Maine Joins Idaho, Michigan, Alaska, Minnesota, North Dakota and More US States Facing Tourism Revolt as Canadian Tourists are Tremendously Hammering America and Book Disney Vacations, How Donald Trump’s Country is Losing its Grip

By: Tuhin Sarkar

The tourism landscape in America is facing a seismic shift. Maine, along with states like Idaho, Michigan, Alaska, Minnesota, and North Dakota, is now grappling with a dramatic tourism revolt. Canadian tourists, once a staple in these regions, are right now hmmering the U.S. in droves, turning their backs on American vacations. Why? Because more and more families are choosing to book magical Disney vacations instead. The once-reliable tourism lifeline for these U.S. states is crumbling as Canadian travellers look to destinations where they feel welcome and safe. As the travel boycott spreads, the question remains: How did Donald Trump’s country lose its grip on these loyal visitors?

The U.S. is not just losing Canadian tourists—it’s losing an entire tourism sector that once thrived. The numbers don’t lie. States that used to depend on cross-border travel are now seeing a staggering decline in Canadian visitors. From Alaska’s freezing decline in bookings to the empty lanes on Maine’s Turnpike, the trend is undeniable. More Canadians are opting for Disney vacations abroad. This revolt is just the beginning. What does this mean for the future of U.S. tourism? Travel And Tour World urges you to read on to uncover the full story behind this dramatic shift.

Canadians Revolt: Travel Boycott & Disney Dreams

An unprecedented travel revolt is sweeping across Canada. Once loyal snowbirds, who traditionally flocked south to the United States, are now boycotting the U.S. in record numbers. Statistics Canada reports that in 2024, Canadian-resident trips to the U.S. reached 39 million – a massive three-quarters of all outbound trips. However, early 2025 data show a dramatic shift. The sentiment has soured as U.S. policy changes and rising costs have made American destinations less appealing. Families are spending their vacation money on overseas adventures, particularly Disney parks abroad. The boycott has transformed into a powerful symbol of national pride and consumer protest.

Shock Drop in Car Crossings: Data Tells the Tale

This boycott isn’t just a trend seen on social media—it’s backed by hard data. Statistics Canada’s frontier counts show a dramatic decrease in Canadians returning from the U.S. by car. Same-day excursions plummeted by 40.3% in May 2025, marking the steepest drop since the post-9/11 crisis. Overnight car trips also fell by 34.3%. Provinces that typically send millions of motorists across the border have seen traffic plummet: Quebec’s same-day returns dropped 52.5%, British Columbia’s by 52.3%, and Ontario’s by 33.7%. Canada’s border bridges now echo with emptiness, symbolizing the growing frustration brewing north of the 49th parallel.

Air Travel Plummets: The Sky Is Falling

Air travel is feeling the impact of this boycott too. In 2024, almost all air returns from the U.S. were overnight trips, but 2025 has seen a continuous year-over-year decline. Returns by air fell 14% in April and dropped a staggering 24.2% in May. This decline started in September 2023 and has worsened month by month. The U.S. government shutdowns, which led to air-traffic-controller staffing cuts and flight chaos, have played a role. With increasing concerns over the reliability of U.S. travel infrastructure, Canadian families are simply choosing to avoid U.S. vacations altogether. Empty departure lounges in Canadian airports serve as a testament to this shift.

Provincial Pain: Quebec & BC Lead the Boycott

While the travel boycott affects all of Canada, some provinces are hit harder than others. Quebec and British Columbia lead the charge with a massive 52.5% drop in same-day car trips from Quebec and 52.3% from British Columbia. Even Ontario has felt the pinch, with a 33.7% decline in cross-border trips. Border towns such as Windsor, Fort Erie, Niagara Falls, and Pacific Highway, once bustling with Canadians, are now experiencing a sharp drop in traffic. These statistics show that the boycott isn’t just about a few travelers opting for other destinations; it’s entire provinces turning their backs on U.S. road trips.

