If you’re looking to go back in time while visiting modern charms, then Picton, Prince Edward County Ontario is the place for you!

Brimming with history and a vibrant art scene, this picturesque village has something that everyone can appreciate.

It’s an ideal destination if you want to step away from the hustle and bustle of city life and get into some serious relaxation in one of the many vacation rentals here.
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Why Visit Prince Edward County

With its quiet streets lined with cute little shops, locally owned businesses, quaint cottages, and larger Victorian homes, it feels like stepping into another era altogether.

But don’t be fooled by the slower pace -Picton also offers plenty of activities for those who are seeking more than just peace and serenity.

Whether that means renting a boat on Picton Bay or exploring nearby wineries for tasting rooms full of local flavors, there’s always something new to discover here!

Also, see my post about why we love Prince Edward County in the winter.

1. Camp Picton Where it All Began

Well…Canadian Forces Base Picton is where it all started.

Canadian Forces Base Picton is located in Ontario, Canada, and has a long and proud history.

Established in 1941, Camp Picton was first used as a Canadian Army Intermediate Training Centre during World War II, training soldiers for combat duties overseas.

After the war, the Canadian Armed Forces continued to use Camp Picton for military training purposes, and then in 1960 it was re-designated Camp Picton.

It has now been bought and turned into Base 31.

What is Base 31?

Base 31 in Picton Ontario, Canada is a vibrant destination for entertainment and outdoor activities.

Located within the walls of the old Camp Picton, Base 31 provides visitors with an exciting lineup of live music, theatre productions, a walk back through history, and food events.

For those looking for something more enriching, Base 31 offers a range of history tours that provide insight into the rich cultural heritage found within the area.

2. Beautiful Beaches and Waterfronts on Lake Ontario

Prince Edward County is one of Canada’s most beautiful places, offering stunning beaches and waterfronts on the shores of Lake Ontario.

A visit to the area provides plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature, relax and take in some Prince Edward County attractions.

From camping and fishing to swimming and sailing, there are countless ways to explore the natural beauty of the lake.

The sunsets here are also breathtaking, especially in the summer months when the lake reflects off shimmering pink hues as night approaches.

The county is full of peaceful waterside parks and charming towns that invite visitors to come to stay awhile, where they can revel in picturesque landscapes any time of year.

The beaches of Prince Edward County are some of the most breathtaking destinations in Ontario.

North Beach Provincial Park

located on the west shore of Lake Ontario, offers visitors several kilometers of white sand beach and crystal clear waters perfect for swimming or just enjoying the beautiful views.

Di you know that the North Beach Provincial Park itself is one of the longest stretches of sand beach anywhere on the lake and contains an array of activities such as fishing, picnicking, and nature walks.

Just down from North Beach Provincial Park is the Sandbanks Provincial Park.

Sandbanks Provincial Park

It provides even more stunning views on a sandy peninsula surrounded by both Lake Ontario and the Bay of Quinte.

There’s nothing quite like taking in the picture-perfect sunsets on either side with a backdrop of one of Canada’s largest bodies of freshwater.

Sandbanks Provincial Park covers a total area of 2,000 hectares and features three sandbanks that make it southwestern Ontario’s largest coastal wetland region.

It is known for its picturesque views characterized by white-sand beaches bordered by cobalt blue waters and deep green pines.

Visitors can explore the Sandbanks Provincial Park trails, picnic on its perfect beaches, or relax on one of the scenic dockside spots across from the park.

You’ll also find a mini golf course and other activities for children just before you go into the park.

We go out that way for the mini golf and golden sand.

Learn more about the Sandbanks Provincial Park in this article about its secrets.

With such spectacular scenery, it’s no wonder PEC’s beaches are some of the hottest summer spots in the province.

3. Numerous Prince Edward County Wineries and Vineyards

Prince Edward County has become a wine-lovers paradise.

Located in Ontario, Canada, the County is home to over 41 wineries and vineyards offering wine lovers a variety of wine tours, tasting experiences, and pairings.

What makes this a charm for most people is that many of the Prince Edward County wineries offer some great food.

Eating at a winery has become the perfect way to enjoy traditional wine tastings along with a leisurely meal.

