100+ Things to Do This Summer in Windsor and Essex County – 2026

Experience all that southern Canada has to offer by spending time in Essex County — Canada’s southernmost region — and Windsor — the southernmost city in Canada. All surrounded by lakes and rivers, this region is special for its beautiful natural parks, farmland, and range of festivals to enjoy.

Whether you’re looking to spend your summer exploring the natural world or delighting in the indoor activities that the region has to offer, this list of things to do in Windsor and Essex County, Ontario, this summer has got you covered.

• 25 Must-Visit Nature Attractions & Parks in the Windsor-Essex Region

Canada Strong Pass:

Until September 7, 2026,  admission to all Parks Canada-administered national parks, national historic sites, and marine conservation areas will be free for all visitors. Additionally, camping fees will be reduced by 25%. This includes Point Pelee National Park, Fort Malden National Historic Site and other locations.

Events and Festivals

The Fun Returns

Windsor Riverfront Carnival is back again this summer. Details

June 12 – 28, 2026

Harrow Open Streets

Harrow Open Street brings an evening of community fun to downtown Harrow from 5pm to 8pm. Hosted by the Harrow and Colchester South Chamber of Commerce, the event features 30+ vendors, a magician, live music, food trucks, coffee, and more. Details

June 26, 2026 | 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Lakewood Summer Sounds

Enjoy a lively and engaging experience, surrounded by the beautiful Summer scenery of Lakewood Park!! Details

June 28, 2026 | 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM

The Great Benjamins Circus

The Great Benjamins Circus brings its all-new 2026 show to Leamington with bigger thrills, brighter lights, and jaw-dropping moments for the whole family. Audiences can look forward to an exciting circus experience packed with fun, spectacle, and family-friendly entertainment. Details

June 26 – 28, 2026

Lavender Festival

The Lavender Festival returns to North 42 Degrees Estate Winery for a weekend celebrating the lavender bloom. Enjoy live music, talented artists and artisans, and activities for all ages from 10am to 5pm. Details

June 27 – 28, 2026

Kingsville Highland Games

The Kingsville Highland Games return to Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens for a full-day celebration of Scottish traditions and Celtic heritage. Enjoy pipe bands, Highland dancing, heavy athletics, tug of war, haggis hurling, clan and Jacobite villages, sheep demonstrations, artisans, food, a beer tent, and activities for all ages. Details

Saturday, June 27, 2026

Windsor Riverfront Fireworks Party

Windsor Riverfront Fireworks Party is back again on June 23rd. It starts at 6 pm at the “Bistro at the River”. Catch an amazing up-close experience for the 68th Edition of the Ford Fireworks. Details

June 22, 2026 | 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Kingsville Block Party

Join us on the third Saturday of each month through the summer for the community block parties. Enjoy great food, socialize with fantastic people, shop local vendors and businesses, check out Kingsville’s arts and culture scene, and let the kids enjoy some fun activities! Details

June 20, July 18, August 15, 2026 | 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Amherstburg Open Air Weekends

Take part in free yoga classes, enjoy live music, and more during Amherstburg Open Air Weekends. Every Friday starting at 3 pm till Sunday at 8 pm the streets of Downtown Amherstburg are open for visitors to enjoy an open-air safe atmosphere. Details

Fridays – Sundays, June 5 to September 6, 2026 | 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Windsor Canada Day Parade

Join the celebration with vibrant floats, music, and community spirit in the heart of downtown Windsor. This year, the parade travels along Ouellette Avenue from Giles to Pitt with the theme “Our Canadian Mosaic.” Details

Wednesday, July 1, 2026 | Parade at 11 AM; Family Fun zone 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM

Electric Avenue International Jazz Festival

The Electric Avenue International Jazz Festival brings free world-class jazz to WindsorEats Food Hall and nearby neighbourhood locations. Enjoy live performances from top jazz musicians, local food and drinks, and a lively celebration of music, culture, and community in the Electric Avenue Art Alley. Details

