Welcome to Prince Edward County, where the wine flows like water and the activities are as plentiful as the mosquitoes in July! If you’re looking to have a good time without emptying your wallet, here are my top 11 free things to do in this lovely corner of the world.
These are my top 11 free things to do outside in nature in the County that offer a mix of nature, local charm:
1. Lake on the Mountain
Located 8 minutes from Picton, this is a small lake perched high above the Bay of Quinte with no visible inlet or outlet.
Great for scenic views and picnics. Parking is across the road, and the elevated view is awesome.
2. Glenora Ferry Ride
Free to ride. PEC is, in fact, an Island, and you can take a short, scenic ferry ride across the Bay of Quinte completely for free.
Some people walk on, ride bicycles, and ride back and forth. It can be seen from Lake on the Mountain.
3. Point Petre Wildlife Conservation Area
A rugged, bedrock, quiet beach with unique geological features of limestone rock and small cliffs.
If you plan on swimming, bring water shoes. Explore all the other Free Conservation areas in PEC here.
4. Wellington Beach Walk is Free
A peaceful lakeside spot with a boardwalk, small lighthouse, and picnic areas.
If you want to park, there is a fee, but if you’re walking, it costs nothing to hang out there for the day.
If you can swim, there is a 100-foot channel to swim across, and you’ll be on the Richardson Side of the Sand Banks.
5. Birdhouse City in Picton
A quirky outdoor attraction with over 100 birdhouses that are creatively designed to resemble local landmarks, businesses, and even international icons like the Leaning Tower of Pisa and a Greek temple.
Free and fun for all ages, see why.
You may have to pay for parking as the area is part of Macaulay Mountain.
6. Millennium Trail
A 46-km multi-use-maintained trail perfect for walking, biking, or birdwatching.
It runs through Picton, Bloomfield, Wellington, Consecon, and Carrying Place, passing through scenic areas.
7. Massassauga Point Conservation Area
A quiet, dog-friendly nature area with trails, shoreline views, and birdwatching opportunities.
4 km Trail Network: Winding through forest, savannah, and alvar terrain, suitable for hiking, snowshoeing, and passive biking.
8. Macaulay Heritage Park Grounds
While the museum may charge admission, the surrounding grounds and cemetery are free to explore and are rich in history.
There are many trails throughout Macaulay Mountain.
9. North Beach Provincial Park (off-season)
The Sister of the Sandbanks in PEC this area is free to visit in the off-season (parking fees apply in summer).
Trails for hiking and walking, and it is on Lake Ontario. Offers quieter beach vibes than the popular Sandbanks, too.
10. Prince Edward Point Bird Observatory
Located at the far east end of PEC, it’s a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers, especially during migration seasons.
The shoreline of Lake Ontario is a cool place to look around. Seen some ducks and cormorants, Yay!
11. Rutherford-Stevens Lookout
Driving out toward Waupoos, there is a scenic deck overlooking Smith’s Bay and Waupoos Island into Lake Ontario.
Just off County Road 8 on County Road 13 heading towards Black Creek.
Cool place to stop and take some pictures. Great for a peaceful picnic too.
So there you have it, 11 free activities that showcase the beauty and charm of Prince Edward County without requiring a second mortgage.
See these top sightseeing places!
Just remember to enjoy yourself, and don’t forget to laugh at the little things like my attempt at birdwatching!
