The travel relationship between the United States and Canada—one of the most vital tourism corridors in North America—has come under heavy strain in 2025. Following political disputes, including tariffs and controversial remarks by former U.S. President Donald Trump, many Canadians have chosen to boycott American destinations. This has led to a steep decline in Canadian visitors, leaving U.S. hotels, airlines, and tourism operators grappling with significant revenue losses.
According to the U.S. Travel Association, the country could lose more than $2.1 billion in tourism revenue if Canadian travel continues to decline. The economic blow is particularly severe for U.S. border states and major tourist cities where Canadian visitors traditionally make up a large share of the market.
Canadian Travel Decline: The Numbers
Statistics Canada reports a substantial drop in Canadian travel to the United States. In July 2025, car trips back into Canada fell by 36.9% compared to the same period last year. Air travel also suffered, with a 24.2% decline in May 2025 for flights between Canada and U.S. cities.
This downturn has forced U.S. tourism stakeholders to act quickly. Hotels, resorts, and state tourism boards are launching exclusive promotions targeting Canadian travelers, in hopes of reversing the trend and restoring confidence in cross-border tourism.
Exclusive Hotel and Resort Promotions
Several high-profile U.S. hotels and resorts have rolled out Canadian-only discounts:
- Kennebunkport Resort Collection, Maine – “O Canada” promotion with 15% off stays, complimentary chocolate-covered Maine blueberries, and late checkouts, valid until December 31, 2025.
- Sofitel New York – “Bienvenue Neighbor” package offering a 15% discount and late checkout for Canadians staying two nights or longer, perfect for exploring Broadway and Rockefeller Center.
- Fairmont Copley Plaza, Boston – “Bonjour Boston” program giving 30% off room rates and a complimentary amenity, valid until September 1, 2025, designed to draw visitors to Boston’s historic neighborhoods.
- California Statewide Offer – The “Californians Love Canada” initiative, featuring discounts ranging from 15% to 25% at nearly 1,000 hotels across the state, reinforcing California’s appeal as a year-round destination.
These promotions not only highlight the hospitality sector’s determination to protect its Canadian customer base but also emphasize cultural appreciation and neighborly goodwill.
Divided Reactions from Canadian Travelers
Despite these efforts, the Canadian response remains mixed. Social media platforms such as Instagram, Reddit, and X (formerly Twitter) reveal a divide in public opinion:
- Critical Voices: Many Canadians see the offers as a “desperate attempt” to compensate for political disputes. Some users argue that principles and national pride outweigh the appeal of discounted travel.
- Open-Minded Travelers: Others express interest in taking advantage of the promotions, especially for popular destinations like New York City, California, and Boston, but emphasize that travel decisions are influenced more by political respect and diplomatic tone than by financial incentives.
This polarization suggests that while discounts may provide short-term gains, the long-term revival of Canadian tourism to the U.S. requires stronger diplomatic engagement.
Winter Travel Season: A Crucial Test
Historically, Canadian travelers have favored U.S. destinations during the winter months, from Florida’s beaches to Colorado’s ski resorts. Tourism operators remain hopeful that these promotions will encourage a rebound in bookings for the 2025 winter season. Some businesses are also exploring customized cultural experiences, such as Canadian-themed events and tailored hospitality packages, to strengthen connections with their northern neighbors.
Looking Ahead: Beyond Discounts
While special deals may boost tourism numbers temporarily, industry experts argue that rebuilding trust between the two nations is essential. Canadians represent nearly 70% of international visitors to the U.S., making them an indispensable market. Without addressing underlying political issues, the tourism industry risks losing a reliable customer base.
Efforts are now being made to involve state tourism boards, local governments, and cultural organizations in initiatives that go beyond discounts. These include cross-border festivals, enhanced travel partnerships, and cultural exchanges aimed at rebuilding goodwill.
Conclusion
The U.S. tourism industry’s aggressive strategy to win back Canadian travelers with exclusive deals marks a pivotal moment in cross-border travel. While promotions such as “Bonjour Boston” and “Californians Love Canada” showcase creativity and hospitality, they may not be enough to overcome the political tensions driving Canadians away.
The future of U.S.-Canada tourism will depend on a blend of attractive travel incentives and renewed diplomatic dialogue. If successful, these initiatives could restore one of North America’s strongest tourism relationships, bringing economic benefits to both nations while reminding travelers of the cultural and geographic ties that make the border more of a bridge than a barrier.
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