July 3 – 4, 2026

Port Windsor Music & Arts Festival

Port Windsor Music & Arts Festival is a free, all-day family-friendly celebration featuring over 100 performers across music, dance, theatre, poetry, opera, visual art, and more. Enjoy top Canadian artists, special Detroit guests, the Sandwich Town Market in the Park, food and craft vendors, live jazz, classical performances, roots, blues, gospel, and community arts programming throughout Sandwich Town. Details

Sunday, July 5, 2026 | 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Mystic Garden Music Festival

Mystic Garden Music Festival returns for its second year with two full days of music, art, immersive attractions, and high-energy festival experiences. Featuring world-class artists, local talent, upgraded visuals, and new surprises, this rain-or-shine event invites guests to step into the Garden and enjoy the weekend. Details

July 11 – 12, 2026

Windsor-Essex FanCon

Windsor-Essex FanCon returns to the Event Centre at LaSalle Landing for two days of cosplay, collectibles, gaming, guests, and pop culture fun. Fans can enjoy local artists, rare finds, cosplay competitions, video games, family-friendly activities, speakers, and a welcoming celebration of geek culture. Details

July 11 – 12, 2026 | 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Kingsville Live at the Lighthouse

Live at the Lighthouse brings free, all-ages summer concerts to the Mettawas Park Gazebo in Kingsville. Enjoy live entertainment from Windsor-Essex County artists performing smooth jazz, Sinatra classics, pop, rock, country, folk, blues, and more. Details

Thursdays, July 2 – August 27, 2026 | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM

SYNC Festival

SYNC Festival brings house, techno, and dance music to the city’s waterfront at Festival Plaza. Presented by SOTC Productions, this rain-or-shine electronic music festival features four international headliners and a high-energy waterfront atmosphere. Details

July 17 – 19, 2026

Dark Skies & Fireflies Night Market

Dark Skies & Fireflies Night Market brings a magical summer evening of shopping, food, entertainment, and community to the Event Centre at LaSalle Landing. Guests can enjoy 40+ local vendors, live performances, trivia, line dancing, paint and sip, photo contests, food tastings, and interactive activities under the stars. Details

Saturday, July 18, 2026 | 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Regency Ball at Willistead Manor

The Windsor Regency Ball returns to Willistead Manor for an elegant evening of dancing, tea service, and period-inspired celebration. Guests can promenade through lavish ballrooms, learn Regency-era dances from professional performers, and enjoy a refined summer night on the manor grounds. Details

Sunday, August 23, 2026 | 6:00 PM

Windsor JerkFest & Day Jam

The Windsor Essex Leamington Jerk Festival returns for its third year at WECA, also known as the Caribbean Centre, in Windsor. Enjoy two nights of Caribbean culture, jerk cuisine, live music, and island vibes featuring Louie Culture and Universal Expression. Details

June 26 – 27, 2026

Sprucewood Shores Summer Music Series

Enjoy the sweet sounds of local Windsor-Essex Talent while you enjoy a glass of wine in a beautiful park-like setting at Sprucewood Shores Winery.  Details

Sundays, June 28 to September 13, 2026 | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Militaria Gun and Knife Show

Come on out to Canadian Transportation Museum Heritage Village to the annual Militaria Gun and Knife show to see all of the incredible items our vendors are offering. Details

July 5, 2026 | 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Belle River BIA Car Show

Prepare to be amazed by a stunning collection of vintage vehicles, muscle cars, and hot rods. Tell your fellow car lovers and make plans to attend this must-see event! Details

July 10, 2026 | 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Fun All Around

It’s going to be 4 days of food, music, and fun from July 3 to 6 at the Essex Fairgrounds during the Essex Fun Fest. Featuring a beer tent, entertainment, fireworks, kids zone, main stage entertainment, midway, amusement rides, and parade. Details

July 2-5, 2026
Fireworks on Saturday, July 4th, starting at 10:05 PM

Stroll the Streets

Stroll the Street is an upbeat urban experience with small-town charm geared for locals of all ages.  The community is invited to walk, shop, eat and enjoy all that local businesses have to offer. Details

