A Complete Guide to Windsor's Walkerville Neighbourhood
Windsor’s Walkerville Neighbourhood rivals a lot of the top neighbourhoods that you’d find in bigger cities across Ontario. It’s unique and well worth exploring the shops, restaurants, bars, and breweries.
In many ways, Walkerville in Windsor, Ontario serves as a microcosm for the city at large.
The neighbourhood has a proud, historic past, then had its challenges, and, through it all, has emerged stronger than ever. In fact, you might say that Walkerville is in a better position than its ever been, with dozens and dozens of thriving local businesses and an upwards trajectory that seems all but unstoppable.
There are few tasks that I enjoy more than getting to know the history of a neighbourhood, and then assessing how best to tap into its present. And, of course, the output of all that research is an article like this, which is explicitly put together to help you appreciate what Windsor, Ontario’s Walkerville neighbourhood is all about.
Below, I’ll carefully go over where you need to visit to get the most out of your time there.
But first, just a touch of history. Humour me, won’t you?
A Brief History of Walkerville, Windsor
The establishment and construction of Walkerville is as unique as it comes in Canadian history.
It's what’s known as a heritage precinct now in Windsor, but initially it was its own town that was meant to be a utopia of sorts.
Hiram Walker, the ultra wealthy owner of Canadian Club Whisky, created “Walker’s Town” to be a shining example of what a town could be. What Hiram Walker lacked in modesty, he made up for in ambition.
The town, in essence, was built around the distillery, complete with homes for workers, schools and some buildings like Willistead Manor, which was the home of Walker’s second son, and probably the most famous building in Walkerville nowadays.
I personally love the tidbit that Walker was the self-appointed mayor of everything and even ran the local police.
Eventually, as you’ll know, Walkerville became a part of Windsor, but the original legacy lives on in the idealistic wide streets, notable presence of green spaces, and large, almost Victorian-style houses.
How Best to Explore Walkerville Today
As I mentioned before, what I think makes Walkerville special is the abundance of small businesses that are thriving there that you simply could not find anywhere else.
Walkerville serves as an example of what happens when community support meets community entrepreneurship.
Below, I’ll note the shops, restaurants, cafes, bars, breweries, distilleries, and sights that you should check out in Windsor’s thriving Walkerville neighbourhood.
Walkerville Bars, Breweries & Distilleries to Wet Your Whistle
Both Dave and I loved Windsor’s Walkerville Brewery!
Food & Beverage (F&B) - Tom, one of the owners of F&B welcomed my brother and me into his establishment like we too were long lost brothers. I think, as I get older, I have a much deeper appreciation for simplicity, and F&B is a spot that just focuses on what they do really well, and rolls with it.
They make some of the best cocktails in Windsor, they’ve got a creative array of sharing plates, with a dimly-lit, intimate setting that would be perfect for a night out or a quick evening beverage.
Walkerville Brewery - I’m fairly sure that my brother and I tried every single beer that they had on tap, and the verdict is good, my friends. Remember Hiram Walker? Well, it was actually Mr. Walker who opened the original Walkerville Brewery in 1890. His philosophy was all about using the finest ingredients to brew beer at its best.
Fast forward 120 years and this 18,000 square foot facility has picked back up that flag and is waving it proudly. Let me put it this way - if you’re visiting Windsor, Walkerville Brewery is a must stop for beer lovers.
Natalia was our amazing server while we were there, and Mark gave us a tour of the premises, so we got a good feel for the brand, and taste for the beer.
They make a clean, crisp Craft Cider that isn’t too sweet, but I loved their Purity Pilsner in particular. The truth is, whatever they’re making they’re making well. So, if you like a stout, go with their Easy Stout, and if you like an IPA, the Geronimo IPA will do the trick.
I visited the brewery again recently, and am happy to say they’re also now serving delicious pizza to pair with your favourite pint.
The JP Wiser’s Experience - At Hiram Walker & Sons Distillery, you’ll find the headquarters of Wiser’s. If you’ve got the time, I’d recommend doing a tour to hear the story of Canadian whiskey and, of course, do some tasting. We met Tom from Wiser’s and tried a cacophony of cocktails that were delicious, and certainly brightened up our afternoon.
If you’d like to check out the history and the flavour yourself, tours operate on Fridays at 1pm, 3pm, and 5pm, and on weekends at 12pm, 2pm, and 4pm.