Abroad Adventures Soar: Overseas Trips Surge

As Canadians pull back from U.S. destinations, international travel is booming. Statistics Canada reports that Canadian travel abroad dropped by 18.9% in April 2025 due to fewer U.S. trips, but travel to other countries soared by 8.8%, raising the overseas share of all trips from 26.9% to 36.1%. Mexico, France, and the United Kingdom are top destinations, with rising bookings to Japan and Spain indicating a growing demand for safe, family-friendly experiences like Disneyland Paris and Tokyo Disney Resort. U.S. theme parks are witnessing a noticeable decline in Canadian visitors as families explore magical destinations abroad.

Currency Crunch: Canadian Dollar Woes Fuel Boycott

The exchange rate is another key factor in the boycott. The Canadian dollar depreciated 7.7% against the U.S. dollar in 2024, slipping below 70 cents U.S. This depreciation makes every U.S. purchase more expensive for Canadians, from hotel stays and meals to theme park tickets. With the Canadian dollar losing value, U.S. vacations are increasingly unaffordable. On the other hand, Europe and Asia offer better value for the Canadian dollar, which only amplifies the appeal of overseas destinations. The weakened currency further drives the economic logic behind the U.S. travel decline.

Alaska’s Deep Freeze: Tourism Dwindles

Border states are paying a painful price. In Alaska, passenger‑vehicle crossings from Canada dropped more than 10% in the first ten months of 2025. Anchorage hotels reported a 5% decline in stays. Business owners blame the U.S. administration’s adversarial rhetoric, which has deterred their most loyal customers. Alaskan tour operators like Expeditions Alaska watched reservations shrink as Canadians chose safer overseas hikes. For a state where cross‑border road trips and cruise excursions once thrived, the boycott is a chilling reality. Locals fear a long winter of empty beds and shuttered storefronts.

Idaho’s Border Blues: Local Businesses Suffer

Idaho’s small towns rely on Canadian shoppers who drive down for groceries and recreation. The Joint Economic Committee report found vehicle crossings at Idaho ports plunged more than 27%. Local merchants saw Canadian customers drop by about 25%, with some seasonal businesses reporting a 50% collapse compared with the previous summer. These numbers translate into empty parking lots and lost wages. In border towns like Bonners Ferry, store owners lament that politics has turned neighbours into strangers. Without Canadians to fill cash registers, Idaho’s economy faces a harsh awakening.

Maine’s Empty Lanes: Turnpike Traffic Craters

Maine, a favourite summer escape for Quebecers and Maritimers, is feeling abandoned. Traffic from Canada on the Maine Turnpike fell 45% for cash‑paying drivers, with E‑ZPass crossings down roughly 20%. The Ogunquit Playhouse theatre lost 44% of its Canadian audience. State economists warn that tensions between Canada and the U.S. could drive a decline in Canadian tourism. In a state where tourism employs one in ten workers, the financial hit is severe. Beach towns and lobster shacks lament that “Bienvenue Canadiens” banners now greet mostly empty roads.

Michigan’s Vanishing Shoppers: Motor City Meltdown

Michigan’s economy is deeply tied to Canada. The state’s border crossings fell nearly 11%, and Detroit expects a 17.3% drop in international overnight visitors, 92% of which is due to the Canadian decline. Canadians usually spend over $360 million a year in Michigan – about one‑tenth of the state’s tourism revenue. Hotels report more than one‑third fewer Canadian bookings; lodge managers speak of a 15% drop in cross‑border business. With auto factories and sports teams already struggling, losing holiday shoppers from across the river is yet another blow.

Minnesota & North Dakota: Heartland Havoc

Across the prairie, the boycott is battering small towns. The Joint Economic Committee notes that Minnesota’s vehicle crossings fell nearly 19%, causing Minneapolis to predict a 14.5% drop in international overnight visitors. Explore Minnesota reports that 51% of tourism businesses experienced declines. At Pembina, North Dakota, border entries were down 36.6%, and across the state crossings dropped over 25%. Canadian visitors spent $14.4 million less, hotel occupancy fell 4.5%, and even the Theodore Roosevelt National Park lost visitors. Heartland communities feel forgotten as political battles drive customers away.

