SUMMARY:
- Canadian travel to the U.S. is down due to tariffs and political rhetoric.
- Hotels are offering Canadians discounts at select properties.
- California, New York and other states have special packages aimed at Canadian visitors.
CANADIAN VISITS TO the U.S. have dropped significantly in 2025 as travelers protest U.S. tariffs and political rhetoric. As a result, hotels are offering exclusive discounts and perks to Canadian tourists.
According to Statistics Canada, return trips by car fell 36.9 percent in July compared to 2024, while air travel was down 24.2 percent in May. The U.S. Travel Association estimates the boycott could cost $2.1 billion in lost tourism revenue.
In response, several states and hotels are rolling out Canadian-exclusive promotions. Maine’s Kennebunkport Resort Collection introduced an “O Canada” package offering up to 15 percent off at its nine resorts, plus extras like late checkout, sparkling wine and chocolate-covered blueberries. Sofitel New York is running a “Bienvenue Neighbor” package with 15 percent off and late checkout for two-night stays, while Fairmont Copley Plaza in Boston started a “Bonjour Boston” offer with 30 percent off and a free amenity through Sept. 1.
California launched “Californians Love Canada” initiative, extending 15 percent to 25 percent discounts at nearly 950 hotels statewide.
The top five states most visited by Canadians—Florida, California, Nevada, New York and Texas—could see declines in retail and hospitality revenue, as shopping is the leading leisure activity for Canadian visitors, according to USTA.
While some states have given up on near-term Canadian tourism, others see these measures as critical. Canadians account for roughly 26 percent of U.S. inbound tourists, making them one of the country’s most important visitor groups.
A recent report also found that despite some recovery in financial markets and economic indicators, summer booking hesitancy persisted and international bookings from Canada, Western Europe and Mexico continued to decline.
