Potato Lovers' Paradise: Visit the Canadian Potato Museum
Tucked away in the charming town of O’Leary, Prince Edward Island, lies a celebration of one of the island’s most iconic exports: the humble potato. Welcome to the Canadian Potato Museum, where spuds reign supreme and history is served up with a side of fries. Whether you're a foodie, a history buff, or just someone looking for a quirky island adventure, this museum is a must-stop on your PEI itinerary.
Rooted in History
Potatoes have been a staple crop in Prince Edward Island since the 1700s, shaping the province’s landscape, economy, and identity. Today, they remain the backbone of PEI’s agricultural industry. The Canadian Potato Museum is more than just a quirky roadside attraction—it’s a living tribute to the people and stories behind the potato’s rise to stardom.
Here, you can wander through fascinating exhibits that cover everything from the biology of the spud to its impact on the local economy. Antique farming equipment and historic photos bring the journey of the potato to life, offering an interactive experience for all ages.
The World's Largest Potato (Yes, Really!)
Snap that perfect Instagram shot beside the world’s largest potato sculpture, a giant tribute to the starchy superstar that greets visitors at the museum’s entrance. It’s big, bold, and entirely on-brand for an island that takes its potatoes this seriously.
Dig In at the PEI Potato Country Kitchen
When you're ready to taste the love, head inside the museum to the PEI Potato Country Kitchen—a cozy eatery dishing out hearty island-inspired meals, all with potatoes front and center.
Fan favorites include:
- Lobster-Topped Baked Potato – The ultimate PEI fusion: fresh island lobster meets golden baked potato, finished with silky hollandaise and a sprinkling of chives.
- Pulled Pork Potato – Tender pulled pork and melted cheese nestled on a warm, fluffy spud.
- Potato Soup – A creamy bowl of comfort featuring PEI potatoes, bacon, and carrots.
- Seaweed Pie – A unique local dessert made with Irish moss (trust us, it’s delicious).
From classic poutine to potato-topped nacho fries, every dish celebrates the island’s most famous crop in imaginative ways. The dining room is newly renovated and includes a screened-in patio, perfect for enjoying a breezy lunch under PEI skies.
Open daily from May 12th to October 10th, the Country Kitchen runs from 11:30 AM to 5:30 PM—plenty of time to explore and indulge.
Tour a Working Potato Farm
Starting in late June, take your museum experience a step further with a guided potato farm tour, available Tuesdays and Thursdays. This immersive journey includes:
- A visit to a local potato farm
- A meet-and-greet with a real island farmer
- A behind-the-scenes look at modern potato production
- A return to the museum for a potato-based lunch
- And a sweet send-off with the museum’s signature potato fudge
It’s fun, educational, and perfect for families, school groups, or curious foodies. Pricing is reasonable, especially for groups, and kids under six go free! Tours must be booked at least 24 hours in advance, so plan ahead.
📞 Call 1-844-849-1470 or email info@canadianpotatomuseum.com to reserve your spot.
Good to Know Before You Go
- Season Opening: May 12, 2025
- Museum Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM daily
- Restaurant Hours: 11:30 AM – 5:30 PM daily
- Farm Tours: Begin end of June 2025 on Tuesdays & Thursdays
- Contact After Hours or Off-Season: Call Stanley at 1-902-206-3457
Why You Should Visit
The Canadian Potato Museum isn’t just a novelty—it’s a meaningful and delicious dive into the soul of Prince Edward Island. With hands-on exhibits, comforting local cuisine, and access to real farming experiences, it offers visitors a deep and flavorful understanding of the region’s agricultural heritage.
So next time you’re road-tripping through PEI, take the detour to O’Leary. Snap a pic with the giant spud, taste the island on a plate, and maybe even meet the farmers who make it all possible.
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