Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a taste of the local culture, Ontario’s Southwest is bursting with unforgettable experiences. From small-town charm and culinary delights to natural wonders and vibrant arts scenes, here are 40 reasons to explore Windsor Essex and Sarnia Lambton this year!
Windsor Essex
1. Go Fish!
Welcome to the muskie and walleye capital of Canada! Cast a line along our 100-mile coastline, then feast on the freshest lake-to-plate dining around.
2. Point Pelee National Park
Snap the perfect photo at the southernmost tip of mainland Canada — a must-see at Point Pelee National Park.
3. Caesars Windsor
Get your game face on at Canada’s largest casino. With 4-diamond hotel luxury and headliner shows at The Colosseum, it’s always a winning night.
4. Windsor-Style Pizza
Move over deep dish — Windsor-style pizza is calling. Think shredded pepperoni, local Galati Cheese, cornmeal crust and yes, canned mushrooms (trust us!).
5. Public Art Adventures
Wander down Maiden Lane and WIFF Alley in downtown Windsor for Instagram-worthy murals by world-renowned artists.
6. Birding Paradise
More than 340 species of birds migrate through Windsor Essex Pelee Island.
7. Barrels Bottles & Brews Trail
Sip your way through history on the Barrels Bottles & Brews Trail — where craft meets tradition in Canada's birthplace of whisky.
8. Prohibition Past
Channel your inner rum-runner in Walkerville, explore Willistead Manor, visit Walkerville Brewery, and say hello to Hiram Walker at his namesake statue.
9. Adventure Bay
Rain or shine, make a splash at Adventure Bay Family Waterpark — 10 slides, lazy river, FlowRider, and more.
10. Windsor Sculpture Park & Art Windsor-Essex
Discover 35+ massive works of outdoor art, then explore Indigenous and Canadian collections at Art Windsor-Essex.
11. Windsor’s Streetcar History
Visit the historic Streetcar No. 351 at Legacy Park, cruise through time in Ford City, or visit the Canadian Transportation Museum & Heritage Village.
12. EPIC Wine Region
Tour the sunny shores of Canada's southernmost wine country, featuring 15+ wineries including Pelee Island Winery.
13. Pelee Island
Take a ferry to Canada’s southernmost inhabited spot: Pelee Island. Peaceful beaches, sunsets, and Vin Villa, the country’s first commercial estate winery.
14. Amherstburg
Step into history in charming Amherstburg, home to Fort Malden and scenic King’s Navy Yard Park.
15. Two Nation Destination
Marvel at three stunning international crossings, including the Gordie Howe International Bridge.
16. Multicultural Mosaic
Taste the world in one region. Windsor Essex’s culinary scene reflects one of Canada's most diverse communities.
17. Underground Railroad Legacy
Walk in the footsteps of freedom seekers at the Amherstburg Freedom Museum and Tower of Freedom monument.
18. Paddling Paradise
With 3 surrounding water bodies, Windsor Essex is a paddler’s playground. For added adventure, book a Windsor Premier Cruise.
19. Romance & Relaxation
Unwind in small-town charm with boutique shopping, cozy B&Bs and indulgent spa days that won’t break the bank.
20. Farm Fresh Feasts
Savour one of Canada's most agriculturally rich regions — dotted with roadside stands, markets, and farm-to-fork fare.
Sarnia Lambton
21. Lake Huron Beaches
Sink your toes into soft sand and watch the sky ignite with colour at Grand Bend and Canatara Beach in Sarnia.
22. World-Class Fishing
Troll for trophy bass, salmon and walleye in the St. Clair River and Lake Huron.
23. Blue Water Bridge Views
Snap breathtaking shots of turquoise waters under the iconic Blue Water Bridge.
24. Cheers to the Coast Trail
Tour 10+ local breweries along the Cheers To The Coast Trail, from crisp lagers to bold stouts.
25. Oil Museum of Canada
See where the oil rush began — in Oil Springs at the Oil Museum of Canada.
26. Boating Bliss
Dock at scenic marinas and dine riverside along the St. Clair River.
27. Judith & Norman Alix Art Gallery
Stroll through cutting-edge exhibitions from top Canadian artists.
28. Small-Town Charm
Explore Petrolia, Point Edward and Grand Bend for laid-back vibes and local gems.
29. Lambton Wineries
Sip at hidden gems like Alton Farms Estate Winery, Shale Ridge Estate Winery, and Dark Horse Estate Winery.
30. Hockey Love
Catch a Sarnia Sting game or browse the Lambton Heritage Museum’s hockey display.
31. Waterfront Dining
Dine with a view at Match Eatery, Purdy’s Dockside, or Alternate Grounds Dockside.
32. Pinery Provincial Park
Bike, hike or camp among rare oak savannahs and soak in some of Ontario’s best sunsets.
33. Scenic Golfing
Tee off at Huron Oaks or Widder Station Golf for beautiful fairways and challenging play.
34. Farmers' Markets
Fill your basket with fresh produce and baked goods at the Sarnia Farmers' Market or Downtown Market.
35. Cycle Trails Galore
Cruise over 100 miles of scenic cycling routes for all levels.
36. Live Theatre
Catch top-tier talent at Imperial Theatre in Sarnia or Victoria Playhouse Petrolia.
37. Summer Festivals
Big-name acts and local artists light up the stage at Bluewater BorderFest and other summer favourites.
38. Agricultural Traditions
Celebrate fall at plowing matches, county fairs, and rural showcases passed down through generations.
39. Farm-to-Table Favourites
Try the March Hare, The Lake Hound, Cast Iron Kitchen, Davis, or GRIND for true local flavour.
40. Your Adventure Awaits
No matter what type of traveller you are, Ontario’s Southwest has something special for you. Plan your visit today!
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