Windsor Canada Gambling

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© Dax Melmer The exterior of Caesars Windsor - still closed due to provincial emergency orders - on June 26, 2020.

Shokar is suing Caesars Windsor and the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation — which manages and oversees the province’s casino and lottery operations — for his Windsor gambling losses. Casinos across Canada rival the Las Vegas-style gambling palaces gamers flock to in the United. From Detroit, Michigan, is the Ambassador Bridge and a flag. Caesars Windsor Hotel & Casino, less.

Those in charge of the region’s largest tourist attraction, Caesars Windsor, are eagerly awaiting the day they can do business again — but it will have to wait.

“We are ready to open,” said Kevin Laforet, president of Caesars Windsor, in a letter to Windsor city council on Tuesday.

“We have a robust health and safety plan that has been reviewed by an epidemiologist and shared with our stakeholders and regulator.”

Laforet made the comments while expressing support for Windsor moving into Stage 2 of the province’s re-opening plan under COVID-19 conditions.

However, casinos aren’t included in Stage 2 — something which Laforet acknowledged.

“The health and safety of our community is, of course, our collective primary concern. We have followed the provincial and regional health guidelines for over 100 days,” Laforet told council.

“It is also important for the company to re-open in a responsible fashion. As the president of one the city’s largest employers and the largest tourism driver, I feel compelled to share my frustration.”

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The province has been taking a regional approach to re-opening. As Windsor was held back in Stage 1 longer than any other part of the province, Laforet noted that “it is entirely possible that casinos in our competitive radius will be allowed to open before (Caesars Windsor).”

Across the border, as of Friday, Detroit casinos are still not allowed to have customers. But there has been talk by Michigan’s governor of possibly entering the next phase of re-opening in the first week of July — casinos included.

Detroit media report that MGM Grand Detroit Casino has its protocols in place and only needs the green light from the state.

Among the measures: All employees and visitors will have their temperatures taken upon entry; Masks are required by all while inside; New hand- washing and sanitizing stations have been set up at entrances and on the gaming floor; New plexiglass barriers have been installed; and a quantity of chairs have been removed to encourage physical distancing.

The MGM Grand’s climate control system will circulate new air 14 times within every 60 minutes, and staff have been tasked to clean surfaces regularly.

Laforet told council he had not expected Detroit to be this far ahead in its re-opening plan. “The border closure may make this a moot point, but it is just another challenge for (Caesars Windsor).”

© Nick Brancaccio A logo at Caesars Windsor casino resort on May 5, 2020.

Details of Caesars Windsor’s own new protocols have not been disclosed, but Laforet wrote that the casino resort is willing to assist however possible in moving things along.

He applauded Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens for taking “a leadership role” in convincing the government to “wrestle this issue to the ground before it causes more damage to our regional economy.”

Meanwhile, there’s still no formal word from the province when Stage 3 will happen.

Last week, representatives of the Canadian Gaming Association spoke with the Ontario legislature’s Finance and Economic Affairs Committee, announcing the preparedness of the industry to re-open.

Steps meant to mitigate risk include operating at 50 per cent capacity, eliminating playing spots at table games like blackjack and poker, and setting up slot machines to maximize distance between them.

Further south of the border, the Caesars Entertainment location in Atlantic City, New Jersey, is set to open its doors on July 3, with all of its dining options, bars, and lounges in operation.

On Thursday, the U.S. set a new single-day record for new infections of the novel coronavirus: 39,327 confirmed cases, with a death toll spike in New Jersey.

© Nick Brancaccio A lone pedestrian walks past the closed doors of Caesars Windsor on May 5, 2020.

Windsor is a mid-sized city that sits right along the Detroit River opposite the US city of Detroit. It is a city of history and culture, which can be seen at every turn, what with its historic architecture, modern towers and multicultural residents.

Tourism plays a big part in Windsor’s economy, as it is home to numerous fabulous attractions. It is also home to some lovely parks and green spaces, a lively downtown area and some great festivals. Here are the best things to do in Windsor:

1. Try your luck at a casino

Caesars Windsor

There are four casinos in the Detroit–Windsor area, though Caesars Windsor is the only one in Windsor itself. The casino sits along the waterfront overlooking Detroit, so even if you don’t want to gamble you can still enjoy the views from the bar.

