North American tourism trends show shifting cross-border travel patterns

Cross-border travel patterns between Canada and the United States have shown significant shifts. Data from Statistics Canada indicates that Canadian-resident visits to the United States dropped by approximately 23.5% in 2025, falling from roughly 30.185 million in 2024 to 23.096 million. This decline was most pronounced in holiday, leisure, and recreation trips, which fell by 21.5%, while trips to visit friends and relatives decreased by 9.0%.

By July 2026, International Trade Administration data showed a partial rebound, with Canadian visitor arrivals to the U.S. rising 7.6% compared to July 2025, reaching 1,465,644 arrivals. However, analysts suggest this represents a recovery from a weak comparison period rather than a full return to previous demand levels.

Conversely, Vancouver is experiencing tourism growth driven largely by strong demand from American markets. Favorable exchange rates and convenient flight connectivity have encouraged travelers from the United States to visit the Canadian city, benefiting local hospitality sectors including hotels, restaurants, and urban attractions.