Looking for an overnight getaway but don’t want to travel too far? Here are a couple of suggestions that might be closer to you than you think!
It's Summer again and we can’t be more excited about going out and exploring, however with government restrictions in place the possibilities are limited but not less exciting. Start playing “tourist” in your own local area and make the most out of your getaway!
Delta Hotels by Marriott London Armouries - London
The Delta Hotels by Marriott London Armouries, also known as “London’s Castle”, is in the heart of downtown London. Guests are privileged to enjoy a touchless service by using the Marriott Bonvoy™ mobile app for mobile check-in and key, service requests, and room service orders. Both the Armouries Grille and the Cantata Lounge are open for take-out only without you ever needing to step a foot outside of the hotel. Where possible, staying in the hotel room is recommended. Plus, who doesn't love wearing fancy robes and ordering room service?
If you choose to venture outside the hotel, it is walkable from many restaurants, cafes, and shops. Enjoy the beautiful weather in a newly renovated patio at the Morrissey House, or if you prefer order some takeout at the Early Bird for a picnic at the Ivey Park, just a few minutes away.
Dundas Place is filled with local businesses that will make your time in downtown London extra special. You can satisfy your sweet tooth with delicious juices at Rebel Remedy Health Bar. Or head over to Richmond Row to visit local shops and a specialty coffee from the Black Walnut Bakery Café. Call ahead to learn about curbside pickup or delivery services.
The PRINN - Vittoria
The PRINN is a beautiful boutique hotel in Port Rowan. The rooms are decorated with attention to detail that establishes an elegant ambiance perfectly suited for a summer escape.
The PRINN is only a 15-minute drive away from Charlotteville Brewing Company where you can enjoy a cheese plate, charcuterie board, or sandwich and a locally brewed beer.
For wine drinkers, Blueberry Hill Estates is only a ten-minute drive from the PRINN. Take a pick at their collection of wines and bring it back to cheers and enjoy in your hotel room. As they say, “there’s an occasion for every wine! If your household includes non-drinkers, the Cider Keg’s non-alcoholic sparkling cider is the perfect option.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites - Woodstock South
The Holiday Inn Express & Suites is a beautiful hotel in the heart of Woodstock. It is within a ten-minute drive from a brewery, many restaurants, coffee shops, and skincare supplies making it an ideal location for your staycation. The best part about this hotel is that it offers breakfast TO-GO, so you can take it back to your hotel room and enjoy your breakfast in bed, as you should!
Only a seven-minute drive away from your hotel is the Upper Thames Brewing Company, Oxford’s only brewery. For coffee lovers, Early Bird Coffee is a six-minute walk away from your hotel and offers coffee tasting experiences.
After a long day in the sun, you may want to go back to your hotel room to refresh yourself and what better way to do it than to have a mini spa night. You can pick up some skincare essentials at Wild Comfort. It is only a ten-minute drive from your accommodations and has online ordering, with pick-up and delivery options.
Best Western Plus Waterfront Hotel - Windsor
Locals looking to get away within the Windsor Essex and Pelee Island area will love the location of the Best Western Plus Waterfront Hotel. This hotel features spectacular views and is a five-minute drive from Via Italia, Windsor’s Little Italy. If you want to make the most out of your getaway, take advantage of the complimentary Grab & Go breakfast and make your way to the Windsor riverfront for a closer look at the scenic views of the Detroit River.
The Mezzo Ristorante & Lounge is in Little Italy and therefore is less than five minutes away from your hotel and offers gourmet boxes to go. This award-winning restaurant offers take-out and delivery options. So that you can stay safe and socially distanced in your hotel room.
There are two local breweries within a five-minute drive from your hotel, Walkerville Brewery and Chapter Two Brewing Company. With these two options, you’ll be in for high-quality beer since the Walkerville Brewery won several awards at the 2020 Canadian Brewing Awards and the brewer at Chapter Two is a Certified Cicerone. Both breweries want you to be safe and socially distanced and therefore they offer online ordering.
If you prefer to enjoy your summer getaway in the comfort of your room, pick up a bottle of Lily from Colio Winery or a bottle of Lola Secco from Pelee Island Winery that is also available at the LCBO. The LCBO also allows you to shop online with delivery and same-day pick up so that you can limit your time in the community.
Hampton Inn by Hilton - Sarnia
The Hampton Inn by Hilton in Sarnia is five minutes drive from Bluewater Bridge International Crossing and two miles away from Cantara Beach and Park. Don’t forget to grab your free breakfast first thing in the morning, or maybe a little later.