The strong wine industry in Prince Edward County is growing every year, offering wine aficionados even more ways to appreciate the local culture and sample some of the best wines available paired with cheese from the local Fifth Town artisan cheese company.

Whether it’s perusing shops along Main Street or taking a trip through the numerous vineyards scattered across the County, there’s something special for everyone to discover in Prince Edward County’s flourishing wine country.

Some of our favorite Prince Edward County wineries on the Prince Edward County taste trail include the following.

• Norman Hardie Winery – Great cellar wine tours
• Grange of Prince Edward Estate Winery – Excellent wine tour
• Rosehall Run Vineyards – Great dessert wines
• Waupoos Winery and Vineyards – gourmet food
• Keint-he Winery and Vineyards -award-winning wines
• Lighthall Vineyards – Great dessert wines
• Huff Estates Winery – Excellent wine tour
• Casa-Dea Estates Winery – Great tasting room
• Amanda’s Winery – Great dessert wines
• Three dog winery – Great tasting room

See my complete list of all the wineries in Prince Edward County Ontario.

4. Exceptional Local Food and Farm-to-Table Dining

Prince Edward County offers great farm-to-table dining experiences that cannot be missed.

From locally grown fruits and vegetables to freshly caught seafood and fifth-town artisan cheeses, the great restaurants in the area offer a variety of choices that would delight even picky eaters.

You pick up your own fresh locally produced produce. Visit the Wellington Farmer’s Market or Lakeshore farms in Wellington.

It is no wonder why many people visiting Prince Edward County love eating at one of the great restaurants that have joined the farm-to-table movement in Prince Edward County.

5. Art Galleries and Studios Showcasing Local Artists

Prince Edward County is flourishing with local artistic talent, and many local art galleries and studios are providing a platform for artists to share their masterpieces.

Whether you’re looking for vibrant pieces of artwork or love admiring stunning creations, the local galleries and studios have something special in store for everyone to enjoy.

From paintings and photography to sculptures, Prince Edward County offers a broad range of art meant to captivate its viewers.

Exploring the local art scene and studios allows visitors to engage with artists, learn more about their creative processes, and support the growth and appreciation of local art.

There is an actual arts trail you can follow to ensure you don’t miss any stops.

What is the art trial?

The arts trail in Prince Edward County is a spectacular way to experience the arts.

Hosted by Artspace, this exhibition brings together the diverse art scene of the county.

The arts trail includes a variety of venues such as galleries, boutiques, and studios which feature both professional and emerging artists.

Each art gallery has something different to offer to make every art gallery a must-stop.

Explore the different styles of artwork including paintings, sculptures, and jewelry created with various mediums.

6. The Historic Town of Picton and its Charming Main Street

For those looking to immerse themselves in historic charm and local history, Prince Edward County is the place to be.

Famed for its historic town of Picton and picturesque main street, there many stores to explore in the area.

Tourists can visit historic sites such as the Regent Theatre and now restored Royal Hotel.

We ate at the Royal and you can check it out here.

Take a walking tour and marvel at examples of beautiful 19th-century architecture, or discover quaint antique stores overflowing with treasures.

And that’s just scratching the surface of a peek into the rich history of this charming Prince Edward bay community.

Whether you decide to delve into theatre tours or really dig deep into local history, Prince Edward County will not disappoint.

See my complete list of the Prince Edward County Museums.

7. The Regent Theatre, A Restored 1920s-era Movie Theater

The historic town of Picton has a rich history, and a great example of that is the Regent Theatre.

This theatre was built in the 1920s and recently restored to its original state, providing visitors with an authentic peek into the history of this area.

An evening spent at the theatre whether it be for a movie or play provides a unique experience with its perfect blend of historic charm and modern amenities.

The historic ambiance will make you feel as if you have stepped back in time while enjoying all that the theater has to offer.

The Regent Theatre truly captures the essence of local history and is sure to be an unforgettable visit for anyone who affords the opportunity to experience it.

You may want to check out these Five Reasons To Visit the Regent Theatre.

8. The County Cider Company and its Variety of Hard Ciders

The County Cider Company is revolutionizing the traditional craft cider industry.

They offer a unique selection of hard ciders ranging from dry to sweet styles, a variety of seasonal flavors, and local favorites.

