Oh Windsor, Ontario… What a hidden gem you are. Depending on the time of the year, it might look sad and grey but I promise there really is a lot that Windsor has to offer! In this article you will find a list of local things to do that will fill your entire day! This list will take you all across Windsor-Essex.
Kickstart Your Day with Local Flavor
Chance Coffee
If you’re like me, mornings don’t start until coffee happens, and Windsor has some incredible spots to get your caffeine fix. My friends and I actually make a point to check out a new cafe every weekend (we’ve been doing this for about 6 months and still haven’t run out!). My personal favourite? Chance Coffee. Located in the heart of historical Ford City, Chance Coffee is a small cafe that roasts its very own brand of coffee in-house! The coolest part: you can see the whole process from any seat in the building! Another cool fact about Chance Coffee is that they sell their coffee beans to other local businesses in the area… you can actually purchase a Chance Cold Brew at Whamburg! Some businesses put their own twist on the coffee as well, like our signature 50/50 (half Chance Cold Brew, half Vanilla Milkshake).
Explore Ford City
Bunch
Bunch is a carefully curated shop in Windsor featuring home goods, gifts, and everyday essentials with a focus on quality and design. From unique decor to locally made products, it’s a go-to spot for thoughtful finds and modern aesthetics.
Ford City Potters
Cookie Bar
Cookie Bar is a Windsor hotspot serving up handcrafted, quarter-pound stuffed cookies alongside a curated selection of Ontario craft beers. Located in Ford City, this cozy bakery-bar hybrid also hosts live music, comedy nights, and pop-up events, making it a must-visit for sweet treats and local brews.
Grab Breakfast
Manoushii Lebanese Bakery
If you’re like me and don’t like traditional bacon and eggs, you have to check out Manoushii Lebanese Breakfast in Tecumseh. Located inside of Tabouli by Eddy’s, this spot has something for everyone! From Lebanese favourites like Shaksuka, to Maanek Breakfast Sausages, to Fried Halloumi Cheese, they really do have something for everyone. Go in and ask your server for their recommendations, if you can’t figure out what to get!
TOAST Restaurant
Next up we have TOAST Restaurant on Erie St. They have amazing-size portions, iced coffee and mimosa flights, and a cute, cozy space. Make sure to get there early as there is always a wait for a table (totally worth the wait!).
Explore Windsor’s Natural Beauty
Explore Ojibway Prairie Complex
For a peaceful escape, head to Ojibway Prairie Complex. The walking trails here are serene, surrounded by wildlife (okay, as wild as Windsor gets) and the kind of quiet that makes you feel like you’re miles away from the city.
Hike Through Malden Park
If you’re in the mood for more of a hike, Malden Park is your spot. It’s got gentle hills, urban trails, and an observation area with stunning views of the Ambassador Bridge and Gordie Howe Bridge. It’s easily one of Windsor’s most iconic views.
Bike Along The Ganatchio Trail
On the other side of town, explore Ganatchio Trail. Over 8km long, this trail goes through East Windsor and Tecumseh and showcases three distinct sections: urban, suburban and naturalized parkland. Bike it, walk it, or even rollerblade it. Do you think you could walk the full trail in just one day?
Fuel Up During Lunch
Whamburg
Alright, let’s talk about lunch—and yes, this is where I shamelessly plug my spot, Whamburg. Home of Windsor’s Must-Try Smash Burger. This is what dreams are made of, and if you don’t believe me, come by and see for yourself. While the smash burgers are amazing, I have to recommend the Hot Southern Chix. It’s the perfect mix of sweet and spicy, topped with coleslaw and pickles for a cool and satisfying crunch. No matter what sandwich you order, make sure to get a side of our Double Fried Fries and dip them into our signature Wham Sauce.
And if the food wasn’t enough to convince you, look at this amazing map we have in our Walker location! Now you can plan out the rest of your Windsor day trip with ease!
Explore Windsor’s History
Art Gallery of Windsor
After lunch, tap into Windsor’s creative side.