August 14 & September 11,2026

Walkerville Art Walk

This art-centric event features local art in all forms. Vendors, artists in the streets, live performances and demonstrations, and interactive activities, there is something for everyone. Details

July 18, 2026 | 11 AM  – 10 PM

Kingsville Pro Rodeo

Experience the thrill and excitement of Kingsville Pro Rodeo. Details

July 23 to 26, 2026

Tecumseh Twilight

Join us for a perfect night of food trucks, classic cars, and a movie under the stars at McAuliffe Park. Details

Friday, July 24, 2026 | 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM

Hiram Walker 210th Birthday Celebration

The Hiram Walker 210th Birthday Celebration honours one of Windsor’s most influential historical figures and his lasting impact on architecture, industry, neighbourhoods, and culture. The event includes the grand opening of the completed Coach House Historical Exhibition, an expansion showcasing the Art Jahns Collection, and an evening fundraiser and themed dinner party at Willistead Manor. Details

Saturday, July 4, 2026

High Tea & Garden Party  at Willistead Manor

Experience includes a not-to-be-missed Tea Bar featuring hot and cold teas; a delicious menu of sandwiches, crumpets, scones, and pastries; and a self-guided tour of the Paul Martin Gardens. Guests are encouraged to wear their fanciest “high tea hat” for a chance to win a prize. Details

Sunday, July 5, 2026 | 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM & 4:00 PM

2026 World Junior Summer Showcase

The 2026 World Junior Summer Showcase comes to WFCU Centre in Windsor with 10 games featuring top junior hockey hopefuls from Canada, Finland, Sweden, and the United States. This international showcase serves as an important evaluation event ahead of the IIHF World Junior Championship and brings elite young talent to the ice for fans, NHL scouts, and NCAA scouts. Details

July 26 – August 1, 2026

Summer Tours at Willistead Manor

Begin your summer tour of Willistead Manor at the Coach House, where you can buy tickets and explore the Historical Exhibition on-site. Learn about Hiram Walker and the Walkerville legacy before touring the grand estate. Friends of Willistead will provide historical context and answer questions throughout the tour. Details

Wednesdays, July 8, 15, 22, and 29, 2026 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM; Sundays, July 12, 19, and 26, 2026 | 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Fort Malden Living History Festival

Fort Malden Living History Festival invites visitors to step back in time at Fort Malden National Historic Site. This family-friendly event features period encampments, re-enactors, live demonstrations, historic displays, music, cooking presentations, featured talks, and historic weapons demonstrations. Details

August 1 – 2, 2026

Ribfest

Juicy ribs, entertainment, craft beer, vendors, and Kids Zone! Need we say more? Details

South Windsor Ribfest on August 28 – 30, 2026

Amherstburg Ribfest on June 1 – 21, 2026

Crazy about Cars

Amherstburg’s Gone Car Crazy Show happens annually on Sunday at the end of July. On that day, hundreds of classic cars of all shapes, and sizes descend upon the streets of downtown Amherstburg. Details

July 26, 2026

At the Quarry

At the Quarry ’26 features an outdoor summer concert series with performances beginning at 6pm and entry by donation. Enjoy live music from The Soul Delegation, Ed & Ryan Janzen, Laura Bolt, Austin Pietro Ensemble, Cassandra Caverhill, Tina Newlove, The Zerbo Brothers, Audrey Gaussiran, Teajai Travis, Allison Ware, Evangeline Yetman, and Nil-a-Nova Big Band.. Details

Various dates, July 4 to September 6, 2026

Wear your Rainbow colours

Pride Fest, held every August, is a remarkable annual celebration showcasing local theatre, music, art, and entertainment. The festival serves as a platform to raise awareness about the challenges, discrimination, and issues faced by the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in Windsor-Essex, while also providing a space for joy and celebration. Details

July 31 – August 9, 2026

Let’s go to the Fair

The origin of the fair goes back to the late 185os. Since then, it has been entertaining visitors with family-fun activities while promoting agriculture through competitions and exhibitions.  This year is no exception. Details

