5 Best Parks in Windsor, Ontario for Walking, Sightseeing, and Outdoor Activities

Windsor, Ontario offers a variety of outdoor experiences, with numerous parks catering to visitors seeking relaxation, nature, and recreation. The best parks in Windsor boast an abundance of lush green spaces, offering peaceful retreats while remaining conveniently close to local attractions and scenic waterfronts.

Below are five popular parks in Windsor, highlighting what to do there, nearby attractions, and how to reach each location for the best experience.

Best Parks to Visit in Windsor, Ontario

1. Jackson Park

Location: Central Windsor
Time from Windsor-Detroit Border: 5-10 minutes drive

Jackson Park, one of Windsor’s largest and most visited parks, is located near downtown, offering an excellent mix of natural beauty and recreational facilities. This 80-acre park is famous for its well-maintained gardens, large fountain, and beautiful walking paths. It features the “Tulip Garden,” a vibrant display of tulips in the spring, making it a popular spot for photographers and nature lovers. The park is often chosen for wedding and graduation photo shoots, thanks to its stunning landscapes and picturesque settings.

Things to do:

• Walking and jogging: Jackson Park is perfect for leisurely walks or runs along its wide, well-maintained paths.
• Picnicking: There are several picnic areas scattered throughout the park, ideal for a family gathering or a relaxing lunch.
• Tennis and sports facilities: For those looking to be more active, Jackson Park has tennis courts and sports fields.
• Enjoy the Fountain: The impressive central fountain is a must-see, especially during the warmer months when it’s illuminated at night.

Nearby attractions:

• Windsor’s Downtown Core: Jackson Park is just a short drive from Windsor’s downtown area, offering plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
• Devonshire Mall: Just a short drive away, this bustling shopping center is a favorite destination for both locals and tourists.

2. Windsor Riverfront, Dieppe Gardens & Assumption Park

Location: Along the Detroit River, Downtown Windsor
Time from Windsor-Detroit Border: 5 minutes by car

The Windsor Riverfront, including Dieppe Gardens and Assumption Park, offers a stunning stretch of green space along the Detroit River, perfect for those looking to enjoy scenic views, take a leisurely walk, or just relax by the water. These parks offer beautifully landscaped gardens, walking paths, and impressive views of the Detroit skyline and the Ambassador Bridge. In the spring, the riverfront is also a popular spot for fishing, particularly for walleye, attracting anglers who enjoy the area’s rich waters.

Things to do:

• Stroll along the riverfront: The riverfront path stretches for miles, offering a perfect spot for walking, running, or cycling.
• Photography: The scenic views of the Detroit River, the city skyline, and the Ambassador Bridge make these parks perfect for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
• Relax by the water: Dieppe Gardens features well-maintained gardens and a large fountain, while Assumption Park offers a quieter environment to relax.
• Picnicking: Both parks feature areas for picnicking, where visitors can enjoy a meal with beautiful river views.

Nearby attractions:

• The Detroit Riverwalk (Detroit Side): Just across the river in Detroit, the Riverwalk offers a similar scenic experience, along with restaurants, shops, and historical landmarks.
• The Ambassador Bridge: One of the key landmarks of Windsor, the bridge provides striking views from the riverfront parks.

3. Coventry Gardens & Reaume Park

Location: Along the Detroit River, East Windsor
Time from Windsor-Detroit Border: 10-15 minutes by car

Coventry Gardens and Reaume Park are two beautiful waterfront parks located along Windsor’s Detroit River. These parks offer stunning views of the Detroit skyline and are home to beautifully landscaped gardens that bloom with vibrant flowers in the spring. One of the standout features of Coventry Gardens is its large, ornamental fountain, which adds to the tranquil ambiance of the area.

Things to do:

• Stroll through the gardens: In spring, Coventry Gardens features a wide array of colorful flowers, including tulips and daffodils, creating a lively and picturesque atmosphere. Take a leisurely walk through the gardens and enjoy the seasonal blooms.
• Admire the fountain: The central fountain in Coventry Gardens is a key highlight. It provides a peaceful and calming backdrop, especially in the spring when the water is flowing and surrounded by fresh greenery and flowers.
• Enjoy the riverfront: The walking paths along the Detroit River offer a serene setting for walking, jogging, or cycling, with beautiful views of the water and the nearby Ambassador Bridge.
• Photography: The vibrant spring flowers, combined with the iconic fountain and riverfront views, make this park a perfect spot for photography.
• Picnicking: With plenty of green space, Coventry Gardens and Reaume Park are ideal for a relaxing picnic. The scenic surroundings, including the fountain and blooming flowers, make it a wonderful place to enjoy a meal outdoors.

Nearby attractions:

• Old Riverside: A charming neighborhood just a short distance away, known for its historic homes and vibrant atmosphere, offering a look at Windsor’s rich history and architecture.
• Hiram Walker Factory Tour: A must-visit for whisky enthusiasts, the Hiram Walker distillery offers tours where visitors can learn about the history and process of making Canadian whisky, just a short drive from the park.

4. Black Oak Heritage Park

Location: South/West Windsor
Time from Windsor-Detroit Border: 15-20 minutes by car

Black Oak Heritage Park is a natural urban park located in South/West Windsor, known for its rich biodiversity and preserved oak woodlands. This 40-acre park features several nature trails, offering a tranquil environment for hiking, birdwatching, wildlife photography, and mountain biking. The park’s diverse terrain makes it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a ride through its scenic trails.

Things to do:

• Nature trails: There are multiple walking trails through the park, perfect for those who enjoy hiking and exploring natural surroundings.
• Birdwatching: The park is home to many species of birds and wildlife, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts.
• Photography: The diverse landscapes, including oak trees, wetlands, and meadows, provide numerous opportunities for photography.

Nearby attractions:

• Devonwood Conservation Area: A short distance away, this area offers additional nature trails and birdwatching opportunities.
• St. Clair College: Nearby St. Clair College has beautiful green spaces, and visitors can enjoy the college’s events and campus.
• Windsor Raceway: Although it’s no longer operational as a race track, the surrounding area offers a variety of recreational opportunities.

5. Ojibway Park and Nature Centre

Location: South/West Windsor
Time from Windsor-Detroit Border: 15-20 minutes drive

Ojibway Park is a unique urban park that offers a large natural space, featuring a variety of wildlife and forested areas. The Ojibway Prairie Complex, located within the park, is an ecological gem, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. This park is perfect for nature enthusiasts and offers hiking trails, birdwatching, and the Ojibway Nature Centre for educational programs.

Things to do:

• Nature walks: There are several trails through the park, providing opportunities for peaceful walks and wildlife spotting.
• Birdwatching: The park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with many migratory species passing through, especially in the spring and fall.
• Educational programs: The Ojibway Nature Centre offers guided tours and environmental education programs that highlight the unique ecosystems of the park.

Nearby attractions:

• Malden Park: Located nearby, Malden Park offers additional outdoor recreational opportunities, with hiking trails, sports fields, and picnic areas.
• Sandwich Towne: Just a short drive away, Sandwich Towne is one of Windsor’s oldest neighborhoods. Known for its rich history, Sandwich Towne is home to several heritage buildings, restaurants, and local attractions, offering visitors a chance to experience Windsor’s cultural roots.

Conclusion

Windsor’s parks offer something for everyone, from large urban spaces with sports facilities and historical gardens to quiet nature reserves. Each park is located within a short drive from major city landmarks, including the Windsor-Detroit border, making them easily accessible. Whether you’re looking to take a stroll along the river, play sports, enjoy family activities, or explore natural habitats, Windsor’s parks provide diverse opportunities for outdoor enjoyment.