast facts

Recommended Websites: meetingsandconventionspei.com; tourismcharlottetown.ca

Getting There: Air Canada Jazz offers direct flights to Charlottetown Airport, from Halifax, Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal year-round, with extra flights during the summer months. WestJet provides direct service from Toronto year-round, with additional flights from May to October.

Average Hotel Room Rate: $130

Convention Facilities: Scheduled to open in April, 2013, the Prince Edward Island Convention Centre will provide approximately 30,000 sq. ft. of new meeting space. The facility will include six breakout rooms and three ballrooms, and will adjoin the Delta Prince Edward’s ballroom, foyer and meeting space of 20,000 sq. ft.

pillow talk

Opened in June, 2011, the 80-room Holman Grand boutique property is connected to the Confederation Centre of the Arts, and offers 2,500 sq. ft. of naturally lit meeting space.

In July, 2010, Best Western Charlottetown completed a $4.2-million renovation of all 144 guestrooms, public areas and function space. Eight conference rooms offer 6,000 sq. ft.

Completely renovated in 2011, Rodd Royalty Inn & Suites features 121 guestrooms and 19 suites, offering either separate living space or a loft. Six meeting rooms cover 9,353 sq. ft., including a 4,000-sq.-ft., glass-enclosed courtyard with 18-ft. ceilings.

attractions + distractions

The Confederation Centre of the Arts comprises three theatres, one of the largest art galleries in Atlantic Canada, a restaurant and a 21,961-sq.-ft. convention and meeting facility.

Top Notch Charters takes groups out to experience a day as a lobster fisherman. Learn about history, biology and conservation and then enjoy a meal onboard ‘Top Notch.’

Culinary boot camps held at Holland College’s Culinary Institute of Canada provide customized experiences allowing participants to work in fully equipped kitchens alongside experienced chefs, learning the secrets of food preparation, kitchen fundamentals and cooking tips.

a la carte

The Pilot House’s wood posts and beams, and brick columns, foster an intimate pub feel. Chef Guy LeClair’s menu highlights prime rib, steaks, ribs and fresh, seasonal seafood, as well as upscale pub grub.

Merchantman Pub celebrates local seafood—P.E.I. mussels and oysters, Atlantic scallops—while still accommodating landlubbers (say, local pork loin with spiced cider jus). Private room seats 35.

Sims Corner Steakhouse & Oyster Bar serves up P.E.I.-raised beef, along with unique sides (candied onions, anyone?). Sims Cellar private room hosts 20 for a seated dinner or 40, cocktail.