If you’re anything like me, you love exploring new places. And while we’re celebrating Canada 150 is there really any better excuse for getting out and discovering more of this great country? I decided to start local and spent some time in the Windsor – Essex area recently.
I was honestly blown away by some of the things that we were able to see; who knew that somewhere only a few hours away has so much to offer? In case you’re looking for a weekend escape, I’ve pulled together the elements you should throw in to create the perfect girl’s getaway in Windsor!
Go on a boat cruise: Is there really any better way to get to see a city than by water? Get out on a fun river cruise to check out both the Windsor & Detroit skylines, the gorgeous cottages and get an unbelievable view of the Ambassador Bridge. The dinner and dance cruise with Windsor River Cruises gives you the perfect chance to enjoy some drinks and dinner on the river, and the DJ keeps the tunes going all evening as you sail into the sunset.
Catch up at a cafe: Ladies, let’s be honest – we all love a cute cafe, and Windsor has no shortage of them. The new “Windsor Essex Coffee Trail” has several amazing stops with delicious coffee so you can refuel before continuing on with the rest of the fun you have planned. Taloola Cafe has a selection of delicious coffee beverages (including a few smoothies – try the Good Morning Smoothie for a fresh boost) and a really unique, artsy setting.
Cafe March 21 is also an absolute must if you’re in the area. I fell in love with this quirky café that’s full of fun little surprises, like Woody from Toy Story hanging from a vent over the cash. The delicious treats are all baked in house and they take their coffee seriously.
Hit up the casino: Obviously you can’t have a girls’ weekend in Windsor without a trip to the casino, which means you have to go! A visit to Caesar’s Windsor will give you a taste of Vegas with tons of slot machines & table games, plenty of entertainment and a perfect location near the water. If you win big, you can even treat your girls to a spa day at the Spa by Windsor Arms.
Find a charming B&B: Is there anything cuter than a cozy bed and breakfast? They’re picturesque (I did it for the Insta) and give you a completely different setting that almost makes it feel like a home away from home.
Plan a girls’ night in at a beautiful spot like the Iron Kettle Bed & Breakfast, enjoy some local eats & wine, and have the best sleep of your life.
Discover your new favourite wine: When you’re on a girls’ getaway, wine must be on the agenda. Luckily, you’re in the heart of one of the best wine areas this country has to offer. Plan a few tastings in the Essex Pelee Island Coast Wine Country and discover some amazing vineyards you might now have tried before.
I definitely recommend stopping by Cooper’s Hawk Vineyards to try their dry Riesling & enjoy a meal in their on-site restaurant.
Get active: Go on a little adventure and get active. The Windsor-Essex area has a plethora of activities to get you outside so you can enjoy the summer weather. Try golfing at Rochester Place Golf Club & Resort for a leisurely afternoon activity (drinks on the golf cart are a necessity) and enjoy a post-game bite at The Parkside Grille – the food is amazing!
If you want to get out on the water, there’s really no better option than paddle boarding, something I fell in love with while in Costa Rica. It’s such a fun activity and Urban Surf Co (run by the coolest people you might ever meet) will make it a blast. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll love paddling around the water.
Oh, and the post-paddle boarding refreshments they serve at their smoothie bar are so delish.
Go explore: Point Pelee National Park, which has the southernmost tip of Mainland Canada, is gorgeous. Filled with lush greenery, relaxing beaches & lots of wildlife, the park is worth a visit.
The 10-person freighter canoe excursion shows you another side of the park, and a beautiful new pavilion area is great for a beach-side picnic. And as a bonus, admission is free with a Parks Canada Discovery Pass this year!
Will you be planning a girls’ getaway in Windsor any time soon? What types of activities do you like to do when you go away?