Tours allow you to explore the rich narrative of Canadian whisky through its dynamic history and the artistry involved in its creation. On your tour, you’ll get to try a selection of acclaimed whiskies, including J.P. Wiser’s Deluxe, Lot No. 40 Rye Whisky, Pike Creek 10 Year with Rum Barrel Finish, and J.P. Wiser’s 15 Year Old.
You’ll also get an engaging tour of where all the magic happens, and get to hear a bit more of that aforementioned history that I’m so fond of.
Tours are, at the time of writing, $20, which is well worth it considering the experience, and the offerings of whisky that you’ll have the opportunity to try.
Other Walkerville Bars and Pubs to Consider:
O’ Maggio’s Kildare House - The traditional Irish pub that Walkerville deserves.
Wineology - Delicious food, even more delicious cocktails, and a huge wine list.
Chapter Two Brewing Company - Why just go to one brewery when you can go to two?
Walkerville Cafes Worth Popping Into
Anchor Coffee House, in Walkerville, is one of the best cafes in the city.
Anchor Coffee House - I’m currently considering flying back to Windsor just to get my hands on one of their cheddar scones stuffed with a dill fried egg and garlic aioli. Oh my gosh.
If that wasn’t enough, they’ve also got bold, remarkable coffee, and I’m a coffee snob. For something sweet, give the banana date cookie a whirl, then slip into a pleasant smile. Speaking of pleasant, the ambiance is just that, with a clean, fresh interior with lots of natural light. If I lived in Windsor, I’d probably spend one day a week working here.
Taloola Café - Taloola is all about healthy food with quality ingredients which doesn’t sacrifice taste in the slightest. They’re also known for their organic espresso (or double espresso if it’s yours truly ordering), and you can even get an “Espresso on the Rocks” if the weather calls for it.
You’re going to want to eat while you’re there (the Feta Lover sandwich in particular if you’re a lover of all things savoury), but it’s the loose leaf tea list that appeases my heart. Last I checked, they had something like 40 teas on offer, which is fantastic.
Walkerville Restaurants to Bring Your Appetite To
Ortona 1864 Cafe & Panino Shop is well worth the stop for a hearty lunch in Walkerville
Ortona 1864 Cafe & Panino Shop - Giovanni opened up Ortona to be the new kid on the block that’s doing something a little different. Well, consider that a success. When my brother and I went, it was absolutely packed, and deservedly so. Choose whatever panini suits your tastes when you’re there, but absolutely do not pass up the chance to get the Gnocchi Poutine, as well as the Truffle Fries.
They’ve also got a fitting wine list that suits their menu nicely. Generally speaking, this is a very solid Walkerville lunch spot if you’re exploring the area.
The Twisted Apron - If you can, try to get into Twisted Apron for breakfast or brunch, even though I hear that dinner is just as good. I had the Breakfast Bagel, which consisted of a sunny egg, brie, bacon, and caramelized apple on an aged cheddar bagel, choice of hash and some fruit. Suffice to say, I was pleased.
They focus on farm-to-table, but I think their strength is taking those local ingredients and making comfort food that people are familiar with while adding their own creative flair. My brother Dave, for example, had some Breakfast Pirogies that were out of this world.
Funky Chow - I recently went to Funky Chow and enjoyed their very solid sushi selection along with other Asian delectable delights. The Karaage (Japanese fried chicken) in particular was exceptional for those who are into that kind of thing.
Their baos are great, especially for a quick lunch, but I’d make sure you add on some sort of appetizer or addition. The Lumpia (Filipino egg rolls) are a nice choice here, and I also got some edamame to pick at!
Other Walkerville Restaurants and Eateries to Consider:
Vito’s Pizzeria - Sicilian inspired wood-fired pizzas. What more can you want?
The Carvery - Roast meat sandwiches that you’ll be messaging your friends about.
Walkerville Shops of Note
The Urban Market is one of the go-to shops to pop into when you’re in Walkerville.
Urban Art Market - This is a wonderful spot to come and support the local economy. You’ll find a unique array of items from folks in Walkerville, in Windsor, and Ontario. They’ve got a nice selection, and it’s also where you’ll find a little something for yourself or anyone else who you want want to surprise with a gift after your trip to Windsor.
