Top 5 Things To Do in Windsor, Ontario

I have a plethora of dreamy destinations on my list that I would like to visit at some point and things I would like to do there. Canada, however, was never at the top of my charts. So when I found myself in Windsor, Ontario, I did not know what to do with myself. Luckily, with some advice from local friends, I found plenty to do and to see! Here are the top things to do in Windsor, Ontario:

1. Windsor Riverfront

I would hightly reccomend starting off with exploring Windsor Riverfront. The Windsor Riverfront Trail is a scenic walking, jogging and biking path along the Detroit River from the City of Windsor to the Town of Tecumseh. Along the way, you can explore beautiful Dieppe Gardens, Windsor Sculpture Garden with countless art statues, stop for a swim at Sandpoint Beach and have a picknic in one of beautiful parks. Also, there are excursion boats available for tours.

Furthermore, the Riverfront has many festivals held on a frequent basis. Rail fans are able to check out a 1911-era Canadian National steam locomotive, the Spirit of Windsor. My favourite time to go to Windsor Riverfront, without a doubt, is at night. That’s when nightlights over in Detroit light up and reveal a breathtaking skyline of downtown Detroit.

2. Willistead Manor

Willistead Manor is truly a cultural gem in the City of Windsor. Built in 1906, the Manor sits within a 15-acre park and was designed in the 16th Century Tudor-Jacobean style of an English manor house. Nowadays, this premier heritage site hosts weddings, receptions, meetings and special events. During a first full weekend in June Art in the Park festival is being held in Willistead Park.

Public tours are available only throughout the months of July and December each year, typically on Wednesdays and Sundays. Private group tours are available for groups of 25 or more. Entrance tickets cost $6.25 for adults; $5.25 for students and seniors; $2.75 for children 12 and under. For those of you who could not check out the Manor during these two months in person, there is a visual tour available (View Willistead Manor’s Virtual Tour) and photos of the interior of the Manor.

3. Ojibway Nature Centre

Ojibway Nature Centre is a must while visiting Windsor. This tranquil park is home to many deer and various bird species and features a variety of well-maintained spectacular paths. You can go for a quick 30-minute stroll, or spend a whole day hiking with a family.

If you go to Ojibway Nature Centre’s website, you can find photo galleries of wildlife (birds, animals, plants, insects, fungi) that you can spot in the national park. There is also an Instagram page that you can follow for updates on events, guided walks, what’s in the bloom etc.

4. Visit the Art Gallery of Windsor

The Art Gallery of Windsor is a must-see for anyone interested in art and culture. The first floor is dedicated to Windsor local history Museum and the second and third floor is for the art gallery. The gallery features a diverse collection of contemporary and historical art from around the world. The gallery also offers a range of educational programs and workshops.

5. Little Italy – Via Italia

Via Italia is a vibrant and lively part of Erie Street where Italy has made its mark in Windsor. Via Italia, also known as Little Italy, is one of the more popular areas of Windsor and for an excellent reason. It is home to numerous Italian shops, bakeries and restaurants. Whether you’re in search of traditional pasta dishes, delectable pastries, or specialty market, this neighbourhood has an impressive selection to satisfy all cravings.