This 186 km (2:45 hr drive) takes you through Canada’s warmest and most southerly agricultural region, also aided by being nestled between the moderating climate influence of two Great Lakes: Lake Erie to the south and Lake Huron to the north. The cities you pass are industrial hubs supporting the automotive industry, either in Detroit, Michigan or the various auto plants around southern Ontario.
Highway 401 is a major east-west highway in Ontario, Canada, stretching from the Ambassador Bridge in Windsor (and soon, the new Gordie Howe Bridge) through the city of Toronto right to the Quebec border near Cornwall, where is connects to AutoRoute 20 into Montreal, or the Montreal South Bypass (AutoRoute 30) and continuing along the south bank of the St Lawrence River to Quebec City and Levis.
This stretch is in southwestern Ontario, with an interesting mix of farming and industry. Parts of Ontario here are south of the top of California. And interestingly, if you are crossing a bridge or tunnel from Windsor to Detroit, Michigan, you are heading NORTH across the international boundary, not south!
Along the route, you’ll find various rest stops, service centers, and towns providing amenities such as gas stations, restaurants, and accommodations.
The journey begins at the Ambassador Bridge, connecting Windsor, Ontario, with Detroit, Michigan. This international border crossing is one of the busiest in North America.
The Gordie Howe International Bridge, which will provide a more seamless connection between Highway 401 and Interstate 75, is scheduled to open by November 30, 2024. The bridge (and all its highway accesses) cost $2.68 billion
Windsor is a city known for its automotive industry and proximity to the United States. Points of interest include the Windsor International Airport and the Caesars Windsor casino.
As you head northeast, you’ll pass through Chatham, a small industrial community. Then the 401 passes just south of London, a regional hub with educational institutions like the University of Western Ontario. London features parks, museums, and cultural attractions.
South of London, about mid-way to the shore of Lake Erie and the town of Port Stanley, is the industrial city of St Thomas.