Jones & Co - Dave and I, to be blunt, aren’t shoppers, but we had a good time just wandering around Jones & Co, especially because the staff were so friendly and helpful. I’m a sucker for things like fun socks, and this place had that kind of stuff and much more, so I was a happy camper.
As with Urban Art Market, there’s a fair portion of stuff here that you won’t find elsewhere, and that’s the marker of a worthwhile shopping experience to me.
Juniper Books - I mean, you knew I was going to have to put a bookstore here, didn’t you? New books, used books, rare books, and a collection of books from local authors. In particular, they’ve got a great selection of used books.
But more than all that, there’s just something so wondrous and novel (no pun intended) about perusing the collection of a bookstore that still has curating books as its focus, and not gifts and knick knacks.
Walkerville Artists’ Co-op - So, this isn’t a “shop” per se, as much as it’s a gallery, but it needs to be included somewhere for me, largely because I can’t stomach a post on the Walkerville neighbourhood that doesn’t include places that highlight local talent. The Walkerville Artists’ Co-op typically is showcasing around 35 local artists, authors, and artisans at any one time. It’s just a great place to wander and let your mind see some of the creativity flowing through this community.
Walkerville Sights to Visit
Willistead Manor Photo Credit: Ojleslie . Used under Creative Commons License
Willistead Manor - I think any history buff visiting Windsor should have this on their list.
If you’re a fan of architecture, then this for sure has to be on your list as it was designed by Albert Kahn, the world famous American industrialist architect. Many people call him the “architect of Detroit,” and Willistead Manor serves as such a fascinating juxtaposition to that idea seeing as it’s made in the 16th century Tudor style.
As I said before, Willistead Manor was commissioned by one of Hiram Walker’s sons, Edward Chandler Walker. The story goes that when Edward passed, his wife didn’t want to keep up the place and donated it to the town.
It’s served since as a town hall, an art gallery, a public library, and now is primarily used for events. There are tours available to the public, and I know that they’re particularly well known for decking this place out around Christmas time or for special occasions. I also know that the “Friends of Willistead” (a community group dedicated to the heritage of this building) offer special events throughout the year. You can find information on tours and hours of operation here.
You can also take a virtual tour of Willistead Manor!
Honestly, Just Walk - The truth is, Walkerville isn’t about “sights,” in the classic tourism sense, it’s about the experience. If I were you, I’d take those suggestions up above and make a walking route that allows you to hit a bunch of those places that sounds like they’d be a good fit.
The one thing that I don’t think people talk about enough when it comes to Windsor is how warm the people are, and that’s especially true of the small business owners. Everyone that Dave and I met welcomed us with open arms, and I think both of us feel a genuine attachment and care for an area like Walkerville now, and I hope that shines through.
If you’re really up for a good walk, don’t hesitate to head down to Riverside Drive and take a stroll for a few moments on the picturesque waterfront area looking onto the Detroit River. If you still want to stretch your legs, then you can also tack on some exploration of the nearby Ford City neighbourhood as well.
Take Note of Events - My final recommendation would be to make sure you’re keeping an eye on what’s going on in Walkerville while you’re visiting. There could be a great event that’s not on your radar, but could be fun to add to the mix. Walkerville keeps an updated list of events (featuring art walks, pop-up markets and more) right here.
So That’s Walkerville in Windsor, My Friends
Hiram Walker, all those years ago, planned this area to be the perfect little town. Perfection, of course, isn’t attainable, even if only as an ideal - and yet, I’d like to think he’d be damn proud of what this place has become.
The streets are filled with businesses where you’re just as likely to be helped by the owner as any other employee. Not to mention, the products on offer are sourced locally, and often bought by locals as well.
I’ve been to an untold amount of areas that have been gentrified and, in the process, have lost their identity, but somehow, Walkerville has managed to grow and amplify their history and identity in that process.
To be honest, this is the content I love writing. The content that tells a story worth telling, about a place worth visiting. The more I travel the more I realize that it isn’t the enormous churches, and the monstrous museums that steal my heart.
It’s the places where I can go and sit at the bar and be served good beer from the hands of the owner. It’s places where I can get a cup of coffee and the server knows where the beans came from and why that matters. It’s places where I can visit a store that wasn’t there ten years ago, but will likely be there forever more.
So go and forge your own path there. My guess is, it’s only going to get better and better and I, for one, will be back to test that theory.
I want to humbly thank Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI) and Ontario’s Southwest for hosting me as media. All opinions are completely my own.