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The US wants to win Canadian visitors back, but tourists say ‘it’s a wasted effort’
The Independent • • general
Key Points:
- Canadian travel to the U.S. has significantly declined since President Trump’s return to office, exacerbated by his controversial remarks and a trade war imposing steep tariffs on Canadian goods.
- Despite strained political relations, U.S. states and tourism organizations are actively promoting campaigns like “NY Loves Canada” and treating the Canadian dollar favorably to attract Canadian visitors back.
- Data from Statistics Canada shows a 25% drop in Canadian border crossings and a $2.4 billion decrease in travel spending in 2025, with air travel to the U.S. declining consistently since September 2023.
- The 2026 World Cup temporarily boosted Canadian visits, especially by car, but renewed tariffs and political tensions have dampened enthusiasm for U.S. travel, with many Canadians opting for other destinations like Mexico.
- Some tourism officials remain optimistic about future Canadian visitors, but many Canadians, citing safety and political concerns, have pledged to avoid U.S. travel until there is a change in U.S. leadership and improved bilateral relations.
