Michigan’s Fifth Canada Crossing Opens New Touring Opportunities
The opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge is giving tour operators greater flexibility to create US–Canada touring itineraries, further strengthening Michigan’s position as a gateway for cross-border holidays.
Connecting Detroit with Windsor, Ontario, the new bridge becomes Michigan’s fifth road border crossing with Canada, giving operators greater flexibility when planning fly-drive holidays, escorted tours and multi-destination itineraries.
Michigan’s international crossings are spread across the length of the state, from Sault Ste. Marie in the Upper Peninsula to Detroit in the south, giving operators more options when planning routes between Michigan and Ontario.
The expanded network makes it easier to create fly-drive and cross-border itineraries, with greater scope to incorporate open-jaw flights into Michigan and Ontario programmes.
Steven Donovan, Managing Director of Discover North America, comments: “Having recently returned from a research visit to Michigan, I came away with an even greater appreciation of everything the state has to offer UK travellers. The opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge gives Michigan five international border crossings with Canada, further strengthening its position as one of the Great Lakes’ key gateways.
For travellers looking to combine their Michigan holiday with neighbouring Canada, the enhanced connectivity provides greater flexibility when planning cross-border itineraries, making it easier to enjoy the very best of both destinations within a single trip.”
Mike Johnson, Managing Director of Mike and Sean Not Just Travel added: “From a travel agent’s perspective, the new Gordie Howe International Bridge represents a significant boost for tourism and travel between Canada and Michigan. The six-lane crossing provides an additional, modern connection between Windsor and Detroit, making it easier for visitors to include Michigan in a wider North American itinerary.
For travellers arriving through Toronto or exploring Ontario before continuing into the United States, improved border capacity can offer greater convenience, flexibility and confidence when planning their journey. Detroit’s attractions, Michigan’s Great Lakes, vibrant cities and scenic road-trip destinations are now even more accessible.
We believe this enhanced connection will encourage more visitors to discover Michigan, stay longer, explore further and contribute to tourism businesses across the state. Michigan has been a unique jewel in our business crown in 2025 and into 2026, a trend we will ensure continues.”
Kelly Wolgamott, Vice President, Pure Michigan, comments: “The opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge marks an exciting new chapter for Michigan and further strengthens the state’s connectivity with Canada.
“With five international crossings now linking Michigan and Ontario, operators have even more flexibility when creating itineraries that showcase the best of both destinations.
“By combining Michigan’s cities, outdoor experiences, culinary scene and Great Lakes coastline with Canada’s attractions, tour operators can offer travellers a more diverse and memorable North American holiday.”
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