Montana’s Mountain Slump: 80% Visitor Base Vanishes

Montana’s wild beauty once drew armies of Canadian campers. Border crossings from Canada have fallen over 19%, and Canadians typically make up 80% of the state’s international visitors. Businesses in Kalispell and Whitefish report that a quarter of their Canadian customers have disappeared and spending has dropped 44%. Discover Kalispell says cancellations flooded in after U.S. policy changes, leaving hotels half full. Without our northern neighbours, Montana’s “Big Sky Country” feels emptier than ever. The boycott threatens seasonal jobs and the livelihoods of families who depend on summer tourism.

New Hampshire & New York: East Coast Exodus

On the eastern seaboard the exodus is dramatic. New Hampshire reports a 30% decrease in Canadian visitors and a shocking 71% drop in reservations at state‑run campgrounds. Laconia Motorcycle Week, a major event, saw 75–80% fewer Canadians. North Country businesses in New York say 83% have lost Canadian customers, with 70% blaming political hostility and tariffs. Hotel revenue is down 8% and restaurant sales off 20–30%. Governor Hochul’s tariff report laments nearly a million fewer border crossings and a disproportionate impact on New York. The East Coast, once bustling with Quebec plates, now counts the cost of nationalism.

Florida’s Mirage: Sunshine Not Enough

Sunshine State boosters proudly announce record visitor numbers, yet the Canadian boycott leaves a shadow. Florida welcomed 34.4 million visitors in the second quarter of 2025, but only about 640,000 were Canadians – a mere 1.9%. In 2024 the state drew 3.41 million Canadian tourists; by early 2025 only 1.2 million arrived. While Disney World and Universal remain magnets, exchange‑rate woes and policy tensions keep many families away. Florida’s warm beaches cannot fully offset the fear and frustration fuelling the boycott. Even the Magic Kingdom cannot escape the politics of the moment.

Looking Ahead: Will the Boycott Last?

The abrupt decline in Canadians visiting the United States suggests a seismic shift. Statistics Canada observes that this change may be temporary or could herald a lasting realignment. With overseas trips rising and alternative Disney parks appealing, many travellers might never return to past patterns. The boycott sends a clear message: Canadians expect safety, respect, and stability. Unless U.S. policymakers address gun violence, discriminatory laws, trade hostility, and border hassles, the movement could become permanent. In the meantime, Canadians will keep chasing sunshine, magic, and adventure in destinations that welcome them with open arms.

Safety Fears: Gun Violence & Crime Warnings

Safety concerns have triggered a significant shift in Canadian travel habits. The Government of Canada’s travel advisory points out the U.S.’s high rate of gun ownership and allows open carry in many states. The advisory warns Canadians to be prepared for mass shootings and offers tips on how to handle active-shooter situations. The stark language in the advisory has deeply impacted Canadian families, making them question whether the risks of U.S. travel are worth it. With rising reports of highway robberies and home break-ins, many are choosing safer destinations where gun violence is not normalized.

Discrimination Alert: 2SLGBTQI+ Laws & Federal Forms

Discriminatory laws are also a driving force behind the boycott. The Canadian advisory warns that the U.S. is removing gender-identity markers from federal forms, including visas, passports, and NEXUS memberships. Moreover, some states have enacted laws that harm the 2SLGBTQI+ community. These actions have shocked Canadians, especially those with trans or non-binary family members. For communities accustomed to inclusivity and respect, these discriminatory laws are unacceptable. As a result, many Canadians are turning away from the U.S. and seeking destinations where all travelers, regardless of gender identity, feel welcome and respected.

Border Hassles: Strict Entry & Surveillance Deter Travel

Crossing the U.S. border has become a tedious and invasive process. Canada’s advisory warns that U.S. border officers have sweeping discretion to scrutinize travelers’ personal devices and histories. Travelers must now carry passports, NEXUS cards, or enhanced licenses, and be ready to prove citizenship. Even minor errors can result in detention or deportation. These intrusive procedures have made spontaneous trips to the U.S. less appealing. By contrast, travel within Europe or the Caribbean often requires nothing more than an online form or no visa at all, making the U.S. seem more cumbersome and unwelcoming.

Government Shutdowns & Travel Chaos

Political dysfunction in Washington has compounded the frustration of Canadian travelers. U.S. federal shutdowns have caused travel chaos, with airlines canceling flights and extending layovers, leaving holidaymakers stranded. Such disruptions have damaged Canadians’ confidence in U.S. travel infrastructure. Canadians still remember the border closures of the pandemic era and fear being trapped again. This fear of political instability has driven many to choose destinations with stable governance and reliable transport, pushing the travel boycott even further.

