Windsor Trip Planner
Why Visit Windsor: Top Reasons & Highlights
Travelers love Windsor for its vibrant community festivals, as one visitor noted how immersive and lively they were. Explore the scenic riverfront, discover historic architecture, and savor diverse local cuisine. Make your trip seamless with Pilot, which organizes everything for you. --- From Detroit, Windsor is about a 1-hour drive.
Windsor travel photos
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What to do in Windsor
With so much to do and so much to see, use Pilot to make your plan to make the most of your trip.
Explore top things to do
- 🏞️ Check out the scenic riverfront views along Windsor’s famous parks and trails. - 🥙 Experience authentic Middle Eastern flavors at the Ottawa Street eateries. - 🎰 Visit the lively Caesars Windsor for gaming and entertainment. - 🖼️ Explore the art and history at the Art Gallery of Windsor and the Canadian Historical Aircraft Association. - 🎓 Dive into local culture at the University of Windsor's events and exhibits. Use Pilot to effortlessly create an itinerary featuring these highlights and more.
Find the perfect neighborhood to stay in
- 🌉 Walk along the Detroit River, where Riverside is praised for its scenic views and relaxing pathways. - 🍽️ Explore Walkerville, known for its historic architecture and vibrant food scene that travelers love for its artisanal offerings. - 🏢 Visit Downtown Windsor for its dynamic restaurants and shops, and check out the Art Gallery of Windsor. - 🚶 Ford City intrigues with its industrial history and cultural murals. - 🛌 Pilot helps find hotels and deals, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Discover the best food and drink
- 🍽️ Windsor is known for its Lebanese cuisine, offering savory shawarma and delectable falafel, drawing foodies to this culinary hotspot. - 🥙 Locals and visitors rave about the delicious, authentic middle-eastern dishes found here. - 🌮 Mezze Platters, bursting with flavor, are a must-try. Pair them with freshly baked pita. - 🍕 Windsor's famous "Windsor-style pizza" is loved for its unique crust and shredded pepperoni. - 🍤 Head to Lebanese Kitchen or Eddy's Mediterranean Bistro for top-notch shawarma. - 🍕 Try Capri Pizzeria for an unforgettable slice of local pizza. - 🗺️ Use Pilot to easily plan and experience Windsor's flavorful food scene.
In popular culture
🌉 Windsor is often tagged in social media posts featuring views of the Detroit skyline, making for some impressive backdrops. 🎥 The Netflix series "Designated Survivor" filmed several scenes in Windsor, utilizing its urban landscape. 🎞️ Windsor's landmark Ambassador Bridge has appeared in various car commercials and travel shows. 🎬 "Detroit Rock City," a film about four teens on their way to a KISS concert, has scenes that take place in and around Windsor. 🎶 Famous musician Drake has mentioned Windsor in his tour narratives, highlighting its proximity to Detroit.
Windsor at a glance
Start My AdventureWhat reviews say
- People enjoy Windsor's waterfront parks. Great for strolls. - Detroit views are cool; take a river cruise. - Walk the Sculpture Park. - Mixed reviews on restaurant scene; some say explore local eats. - The casino is a big draw for many. - Public transit could be better; consider car rental. - Visit wineries nearby for a day trip. - Summer festivals are lively and fun.
What reddit says
- Check out the Windsor Sculpture Park; people love it for a relaxing walk with art. - Visit the Ford City area for unique shops and cafes. - Redditors mention a vibrant wine scene; visit local vineyards. - The riverfront offers beautiful views of Detroit's skyline. - Families enjoy the local history at the Windsor Community Museum. - Visitors note the casino is fun but busy on weekends. - Watch out for construction; plan routes ahead.
Travel tips and safety
- Windsor boasts impressive hospitality and a vibrant cultural scene. Try Canadian cuisine like poutine at local diners. - Be aware: Marijuana is legal, but there are strict public use laws. - Tipping is expected, usually 15-20%. - Average meal prices: CA$15-25. Public transport is affordable. - Locals appreciate personal space and politeness. Avoid loud conversations on public transport. Windsor is generally safe but consult travel advisories for updated information as situations can change.
Getting around
- Public transit: Transit Windsor is efficient, with buses to key spots. Affordable fares make it budget-friendly. - Rideshare/taxis: Uber and Lyft available; cheaper than taxis. Check app for real-time prices. - Walkable areas: Downtown and waterfront are pedestrian-friendly. - Bike rentals: Bike rentals are available; scenic trails offer easy exploration. - Pilot can help you map routes and plan efficient logistics.