This county cidery stands apart through thoughtful collaborations with producers of beer, wine, and spirits creating innovative, small-batch ciders using only the freshest ingredients.

Their commitment to excellence in quality and craftsmanship is apparent in every single sip making this Cider Company an ideal destination for any true hard cider enthusiast!

If you plan on visiting apple orchards or the cider check out my tips for food and cider here.

9. The Sandbanks Provincial Park and its World-renowned Sand Dunes Beach

I know I mention this already but the Sandbanks Provincial Park is known for its world-renowned sand dunes beach.

This is the main reason people visit rather than go to other beaches.

The sandy beaches stretch for three kilometers along the shoreline and are one of the main draws for visitors to the county.

Sandbanks also boast an outlet beach where guests can jump from freshwater into Lake Ontario, making it a unique coastal experience.

Also found out that way is the old The Lakeshore Lodge or what’s left of the site.

What is The Lakeshore Lodge?

The Lakeshore Lodge, located on Lake Ontario in Prince Edward County, has a rather interesting history.

It began life as a dynamite storage facility when it first opened in the late 1800s.

Although it was defunct by the turn of the century, someone had the idea to transform it into a traditional fishing lodge, and Lakeshore Lodge officially opened to guests in 1923.

Over the years, guests have come from all over to experience relaxing fishing trips at Lakeshore Lodge, whether they’re hoping for some boating or looking for an epic Muskie-catching adventure!

Lakeshore Lodge still stands today and continues to offer visitors wonderful outdoor adventures during their stay.

With its vast expansive parkland and stunning crystal blue waters, Sandbanks Provincial Park has become a popular summer destination and the main reason many people choose to explore Prince Edward County.

10. The Prince Edward County Lavender Farm

The Prince Edward County Lavender Farm is one of the region’s best-kept secrets, located on a county road in a tucked-away area of the County.

The beautiful lavender-filled farm has rows upon rows of bulbs and shrubs, stretching out lushly over acres of land, making for incredible scenery.

Visitors are able to fill bundles with restored old-world French-style lavender bouquets from their English Lavender field, gaining an unforgettable experience that remains close to their hearts forever.

The farm also offers tours around the property, and interviews about the history and experiences at The Prince Edward County Lavender Farm and you can also try to build your own unique bouquet as well.

All in all, The Lavender Farm makes for a wonderfully refreshing visit!

11. The Picton Harbour and Marina

The Prince Edward County Marina is a popular spot for visitors and locals alike. Located in Picton, Ontario, the marina offers stunning views of the beautiful Bay of Quinte and beyond.

If you’re visiting Prince Edward County with a boat this is a great place to keep it.

The swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities are unparalleled for residents and tourists who enjoy water activities.

The marina is surrounded by a large park that has lovely walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas so the whole family can have fun together.

The staff at The Prince Edward County Marina are friendly and knowledgeable, making it an enjoyable experience for all who visit.

The marina also hosts numerous events throughout the year so there is plenty of opportunity to meet people in a beautiful setting.

Whether you are after a peaceful escape or an adventurous day out, The Prince Edward County Marina also has the Picton harbor Inn and its part of the taste trail worth checking out.

12. The Prince Edward County Field Naturalists and Their Nature Preserves

The Prince Edward County Field Naturalists are a worthwhile visit!

The organization is dedicated to the exploration and preservation of the natural environment, offering educational opportunities that help to provide insights into what makes wild areas so special.

The group also has conservation lands throughout Prince Edward County, which offer incredible hiking trails and stunning vistas, making them perfect for a relaxing day in nature.

The experts at The Prince Edward County Field Naturalists can also provide tips on species and ecosystems, helping visitors to gain a better understanding of their surroundings.

So if you’re looking for an inspiring adventure filled with natural wonders, look no further than The Prince Edward County Field Naturalists!

Prince Edward County makes it easy to explore with the millennium trail and other hiking and biking trails.

Just a heads up, the millennium trail is flat and very scenic but it’s also busy with cyclists, off-road vehicles, and people walking. Otherwise, the millennium trail is worth checking out.

See a list of all the trails in Prince Edward County that you can explore.

