3 days ago
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Summer’s practically knocking on our door—so tell me, what adventures are calling your name? Got your eye on somewhere special, or are you stuck in that familiar cycle of creating epic travel wish lists that somehow never make it off the page? (Yeah, I see you nodding—we’ve all been there!)
Canada kept creeping into my conversations this year. Every time someone mentioned it, I’d get that little spark of curiosity, start researching, and maybe even bookmark a few hotels… then life would happen. But this Memorial Day weekend, I finally stopped making excuses when my cousin, who happens to be from Flint, Michigan, mentioned he was planning a visit to see some relatives. It wasn’t until I decided to join him for the journey that our three-city adventure was truly set in motion—hitting up Flint and Detroit and even crossing the border into Windsor, Ontario, together.
Now, before you think we’re some weekend warriors cramming too much into 72 hours, hear me out! The beauty of this trio lies in how perfectly they’re positioned for a multi-city adventure, with my Flint-based cousin serving as the ideal guide. Picture this: Flint sits about an hour north of Detroit, and from Detroit’s downtown, you’re a 10-minute drive through the tunnel (or over the Ambassador Bridge if you’re feeling fancy) before you step onto Canadian soil in Windsor. All three are nearby, where you can enjoy three very different experiences with someone who knows the area well.
Flint, Michigan: Jazz Vibes That Hit Different
Let me tell you about this incredible jazz joint I stumbled upon in Flint—the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a different era. The music was electric, and people from the area put their whole selves into every song. There’s something magical about listening to happy music in a city that has been through a lot but still has plenty of life. The mood was cozy and authentic, like the kind of spot where people who don’t know each other but love great music become friends. If you’re a music lover, this alone is worth the trip to Flint.
Detroit: Motown Magic That Transcends Time
Detroit hit me right in the legs, especially during my visit to the Motown Museum. Walking through those halls where legends like Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, and The Jackson 5 recorded their timeless hits. What got my attention was the wall with pictures of all the Motown artists. Even though the music was from a different era, I felt a strong sense of nostalgia, as if the music and history transported me back in time. There is an amazing vibe in that place; you can feel the passion and talent that shaped American music forever.
Windsor, Ontario: A Whole Different World Just Minutes Away
Things got crazy when we crossed into Windsor, Ontario. It was like going to a different world, even though it was only 15 minutes from Detroit! Everything changes as soon as you cross that line. It’s all very Canadian: the accents, the money, and the mood. I found myself grinning like an idiot just because I was in another country that I could practically see from where I’d been standing in Detroit. The riverfront in Windsor offers this gorgeous view of the Detroit skyline, and there’s something almost dreamlike about looking at the city you just left from an entirely different nation.
The Best Time: Putting It All Together
But honestly? Realizing how easy it is to feel three very different vibes in one weekend was the best part of my trip. From the soulful jazz scene in Flint to the musical history of Detroit and the friendly charm of Canada, it felt like the perfect cultural platter. It’s incredible how many kinds of events can be found in such a small area.
Trust me; these three should be at the top of your list if you’re looking for your next trip and want to see a lot of different things with little stress. You’ll learn about the past of music, visit other countries, eat delicious food, and make memories that will last a lifetime. And you won’t have to spend a lot of money or half your vacation in airports.
Now, really, what’s stopping you? Your Canadian adventure could be just a weekend away!
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