August 7 – 9, 2026

Windsor Hip Hop Festival

Windsor Hip Hop Festival celebrates the energy, creativity, and culture of Windsor’s hip-hop scene at Ernest Atkinson Park. This full-day event features local and regional artists, DJs, dancers, visual artists, community vendors, live performances, breakdancing, graffiti and live art displays, food vendors, and interactive experiences. Details

Saturday, August 8, 2026

St. Angela Merici Festival

St. Angela Merici Festival celebrates its 40th anniversary in Windsor’s historic Via Italia neighbourhood on Erie Street. This beloved community festival brings together entertainment, local culture, delicious food, family-friendly fun, and the welcoming spirit of one of the city’s most vibrant districts. Details

August 8 – 9, 2026

To the Market

The Mill St. Market is specially curated to serve delectable street food and drinks while you shop for handcrafted arts and crafts lining the modern, reinvented Mill Street in Leamington. With live music, you’ve never experienced a night market like this! Details

Friday, June 12, July 10, August 14, 2026 | 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Living Battlefields – Civil War Reenactment Weekend

The explorer has been searching for a magical artifact for their entire life and they finally found it! They have hidden it away to protect it, but they left some leads around the cabin. Do you have what it takes to follow the clues and uncover the artifact? Details

July 18 -19, 2026

Hogs For Hospice

Hogs For Hospice is a 3-day motorcycle rally with a concert series and charity ride at the Southern tip of Canada. Get ready for a weekend filled with Concerts, Bike Games, Stunt Shows, Vendors, a Beer Garden, a Rib Fest, and a Charity Ride all for a good cause. Details

July 31 – August 2, 2026

Tecumseh Corn & Music Festival

Experience the Tecumseh Corn & Music Festival, a weekend of live music, delicious food, fun activities for kids, and thrilling events.  Enjoy classic cars, food trucks, kids’ activities, and live music by local bands. The festival features bouncy castles, dog shows, Taekwondo demonstrations, and autograph sessions. Don’t miss the exciting soapbox derby and family-friendly entertainment throughout the event! Details

August 28 – 30, 2026

Appreciate the local art scene at Art by the River

Art by the River has been an Essex County tradition since 1967, giving it a history of art appreciation that has seeped into the region. This event includes work by over 150 artists and artisans. Let the atmosphere — which features the beautiful Detroit River and music —carry you from the vendors as you find something that speaks to you. Details

August 29 & 30, 2026

Dropped on Drouillard

Packed with events and attractions such as mural painting, live music, a classic car show and plenty of local vendors, Dropped on Drouillard is Windsor’s only all-day urban street and culture festival! Details

Saturday, August 15, 2026 | 11:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Butterfly Festival

The 6th Annual Butterfly Festival celebrates nature, education, and community at the Via Italia Heritage Garden. This family-friendly event features pollinator displays, hands-on learning, butterfly-friendly gardening tips, the monarch life cycle, and a magical butterfly release. Details

Sunday, August 23, 2026 | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Windsor International Diaspora African Festival

WIDAFEST is an annual celebration of African culture at Lanspeary Park, featuring live African music, delicious cultural foods, unique art pieces from talented vendors, and mesmerizing dance performances. Details

August 20–23, 2026

172nd Harrow Fair

The Harrow Fair is an old-fashioned country fair with horse shows, prize chickens, award-winning quilts, red ribbon baking, and amazing live entertainment. Details

September 3 – 6, 2026

89X Birthday Bash

The 89X Birthday Bash returns to The Colosseum at Caesars Windsor for a night of alternative rock. The celebration features Default performing The Fallout for its 25th anniversary, along with The Blue Stones and Fionn. Details

Friday, September 4, 2026 | 7:30 PM

End of Summer Celebration

Join us for our End of Summer Celebration! Start with a community bonfire and marshmallow roast accompanied by live music, followed by a spectacular fireworks display at Lakewood Park South! Details

Saturday, September 5, 2026 | 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM

Taste of Walkerville

Get ready to tickle your tastebuds with this street closure event. Dinner and drink specials, local eats and drinks, this event is all about local food and beverages. Details

