Chatham-Kent
Located north of Lake Erie and east of Lake St. Clair, Chatham-Kent is surrounded by an abundance of freshwater. As such, the region offers all kinds of water-based activities like fishing, boating and swimming.
Known as the “Classic Car Capital of Canada”, Chatham-Kent also has a storied past as a car manufacturing powerhouse. This is celebrated annually during the popular classic car show, Chatham RetroFest.
Explore local galleries, craft breweries and family restaurants, or birdwatching, camping, canoeing in beautiful natural areas like Wheatley Provincial Park.
Where is Chatham-Kent?
Chatham-Kent is located under three hours’ drive from Toronto, along Highway 401 West and roughly an hour from Windsor along the 401 East. The nearest border crossings are the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel and the Ambassador Bridge.
The city and wider region are most easily explored by car or motorcycle, but can also be reached by VIA Rail and Flixbus. Local trips are provided by CK, Chatham-Kent’s public transit service.
Things to do in Chatham-Kent
Drive a historic route
The Tecumseh Parkway, a unique driving route with 11 key sites marking where British and Indigenous armies were pursued by the Americans during the War of 1812.
Hike in a provincial park
Rondeau Provincial Park is the second oldest provincial park in Ontario and the site of one of the largest old-growth Carolinian forests in Canada.
Enjoy a summer fair
Hosted in nearby Blenheim, Blenheim Cherryfest features a midway, street performers, cherry pie eating contests and more over three fun-filled days. The fair is held every July.
Sample local beer
From the Sons of Kent brewery in Chatham to the town of Erieau’s Bayside Brewing Company, the Chatham region is home to a number of craft breweries.
Visit musems and historic sites
Tour the restored heritage homes at Chatham-Kent Museum or the last standing schoolhouse and more at the Buxton National Historic Site & Museum, Ontario’s second largest historic site.
Purchase fresh baked goods
Stock up on delicious baked goods and savour the fresh coffee, tea or latté along the Chatham-Kent Bakery Trail, or enjoy them at local picnic spots.
Get inspired
Plan your visit with these experiences and itineraries.
Points of interest
Discover more highlights this city has to offer.
Last updated: October 4, 2023