How much it costs to visit
In Windsor, you'll find a mix of charming local spots and historic attractions. Here's a quick budget guide for visiting Vancouver: - Budget ($80-100/day) - Accommodation: Hostel dorms or budget hotels ($20-30) - Meals: Casual dining or street food ($15-25) - Transit: Public transport or bike rental ($10) - Activities: Free or low-cost attractions ($20-30) - Mid-range ($150-200/day) - Accommodation: Mid-range hotels or boutique stays ($50-100) - Meals: Local restaurants or cafes ($30-50) - Transit: Mix of public transport and occasional taxi/Uber ride ($15) - Activities: Paid museum entries or guided tours ($30-50) - Luxury ($300+/day) - Accommodation: High-end hotels ($150+) - Meals: Fine dining ($75+) - Transit: Uber/taxi and private tours ($50+) - Activities: Exclusive experiences or high-end attraction entries ($100+) Prices vary at different times of year and during large events. Check Pilot to find current rates for hotels and activities.
What to do if you only have one day to visit
🖼️ Visit the Art Gallery of Windsor to soak in local and international art. 🚶♂️ Stroll along the Windsor Sculpture Park by the river for unique public art. 🍽️ Grab a bite at The Oven 360 for delicious wood-fired pizza. 🏭 Explore the History-Ford-Windsor Migration Walking Tour—it's a dive into the city's auto legacy. ☕ Recharge with coffee at Anchor Coffee House, a beloved local spot. 🌳 Take a breather at Jackson Park; it’s perfect for a laid-back afternoon. 🎲 Wind down with a visit to Caesars Windsor if you’re feeling lucky. You can use Pilot to easily generate and map an itinerary like this for you for free in just a few clicks.
What to do if it rains
- 🎨 Explore Art Windsor-Essex, featuring fantastic Canadian and Indigenous art collections. - 🍷 Visit a local winery, like Colio Estate Wines, for some tasting and a cozy afternoon indoors. - 🖼️ Dive into history at the Chimczuk Museum, which offers intriguing local exhibits. - 🎭 Catch a performance or film screening at The Capitol Theatre for a lively cultural experience. - 📚 Relax with a book at the Windsor Public Library; it’s a spacious spot with great views. - 🍽️ Enjoy a long lunch or dinner at The Keg Steakhouse + Bar, perfect for unwinding on a rainy day. - 🕹️ Visit an escape room at Hidden Trail, ideal for friends and family seeking an indoor adventure. - 🍔 Try a locally famous burger at Motor Burger; it's comfort food at its best.
When to visit and how many days to spend
- Visit Windsor between May and September. Temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), perfect for outdoor activities. - Avoid January, when temperatures can drop to -7°C (19°F) with frequent snowfall. - Windsor's climate is humid continental, with varied seasonal weather due to its proximity to the Great Lakes. - Expect mild springs, warm summers, cool and colorful autumns, and cold, snowy winters. - Enjoy city tours, park strolls, or vineyard visits in summer.
How to find events during your stay
- Check out "Visit Windsor Essex" for up-to-date info on local events. They're reliable for finding cultural events and festivals. [visitwindsoressex.com/events](http://visitwindsoressex.com/events) - Explore "Windsor Independent" on social media for a pulse on latest happenings and local experiences. Follow them on Instagram @windsorindependent. - Stay updated with "The Windsor Star" for news on major events and concerts in Windsor. Visit [windsorstar.com](http://windsorstar.com). - Join discussions on Reddit Windsor for real-time insights by locals. Visit https://www.reddit.com/r/windsor/. - "Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island" provides a calendar of events that includes holidays and community festivals. Go to [tourismwindsoressex.com](http://tourismwindsoressex.com) for more information.
Before your trip, read the history
Windsor was founded in 1854 and named after Windsor, Berkshire in England. It's nestled in Ontario, Canada, right across the river from Detroit. Early inhabitants were Indigenous peoples, including the Anishinaabe and the Wendat Huron. Many French settlers established farms here, giving it a European feel. The city developed economically due to its location along the Detroit River, perfect for trade and transport. It became a hub for the automotive industry, thanks to its proximity to Detroit, earning it a pivotal spot in North American industry.Culturally, Windsor boasts a vibrant immigrant community, especially Italians, Lebanese, and Chinese. It's rich in festivals and cultural events. Politically, it leans more progressive, typically supporting the Liberal and New Democratic parties. Historically, Windsor played a key role in the Underground Railroad and was a stop for enslaved people seeking freedom in Canada. Notable figures include Hiram Walker, famous for creating Canadian Club whisky, and Simon Girty, known for his diverse roles during the colonial era. When you're there, check out the Art Gallery of Windsor and explore the scenic riverfront—it's steeped in history and beauty.
