Flight
Driving
Oak Bay to Windsor
Updated: 28 May 2026
Traveling from Oak Bay to Windsor covers approximately 1,650 km across the heart of Eastern Canada. You will primarily utilize the Trans-Canada Highway and Ontario Highway 401 for the road journey. Air travel requires a connection through Toronto Pearson International Airport. The route transitions from the rugged Atlantic coast to the industrial hub of Southwestern Ontario. Expect significant traffic density once you reach the Greater Toronto Area.
Total Distance: 1,650 km driving distance; 1,350 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Flying from Saint John Airport is the fastest, taking roughly 5.5 hours total.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the most cost-effective if traveling with more than one person.
Compare Oak Bay to Windsor Routes
|
Connecting
|
Direct
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 5 hours 30 mins | 18 hours |
| Avg Price | $450 - $900 | $350 - $500 in fuel |
| Operator | Air Canada | Personal Vehicle |
| Route | Saint John Airport (YSJ) to Toronto (YYZ) to Windsor (YQG). | Route 1 to Highway 401 West through Montreal and Toronto. |
| Tip | Book your connection with a minimum 2-hour layover at Pearson. | Avoid driving through Toronto during rush hours between 7 AM and 9 AM. |
Travel Tips
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TollsBe prepared for the 407 ETR toll highway in Ontario if you choose to bypass Toronto traffic.
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Time ZonesYou will cross from Atlantic Time to Eastern Time, gaining one hour.
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Fuel StopsFill up in Quebec where fuel prices are often lower than in Ontario.
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Rest StopsUse the ONroute service centers located every 50-80 km along Highway 401.
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BookingBook flights at least three weeks in advance to secure lower fares.
Safety Tips
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Winter DrivingHighway 401 is prone to whiteout conditions; carry winter tires and emergency supplies.
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FatigueThe drive is long; plan for an overnight stop in Montreal or Kingston.
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WildlifeWatch for moose in New Brunswick and deer in rural Ontario sections.
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Vehicle CheckEnsure your brakes and tires are inspected before embarking on this 1,600 km trip.
People Also Ask
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Is there a train to Windsor?Yes, VIA Rail operates frequent service from Toronto Union Station to Windsor.
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What is the best route?The Trans-Canada Highway (Route 2) to Highway 401 is the standard route.
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Are there tolls?Only if you use the 407 ETR bypass around Toronto.
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How long is the drive?Approximately 18 hours of pure driving time.
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Can I fly direct?No, you must connect through Toronto Pearson.
Quick Info
- From Oak Bay, New Brunswick, Canada
- To Windsor, Ontario, Canada
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
September to October for mild weather and fall foliage along the St. Lawrence River.
Things to Do in Windsor
1
Dieppe Market
Stop in Dieppe near Moncton for fresh local produce and Acadian crafts before heading west.
2
Thousand Islands
Take a scenic boat tour near Gananoque, Ontario, while driving along the 401 corridor.
3
Windsor Riverfront
Walk the Odette Sculpture Park along the Detroit River for views of the US skyline.
4
Caesars Windsor
Visit this major entertainment complex located directly on the waterfront in downtown Windsor.
Tags
Oak Bay to Windsor travel
driving New Brunswick to Ontario
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Highway 401 route
Canada cross-country travel
best way to Windsor from NB
traveling across Canada
Windsor travel guide