13. The Prince Edward County Arts Council And its Community Art Programs

Prince Edward County Arts Council (PECAC) creates wonderful community art programs to empower the growing art scene in Prince Edward County.

Their vision is to build creative and engaging experiences for both artists and the larger public.

From hosting educational workshops to coordinating interactive events, PECAC provides a platform for people from diverse backgrounds to come together and appreciate art of all kinds.

Through PECAC’s initiative, Prince Edward County is forging ahead as an established hub of culture and creativity in Canada.

14. The Prince Edward County Music Festival

Ready to Rockn Roll?

The Prince Edward County Music Festival is a vibrant event held annually to celebrate local music in The County.

The festival features world-class emerging and established musicians from all genres, from rock, folk, rap, and country to classical, hip-hop, jazz, and more, creating an unparalleled music experience for thousands of attendees.

The event showcases different musical performances each day while also providing an opportunity for musical collaboration and large-scale kickstarts in the community.

The festival helps to foster a genuine appreciation of music among The County’s residents by enhancing their understanding of different music forms and showcasing the various talents of its homegrown talent.

Furthermore, The Prince Edward County Music Festival seeks to raise money for local charities that have been deeply affected by previous economic downturns.

If you’re looking to experience something truly unique while supporting an essential cause, The Prince Edward County Music Festival is your best bet!

15. Prince Edward County Craft Beer Scene

Prince Edward County’s craft beer scene has been growing since craft breweries began to open in the area in the early 2000s.

The craft brewers including parsons brewing company, Lake on the Mountain Brewing Company that opened around this time made this style of beer more accessible and popular in Prince Edward County, leading to a craft beer revolution.

For years, craft breweries operated almost exclusively in small batches, producing unique flavors and regional specialties.

Today, craft brewers throughout the County produce an ever-growing variety of beers with specialty ingredients sourced directly from local farms and businesses.

If you’re in Picton stop into the County Canteen as they offer local craft beer, local wines and fine spirits. Plus the food is absolutely delicious.

If you do drive out to the Lake on the Mountain brewery you should check out this article about

16. The Prince Edward County Art Studio Tour

The Prince Edward County Art Studio Tour is a yearly event that takes place in the summertime in the County.

The tour showcases the delightful works of local artists, from paintings and sculptures to photography, jewelry, and pottery.

The tour covers multiple locations throughout the county, each one bursting with beautiful contemporary art and creative pieces that you can take home or simply admire.

The tour has been running since 2012, so many of the County’s locals participate by either showcasing their work or simply enjoying the displays.

It promises to be a great event for art enthusiasts as well as anyone interested in getting a glimpse into The County’s vibrant culture.

17. The Prince Edward County Farmers’ Market

The Prince Edward County Farmers’ Market is a vibrant, local community space that offers up homegrown fruits and veggies made with care.

The Wellington farmer’s market creates an inviting atmosphere where visitors can meet the farmers who grew their produce and learn more about sustainable farming practices.

Both markets also host local vendors that specialize in unique, handmade products like yarn crafts and vegan treats.

The Market provides a social hub for residents to come together every week to discover fresh locally produced food and produce and local specialties.

There is truly something for everyone!

18. The Prince Edward County Birding Trail

The Prince Edward County Bird Watching (PEPtBO) is one of the top bird-watching destinations in southern Ontario.

The observatory evokes a peaceful and serene atmosphere as birders take in the beauty and tranquility of this migratory paradise.

The volunteers at PEPtBO provide education, research, and monitoring of the many bird species that visit the island.

The organization also offers guided tours featuring local birds so that visitors can get an up-close-and-personal look at these wonderful creatures.

The views from PEPtBO are incredible and will leave any birder with a sense of awe, appreciation, and reverence for these majestic birds.

Just another reason why people visit Prince Edward County.

19. The Prince Edward County Maple Syrup Festival

We do this every year and love it! It just adds to the unique charm of the County.

The Prince Edward County Maple Syrup Festival is a beloved annual celebration that has been delighting visitors for over forty years.

The whole county comes together to celebrate their top-notch local maple syrup producers and the cherished tradition of maple syrup production in the region.

The event takes place during the first weekend in March each year and offers a range of activities.

