Canadian Travel to U.S. 2025 Drops Sharply | Tourism Industry Struggles With Cancellations

Canadian travel to the U.S. in 2025 has taken a sharp downturn — and American tourism businesses are feeling the loss. From New York City tour guides to Jersey Shore hotels, many say they’ve seen a major drop in Canadian visitors.

Behind the shift? Rising political tensions, canceled trips, and a growing sense of unease north of the border. Now, business owners are speaking out — and reaching out — to their loyal Canadian guests.

Tour Operators in NYC Hit Hard

Matt Levy, founder of Spread Love Tours NYC, has guided thousands of Canadians through New York City over the past two decades. His tours, popular among Canadian high school groups, made up nearly 50% of his bookings in past years.

But in 2025, his earnings have dropped from $35,000 to just $5,000, largely due to cancellations. While customers haven’t said outright why they’re backing out, Levy connects the dots easily.

“It’s because my president is threatening to annex your country,” he said, referring to President Donald Trump’s repeated comments about making Canada the 51st U.S. state.

Travel to the U.S. Has Plummeted

The numbers tell the story. In March alone, nearly 900,000 fewer travelers crossed into the U.S. compared to the same time last year, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Canadian airlines have also reduced flights due to weak demand.

This sharp drop follows Trump’s tariff-heavy policy agenda and his provocative remarks on trade and border security. It’s no surprise many Canadians have publicly declared their decision to cancel U.S. vacations altogether.

“I wouldn’t come down to my country either if I were in your situation,” said Levy.

Tourism Industry Across the U.S. Feels the Chill

It’s not just New York. States that rely on Canadian dollars — like Florida, Arizona, and California — are seeing fewer snowbirds and long-term visitors.

In Palm Springs, the city has installed banners reading Palm Springs ♥ Canada in an attempt to rebuild goodwill. Meanwhile, the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce voiced concern about losing winter visitors, which could strain the region’s economy.

Wildwood, N.J.: A Canadian Summer Tradition at Risk

In Wildwood, New Jersey — a Jersey Shore town beloved by Canadians — local businesses are watching closely. Some, like the Quebec Motel and The Royal Canadian, have built their identities around repeat Canadian guests.

John Donio of the Wildwood Business Improvement District says there haven’t been mass cancellations yet. But he and others are preparing new messaging to keep relationships strong.

“We know that without our Canadian friends, it’s just not the same in the Wildwoods,” he said.

One resort, the Bolero, even fielded a call from a Canadian guest asking about cancellation policies in case tensions escalate. Management confirmed that political reasons aren’t covered for refunds.

Hope for Reconnection

Despite the uncertainty, business owners are holding on to hope. Lester Katsanis of the Quebec Motel said many families have visited for generations.

“It’s a big family, and we have to resolve it,” he said. “We love you.”

Levy also remains hopeful. While Canadians may feel uneasy now, he believes New York City still holds a special place in their hearts.

“Canadians have a long memory, but I think they’ll return. New York feels different from the rest of the U.S.”

More…

• https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/canada-us-travel-tourism-cancellation-1.7511605
• https://www.overheretoronto.com/palm-springs-welcomes-canadians-amid-trump-tariffs-with-we-love-canada-campaign
• https://www.msn.com/en-ca/news/canada/i-don-t-blame-you-u-s-tourism-hot-spots-mourn-canadian-travel-cancellations/ar-AA1D5oR2