The casino attracts over six million visitors each year, featuring a Roman Empire theme. Try your luck at Caesars Windsor’s poker tables, blackjack tables, craps tables or baccarat tables, or slip coins into one of its many slot machines.

In addition to gambling, the casino also lets you bet on sports games at its onsite sports bar. Bets are taken on any professional sports game as well as American college basketball and football games.

2. Go back in time

Willistead Manor

Having such a long history, it should be of no surprise that Windsor is home to a number of National Historic sites. Go back in time and visit these iconic buildings.

One of the most notable historic sites in the city is Willistead Manor; a Tudor-Jacobean style manor house that was designed by architect Albert Kahn. The mansion has a total of 36 rooms and sits in the middle of a beautiful park.

François Bâby House was built by politician François Baby and today is home to Windsor’s Community Museum. Then there is the Sandwich First Baptist Church, which was established by Underground Railroad refugees.

3. Go for a bike ride

Roy A. Battagello River Walk Bike Trail

If you love the outdoors and cycling, the Roy A. Battagello River Walk Bike Trail is a must. The trail starts at the Ambassador Bridge and continues through the city for eight kilometres.

The bike trail goes through Downtown Windsor and many of its parks, including Dieppe Gardens and the Windsor Sculpture Park. It also connects with other trails, like the Russell Street Neighbourhood Trail and the La Salle Trail Network.

There are five service spots along the Roy A. Battagello River Walk Bike Trail where you can stop and rest, put air in your tires or just enjoy the skyline and the river. Parts of it also runs along main streets in the city, though there are designated bicycle lanes.

4. Look at art

Windsor Sculpture Park

A great thing about Windsor is that this can be done both inside and outside. On a nice day, go for a leisurely stroll around the Windsor Sculpture Park, which is home to 35 large-scale sculptures.

If you would rather stay indoors, head to the Art Gallery of Windsor. The gallery was established in 1943, and since then it has grown considerably.

One of the country’s best collections of Canadian art is displayed at the gallery, though there are also pieces by international artists. Wander around the gallery and look at the art, either in the permanent or temporary galleries.

5. Splash around at a water park

Splash Zone

On a hot or a cool day you can have some fun splashing around the Adventure Bay Family Water Park. The 10,000+ square metre water park is one year-round, although some parts of it only open in the summer months.

People of all ages can enjoy the waterpark’s five waterslides, surfing simulator, wave pool and lazy river. There is also a dry area where kids can play on a three-level giant playground.

The Python is the most thrilling attraction in the park, while Tot Loch is best for the young ones. After splashing around you can relax and get a snack at the concession stand.

6. Wander around a garden

Coventry Gardens

There are a plethora of lovely gardens in Windsor that make for a nice afternoon. These are all over the city, although Coventry Gardens is one of the best of the best.

Coventry Gardens is a 28,000 square metre park that sits right along the riverfront. The park dates back to 1931 and is home to several historic monuments.

Dieppe Gardens is another great place to walk around, what with its beautiful flowers and grassed area. The Bert Weeks Memorial Gardens features a curved waterfall, a terraced garden and a reflecting pool.

7. Head to the beach

Sandpoint Beach

Yes, there is a beach in Windsor. It is right at the mouth of the Detroit River on the very northeast corner of the city.

Sandpoint Beach; aka Stop 26, is the most popular beach in the area, which opens from May 24 to September every year. The beach is backed by a lovely park that is great for relaxing, sunbathing and picnicking.

Spend a hot summer day windsurfing, boarding or swimming, or just walk along the Ganatchino Trail and enjoy the fresh air. There are also barbeque areas, volleyball courts and shady treed areas, as well as ice cream stands and other concession booths.

8. Be one with nature

Windsor Canada Gambling

Ojibway Park

The 350-hectare Ojibway Prairie Complex is filled with parks, trails and nature reserves. It is a fantastic place to go if you want to surround yourself in nature.

There are five separate areas within the complex, including Ojibway Park, Black Oak Heritage Park and the Ojibway Prairie Provincial Nature Reserve. In addition to hiking through the complex, you can also join a fee educational program or enjoy one of its exhibits.

