Tourism officials across the United States are scrambling to win back Canadian travelers after President Trump’s trade measures sparked a sharp decline in cross‑border vacations. In Las Vegas, the Convention and Visitors Authority sent a delegation to Vancouver this month, while New York’s tourism board rolled out a “NY Loves Canada” discount program.
Local outreach amid a national dispute
Steve Hill, president of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, told reporters in Vancouver, “We’re here to make sure you know that we care about Canada.” Downtown hotels in Las Vegas are even treating the Canadian dollar as equal to the U.S. dollar to give visitors more purchasing power.
New York’s promotion, launched this summer, offers reduced rates at hotels, restaurants and attractions for Canadians. In Florida’s Panhandle, tourism director Jennifer Adams says her message to Canadian families is clear: they are welcome and will receive a great experience.
Trade war’s impact on travel
Since President Trump returned to office, Canadian border crossings fell 25 % in 2025, and Canadians spent about $2.4 billion less on U.S. travel, according to Statistics Canada. The downturn coincided with a 50 % import tax on a range of Canadian products and a reciprocal response from Ottawa.
The administration defended the tariffs, saying they address longstanding Canadian barriers to American‑made automobiles, alcohol and dairy. A White House statement noted the measures are intended to protect U.S. producers and ensure fair trade.
Tourism officials’ mixed outlook
Industry analysts acknowledge the challenges. Deborah Friedland of Eisner Advisory Group warned, “You went from a high‑profile moment for the U.S. to a negative one the next week—one step forward, two steps back.” Yet some local leaders remain optimistic. Hill emphasized that “the thing for us is to let the Canadian family know that they are welcomed here.”
Recent data show a modest rebound in May‑July border crossings, partly linked to the 2026 World Cup co‑hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. However, air travel to the U.S. remains below pre‑war levels, and the upcoming winter season will test whether the boycott persists.
Canadian perspective
Vancouver marketing executive Josh Loewen, who previously traveled frequently to San Diego, Portland and Seattle, says his family has avoided the United States since Trump’s inauguration and will not return until a new president takes office. Calgary life coach Eileen March echoed the sentiment, citing the president’s remarks about making Canada the 51st state and the new tariffs as reasons she refuses to book any U.S. travel.
While the tourism industry works to repair ties, the broader political dispute over trade policy remains a key factor shaping cross‑border travel decisions.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