September 12, 2026 | 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

LaSalle Last Call Before Fall

Last Call Before Fall aims to celebrate the local community and offers an opportunity to try new or familiarize oneself with local craft beer, wine, and spirits. Attendees can enjoy delicious food and live music, ensuring a night of non-stop dancing and entertainment. Details

September 11 – 12, 2026

Flutter Fest

Flutter Fest, a Community Migration Celebration, takes place at multiple locations on Pelee Island from September 17 – 20, 2026. Details

September 17 – 20, 2026

Amherstburg Uncommon Festival

Join us for a magical steampunk weekend, September 18-20! Step into a world of gears, gadgets, and enchantments. Dress in your favourite wizardry or steampunk costume and enjoy buskers, live performances, games, vendors, and more. Fun-filled days await—don’t miss out! Details

September 18-20, 2026

Activities in (and around) Windsor-Essex Region

Go on a cruise

Enjoy an afternoon scenic tour of the Detroit River while listening to a live audio commentary on the history and cultural significance of the Detroit River and its surrounding areas. You can choose from a sunset cruise, a historic Amherstburg cruise, a dinner cruise, and more! Details

Hike or Bike the Waterfront Trail

Can you complete the Windsor-Essex section of the waterfront trail that runs from Lakeshore to Leamington this summer – a total of 213.2 kilometers? Details

A Fun Time on the Pottery Wheel

Perfect date night or a night out with a friend, this relaxed 2-hour session teaches you the basics of the wheel. For first-timers, this will be a perfect way to “feel out” the wheel, learn the basics, and have some fun! This session is all about having fun and making memories on the pottery wheel! Details

Glamp at  Point Pelee National Park

Jungled forests, wetlands, and savannah — you can have it all at the beautiful Point Pelee National Park. Come to this park for one of the many events hosted through the summer, or just to explore nature on your own. You can bike the forest trails or walk along the boardwalk — regardless of what route you choose, you will see some of the most beautiful land along Canada’s southernmost edge. There is also an oTENTik at this National Park. Details

Go Karting

Race, or play mini-golf at Point Pelee Karting. They have a fleet of double-seated and single-passenger karts for a fun day out with the whole family. Details

Spend a day at the beach

Enjoy a day out at Colchester Beach which is located on the north shore of Lake Erie. After the beach trip, kids can also explore the Pirate Ship Playground and Splash Pad located nearby. Details

Join for a wine trail tour

Meander through the farmlands along the Lake Erie coastline a la bicyclette and fall in love with Canada’s southernmost region. Each Wine Trail Ride includes a bicycle, helmet, tastings, food at each location, and a guide. Details

Go, Ghost Hunting.

Join the adventure of Olde Amherstburg Ghost Tour which features 13+ ghostly stories with haunting illustrations by Nick Marinkovich, more than 30 historical reference photos, and 360-degree photography of building interiors. Details

Explore Hillman Marsh Conservation Area

Climb the viewing tower and explore 5 kilometers of trails at this famous birding location adjacent to Lake Erie. Best visited during late summer to see fall migration, as over one hundred species of birds use Hillman as a migration stopover. Details 

Go on the Barrels, Bottles, and Brews Tour

Explore & pour the 12 craft breweries & 2 distilleries in Windsor Essex that make up the Barrels Bottles & Brews trail! Visit the stops along the way of the Windsor Essex barrel trail – the birthplace of Canadian whisky, award-winning vodkas, and craft breweries featuring some of the finest ales, lagers, stouts, and more! Details

Boblo Island

Go on a boat trip to this boat-only accessible island,  in the Detroit River. Have a beach day at White Sands located at the south end of Boblo Island —  a beautiful sandy beach that is groomed weekends from Victoria Day weekend in May through Labour Day or fish for  Muskie, Walleye, White Bass or Yellow Perch in the Crystal Bay. Details

Learn about Canada’s Early Military History

Visit Fort Malden National Historic Site and learn about the War of 1812 and the Rebellions of 1838. Details