Start with the Art Gallery of Windsor. You’ll find some amazing pieces from local artists, and the view of the Detroit skyline from the gallery is unbeatable.
Willistead Manor & Olde Walkerville
Something for the architecture buffs: Willistead Manor– located in the historic neighbourhood of Walkerville, is an Edwardian mansion with beautiful gardens that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Did you know that Willistead Manor just completed a restoration project? All of the windows were manufactured and replaced the exact same way as when they built this building… All the way back in 1906. If that isn’t dedication to preserving this historic landmark, I don’t know what is. Another fun fact about the entire Walkerville area; people can’t renovate their houses in the area without special permission, and all renovations need to have a restorative purpose. Take a walk through the whole neighbourhood to get a sense of how the upper-middle class lived in the early 1900s.
Let Loose and Have Some Fun
Zap Zone Family Fun Center
If you’re from the area, this is a name you will know: Zap Zone Family Fun Centre. Laser tag, glow mini-golf, and arcade games—it’s a total win all around. Perfect for kids, or for the adult that wants a blast to the past through their 10-year-old self’s favourite arcade game.
Adventure Bay Family Water Park
Make a splash at Adventure Bay Family Water Park in Windsor! Enjoy thrilling water slides, a wave pool, a lazy river, and a surf simulator for nonstop excitement. Perfect for all ages, it’s the ultimate spot for family fun and adventure.
Big Time Entertainment
For something more adult-friendly, head to Big Time Entertainment. They’ve got fowling lanes (a mix of football and bowling), arcade games, axe throwing, and a lively atmosphere that’s perfect for letting loose. The best feature? A full-size bar with many flat-screen tv’s broadcasting your favourite sports games! Grab a drink, challenge your friends to a game or two, and enjoy some laughs.
Check A Winery Visit Off Your List
Here’s A Full List of Windsor-Essex Wineries
- Aleksander Estate Winery – Family-owned winery focusing on small-batch, high-quality wines.
- Black Bear Farms of Ontario Estate Winery – Specializes in fruit wines made from their own berries.
- Colchester Ridge Estate Winery (CREW) – Known for award-winning wines and a welcoming atmosphere.
- Colio Estate Winery – Established in 1980, one of Ontario’s first wineries.
- Cooper’s Hawk Vineyards – Offers world-class wines, cuisine, and nature-friendly experiences.
- Dancing Swallows Vineyard – A micro-winery with a creative and unique tasting garden.
- Erie Shore Vineyard – Produces handcrafted, critically acclaimed wines.
- Mastronardi Estate Winery – A family-run winery on 100 acres with a strong agricultural heritage.
- Muscedere Vineyards – A family-owned vineyard known for hand-harvesting premium wines and its wood-fired pizza.
- North 42 Degrees Estate Winery & Bistro 42 – A winery and lavender farm offering a unique experience.
- Oxley Estate Winery – Small-batch wines paired with seasonal dishes in a picturesque setting.
- Paglione Estate Winery – Infused with Italian charm, featuring wood-fired pizzas.
- Pelee Island Winery – One of Canada’s oldest wineries, with expansive vineyard tours.
- Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery – Ontario’s only beachfront winery, offering tastings and picnics.
- Viewpointe Estate Winery – A winery with breathtaking views of Lake Erie and a full menu.
- Vin Winery – Windsor-Essex’s newest winery on a 31-acre wooded estate.
- Vivace Estate Winery – Located at the western gateway to Southwestern Ontario’s wine country.
Where Will You Go In Windsor-Essex?
By now, you’re probably feeling like you’ve conquered Windsor in a day, and what better way to wrap things up than by reflecting on all the fun? Whether you end your night with a quiet drink, a late-night riverside stroll, or just the satisfaction of knowing you crushed your Windsor day trip, you’ll leave with memories (and maybe a full belly from Whamburg).
Windsor might be a small city, but it packs a punch. From cultural spots and amazing food to fun activities and unbeatable views, it’s got everything you need for the perfect day trip. So, what are you waiting for? Come explore, eat, and enjoy—and don’t forget to stop by Whamburg for a burger that’ll truly make your day unforgettable.