Idaho Joins Minnesota, Ohio, New Hampshire, Michigan, California and More US States Can Get More Benefits from Proposed USMCA Travel and Tourism Resiliency Act Boosting Tourists Arrivals from Canada and Mexico: Now the World Is Watching Closely

A powerful shift is building across North America’s travel landscape, and the stakes for the US tourism sector are rising fast. Idaho joins Minnesota, Ohio, New Hampshire, Michigan, California and more US states can get more benefits from proposed USMCA Travel and Tourism Resiliency Act boosting tourists arrivals from Canada and Mexico, and suddenly the future of cross-border travel in the US, the USA and the wider Americas is under intense global attention.

For years, the US tourism sector has depended heavily on travellers from Canada and Mexico, two of the largest international visitor markets powering US travel. Now, as discussions around the proposed USMCA Travel and Tourism Resiliency Act gather momentum, Idaho joins Minnesota, Ohio, New Hampshire, Michigan, California and more US states can get more benefits from proposed USMCA Travel and Tourism Resiliency Act boosting tourism from Canada and Mexico, opening a new chapter for US tourism, US travel growth and economic momentum across the USA.

Meanwhile, tourism leaders across the US are watching closely. Airports, border towns and major cities are preparing for what could become a transformative moment for the US tourism sector. As policy discussions advance and global attention intensifies, the question is no longer whether change is coming, but how strongly Idaho, Minnesota, Ohio, New Hampshire, Michigan, California and more US states can get more benefits from proposed USMCA Travel and Tourism Resiliency Act boosting tourism from Canada and Mexico. Travel And Tour World now dives deeper into why the world is watching closely.

A growing tourism shift is spreading across the United States as several American states report a noticeable decline in visitors arriving from Canada. For decades, Canadian travellers have represented the largest international tourism market for the United States, contributing billions of dollars annually to the US tourism sector and supporting thousands of jobs across hospitality, retail and entertainment industries.

However, recent travel data and economic reports suggest that cross-border tourism between Canada and the United States is slowing. Border states that once depended heavily on Canadian visitors are now reporting fewer travellers crossing into the country. The decline is no longer limited to a few locations along the US-Canada frontier. Instead, it is spreading across multiple states including Idaho, Minnesota, Ohio, New Hampshire, Michigan and even large tourism markets such as California.

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Tourism operators, businesses and local governments across these states are beginning to monitor the situation closely as they assess how the drop in Canadian visitors could affect regional economies.

International Visitors to the United States from Canada and Mexico by Major Receiving States

(2022–2025 Estimated Distribution)

U.S. State	2022 Visitors (Canada + Mexico)	2023 Visitors	2024 Visitors	2025 Visitors*	Key Entry Drivers
California	4.8 million	6.9 million	7.2 million	6.8 million	Air arrivals from Mexico & Canada, tourism cities like Los Angeles and San Diego
Texas	3.6 million	5.4 million	5.8 million	5.5 million	Mexico land crossings, business travel, border tourism
New York	2.8 million	4.1 million	4.3 million	4.0 million	Canadian land travel, New York City international tourism
Florida	2.3 million	3.7 million	4.0 million	3.8 million	Canadian winter tourism, major airports
Arizona	1.7 million	2.5 million	2.7 million	2.6 million	Mexican cross-border travel, Phoenix tourism
Michigan	1.4 million	2.1 million	2.2 million	2.0 million	Detroit–Windsor land crossings
Washington	1.3 million	2.0 million	2.1 million	1.9 million	Canadian road trips from British Columbia
Nevada	1.1 million	1.7 million	1.9 million	1.8 million	Las Vegas tourism from Canada & Mexico
Minnesota	0.9 million	1.4 million	1.5 million	1.4 million	Manitoba road tourism
Idaho	0.3 million	0.5 million	0.6 million	0.55 million	Cross-border recreation tourism
Ohio	0.6 million	0.9 million	1.0 million	0.95 million	Great Lakes tourism
New Hampshire	0.5 million	0.8 million	0.9 million	0.85 million	Quebec road tourism
Montana	0.7 million	1.0 million	1.1 million	1.0 million	Alberta cross-border tourism
Maine	0.8 million	1.1 million	1.2 million	1.1 million	Atlantic Canada visitors

The United States could witness a renewed surge in cross-border tourism if the proposed USMCA Travel and Tourism Resiliency Act moves forward, with several states poised to benefit significantly from stronger travel flows from Canada and Mexico. From Idaho and Minnesota to Ohio, New Hampshire, Michigan and California, tourism leaders say the legislation could help restore visitor numbers, strengthen regional economies and rebuild one of the world’s most important travel corridors.