Visit Serenity Lavender Farm

Serenity Lavender Farm boasts more varieties of lavender than any other lavender farm in Ontario.  Spend a day among this fragrant flower and taste some of the incredible creations baked and brewed with its essence. You’ll feel at once enchanted and relaxed by this summertime blossom. Details

Pick Your Own Dahlias

Visit Colour Pop Florals, a family-run flower farm growing cut Dahlias & Ranunculus to make your dahlia bouquets from August to September. Pre-booked tickets are required for PYOs.  Details

See a lighthouse

Visit the Lighthouse Conservation Area located at the mouth of the Thames River at Lake St. Clair to see one of the oldest lighthouses on the Great Lakes. The lighthouse that was built in the early 1800’s was destroyed by fire during the War of 1812.  It was rebuilt in 1818. Details

Get Farm Fresh Food

Get farm fresh fruit, vegetables, produce, and unique artisan food products at Downtown Windsor Farmers’ Market. The 2026 season runs every Saturday from 9 am-2 pm, starting March 28 until October 31! Details

Tour through Windsor’s Art

This tour explores Windsor Sculpture Park’s sculptures and monuments using your smartphone or tablet. Visit the sculpture park and fire up the app for an interactive experience that lets you be your own tour guide as you experience Windsor’s outdoor “museum without walls.” Details

Go on a whiskey tasting at J.P. Wiser’s Distillery

Whiskey fans will love the tour of J.P. Wiser’s Distillery. Starting at the end of June, join with a group of people and be guided through the process it takes to make a great Canadian whiskey. By the end of the tour, you’ll have a chance to buy some of the whiskey you’re now an expert in. Open through the weekend, spend an hour and a half in Whiskey heaven at J.P Wiser’s distillery this summer. Details

Visit Historic Essex Railway Station

The Essex Railway Station, built in 1887, was a transportation hub in Essex County. After being damaged by an explosion in 1907, it was restored and continued serving the community until passenger services ceased. Preservation efforts began in 1975 and were completed by 1994. Today, the station houses a variety of railway memorabilia and historical artifacts. Visitors can take self-directed tours using provided booklets. Details

Get out and surf with the Urban Surf Company

Have you ever wanted to try surfing but never had the opportunity? Here is your chance! Head out on Lake St Clair with Urban Surf, who will set you up with a stand-up paddleboard, a canoe, a pedal board, and all sorts of paddling lessons. Choose your lake adventure and be trained by the experts. Afterward, check out the smoothie bar on shore. You’ll be sure to have worked up an appetite. Details

Camp in luxury at Camper’s Cove

For over 50 years, Camper’s Cove has been a favourite destination for local and travelling campers alike. This lakeside location features a general store, a sandy beach, cabins, power hookups, a video game room, a snack bar, and so much more. It will be hard to come back to reality after a few nights at Camper’s Cove. Details

Hands-on Heritage

The Park House Museum is the oldest house in Amherstburg, and through the summer you have the opportunity to enjoy a picturesque tea experience. Soak up the history as you take your tea in the backyard and overlook the Detroit River, or learn a new skill.  There is a wide range of activities… baking, candle making, crafts, butter churning, sausage making, and much more. Details

Adventure Bay Family Water Park

Make a splash at Adventure Bay! With over 35,000 square feet of wild water adventures that includes  5 giant waterslides, Lazy River, and many other water play features! Details

Explore the Shore

Get in your car and drive along Canada’s southernmost scenic road – County Road 50, and visit wineries, restaurants, and enjoy recreational activities. Let yourself be surprised as you Explore the Shore. Details

Hike the Kopegaron Woods

Take a hike along one of the most beautiful forest boardwalk trails in the region. While exploring this 19 hectare Carolinian woodland, you’ll see Tulip-tree, Sassafras, Black Gum, Sycamore and Flowering Dogwood trees, as well as wildflowers such as Trillium, Jack-in-the-pulpit, May Apple, Spring Beauty and Columbine, to mention just a few. Details

