Border Approximate Location
Border Countries
🇺🇸 United States
🇨🇦 Canada
Nearest Cities
🇺🇸 Port Huron, MI, 🇨🇦 Point Edward (Blue Water Bridge), ON
Coordinates
42.97°N, 82.42°W
Border Type
Land crossing via bridge
Operating Hours
Open 24 hours
Wait Times
15-60 min for pedestrians/vehicles
Peak Times
Mornings (7-10 AM), weekends
Crossing Types
Pedestrians, vehicles, commercial
Daily Crossings
~12000 travelers/vehicles
Languages Spoken
English
Currency Exchange
Available near Port Huron (USD, CAD)
Connectivity Options
Wi-Fi at checkpoints, 4G/5G
Accessibility Features
Ramps, elevators
Safety Information
Generally safe, busy traffic
Emergency Contacts
🇺🇸 911 🇨🇦 911
Google Maps Location Approx
Country Information
About MI & ON & 🇨🇦 Point Edward (Blue Water Bridge) & 🇺🇸 Port Huron
A Key Great Lakes Crossing
The Blue Water Bridge connects Port Huron, Michigan, with Point Edward, Ontario, via I-94/I-69 and Ontario Highway 402. This 24/7 crossing, one of the busiest U.S.-Canada ports, links Port Huron (10 minutes north) to Toronto (3 hours northeast). Handling heavy commercial and tourist traffic, it’s a vital trade and travel hub, especially for the auto industry. Foreign visitors should check U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) updates, as scams and congestion are common during peak seasons.
Historical Background
Opened in 1938, the Blue Water Bridge bolstered trade between Michigan’s manufacturing and Ontario’s industrial sectors. Named for the St. Clair River’s azure waters, it grew with a second span in 1997 to handle rising traffic. During Prohibition, smugglers used the river, with a 1932 speedboat chase becoming local lore. The 1980s saw trade surge with NAFTA, cementing its economic role. Today, it processes millions of vehicles yearly, though occasional tariff disputes cause delays, reflecting its deep trade significance.
Crossing Details and Wait Times
Northbound, you’ll stop at Port Huron’s CBP office for an exit stamp, then reach Point Edward’s Canadian immigration, needing a passport and possibly a $7 CAD eTA (apply online). Southbound, expect a Canadian exit stamp and U.S. entry rules, typically a passport for visa-exempt travelers. Open 24/7, passenger waits are 20–40 minutes, but freight surges (6–9 AM, 3–6 PM) can hit 90 minutes. Summer and holidays spike delays to an hour. Check CBSA’s CanBorder app or CBP’s Border Wait Times for live updates.
Scam Warnings
Scams thrive in busy Point Edward, with “visa helpers” charging $25–$60 for fake services. Bogus “customs offices” may overcharge for forms—use only CBSA/CBP channels and secure an eTA online. Currency exchange scams near the bridge push poor rates; carry USD/CAD cash or use Port Huron ATMs. Pickpocketing risks soar during tourist season, so secure valuables. Avoid “fast-track” offers—they’re scams targeting travelers in crowded conditions.
Transportation Options
From Port Huron, it’s a 10-minute drive to the bridge via I-94/I-69. From Toronto, Highway 402 reaches Point Edward in 3 hours. Buses like Greyhound stop in Port Huron, but none go to the border, so drive or rent a car. Taxis and rideshares are available—confirm fares upfront to avoid surprises. Gas and services are in Port Huron or Sarnia, 5–10 minutes away. Pedestrians can’t cross the bridge, so arrange a pickup on the other side.
Road Conditions and Views
I-94/I-69 and Highway 402 are well-paved but congested during rush hours. Summer (June–August) is clear; winter (November–March) brings snow, requiring snow tires or chains. The St. Clair River offers stunning views, with summer highs of 27°C and winter lows of -12°C. Check Michigan’s 511 or Ontario’s (800) 268-4686 for road updates. The bridge’s vistas of the river and Sarnia’s skyline are a highlight, especially during fall foliage.
Local Sights
Port Huron’s Fort Gratiot Lighthouse, 10 minutes north, offers maritime history tours. Sarnia’s Stones ‘N Bones Museum, 10 minutes east, showcases fossils and gems. Try Port Huron’s Coney dogs at Powers Diner or Sarnia’s poutine at The Works. Niagara Falls, 3.5 hours east, stuns with boat tours, while Toronto’s CN Tower, 3 hours away, is a must for city explorers.
Cultural and Economic Role
This crossing blends Michigan’s industrial heritage with Ontario’s multicultural vibe, seen in shared events like the Port Huron-Sarnia International Boat Show. It supports auto and chemical trade, fueling both economies. Port Huron’s waterfront revival and Sarnia’s festivals thrive on cross-border visitors. Community markets, hockey games, and music festivals foster a strong binational bond, with locals sharing a love for the Great Lakes and urban energy.
Travel Tips
Open 24/7, but check CBSA/CBP for holiday schedules. Carry USD/CAD for tolls ($4–$5) or duty-free shops. An eTA saves time for visa-exempt travelers. Winter drivers need snow gear; check Michigan’s 511 or Ontario’s (800) 268-4686 for road conditions. Declare all goods—agents are strict on alcohol and tobacco. Secure valuables in this busy crossing and pack snacks for potential long waits during peak hours.
Extra Tips for Visitors
Cell service is reliable but spotty near the river—download maps ahead. Summer traffic clogs the bridge; winter ice demands cautious driving. Locals are friendly—ask about 1930s smuggler boat chases for fun stories. Try Port Huron’s Raven Café for coffee or Sarnia’s Ups N Downs for pub fare. Photographers, catch sunrise over the St. Clair River for stunning shots. This crossing’s lively atmosphere and scenic views make it a memorable stop for adventurers.