Canada and Mexico have long been the two largest international visitor markets for the United States, accounting for tens of millions of arrivals each year. According to travel statistics compiled by the U.S. National Travel and Tourism Office, Canadian and Mexican travellers together contributed roughly 24.3 million visits in 2022, increasing to 37.3 million in 2023 as international travel rebounded after pandemic restrictions.

By 2024, the number climbed further to approximately 38.6 million visitors, highlighting the importance of cross-border travel to the U.S. tourism sector. Even with slight fluctuations expected in 2025, Canada and Mexico continue to represent the backbone of international tourism to the United States.

Tourism analysts say the proposed USMCA Travel and Tourism Resiliency Act could further strengthen this relationship by encouraging cooperation among the United States, Canada and Mexico and addressing barriers that affect cross-border mobility.

Idaho Sees Reduced Tourism From Canadian Visitors

Idaho is one of the smaller US states along the northern border, but it still relies on tourism from neighbouring Canadian provinces. Travellers from British Columbia often cross into northern Idaho for outdoor recreation, scenic drives and resort stays around Lake Coeur d’Alene.

The region has traditionally welcomed Canadian visitors seeking boating, fishing and hiking opportunities in the state’s forests and lakes. Resorts, hotels and restaurants across northern Idaho benefit from this cross-border travel.

However, tourism officials say visitor numbers from Canada have begun to decline. Businesses in border communities have noticed fewer vehicles arriving from Canadian provinces and a reduction in weekend tourism traffic.

Although Idaho’s tourism industry remains stable overall, the slowdown in Canadian arrivals has raised concerns for businesses that depend heavily on seasonal visitors.

North Dakota: Border Communities See Fewer Visitors

North Dakota’s tourism economy is smaller than those of some neighbouring states, but Canadian travellers still play an important role in local businesses.

Visitors from nearby Canadian provinces frequently cross the border for shopping trips, sporting events, and short leisure visits.

However, businesses in border communities report fewer visitors compared with previous years. Reduced travel activity is affecting hotels, restaurants, and retail outlets that traditionally serve Canadian customers.

Local economic groups are encouraging stronger tourism promotion efforts to maintain cross-border connections.

Minnesota Experiences Drop in Cross-Border Tourism

Minnesota has long enjoyed strong tourism links with Canada, particularly with travellers from Manitoba and Ontario. The state’s proximity to the Canadian border makes it an easy destination for road trips and weekend travel.

Canadian visitors frequently travel to the Minneapolis–Saint Paul region for shopping, entertainment and cultural events. The Mall of America, one of the largest shopping centres in the United States, has historically attracted large numbers of Canadian shoppers.

In addition to urban tourism, Minnesota’s natural attractions also draw visitors from Canada. The state’s extensive network of lakes and parks offers opportunities for fishing, boating and camping.

However, recent tourism trends indicate that Canadian travel into Minnesota has slowed. Retail districts, hotels and tourism businesses have reported fewer Canadian visitors compared with previous years.

Tourism officials are monitoring the situation as they prepare marketing campaigns aimed at maintaining the state’s appeal for international travellers.

Ohio Tourism Sector Feels Cross-Border Impact

Ohio may not share a long land border with Canada, but the state still benefits from tourism connections through Lake Erie and regional travel routes.

Canadian visitors frequently travel to northern Ohio cities such as Cleveland and Toledo. These destinations attract tourists for professional sports games, concerts, museums and waterfront tourism along Lake Erie.

Retail shopping is also a major attraction for Canadian travellers visiting Ohio. Many tourists cross the border for short shopping trips and leisure weekends.

However, declining Canadian travel across the United States is beginning to affect Ohio as well. Tourism businesses in northern parts of the state have reported slower visitor activity as fewer Canadians arrive for recreational travel.

Although domestic tourism continues to support the local industry, the reduction in Canadian visitors is noticeable for businesses that once relied on cross-border travel.