Such as guided tours of local Walts sugar shack, demonstrations on how to harvest sap and make maple syrup, live music, delicious food, craft vendors, art displays, workshops on woodworking and sugaring techniques, plus lots more.

The festival is a fantastic way to get an authentic taste of rural life in Prince Edward County while also having fun!

20. The Prince Edward County Fair

The Prince Edward County Fair is a thrilling family event held annually near the start of September.

I’ve been going since I was 5 years old.

The fair features events and activities for people of all ages to enjoy such as carnival rides, classic country music performances, a petting zoo, an agricultural and equestrian show, a demolition derby, and much more!

The fair also has plenty of delicious food from traditional American cuisine to international fare so everyone can find something to enjoy.

The Prince Edward County Fair is a longstanding local tradition that locals look forward to every year as it brings them together with friends and family for some classic old-fashioned fun.

21. The Prince Edward County Apple Festival

The Applelicious, held in the iconic Prince Edward County Apple Festival, is a unique event that celebrates the apple’s functions as a food and cultural symbol.

Applelicious visitors get the opportunity to experience a variety of fun activities like picking apples.

Enjoying delectable food, and participating in educational lectures about Ontario’s apple production and industry.

Applelicious also provides entertainment with local music, vibrant artisans showcasing their crafts, and face-painting activities.

It is an excellent way to learn more about the diverse elements of this age-old fruit while also having a great time engaging with friends and family.

Many people visit Prince Edward County for this fall event.

22. The Conservation Areas in Prince Edward County

The Prince Edward Point Bird Observatory

The Prince Edward Point Bird Observatory is a conservation area located in the County.

The Observatory is home to a variety of bird species, including the endangered Prothonotary Warbler.

The Observatory offers a variety of programs and events that are designed to educate the public about the importance of bird conservation.

The Big Island National Wildlife Area

The Big Island National Wildlife Area is a conservation area located in Prince Edward County.

The Wildlife Area is home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, peregrine falcons, and white-tailed deer.

The Wildlife Area offers a variety of programs and events that are designed to educate the public about the importance of wildlife conservation.

Massassauga Point Conservation Area

This conservation area has many different landscapes including forests, wetlands & meadows which are all connected by trails great for hiking & biking along with plenty of opportunities to go birdwatching & wildlife viewing.

The Ostrander Point Crown Land Block

The Ostrander Point Crown Land Block is a conservation area located in Prince Edward County, Ontario.

The Crown Land Block is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including the endangered loggerhead shrike.

The Mill Pond Conservation Area

The Mill Pond Conservation Area is a conservation area located in Prince Edward County, Ontario.

The Conservation Area offers a variety of programs and events that are designed to educate the public about the importance of environmental conservation.

Macaulay Mountain Conservation Area

Macaulay Mountain, nestled in the heart of Prince Edward County, offers visitors an outdoor experience like no other.

The beautiful park is home to seven kilometers of trails that vary from a relaxing woodland stroll through nature to a challenging hike up Macaulay Mountain itself.

A unique attraction will find you exploring Birdhouse City, a magical place that seems like something out of a storybook!

All the birdhouses are crafted from recycled materials dot the pathway and create a breathtaking array of colors and shapes.

Right close by is the Macaulay Heritage Park which is worth a visit.

Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure Macaulay Mountain Conservation Area has something for everyone!

23. Little Bluff Conservation Area

Little Bluff in Prince Edward County is a natural wonderland surrounded by limestone cliffs and a pristine sheltered bay.

While Little Bluff has breathtaking views of the lake from the top of the rocky bluffs and visitors can also find a variety of recreational possibilities including swimming, fishing, sailing, and canoeing.

There are also 5 kilometers of trails with mulched surfaces and boardwalks, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside as you explore Little Bluff by foot or take a bike ride.

To learn 5 secrets about Little Bluff see this article.

And there you have it!

The history and charm of Picton, Prince Edward County in Ontario. This lovely little town is the perfect place to spend a weekend or longer and experience all that charming small-town life has to offer.

From its quaint shops and boutiques to its delicious food options, Picton is sure to please everyone in your group.

Pack your bags and head on over to Prince Edward County for an unforgettable vacation today!

We can’t wait to hear about all your favorite things about Picton and Prince Edward County once you get back, so be sure to drop us a line and let us know all about your trip!