Visit the historic Jack Miner Bird Sanctuary

Jack Miner established this bird sanctuary in 1904, making it a part of Essex County’s history and a true gem of Kingsville. You can still feed the water fowl here, and now you can also visit the museum and Jack Miner house for an extra touch of history. Admission is free and the grounds are open from dawn to dusk. Details

Explore the Cedar Creek Conservation Area

The Cedar Creek Conservation Area is a pride of the Essex region. This park is full of eagles, egrets, turtles, and other wildlife reveling in their natural habitat. With woodlands and creeks galore, you never know what you will find while exploring here. Spend some time kayaking, or just hit the trails and explore this natural wonder to your heart’s desire. Details

Rent a bicycle and explore Pelee Island

If you’re looking for a Pelee Island bike adventure, let Comfortech take care of you. Rent a bike, beach, or mountain bike and pick up one of their biking maps before you hit the trails. You can also buy equipment here — a real possibility after you fall in love with the area. Helmets are rented out at no extra charge. Get on your way with Bike Rentals. Take the ferry to Pelee Island.

Go back in time to the 1850s at John R. Park Homestead and Conservation Area

A visit to the John R. Park Homestead and Conservation Area will take you back in time to the 1850s.  Explore the Parks’ magnificent Classical Revival home, built in 1842, taste baking from the kitchen fireplace, or play with a wooden toy in the children’s bedrooms and take a scenic walk on the lakeshore boardwalk. Details

Cut through the region on the Chrysler Canada Greenway Trail

Fifty kilometers of trails are available for you to explore at the Chrysler Canada Greenway Trail. Touching the southernmost link of the Trans Canada Trail, this Greenway is the best way to get a real feel for the landscape of the Essex region. You’ll pass bridges, see the rural parts of Ontario, and experience as much summertime greenery as you can take. Hit the trail at the Chrysler Canada Greenway Trail. Details

Admire the Detroit Skyline from The Dieppe Gardens

The Dieppe Gardens is the place to go if you want to appreciate just how close Windsor is to the American border. Come here for an incredible view of the Detroit Skyline across the river, and hang out among the blooms and blossoms of summertime. Check out the waterfall and fish pond, and don’t miss the monuments to the soldiers who lost their lives in the Second World War. Details

Create a meal from fresh produce from Fred’s Farm Fresh

Fred’s Farm Fresh brings you the full range of farm foods, both local and expertly imported. From meats to cheeses to freshly baked bread — you won’t be able to stop here without taking home something delicious. Fred’s Farm Fresh is located in Windsor for your convenience, and the employees are ready to make the perfect recommendation for your perfect meal. Details

Explore Windsor’s famous Sculpture Park

A true highlight of exploring Windsor, the Windsor Sculpture Park is “a museum without walls” and features 31 internationally recognized works of art. Download the Sculptures and Monuments app for guided tours or take a stroll and appreciate the art at your own pace. However you choose to enjoy these art pieces, you’ll be happy to be outdoors in the hot Ontario summer. Details

Treat yourself at A Hidden Gem Bed and Breakfast

Treat yourself to a B&B experience in the historic Walkerville area of Windsor with A Hidden Gem Bed and Breakfast. Whether you’re embarking on a Windsor vacation or just need a summertime staycation, you’ll be treated to a hearty breakfast, and a private suite, and you’ll be situated near both the river and the casino. Ask your hosts for tips on where to explore — they have lived here their whole lives and are bona fide experts. Details

Go on a Self-Guided Heritage Tour

The new Heritage Tour offers an immersive look into the community’s rich history. Follow the map for a self-guided tour, exploring historical properties and their architectural details. Details

Mini Golf!

