You might see a red double-decker bus or two in London, Ontario, or want to take a stroll along the Thames. But there is no Buckingham Palace here, and no Big Ben, though neither will you find jet-lag a problem, a definite bonus. This big university town is central to the route running from Detroit, Michigan, to Ontario's capital city, Toronto. With a population of over 300,000 and a sizeable student body, there are plenty of places to get educated or find cultural eats on your London tour.

For a whirlwind introduction to ancient area history, stop at the London Museum of Archaeology or step into Ontario's pioneer past at the Fanshawe Pioneer Village. Children can brush up on science skills at the London Regional Children's Museum while all ages can enjoy the art and artifacts on display at Museum London. When you're legs go leaden, hop on a double-decker bus and take a city tour on wheels.

If all this civilized sight-seeing starts to wear, head for some of London's natural attractions and a bit of fresh air. Take a hike along river trails or when the weather permits, drive out to one of the beaches padding Lake Erie for a swim and relaxing afternoon on the sand.

London, Ontario is halfway between Detroit, Michigan and Toronto, 125 miles southwest or northeast respectively.