Tourism-dependent regions across the United States are reporting a significant drop in Canadian visitors this year, with travel to New England states particularly affected. Recent data from both U.S. and Canadian agencies indicates a sharp decline in border crossings and overnight stays, with business owners in Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine reporting double-digit losses in revenue tied to international tourism.
According to the Canada Border Services Agency, vehicle crossings into the United States fell by 34 percent in August compared to the same month last year. U.S. Customs and Border Protection confirmed the decline, with major land ports in the Northeast experiencing the lowest traffic levels since 2021. In New Hampshire, the state’s Department of Business and Economic Affairs reported a 30 percent drop in Canadian tourist traffic over the summer season.
The Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development reported a similar downturn, with particular impact on counties bordering Quebec. In the city of Newport, Vermont, which relies heavily on cross-border business, officials reported that retail sales from May through August were down nearly 22 percent year-on-year. Restaurants, gas stations, and small hotels in the region reported cancellations and shorter stays from Canadian guests.
In Maine, the Department of Economic and Community Development estimated that the state could lose up to 225,000 visitors from Canada this year, based on current trends. Tourism operators across New England have begun to take note. Laconia Motorcycle Week, a major annual event in New Hampshire, saw Canadian attendance drop by more than 75 percent compared to previous years, according to event organizers. The multi-day event historically draws thousands of participants from Quebec and Ontario, contributing an estimated $100 million to the state economy through accommodation, dining, and retail.
Summer tourism numbers reveal a 34 percent Canadian drop
While New England is seeing the steepest declines, other states are also reporting lower-than-expected visitation from Canada. In Hawaii, the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism confirmed a reduction in Canadian arrivals through July, citing a decline of more than 15 percent compared to 2024. The New York State Division of Tourism has also reported weaker Canadian inflows at key entry points along the border.
State governments have responded by launching targeted outreach campaigns. New Hampshire tourism officials held meetings with Canadian tour operators and media outlets in Montreal and Halifax to reinforce messaging about travel safety and hospitality. Maine’s Office of Tourism has expanded French-language promotional efforts and digital marketing initiatives directed at Quebec residents.
Businesses are also adjusting strategies. Several resorts and retailers near the Vermont-Quebec border have reintroduced French signage and bilingual staff to accommodate returning customers. However, many owners say the decrease in foot traffic has led to operational cutbacks, including reduced hours and temporary closures during peak weekends. The impact of the decline is especially pronounced during the late summer and early fall, when tourism plays a major role in local economies.
Hawaii and New York also see reduced Canadian arrivals
Regions such as the White Mountains in New Hampshire and the Green Mountains in Vermont rely heavily on seasonal visitors, with Canadian tourists historically comprising a significant percentage of total traffic. Industry reports suggest that the economic shortfall from reduced Canadian tourism in New England could exceed $150 million by the end of 2025 if current trends continue.
The U.S. Travel Association has acknowledged the downturn and is reviewing data on international inbound tourism to assess regional disparities. Canadian tourists rank among the top international spenders in the United States annually, contributing billions in economic activity through retail, lodging, and transportation. As border communities assess the financial toll, tourism officials in the affected states continue to monitor the data closely and plan additional recovery measures for the coming quarters. – By Content Syndication Services.