City of Windsor, Ontario, Canada
City of Windsor, Ontario © kairgid

Explore Windsor Ontario Like a Local: From Sushi in Little Italy to Chips in Caesars Casino

The southernmost city in Canada might be known for its contributions to the country’s automotive industry, but when you peel back the curtains and take the streets like a local, you’ll see there’s much more on offer. Initially inhabited by the First Nations and Native Americans before Europeans came over and made it their home away from home, Windsor is now an eclectic mix of cultures.

Vagabondish is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission. Read our disclosure.

From the French-Canadian vibe to the influences from almost every corner of the world present in the food, the entertainment and everything else in between, Windsor is a great place to explore. With this in mind, let’s take a wander around the city and see what it has to offer the weary traveler.

City of Windsor, Ontario, Canada
City of Windsor, Ontario © kairgid

Tiki Sushi

If there’s one place in Windsor where you’ll see a handful of cultures sprinkled into a single melting pot and served up in one delicious platter it’s Tiki Sushi. According to the Daily Detroit‘s Jessica Dennis, Tiki Sushi is the second best restaurant in Windsor behind Motor Burger.

The reason this sushi and Japanese restaurant gets so much critical acclaim from locals is because, even though it’s a series of contradictions, it works. What do we mean? Well, Tiki Sushi is a Japanese restaurant located in the Little Italy quarter of Windsor Canada. As if that wasn’t enough, the chef is Greek. If you’re looking for great food and a tribute to the area’s cultural diversity, then Tiki Sushi is the place to go.

Fresh sushi and fish tacos are always popular, but if you’re a newbie and don’t want to drop a lot of dollars, then the Buck-a-Shuck deals (fresh oysters for CAD$1) are for you.

Caesars Windsor

Caesar's Palace Windsor
Caesar’s Palace Windsor © Danielle Scott

By far one of the most impressive buildings in Windsor is Caesars Windsor. Part of an international casino chain that has interests in Las Vegas and beyond, this venue boasts 100,000 square feet of gaming space as well as a plethora of bars, restaurants and entertainment. Now, for some, stepping into a casino for the first time can seem like a daunting experience. The combination of money, betting and unfamiliar games can make some people reluctant to walk through the door.

Fortunately, as is often the case, technology is here to help. Online casino sites are now just as popular as live venues and Canada has plenty of platforms for players to try their hand at blackjack and the like for free. Using third-party review site like Canada’s Casinos, you can find the best online casinos here and get access to impartial reviews and insights on how to play.

After reading through the site’s review and familiarizing yourself with the basics of the industry, you can then go test your skills using “play money” games. Once you’ve mastered all there is to master, take them to Caesars Windsor and have a few spins on the slots and turns at the blackjack tables.

Dieppe Gardens

Dieppe Gardens in Windsor, Ontario
Dieppe Gardens in Windsor, Ontario © Bernt Rostad

When you’ve had your fill of fish and ridden an adrenaline rush at Caesars, the best way to relax and take in the real beauty of Windsor is to is to visit Dieppe Gardens. Set on the banks on the imposing yet impressive Detroit River, the rose garden is one of the peaceful and stunning landmarks in the city. Now, we’re aware that a rose garden in Windsor can’t quite compete with Quebec’s La Mauricie National Park with its 46 miles Laurentian Trail, but it is a great little stop off when you’re exploring the area.

Beyond its beauty, Dieppe Gardens is a fitting tribute to the Essex-Kent Scottish Regiment who died landing at Dieppe during World War II. Throughout the garden, you’ll find monuments and plaques in memory of those who not only helped Windsor become the city it is today, but made the Western world what it is today.

In summer, the garden is littered with annuals and perennials of all colors and sizes. However, if you really want to slip into a state of relaxation and dream away what’s been a busy day filled with eating and betting, head to the waterfall. There you’ll be able to reflect on a why Windsor is a Canadian city that shouldn’t be overlooked.

Founding Editor

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Let's Make Sure You're Human ... * Time limit is exhausted. Please reload CAPTCHA.

Subscribe to Our 'Under the Radar' Newsletter
If you love travel, you're gonna love this!