Tariff Wars: Trade Tensions Spill Over into Tourism

Economic tensions between Canada and the U.S. have also contributed to the tourism boycott. Canadian travel sentiment has shifted in response to U.S. policy changes. The Maine State Economist has warned that geopolitical tensions and rapidly changing tariffs have put the state at risk of declining Canadian tourism. U.S. tariffs and federal policies have turned off many Canadian travelers, who are now choosing different destinations. The shifting trade policies are having a profound impact on U.S. tourism, as Canadians are responding by closing their wallets and traveling elsewhere.

Alaska’s Deep Freeze: Tourism Dwindles

Alaska, which once thrived on Canadian tourism, is now feeling the sting of the boycott. Border crossings from Canada have dropped by more than 10%, and local businesses are struggling with fewer Canadian visitors. Alaska’s tourism industry, reliant on cross-border road trips and cruise excursions, faces a dire situation. Tour operators in Alaska report shrinking reservations as Canadians opt for safer, more affordable vacations abroad.

A Brief History of Disney Parks: The Origins of Magic

It all started in 1955, when Walt Disney opened the doors of Disneyland in Anaheim, California, creating the world’s first theme park that brought beloved characters and stories to life in ways never seen before. Disneyland’s success spurred the creation of other Disney parks across the globe, each bringing its own unique flavor of magic.

In the following decades, Disney expanded its parks worldwide:

• Walt Disney World Resort opened in Orlando, Florida, in 1971, marking the largest Disney park complex in the world.
• Tokyo Disneyland debuted in 1983, followed by Disneyland Paris in 1992, Hong Kong Disneyland in 2005, and Shanghai Disneyland in 2016.
• Upcoming expansions, such as Disneyland Abu Dhabi, show Disney’s commitment to reaching new international markets.

Disney vacation destinations are more than just parks—they’re immersive worlds where dreams come true, where visitors can engage in thrilling rides, meet their favorite Disney characters, and experience world-class entertainment.

Global Appeal: Why Disney Parks Are a Worldwide Phenomenon

Disney parks boast millions of visitors each year, with some destinations breaking attendance records year after year. In fact, Walt Disney World alone welcomes around 58 million visitors annually, making it one of the most visited entertainment complexes in the world. But what makes Disney vacations so appealing to travelers from every corner of the globe?

1. Timeless Appeal to All Ages: Disney parks are designed to offer something for everyone, from young children to grandparents. Whether it’s thrilling rides at Magic Kingdom, exploring the galaxy at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, or strolling through EPCOT’s World Showcase, there’s something for every age group. The ability to create multi-generational experiences makes Disney vacations a top choice for families.
2. Immersive Theming and Storytelling: One of the biggest draws of Disney vacations is the immersive theming that transports visitors into their favorite movies, stories, and characters. From the haunted halls of the Haunted Mansion to the futuristic world of Tomorrowland, Disney does storytelling like no other. Each park is designed with detail-oriented environments where attractions, food, merchandise, and even architecture immerse you in Disney’s magical universe.
3. Iconic Disney Characters and Entertainment: The opportunity to meet Disney characters and watch world-class live performances makes Disney vacations stand out. Guests can interact with Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Disney Princesses, Marvel superheroes, and Star Wars characters, making these experiences unforgettable for children and fans of all ages.
4. Top-tier Service and Customer Experience: Disney is known for its impeccable customer service. Visitors can expect clean parks, friendly staff, and efficient systems that make the experience seamless and enjoyable. Disney’s focus on guest satisfaction is one of the reasons why so many families return year after year.
5. Exclusive Seasonal and Themed Events: Disney resorts host exclusive events throughout the year, making each visit unique. From Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party to the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, there’s always something exciting happening in the Disney world. These events provide even more reasons to plan a visit during specific times of the year.

The Economic Impact of Disney Vacations Worldwide

The economic contribution of Disney’s theme parks is immense. Not only do they generate billions in revenue annually, but they also have a significant impact on local economies, creating jobs and driving tourism.

