Riverfront Windsor overlooks the US-Canada border, the countries separated by the Detroit River but connected via the graceful Ambassador Bridge. The city is located on the ancestral territory of the Three Fires Confederacy of First Nations and is known today for its waterfront parks and gardens, having been nicknamed the Rose City. Things to do in Windsor include spending lazy days on the water of Lake St. Clair, checking out the shops and restaurants of Little Italy, and exploring the expansive Riverfront Trail, with its sculptures, historical monuments, and lookout points.
Visit in summer to experience the best of the region’s offerings—you’ll get to enjoy the city’s green spaces and waterfronts, while taking advantage of events including the Windsor-Detroit International Freedom Festival (a multi-day event to celebrate Canada Day and the Fourth of July with one of the world’s largest fireworks displays) and the Harrow Fair, a classic country fair.
Having a car in Windsor will make your trip easier. The city is sprawling, and driving allows you to check out some of the surrounding areas, including sweet towns like historic Amherstburg and beachfront Belle River. Public transit in the city is relatively inefficient, and it’s not the most walkable—Windsor stays true to its other nickname as the Automotive Capital of Canada.
For live music and a cozy vibe, head to Walkerville Brewery on a Friday night to hear some local talent and enjoy a cold pint. Check out the brewery's calendar, as it has a rotating schedule of artists and events throughout the week, from jazz evenings to night markets. The menu includes everything from stouts to ciders and offers flights if you can’t make up your mind.
