Welcome to the third leg of our coast-to-coast road trip! In this chapter, we cross the border once again – from the dynamic streets of Toronto to the rebirth of Detroit. This stretch winds through charming Canadian towns and hugs the shores of Lake Huron, offering the perfect blend of culture and wilderness.
While the direct route from Toronto to Detroit clocks in at about 370 km (230 miles) and takes roughly 4–5 hours, we recommend a scenic detour that unveils far more of Southern Ontario’s hidden gems. Our route takes you through Hamilton and London, then veers north to the shores of Lake Huron before heading south again into Michigan.
Distance in miles
Drive time in hours
Curated destinations
After a few days spent exploring the CN Tower, Graffiti Alley, and Toronto’s bustling waterfront, it’s hard to say goodbye. But adventure calls. We hit the road southwest on Highway 401, heading toward our first stop.
Albion Falls: One of the city’s most iconic waterfalls, nestled in a lush ravine.
James Street North: A creative, multicultural district filled with cafés, art galleries, and vibrant murals. Perfect for vintage hunting or a fresh bagel.
Bayfront Park: A serene spot for a waterfront walk or picnic with views of Hamilton Harbour.
Royal Botanical Gardens: Just west of town, this is one of Canada’s largest botanical sites, with rose gardens, lily ponds, and forest trails through the rare Carolinian ecosystem.
Midway through the journey, London offers a delightful mix of urban flair and natural beauty.
Covent Garden Market: Grab a bite or stock up on local treats at this bustling indoor market.
Victoria Park: A central oasis with tree-lined paths and often live music. A great place to stretch your legs.
Museum London: A small but well-curated museum featuring modern Canadian art and regional history.
Craving a dose of nature? A short detour to the Lake Huron shoreline delivers that coastal feeling – without the crowds.
Grand Bend: A lively beach town with soft sand and unforgettable sunsets.
Pinery Provincial Park: Known for its rolling dunes, pine forests, and peaceful beach spots. Great for hiking and nature lovers.
Ipperwash Beach: A quieter alternative with shallow waters and soft sand – perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
Crossing the border via the scenic Blue Water Bridge, we re-enter the U.S. and head into the heart of Detroit.
Henry Ford Museum: An extraordinary showcase of innovation, from early automobiles to presidential limos.
Detroit Institute of Arts: One of the country’s finest art collections, featuring works by Van Gogh, Rivera, and beyond.
Eastern Market: This vibrant hub of street art, flowers, food trucks, and farmers’ stalls captures the city’s creative pulse.
Reading tip: 48 Hours in Detroit: The City of Steel, Sound and Sports
This stage of the road trip captures a perfect balance of Great Lakes scenery, city vibes, and tranquil nature. Here are just a few standout impressions:
Our conclusion: From Toronto’s urban buzz to Detroit’s cultural revival, this leg of the journey offers a diverse slice of North America. Whether you’re into waterfalls, forests, beaches, or modern art, this route has something to surprise and delight. Next up: We’re headed west to Chicago, with stops along the shores of Lake Michigan. Stay tuned!
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