The riverside cafés of the easygoing Canadian city of WINDSOR , due south of Detroit across the river, offer surprisingly pleasant views of their larger neighbor's skyline. Like Detroit's, Windsor's main industry is auto manufacturing, but it's much smaller and more relaxed, and makes a good place simply to hang out. However, two downtown casinos have added significant traffic to the streets. For those not hooked on slots and blackjack, the most interesting attraction is booze-oriented: the Hiram Walker plant , where Canadian Club whiskey is distilled, stands just a short stroll from downtown at Riverside and Walker (free tours and samplings Mon-Fri; tel 519/254-5171).

Transit Windsor buses (tel 519/944-4111) connect downtown Detroit and downtown Windsor for $2.35 each way. Bring proper identification for customs and immigration officials. To drive, take the tunnel ($2 toll). The visitor center has two locations, across the Ambassador Bridge at 1235 Huron Church Rd, and at 110 Park St E in the city center (both open Sun-Thurs 8.30am-5pm, Fri-Sat 8am-8pm; tel 519/973-1338 or 1-800/265-3633).

Windsor, Ontario

• Windsor, Ontario

Michigan cities


All U.S. city guides