New Hampshire Reports Significant Tourism Drop

Among US states affected by the decline in Canadian visitors, New Hampshire has experienced one of the most visible changes.

The state’s tourism economy has traditionally benefited from travellers arriving from Quebec. Canadian visitors frequently explore the scenic White Mountains, visit ski resorts and enjoy outdoor recreation throughout the year.

Autumn foliage tourism is particularly popular with Canadian travellers, who often travel south to experience New Hampshire’s colourful landscapes during the fall season.

However, recent estimates suggest Canadian tourism to New Hampshire has dropped significantly in recent months. Some tourism organisations estimate visitor spending from Canadian travellers has declined by around thirty percent compared with previous periods.

This drop is especially challenging for small tourism businesses such as local inns, boutique hotels and restaurants located in rural communities.

Tourism officials are now exploring ways to encourage Canadian visitors to return while also promoting the state to new travel markets.

Vermont: Ski Tourism and Local Businesses Affected

Vermont is another state that relies heavily on Canadian travellers, particularly visitors from neighbouring Quebec. During the winter and spring tourism seasons, Canadian guests frequently visit Vermont’s ski resorts, rural inns, and scenic mountain towns.

These visitors also support local restaurants, artisan shops, and outdoor recreation businesses.

However, recent tourism data shows that Canadian spending in Vermont has dropped significantly. Some reports indicate that visitor spending from Canadian travellers has declined sharply compared with previous seasons.

This change is especially concerning for small communities where tourism represents a major share of local income. Ski resorts and hospitality businesses are now watching travel trends closely as they plan future marketing campaigns and tourism promotions.

Maine: Coastal Tourism Facing Cross-Border Slowdown

Maine’s tourism industry also depends strongly on Canadian visitors, particularly travellers from Quebec and the Atlantic provinces. Every year thousands of Canadian tourists drive south to explore Maine’s rugged coastline, charming seaside towns, and outdoor attractions.

Destinations such as Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park have long welcomed visitors from Canada seeking coastal scenery, hiking trails, and fresh seafood experiences.

However, tourism officials say cross-border vehicle travel has declined in recent months, affecting visitor numbers in several regions.

Local businesses in border communities have reported fewer Canadian visitors stopping for shopping, dining, or overnight stays. While domestic tourism remains strong, the reduction in Canadian travel has created uncertainty for tourism operators who traditionally rely on cross-border markets.

Michigan’s Cross-Border Tourism Slows

Michigan shares one of the busiest international border crossings in North America with Canada. The Detroit–Windsor corridor connects the United States with Ontario and supports both trade and tourism.

Canadian visitors frequently travel to Detroit for professional sports events, concerts, festivals and entertainment venues. Cross-border shopping is also common, with many Canadian residents travelling to Michigan for retail purchases.

However, tourism groups and local businesses report that border crossings have declined compared with previous years. The drop in Canadian visitors is affecting retail stores, hotels and restaurants across the Detroit region.

While the decline has not yet created a major economic crisis, tourism leaders are closely monitoring the situation as they work to maintain strong cross-border travel relationships.

Michigan: Detroit Tourism and Shopping Trips Decline

Michigan shares one of the busiest international border crossings in North America with Canada through the Detroit–Windsor corridor. The connection between Detroit and Windsor has historically supported a vibrant cross-border tourism relationship.

Canadian visitors frequently travel into Michigan to attend sports games, concerts, and entertainment events in Detroit. Shopping trips are also common, with many Canadians visiting retail centres and outlet malls across the state.

However, tourism officials and business groups report that Canadian land crossings have fallen significantly in recent months. Reduced travel has begun affecting retail businesses, hospitality services, and tourism attractions across the Detroit region.

Local tourism organisations are working to maintain visitor interest while monitoring travel trends from Canada.

Montana: Outdoor Tourism Facing Visitor Decline

Montana’s tourism sector is closely tied to visitors from the Canadian provinces of Alberta and Saskatchewan. Many Canadian travellers cross into Montana to explore the state’s natural attractions, including Glacier National Park, hiking trails, and scenic mountain landscapes.

Cross-border travel also supports small towns located near the border, where visitors often stop for fuel, dining, and overnight accommodation.

However, recent statistics indicate that border traffic in Montana has declined noticeably. Local tourism businesses say fewer Canadian travellers are entering the state for recreation and leisure trips.

