Your Ultimate Guide to a Detroit to Windsor, Canada Day Trip (2025)
Ever dreamed of taking a spontaneous international trip in under 10 minutes? Look no further than Detroit’s friendly “neighbor to the south” – Windsor, Ontario! Yes, you read that right. A quick trip through a tunnel or over a bridge puts you in a new country, ready to explore. This Detroit to Windsor Canada Day Trip 2025 is one of the easiest, most affordable, and most unique cross-border adventures you can take. So, can you take a day trip to Canada from Detroit? Absolutely! And it’s one of the best you’ll ever have.
Detroit to Windsor Day Trip: Quick Facts
For those who want the essential information at a glance, here’s everything you need to know for your 2025 trip.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance | ~1 mile (Downtown Detroit to Downtown Windsor) |
| Crossing Time | 15-45 minutes (including border control) |
| Average Day Trip Duration | 6-10 hours |
| Estimated Cost (per person) | $50 – $150+ USD |
| Best Time to Visit | June-September for the best weather |
| Currency | Canadian Dollar (CAD) |
| ID Requirement | Valid Passport / EDL / NEXUS Card is mandatory |
Border Crossing Essentials: What You MUST Know for 2025
Crossing an international border can seem daunting, but it’s a smooth process if you’re prepared. This section addresses the most common questions and concerns.
Do you need a passport to go from Detroit to Windsor?
YES. This is the most critical piece of information. Due to the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), a standard driver’s license is NOT sufficient to enter Canada or re-enter the United States by land. You must have one of the following valid documents:
- U.S. Passport Book
- U.S. Passport Card
- Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) – available in Michigan, VT, MN, NY, and WA
- NEXUS Card (for expedited screening)
How much does it cost to cross the border?
The cost varies depending on your mode of transport. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate one-way tolls and fares for 2025. Always check the official websites for the most current pricing before you go.
| Method | One-Way Toll/Fare (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Detroit-Windsor Tunnel (Car) | ~$6.00 | The most direct route between downtowns. |
| Ambassador Bridge (Car) | ~$6.00 | Connects to major highways; better for reaching areas outside downtown. |
| Tunnel Bus (Pedestrian) | ~$5.00 | The only option for those without a car. Simple and affordable. |
Navigating Canadian Customs (and returning to the U.S.)
Be prepared for a few quick questions from border officers on both sides. Here are some tips:
- Have your travel documents ready to present.
- The officer will likely ask about the purpose of your visit (e.g., “tourism for the day”) and how long you plan to stay.
- Be aware of what you can and cannot bring into Canada. Check the official CBSA (Canada Border Services Agency) website for the latest 2025 regulations on alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis.
- For your return, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will have rules on what you can bring back, including duty-free limits on goods.
How to Get from Detroit to Windsor (With and Without a Car)
Whether you’re driving or prefer to go car-free, getting to Windsor is incredibly straightforward.
Option 1: Driving Your Car via the Tunnel or Bridge
Driving gives you the most flexibility. The Detroit-Windsor Tunnel is your best bet for direct downtown-to-downtown access. The Ambassador Bridge is slightly further west and is ideal if you’re connecting to highways like the 401 in Ontario. Both crossings accept credit cards and mobile payment systems.
Parking in Windsor
Once you arrive, you’ll find plenty of metered street parking and public parking garages in the downtown area. Many meters and garages now use the “Passport Parking Canada” app, but having a credit card handy is always a good idea.
Option 2: The Tunnel Bus (The Best Way to Go Car-Free)
If you’re asking, “How do I get from Detroit to Windsor without a car?”—the answer is the Transit Windsor Tunnel Bus. This public bus is designed specifically for pedestrians crossing the border. It’s affordable, convenient, and eliminates the hassle of parking.
The bus typically has pickup locations in downtown Detroit, such as near Hart Plaza or the Mariner’s Church, and drops you off at the downtown Windsor transit terminal. This puts you right in the heart of the action.
Actionable Advice: Schedules, fares, and stop locations can change. Before your trip, visit the official Transit Windsor website for the most current 2025 information.
Top 5 Things to Do on a Windsor Day Trip
Windsor offers a surprising variety of activities, from beautiful parks to historic neighborhoods.
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Stroll the Windsor Riverfront & Sculpture Park
This is a must-do. Windsor’s riverfront boasts some of the most spectacular, unobstructed views of the Detroit skyline. The paved walking and biking paths wind through lush green spaces like Dieppe Gardens and the incredible Odette Sculpture Park, an outdoor art gallery. It’s a completely free and picturesque way to spend an afternoon.
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Explore Historic Walkerville
Step back in time in the neighborhood built by Hiram Walker, the founder of Canadian Club whisky. Walkerville is renowned for its beautiful heritage architecture, charming boutique shops, and a thriving craft brewery scene. The highlight is the J.P. Wiser’s Experience / Hiram Walker & Sons Distillery Tour, which offers a fascinating glimpse into Canada’s Prohibition-era history. Booking this tour in advance is highly recommended.
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Eat Your Way Through Erie Street (Windsor’s Little Italy)
Get ready for a culinary delight. Erie Street is the vibrant heart of Windsor’s Italian community, packed with authentic restaurants, bustling cafes, fresh bakeries, and traditional delis. It’s the perfect destination for a memorable lunch or dinner, offering everything from classic pasta dishes to Windsor’s unique style of pizza.
