SALEM, Ohio — Group travel organizers from 20 states will follow the footsteps to freedom in Southwestern Ontario when they gather in Windsor Essex Pelee Island at Caesars Windsor for the African American Travel Conference (AATC), April 8-10.
This southernmost region of Canada deeply cherishes its historic connections with black history, for they and their neighboring communities were vital termini on the storied Underground Railroad, the network of abolitionists and other activists who aided scores of thousands of escaping slaves to freedom by “following the Northern Star” to Canada, where the slave trade had been declared illegal as early as the 1830s.
Delegates will also enjoy deep blue waterways and a sea of greenery that encompass the Windsor Essex Pelee Island peninsula. Visiting groups can chart their courses through an exhilarating outdoors and be captivated by distinctive award-winning wineries and unparalleled waterfront parks and gardens, immerse themselves in multicultural and culinary delights, and enjoy the ambiance, gaming and entertainment at Caesars Windsor.
Underground Railroad Sites
Group travel opportunities to the area include southwestern Ontario’s six Underground Railroad sites, where your groups can discover the story of John Freeman Walls’ harrowing escape and learn about the man who inspired the story “Uncle Tom’s Cabin.”
Visitors can stand on the banks of the River Canard where the first shot was fired in the War of 1812. They also can explore the trenches and barracks at Amherstburg’s Fort Malden National Historic Site of Canada or stroll the streets of Sandwich Town, where they can view the Duff-Baby House and visit the storied Mackenzie Hall. For a change of scenery, groups can cruise over to Pelee Island, where they can enjoy peace and tranquility amidst warm Southern hospitality. Trips can include a stop at Canada’s most southern mainland point: Point Pelee National Park.
The area is also a wine lover’s destination. With almost 20 wineries and more opening soon, the region is rapidly emerging as a major destination for incredible local wines. The wineries are conveniently clustered a mere five to 10 minutes apart, close to the stunning views of the Lake Erie shoreline, where groups can tour the wineries aboard a charming trolley or by bus with a local guide.
Groups can take in a rum runners tour, which highlights the Roaring ’20s in the area as costumed actors tell the story of Prohibition and Windsor’s connection to gangsters like Al Capone and the Purple Gang. A stop at the Canadian Club Brand Centre, topped off with a formal whiskey tasting, provides a perfect ending to the tour.
Caesars Windsor to Host Event
Delegates to The African American Travel Conference will experience the excitement at Caesars Windsor, where groups can live the high life and experience the thrills of Canada’s largest casino resort.
Caesars Windsor hotel defines luxury with 758 guest rooms and suites overlooking the beautiful Windsor riverfront. Amenities include an indoor pool, a health spa, room service, and complimentary and full concierge service.
Caesars Windsor offers groups a variety of dining options. The signature restaurant, Neros, offers classic steakhouse fare and an incredible wine selection of more than 400 labels. For casual dining, groups can choose from the Market Buffet, the Artist Café, the Legends Sports Bar or the Pronto Cafe.
Today’s group leader knows the importance of nightlife. Groups can listen to talented local bands performing live at Caesars’ Cosmos Lounge. On the second level behind rippled glass walls is the VU Bar. Guests can enjoy signature drinks while viewing the spectacular Detroit skyline and the Windsor riverfront.
Caesars Windsor offers slot and table games such as blackjack, roulette, mini baccarat and craps, as well as signature games such as Caribbean Stud, Let It Ride, Three Card, Four Card, and Pai Gow Poker. The 24-7 Poker Room features 14 tables of Texas Hold’em, Omaha, Seven Card Stud and World Series of Poker weekly tournaments.
For Windsor group tour information, contact Daena Shaw, manager of group programs for Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island at 519-253-3616, ext. 4329; at 800-265-3633; or by email at dshaw@tourismwindsoressex.com.
For Caesars Windsor group information, contact Natalie Lepine, manager of motorcoach and hotel sales at 519-985-2851; at 800-991-7777, ext. 22851; or by email at nlepine@caesarswindsor.com.