1. Revenue Generation: Disney Parks, Experiences and Products generate a significant portion of Disney’s overall revenue. In 2024, Disney’s theme parks accounted for $27.5 billion in revenue, a testament to the global demand for Disney vacations. With growing international markets, this number is expected to increase further, particularly with the expansion of parks in Asia and the Middle East.
2. Job Creation and Local Economies: Disney parks are major employers, with over 250,000 people working across its resorts, including cast members, entertainers, food service workers, and hotel staff. In Florida, the Walt Disney World Resort is one of the largest employers in the state, providing jobs for tens of thousands. Moreover, Disney resorts are significant drivers of tourism in the areas where they are located. They attract millions of visitors to local communities, benefiting hotels, restaurants, retailers, and transportation services.
3. Tourism Revenue: The United States alone sees over 50 million international visitors each year, with a significant portion of them traveling to Disney destinations. In places like Orlando, tourism-related revenues in local economies are heavily dependent on Disney’s success. Similarly, in Paris, Shanghai, and Tokyo, Disney parks are vital economic engines for the local and national economies.

The Impact of COVID-19 on Disney Vacations

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected Disney’s theme park operations. With parks closed worldwide during much of 2020, Disney faced massive revenue losses and delays in new park openings. However, Disney quickly pivoted, focusing on safety measures and enhancing its offerings to keep the magic alive.

Health and safety protocols were implemented in every park, including mask mandates, social distancing, and capacity limits. Disney also accelerated its investments in digital experiences. The introduction of the Disney Genie app, which offers real-time ride information, mobile food ordering, and more, has become an essential part of the Disney vacation experience. Despite initial setbacks, Disney’s parks rebounded, and in 2021, the company reported record earnings and attendance growth, showing that the magic was still alive for travelers.

The Future of Disney Vacations: Expanding and Innovating

Disney’s future in the theme park and resort business looks brighter than ever. With a growing global presence and expanding new experiences, the company is set to continue dominating the vacation industry for years to come.

1. New Parks and Expansions: Disney continues to expand its parks worldwide. In 2023, Disney announced plans to build a new park in Abu Dhabi as part of its ongoing strategy to reach the Middle East market. Additionally, EPCOT at Walt Disney World is undergoing a massive overhaul, introducing new pavilions and attractions like the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind ride, offering fresh experiences for repeat visitors.
2. Sustainability Initiatives: Disney has made sustainability a key priority in its park operations. New initiatives, including renewable energy projects and water conservation efforts, are part of Disney’s plan to ensure its parks have a positive environmental impact. Disney resorts are increasingly implementing eco-friendly practices, and the brand is committed to reaching net-zero emissions by 2050.
3. Technological Innovations: The future of Disney vacations is also deeply tied to technology. Disney is investing in immersive experiences like augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), allowing guests to explore new dimensions of storytelling. Additionally, Disney is enhancing guest experience through personalized app features and smart wearables, ensuring a seamless and magical visit for all park-goers.
4. New Themed Lands and Attractions: Disney parks continue to innovate by creating new, cutting-edge themed lands based on beloved franchises. Attractions like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Avengers Campus have taken Disney vacations to new heights, bringing the Marvel and Star Wars universes to life like never before.

Why Disney Vacations Are Worth Every Penny

Disney vacations are not the cheapest option, but for many families, the experience is well worth the investment. Here’s why:

• The Disney experience offers irreplaceable memories that families will cherish for a lifetime. The joy of seeing a child’s face light up when meeting Mickey Mouse, the thrill of riding iconic rides, and the sense of wonder at watching a firework show at Cinderella Castle are priceless moments that can’t be replicated elsewhere.
• Comprehensive vacation packages offer value for money. Disney offers inclusive packages that cover hotel accommodations, park entry, food, and other experiences. By bundling these services together, Disney ensures guests get the most out of their vacation.
• Seamless customer service ensures that guests can relax and enjoy their time without worrying about logistics. Disney’s reputation for top-notch customer service is a major reason why so many families choose Disney vacations again and again.