On the Water Miniature Golf in Tecumseh boasts of two spectacular – Pirate Island and Lost Island – 18-hole miniature golf courses. There are fifteen cascading waterfalls,  a pirate ship, and even a 34-foot treehouse. Details

A walking tour of murals

Explore 13 murals that tell the story of the town of Essex. Details

Relax on the green at Ambassador Golf Club

If you’re looking for a great game of golf this season, check out Ambassador Golf Club, known as “the region’s premier public golf and banquet facility”. This course has been ranked one of Canada’s Top 59 Golf Courses for its beauty and challenges. With 18 holes at par 71, as well as a highly esteemed restaurant and ProShop, you’ll have everything you need to spend a great day on the green. Details

The John Freeman Walls Historical Site & Underground Railroad Museum

Visit this unique tourist attraction to understand and experience the first great secret movement, allowing thousands of fugitive slaves to enter Canada to obtain freedom. The interactive guided tour stimulates traveling the Underground Railroad. Details

Get a glimpse of our automotive past

Stop by the Canadian Transportation Museum and Heritage Village for a glimpse into our automotive past. The 100-acre site houses one of the largest vehicle museums in Ontario and over a dozen buildings of local significance dating back to the late 1800s. Details

Explore McAuliffe Woods

Located in the Town of Tecumseh, McAuliffe Woods is a great visit with young kids. The 1-kilometre trail through a wooded area is paved, offering easy accessibility for walkers, wheelchairs, and strollers. Details

History and beauty meet at The King’s Navy Yard Park

The Kings’s Navy Yard Park is a luscious garden and a part of history all at once. Find the lighthouse beacon, anchors, and cannons, then explore the gardens. Once a shipyard, this park is now a Bi-Centennial International Peace Garden and features waterfront views and blossoms that will have you lost in the present moment. Details

Visit the secluded Peche Island Park

Peche Island has a historical story of its own, passing between hands before being acquired by the City of Windsor in 1999. Now, this island is a full park complete with walking trails and picnic areas. You’ll need to have or charter a boat to get there, but this park is worth the trip. With the true beauty that can only come from being surrounded completely by water, this is a memorable Windsor destination. Details 

Spend time in the famous Ojibway Nature Centre and Parks System

The Ojibway Nature Centre and Parks System is world-renowned for its incredible 247 species, walking trails, and expert staff. Not only is this a wonderful park to explore on your own, but the nature centre also includes hands-on events, wildlife exhibits, and rooms to rent. Best of all — admission is free! Stop by this famous natural environment this summer for a real treat. Details

Go on a Road Trip

Celebrate the end of summer with a Lake Erie Shores road trip. Details

Shop among history in the historic Walkerville BIA

The Walkerville BIA is unique in many ways. This street is now a collection of boutique shops, but once it was at the heart of prohibition, and smuggling, and was integral to the birth of labour unions. As you walk through this area, you will see signs of its rich history in the historic buildings and pride of the area — while also indulging in the vibrant shopping experience the district has become. Details

Explore Kingsville Military Museum

Learn about the sacrifices of the men and women in the military as well as the contributions of early settlers and native Canadians to the lifestyle we presently enjoy in this county at Kingsville Historical Park. Details

Appreciate Windsor’s street art at Artist Alley

Bringing some of the biggest names in street art together, the project known as Artist Alley is a sight to behold. Make sure to visit this alley between Ouellete and Pelissier streets to take in the variety of colours and art styles that sometimes reach as high as two storeys. When you’re done, take that inspiration for a walk around the city and see Windsor with new eyes. Details

Taste the sweetness of the area at Raymont’s Berries

Specializing in strawberries and raspberries, Raymont’s Berries also sells a variety of local and delicious produce. This farm has been in the family since 1897 — making Raymont’s Berries an expert at what they sell. Stop by their fruit stand or come and pick your own as you learn about how this farm grows their delectable fruit. Details

Spend a weekend camping at Holiday Beach Conservation Area

Do not let the summer go by without a weekend of camping at Holiday Beach! This 500-acre Conservation area located on the shore of Lake Erie boasts 90 campsites with swimmable beaches, picnic areas with BBQs, a playground, a 45-foot viewing tower, nature trails, and a trout pond. This is also a globally Important Bird Area that offers spectacular fall migrations of hawks, eagles, hummingbirds, and dragonflies, just to name a few. Details

Welcome Fall with a trip to Thiessen Orchards

Pick your apples, join for hayrides in the orchard, or challenge yourselves in the 3-acre corn maze during late summer. Details