For rural communities that depend on tourism revenue, even modest changes in visitor numbers can have a significant economic impact.

Minnesota: Shopping and Recreation Tourism Slows

Minnesota also receives a steady stream of Canadian visitors, particularly travellers from Manitoba and Ontario. These visitors often travel south for shopping, sporting events, and recreational activities.

The Minneapolis–Saint Paul region has traditionally attracted Canadian tourists seeking retail experiences and cultural attractions. Meanwhile, lakes and outdoor recreation areas across the state are popular destinations for fishing, boating, and summer holidays.

However, tourism analysts say cross-border visits from Canada have been declining, reflecting the broader trend across northern US states.

Local tourism officials are monitoring visitor patterns closely to understand how the shift may affect future travel seasons.

New York: Niagara Falls Tourism Feeling the Impact

New York is one of the most important gateways for Canadian travellers entering the United States. The state shares several major border crossings with Ontario and Quebec, including those near Buffalo, Niagara Falls, and the Adirondack region.

Canadian tourists have historically been a crucial part of the local tourism economy. Many visitors travel south to experience the iconic Niagara Falls from the American side, shop in outlet malls around Buffalo, or explore the natural landscapes of upstate New York.

Recent travel data indicates that New York has seen one of the largest declines in Canadian visitors among all US border states. Reports suggest that millions fewer Canadian entries were recorded in the past year compared with previous levels.

This decline is particularly visible in Niagara Falls, where hotels, restaurants, and retail businesses rely heavily on cross-border visitors. Tourism officials say that fewer Canadian travellers are crossing the border for short trips and weekend visits, creating noticeable gaps in local tourism activity.

Washington: Retail and Tourism Losing Canadian Spending

Washington State has long benefited from its proximity to British Columbia. Cities such as Seattle, Bellingham, and Blaine are popular destinations for Canadians travelling south for shopping, entertainment, and tourism experiences.

For years, Canadians have crossed the border regularly to purchase goods, visit attractions, and attend events in Washington’s major cities.

However, tourism officials and local businesses report that cross-border visits from Canada have been declining. Retail districts that once welcomed steady streams of Canadian shoppers are seeing fewer vehicles with British Columbia licence plates.

Hotels and restaurants in border communities are also reporting reduced activity compared with previous years. In many cases, businesses that depended on Canadian spending are now exploring new strategies to attract domestic visitors.

California Also Sees Decline in Canadian Visitors

The slowdown in Canadian travel is not limited to border states. Large tourism destinations such as California are also experiencing fewer visitors from Canada.

California is one of the most popular international destinations for Canadian travellers. Visitors often fly to cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego to experience beaches, theme parks and cultural attractions.

However, recent tourism statistics show a noticeable decline in Canadian air arrivals to California.

Even though Canadians represent a relatively small percentage of total visitors to the state, they contribute a significant share of international tourism spending.

As a result, tourism officials in California are closely watching Canadian travel trends and exploring marketing campaigns aimed at encouraging visitors to return.

Reasons Behind the Decline in Canadian Travel

Several factors appear to be contributing to the drop in Canadian travel to the United States.

Economic factors such as currency fluctuations can influence travel decisions. When the US dollar strengthens against the Canadian dollar, travel to the United States becomes more expensive for Canadian tourists.

Political tensions and policy debates between the two countries have also influenced travel sentiment in recent years.

Additionally, many Canadian travellers are exploring alternative international destinations such as Europe, Mexico and Caribbean countries.

These shifting travel preferences are reshaping tourism patterns across North America.

A Changing Landscape for US Tourism

The United States and Canada share the longest international border in the world, stretching nearly nine thousand kilometres and connecting thirteen American states with Canadian provinces.

For generations, this border has supported one of the most active tourism corridors globally.

Millions of Canadians travel to the United States each year, making them a vital part of the American tourism economy.

The recent decline in Canadian travel does not necessarily indicate a permanent shift, but it highlights the importance of cross-border tourism for regional economies.

States such as Idaho, Minnesota, Ohio, New Hampshire, Michigan and California are now paying closer attention to travel patterns as they plan future tourism strategies.

If Canadian travellers return in large numbers, the US tourism sector may quickly recover its traditional visitor flows. But if travel preferences continue to evolve, tourism leaders across the United States may need to adapt to a changing international travel landscape.

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