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Try Your Luck at Caesars Windsor
More than just a casino, Caesars Windsor is a full-fledged entertainment complex. You can catch a world-class show at The Colosseum, enjoy an upscale meal at one of its many restaurants, or try your hand at the gaming tables. Important Note: The legal age for gambling and drinking in Ontario is 19+.
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Discover Canadian Art at the AGW
Located right on the riverfront, the Art Gallery of Windsor (AGW) focuses on showcasing Canadian art from diverse periods and regions. It’s a fantastic indoor activity, especially on a rainy or particularly hot day, offering a dose of culture with a beautiful view.
Sample 8-Hour Windsor Day Trip Itinerary
Here’s a sample schedule to help you visualize how much you can pack into a single day.
| Time | Activity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 9:00 AM | Cross the border via Tunnel Bus or Car. | Allow for potential delays, especially on weekends. |
| 10:00 AM | Coffee & Walk the Riverfront | Grab a coffee and take those iconic Detroit skyline photos. |
| 11:30 AM | Explore the Walkerville neighborhood | Browse the shops or take a pre-booked distillery tour. |
| 1:30 PM | Lunch on Erie Street (Little Italy) | Indulge in some authentic Italian cuisine. |
| 3:00 PM | Choose Your Adventure | Visit the Art Gallery of Windsor for culture or Caesars Windsor for entertainment. |
| 5:00 PM | Last-minute souvenir shopping | Grab some Canadian treats before you head home. |
| 5:30 PM | Head back to the border crossing | Give yourself plenty of time for the return trip. |
| 6:30 PM | Arrive back in Detroit | Enjoy the evening back in the Motor City! |
Where to Eat in Windsor: From Poutine to Pizza
Windsor’s food scene is diverse and delicious. Here are a few recommendations to get you started.
Budget-Friendly Bites ($)
Don’t miss Windsor-style pizza, a local legend known for its shredded pepperoni and canned mushrooms—Armando’s Pizza is a classic choice. You also have to try authentic poutine or grab a bite at the historic Tunnel Bar-B-Q.
Mid-Range Meals ($$)
Walkerville is full of fantastic pubs and gastropubs like The Walkerville Eatery. For a classic Italian meal on Erie Street, you can’t go wrong with a spot like Spago Trattoria.
Fine Dining & Special Occasions ($$$)
For a high-end experience, book a table at Neros Steakhouse inside Caesars Windsor. Alternatively, The Cook’s Shop Restaurant on Erie Street is a long-standing favorite for intimate, traditional Italian dining.
Planning Your Visit: Insider Tips for a Perfect Trip
A little local knowledge goes a long way. Keep these tips in mind for a smooth and enjoyable 2025 day trip.
- Currency: While many places accept USD, you will always get a better exchange rate by paying in Canadian Dollars (CAD) or using a credit card with no foreign transaction fees.
- Cell Phone Service: Check with your provider about international roaming plans to avoid surprise charges. A great tip is to download Google Maps of the Windsor area for offline use.
- Legal Age: Remember, the legal drinking and gambling age in Ontario is 19.
- Check for Events: Before you go, check the Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI) website. You might catch a cool festival or event, like the Windsor-Detroit International Freedom Festival in late June.
- Go on a Weekday: If your schedule allows, a weekday trip often means less traffic at the border and fewer crowds at popular attractions.
What to Pack for a Day in Windsor
Packing light is key for a day trip. Here is a simple checklist of the essentials:
- [ ] Passport / EDL / NEXUS Card (This is non-negotiable!)
- [ ] Credit card (no foreign transaction fees preferred) & some Canadian cash
- [ ] Comfortable walking shoes
- [ ] Phone/Camera & portable battery charger
- [ ] Weather-appropriate clothing (layers are always a good idea)
- [ ] Reusable water bottle
Windsor Day Trip Budget Breakdown (Per Person)
To help you plan, here’s an estimated budget for a day trip from Detroit to Windsor.
| Expense Item | Low-End Estimate (USD) | High-End Estimate (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation (Tunnel Bus) | $10 | $10 |
| Lunch | $15 | $35 |
| Activities/Attractions | $10 | $75+ |
| Snacks/Souvenirs | $15 | $30 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $50 | $150+ |
TLDR: Windsor Day Trip in a Nutshell
- ID is ESSENTIAL: You MUST have a Passport, Passport Card, Enhanced Driver’s License, or NEXUS card. A regular license won’t work.
- No Car? No Problem: The Tunnel Bus is the cheap and easy way to cross the border on foot.
- Must-Do Activity: Walk the riverfront for the unbeatable Detroit skyline view. It’s free and unforgettable.
- Local Food to Try: Windsor-style pizza. Trust us.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you take a day trip to Canada from Detroit?
Absolutely! Windsor, Canada is located just across the Detroit River, making it one of the easiest and most popular international day trips you can take from the United States in 2025.
How much does it cost to cross the border from Detroit to Windsor?
For a standard car, tolls for the bridge or tunnel are roughly $6 USD each way. The most affordable option is the Tunnel Bus, which costs about $5 USD each way.
Do you need a passport to go from Detroit, Michigan to Windsor, Canada?
Yes, a passport is required. All U.S. citizens must present a valid passport, passport card, Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL), or NEXUS card to enter Canada and to re-enter the United States. A standard driver’s license will not work.
How do I get from Detroit to Windsor without a car?
The best and only public transit option is the Transit Windsor Tunnel Bus. It is specifically designed to transport pedestrians between downtown Detroit and downtown Windsor through the tunnel. You cannot walk or bike across.