Alton Farms Estate Winery is the perfect spot for those looking for a tranquil afternoon. Enjoy some wine tastings and charcuterie boards at their patio or go on a walk in their forest. It is truly an amazing opportunity to learn more about the art of traditional hand-crafted wine.
Photo courtesy of Refined Fool's Facebook Page.
Refined Fool Brewing Co. is less than ten minutes away from your hotel. Their new bar, “Sports” is complete with food, Refined Fool beer, and as the name would indicate, sports! Sports has cornhole, darts, pool, foosball, shuffleboard, and more for their patrons to play for free.
Clock Tower Inn - Strathroy
The Clock Tower Inn is built in a historical building yet has been renovated to meet the needs of a modern guest. The bistro is part of the inn so that guests can enjoy pizza, crab cakes, and warming soups that are perfect during the colder months. Where possible, staying in your room and ordering take-out is recommended.
There are so many great places to visit within walking distance from your accommodations. For the coffee lovers, Muggs Coffeebar and Clayroom is a one-minute walk away from the hotel. They have fantastic coffee, baked goods, and food. There is also a clayroom and kiln on-site, so you can pick up a pottery painting kit, paint it at the inn or surrounded by nature at the Alexandra Park, and bring it back to Muggs when it is ready for the kiln. Please note that the kiln takes time and you should be ready to pick up your souvenir at a later date.
The Rusty Wrench Brewing Company is also walkable from your stay. It is about a ten-minute walk and when you arrive you can enjoy locally crafted beer and some delicious food, the perfect summer pairing. Call ahead to learn about curbside pickup or delivery services.
Strathroy is bursting with food options fit for foodies. If you’re in the mood for authentic Portuguese food, Tia’s Place is also walkable and offers take-out and delivery so that you can enjoy your meal in your beautiful room.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites - Chatham
The Holiday Inn Express in Chatham is the perfect staycation destination for locals. This large hotel safe, clean, and it is a short drive away from Chatham’s downtown and other fantastic attractions.
The Chilled Cork is a five-minute drive from your hotel and it offers amazing food made with local ingredients, not to mention their above-an-beyond service. Make sure to grab a spot at their patio as it tends to fill up quickly! Sons of Kent Brewing Co. is about a minute away from the Chilled Cork. Their premium beer can be brought back to the hotel with you to enjoy later. And don’t forget an Edible Fruit Arrangement from Bella Chocolatier. They can even be delivered to your hotel the day after you order them.
For wine drinkers, the Early Acres Estate Winery is only a 15-minute drive from your hotel and has award-winning wines.
My Lighthouse Cottages - Dunnville
Haldimand locals looking for a summer escape should head to My Lighthouse Cottages in Dunnville. These waterfront cottages are the ultimate cottage experience that we all have been looking forward to this year. If you feel like staying at your cottage, enjoy a delicious BBQ at their designated outdoor dining areas.
For a unique dining experience that is less than ten minutes away from your stay, check out Debb's Cuisine on Queen. Reserve a heated greenhouse for your household to social distance with ease. These greenhouses are perfect for a family of four to enjoy Chef Debb’s delicious culinary creations while taking a break from the sun!
Since your cottage will be equipped with a kitchen, stopping at Richardson's Farm and Market to pick up some local ingredients may be exactly what you are looking for. Their non-alcoholic ciders are fan favourites. Or if hard cider is more your speed, the Bains Road Cider Company is also located in Dunnville and makes 100% Ontario Wines and Ciders.
Inn on the Harbour - Port Stanley
The Inn on the Harbour in Port Stanley is located right on the Lake Erie harbour. This charming inn has 12 different themed rooms so that you can choose the perfect décor for your summer getaway.
There are many storybook restaurant options walkable from the inn. Enjoy your afternoon at Two Forks' patio filled with amazing food, tasty drinks and a guaranteed great time! For coffee drinkers, the Village Square Coffee House’s specialty drinks, both hot and cold, will boost you up and get you ready to take on the day.
If you really want to celebrate right, you should head over to Rush Creek Wines for their award-winning raspberry chocolate wine. It pairs perfectly with the treats and eats at Picard's Peanuts Talbotville Store. Or if you are looking for something healthy, check out The Storehouse in Port Stanley. This health food store is the home of the all-natural gourmet snack, Barb's Brickle. Who said getaways are always done on special occasions? It is always a great time to go on a little adventure around your area and celebrate life!
To learn more about what you can expect when exploring Ontario’s Southwest and how businesses are trying to keep you safe and following government guidelines, click here.