The Enduring Magic of Disney Vacations

Disney vacations are far more than just a trip to a theme park—they are an immersive experience that transcends generations. Whether you’re visiting the classic Disneyland California, enjoying the expansive Walt Disney World Resort, or experiencing the charm of Disneyland Paris, the magic of Disney brings families closer together. With new innovations, global expansions, and timeless attractions, Disney vacations remain a favorite choice for travelers around the world.

The future of Disney vacations is set to continue enchanting millions of visitors, with new parks, experiences, and technologies on the horizon. As the brand continues to grow, it will undoubtedly remain a dominant force in the global tourism and travel industry for years to come. Whether it’s your first trip or your tenth, a Disney vacation offers something magical for everyone.

Canadian Vacation Trends: A Shift Towards International and Purposeful Travel

As Canadians look ahead to 2025 and 2026, the travel landscape is shifting dramatically. With U.S. vacations on the decline, Canadians are opting for more diverse and meaningful travel experiences. Economic factors, political tensions, and a growing desire for deeper, more purposeful vacations are driving these changes. Let’s explore the vacation trends shaping Canadian travel plans for the coming years.

A Decline in U.S. Travel

One of the most significant trends observed in 2025 is the sharp decline in Canadian travel to the United States. In the past, U.S. vacations were the go-to choice for many Canadians, particularly those seeking proximity and familiarity. However, due to political tensions, safety concerns, and rising costs, Canadians are increasingly turning their backs on U.S. destinations. Statistics reveal that U.S. trips fell dramatically in 2025, especially for road trips and short visits.

Many Canadians have become disillusioned with the U.S. border experience, facing longer wait times and stringent entry requirements. Additionally, gun violence concerns have led families to seek safer alternatives. This shift is particularly evident in places like Florida, California, and popular U.S. theme parks, where Canadian visitors are noticeably absent.

Domestic Travel Surges

With the decline in U.S. travel, Canadians have rediscovered the beauty and adventure of their own country. Domestic travel saw a significant rise in 2025, as many families opted for local getaways, road trips, and exploring nature. From the Rocky Mountains to Prince Edward Island’s coastline, there has been a notable increase in Canadians choosing local destinations that offer scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and rich cultural experiences.

Canada’s vast natural landscapes, national parks, and charming towns are proving to be the perfect getaway for families seeking relaxation without the hassle of long-haul flights or crossing borders. These destinations also offer more affordable vacation options, making them a popular choice in a time of economic uncertainty.

The Rise of International Travel

As domestic trips soar, Canadians are also turning to international destinations for their vacations. With the U.S. travel decline, countries such as Mexico, France, and Spain are experiencing a surge in Canadian tourists. Europe continues to be a top choice, especially for those seeking cultural experiences, history, and world-class cuisine.

Additionally, Caribbean islands are seeing a strong increase in bookings, with Canadians flocking to places like the Bahamas, Cuba, and Dominican Republic for their all-inclusive resorts and relaxing beach holidays. Japan and Australia are also gaining popularity as destinations for family-friendly adventures, with Disney parks in Paris and Tokyo becoming a top choice for Canadians seeking magical escapes abroad.

Purposeful and Meaningful Vacations

Looking toward 2026, Canadians are embracing more purposeful and meaningful travel. Wellness retreats, eco-tourism, and cultural travel are becoming more prominent. Canadians are seeking vacations that allow them to connect with nature, learn new skills, or explore their heritage. From mindful travel experiences in the Caribbean to adventure holidays in South America, the demand for experience-driven travel is set to grow.

Travelers are also choosing sustainable travel options, with a focus on reducing their carbon footprint. Eco-resorts, volunteer vacations, and cultural exchange programs are becoming popular choices for Canadians seeking a deeper connection to the places they visit.

The Future of the Boycott: Will Canadians Return to the USA?

The future of this travel boycott remains uncertain. It could be a temporary shift or the beginning of a lasting change in Canadian travel habits. With overseas trips rising and alternative Disney parks gaining popularity, many Canadians may never return to U.S. destinations. The boycott sends a powerful message: Canadians want safety, respect, and an enjoyable vacation experience. Unless U.S. policymakers address the concerns surrounding gun violence, discriminatory laws, trade tensions, and border hassles, this boycott could continue indefinitely. For now, Canadians are chasing sunshine, magic, and adventure in destinations that welcome them with open arms.