Borden-Carleton is considered the gateway to Prince Edward Island. This small town was built around the ferry service which was the only year-round continuous link to the mainland until June 1997 when the Confederation Bridge officially opened. 

Aptly named, Gateway Village is a must-stop destination and welcome centre upon your arrival via the bridge. The Visitor Information Centre is the perfect place to start your Island vacation. Year-round vacation planners are waiting to help you make the most of your PEI vacation. Pick up a provincial map and regional attraction brochures or request assistance to book accommodations and activities.

Shopping

• Coastal Culture
• COWS
• How Bazaar
• Island Pet Wear 
• Julie’s Yarn Shoppe
• Red Sands Reiki

You will find great gift ideas and photo ops at Shop and Play, where you can dress up as Anne of Green Gables or one of her friends. And, just steps away at the Marine Rail Historical Park is a giant red heart that serves as a popular Instagram backdrop for locals and visitors alike. This site has been described as “a great place to view the Confederation Bridge and Port Borden Lighthouse. It is an interesting stop to find out about the history of the PEI railway and marine history.” 

Restaurants + Refreshments

Lone Oak Brewing Co. is a local craft brewery with a full kitchen that focuses on local cuisine and Island producers. Regular musical events and weekly trivia. You can also find meal and snack options at Rudy's Island Takeout.

As Anne of Green Gables said, “there is nothing more delectable than ice cream!” Your small-town tour would not be complete without a scoop or two from Terry's Berries Ice Cream Truck or COWS ranked Canada’s best ice cream.

By chance, if you're looking to cook up your own feed of PEI shellfish, stop at Captain Cooke’s Seafood on the Trans Canada Highway to purchase fresh oysters, mussels, lobster and more.

Borden-Carleton is part of the Red Sands Shore Touring Region.