Point Pelee National Park sits at the Canadian mainland's southern tip, 30 miles southeast of Windsor. It spans a 12-square-mile peninsula protruding into Lake Erie. Every spring and fall, thousands of migrating birds rest and feed at Point Pelee, making it one of North America's top birding sites. Soaring golden eagles, peregrine falcons, owls and hawks are some of the 370 bird species viewed here. The peninsula also serves as a prime area for witnessing the fall monarch butterfly migration. A free shuttle transports birders to the point from the visitor center. Other park activities to enjoy include hiking, biking, paddling, swimming, cross-country skiing and ice skating.
Windsor, Canada's southernmost city, is known for 24-hour gaming action. The fastest way to the slots from the United States is via the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel. Table games, including blackjack and craps, and progressive jackpot slots draw crowds to Caesars glitzy Windsor Casino and Hotel. See the world's top talent perform at the 5,000-seat theater. To retreat from the lights and action, visit Windsor's Coventry Garden, situated along the banks of the Detroit River. The garden's prize attraction is its Peace Fountain. It shoots water sprays 70 feet into the air and entertains with a light show. The garden is also a place to catch summer events and outdoor concerts.
Stratford's international reputation as an arts town is well-deserved. It's home to several theater venues that put on high-quality productions and serves year-round as a regional theatrical hub. The Stratford Festival balances a selection of Shakespeare's works with contemporary pieces. The SpringWorks Festival, taking place each May, showcases top-notch playwrights, actors and plays, along with dance, cross-cultural and children's programs, and the neighboring Blyth Festival presents contemporary Canadian plays. During summer months, visual artists set up easels along the Avon River in Stratford to showcase their works as part of the ongoing Art in the Park program. Stratford galleries offer additional opportunities to discover Ontario's visual art scene.
Nature shows its might in the roar, thunder and magnificence of Niagara Falls. A vacation destination, Niagara Falls consists of three falls situated on the Niagara River which divides the United States and Canada. The 188-foot Horseshoe Falls spans the Canadian side at the town of Niagara Falls, Ontario and offers spectacular views. Fun ways to experience this natural wonder include boat tours to the base of the falls, walks behind the falls and flyovers. On summer weekends, fireworks explode in the skies above the falls. The town of Niagara Falls complements visits with an array of entertainment, dining, shopping and lodging options.
