Windsor and the Border: Crossing from Michigan to the Riverfront

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Crossing the Detroit River: Bridge and Tunnel Routes

When you approach Windsor from Michigan, choosing the right border crossing depends on where your drive begins and how you plan to navigate local city streets. For visitors driving in for an overnight stay or a show at The Colosseum, understanding how each crossing leads into the city helps streamline your arrival.

The Detroit-Windsor Tunnel provides a direct route into downtown Windsor.

The Ambassador Bridge.

The Gordie Howe International Bridge provides another crossing option for drivers.

Border Documents and Entry Requirements

Crossing an international border requires correct identification for every passenger in your vehicle. Keep your travel documents organized and ready before approaching the inspection booth.

It is always best to keep all travel identification organized in one easily accessible folder before approaching the inspection booth.

Once you clear Canadian border controls, remember that Ontario law strictly enforces age limits on gaming floors. While hotel accommodation in the Augustus Tower welcomes families, entry to the casino floor and certain entertainment areas is restricted to adults aged 19 and older with valid photo identification. Keep your government-issued ID handy throughout your stay, as venue security conducts challenge-based ID checks inside the property. For further details on identity standards and venue policies, review the guest checklist before setting off.

Duty-Free Shopping and Import Allowances

Duty-free stores operate on both sides of the border at the bridges and the tunnel. U.S. citizens returning home and Canadian residents entering Ontario can purchase goods such as alcohol, tobacco, and perfume at duty-free shops prior to crossing. However, personal exemption limits depend on the length of your stay outside your home country.

For short visits under 24 hours, duty-free exemptions are limited, and border agencies may levy taxes or duties on goods exceeding standard allowances. For stays of 48 hours or longer, personal exemption amounts increase significantly for returning residents. Both Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) maintain specific guidelines on agricultural items, currency reporting, and merchandise value. It is always wise to keep itemized store receipts accessible when answering questions at the border booth.

Arriving at the Hotel: Parking and Valet

After clearing the border and reaching 377 Riverside Drive East, driving visitors need to know where to store their vehicle. The property offers both self-parking and valet options linked directly to the guest towers.

Free self-parking is available 24 hours a day in an attached six-floor garage at 257 Glengarry Avenue.

Valet service operates 24 hours a day with an entrance located at 136 McDougall Street, accessible from Riverside Drive East or Pitt Street East. Valet parking rates apply, and complimentary valet is available for Caesars Rewards members in the Seven Stars and Diamond tiers. Oversized vehicles and RV parking are available via the concierge desk.

Exploring the Windsor Riverfront Walk

One of the finest features of staying at the resort is its location near the Windsor riverfront. The property is on the riverfront in downtown Windsor and offers views of the Detroit skyline.

Stepping out from the property gives you access to the area around Riverside Drive East. Looking across the river, the urban architecture of downtown Detroit forms a dramatic backdrop both in daylight and when illuminated at night.

If you are planning a multi-day itinerary that includes sightseeing across the border, review our guide to planning a day in Detroit, which outlines simple crossing advice for day trips into Michigan during your Ontario stay.

Summary Recommendations for Road Travellers

Whether you choose the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel for its direct core-to-core path, the Ambassador Bridge, or the Gordie Howe International Bridge, proper preparation ensures a smooth transit. Keep passports accessible, confirm your room details in advance, and plan your arrival around parking preferences. For additional common travel inquiries, visit our complete questions page or read our full review of the property.