Local Businesses Get Market-Ready for Motorcycle Tourism

Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island has partnered with Ontario’s Southwest, the Municipality of Leamington, and Hogs for Hospice in an effort to grow motorcycle tourism in the region. To support this effort, a Two-Wheeled Tourist Workshop was held to educate local businesses on how to get market-ready.

Throughout the session, they listened to various industry leaders discuss topics ranging from best practices to business opportunities. Businesses also heard from avid motorcycle rider and destination development specialist, Chris Hughes, who highlighted the importance of the two wheeled tourism segment. Michael McCreesh from Ontario by Bike was also there to share strategies on creating a bicycle-friendly establishment.

When it comes to two wheeled tourists, our region is filled with plenty of great reasons to get out there and ride. From quiet country roads that wind through our region’s scenic waterfront to urban adventures, Windsor Essex offers so much to explore, experience and enjoy.

“We have researched and identified that this is a growing sector in the leisure market, and through partnership and collaboration, we plan to capitalize on our assets to attract increased visitation,” says Gordon Orr, CEO of Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island. “There is a significant opportunity for cross-pollination with other points of interests within the region such as food and drink, bed and breakfasts, and eco-tourism.”

“Tourists travelling by bike or motorcycle have different needs than those travelling by car.  We want to welcome them to Ontario’s Southwest by understanding what will make their trip more enjoyable such as visible parking for motorcyclists or covered secure parking for cyclists,” says Joanne Wolnik, Tourism Development Manager of Ontario’s Southwest.

” We are very pleased to partner on this initiative which we feel will lead to a healthy increase of two wheeled tourists coming to Leamington and taking advantage of the County Wide Active Transportation System (CWATS),” says Mayor John Paterson of the Municipality of Leamington. “We recognize the importance of supporting our local businesses and merchants in preparing for increased business this July when Leamington welcomes motorcycle enthusiasts at the inaugural Hogs for Hospice motorcycle rally.”