While exploring the complex, you may encounter lizards, turtles, frogs, bats and even snakes. It is also a fantastic place for bird watching, as there are a plethora of bids that call the forests, prairies and ponds home.

9. Go on a walking tour

Ford City

What started off as a French Parish is now a community that has seen many faces in history. Ford City is a community that was formed around the Canadian Ford Motor Company.

There are several examples of different types of architecture within the planned community, many of which were built by or for immigrants that came to work for the massive car manufacturer. Go on a walking tour of Ford City and explore this unique area of the city.

Some iconic buildings within the community include its four Byzantine-styled Orthodox churches and Edgemere, which was the house of Wallace Campbell. There are also murals on many of the building depicting the story of Ford and of Ford City.

10. Enjoy a festival

Windsor-Detroit International Freedom Festival

Being quite a culturally rich city it should be of no surprise that Windsor hosts many annual festivals and events. Some of these are in conjunction with Detroit, while others are only within Windsor itself.

Windsor-Detroit International Freedom Festival is the largest of them all, which is put on by the two cities. The festival is held during Canada Day (July 1st) and the Fourth of July and features one of the world’s biggest fireworks displays.

If you enjoy music, don’t miss Bluesfest International Windsor each July, while cinema lovers should be sure to check out the Detroit Windsor International Film Festival if visiting in June. There is also the Windsor Emancipation Celebration Festival that is held in August.

11. Play a round of golf

Thomas McBroom

There are a couple of fantastic golf courses in Windsor that any golfer should play a round in if visiting the city. One is a newer course, while the other dates back to 1926.

The Thomas McBroom designed Ambassador Golf Club was ranked as one of the top new courses in the country! It is an 18-hole, 71 par course that is open to the public.

Windsor Canada Gambling

The historic Roseland Golf Course is actually designated as an Ontario Heritage Site. Since it opened its doors it has hosted numerous tournaments, and will still challenge any golfer to this day.

12. Visit an island

Peche Island

The 36 hectare Peche Island sits on the Canadian side of the Detroit River. It is completely uninhabited, but is open to the public for day trips.

On the island there are beaches, trails and picnic areas. It also boasts spectacular views of Detroit.

The only way to get to the island is by boat, canoe or kayak, so be sure to be prepared before heading there. But it is well worth the visit, as it makes for a great place to escape the city and enjoy some peace and quiet.

13. Drink whiskey

Canadian Club Brand Centre

Everyone knows that Canadian Club is of course a brand of Canadian Whiskey. But what many people don’t know is that it was founded in Windsor.

The Canadian Club Brand Centre was built in 1894 and is today a historic site. The building itself is a stunning example of historic architecture in the city, although most come to the centre for the whiskey.

Canadian Club is over 155 years old. Visit the centre and take a 90 minute tour of the building and learn about the history of the whiskey. The tour of course ends with a tasting.

14. Be a scholar

University Of Windsor

Not literally, although you can take a course at the University of Windsor. However, its grounds and architecture are far more interesting to visitors.

Windsor Canada Drinking And Gambling Age

The university was established in 1857 as a theological institution. Today it is a 51 hectares campus of greenery, a riverside promenade and some beautiful buildings.

Windsor Canada Sports Betting

Dillon Hall is the oldest building on campus, which dates back to when the university first opened its doors. Other iconic buildings at the university include Memorial Hall, Lambton Tower and the Odette Building.

Windsor Canada Gambling Age

15. Go shopping

Windsor Crossing Premium Outlets

Being a border city, Windsor is of course a shopper’s haven. There are duty free shops, specialty shops and shopping malls that will please any shopaholic.

Cigars is the biggest buy in Windsor, as the finest Cubans can be snatched up for great bargains. Fashionistas will want to head to Devonshire Mall or the Windsor Crossing Premium Outlets.

If you are coming in from or heading to the USA, be sure to make a stop at one of the duty-free shops. There are two, both of which sell all of the usual duty-free goods.

Windsor Canada Casinos Gambling

Where to stay: Best Hotels in Windsor, Canada