The Canada-US Travel Conflict and Its Impact on Vermont
The ongoing tension between Canada and the United States has significantly affected travel between the two countries. Airlines like WestJet have imposed restrictions on U.S. flights, while major American carriers such as Delta Air Lines are reducing their service to Canadian destinations. This conflict has had a noticeable effect on certain regions in the U.S., with Vermont being one of the hardest hit.
Vermont has long been a popular destination for Canadian tourists, but recent trends show a sharp decline in visitors. Many Canadians have chosen to avoid traveling to the U.S. due to perceived disrespect towards Canadian people and leaders. A Canadian from Ontario shared their experience: “As Canadians from Ontario, we’ve visited Vermont at least twice a year for the last 15 years. We love the beautiful surroundings and friendly people. That being said, I won’t be spending a penny in the USA.” The sentiment reflects a growing reluctance among Canadians to support the U.S. economy, despite their appreciation for Vermont’s hospitality.
This decision has not gone unnoticed by Vermont officials. The state has made significant efforts to welcome back Canadian visitors, recognizing the economic impact of the declining numbers. One of the most notable initiatives is the temporary renaming of Church Street in Burlington to “Rue Canada St.” This symbolic gesture aims to highlight that Vermont’s values do not align with those of former President Donald Trump, who was seen as hostile toward Canada.
Burlington City Councillor Becca Brown McKnight explained that the name change was intended to show support for Canadian visitors. She acknowledged the reasons behind the boycott but expressed optimism about the positive response to the initiative. “We completely understand why Canadians are avoiding the U.S.,” she said. “But with this change, there’s a lot of hope for the future.”
The economic implications of the drop in Canadian tourism are severe. Hotel reservations for Canadian travelers have decreased by 45%, and credit card spending has dropped by 36%. In New York City, bookings by Canadians have also declined by 45%. These figures underscore the importance of Canadian visitors to Vermont’s economy, as they make up nearly 15% of downtown spending.
Recent data shows a dramatic decrease in Canadian travel to Vermont. Between January and May, 581,000 Canadians visited the state, marking a 23% drop compared to the same period last year. In June, the number of Quebecers traveling to the U.S. fell by 43%, from 286,000 in 2024 to 164,000 in 2025. This trend is also affecting businesses like Jay Peak Resort, where Canadian visitors account for 50% of revenue. Early sales for winter passes are down by 80% for Canadian customers.
To counter these trends, Vermont has launched a comprehensive guide for Canadian travelers. The official website features a dedicated section titled “Crossing the U.S./Canada Border,” emphasizing inclusion and welcoming attitudes. The message states, “Vermont stands for inclusion for all, the freedom to take life at your own pace, and the warmth of community.” It encourages travelers to plan their visits carefully, providing information on travel documentation, exchange rates, and other essential details.
In addition to the guide, Vermont is offering special deals to attract Canadian visitors. These include an “at-par” pricing policy for hotels and businesses, helping to offset the effects of the Canadian dollar’s value. The state is also providing practical tips, such as how to navigate border crossings, what to pack, and where to find maps.
Despite these efforts, the question remains whether they will be enough to reverse the current trend. With the ongoing conflict between Canada and the U.S., it is uncertain whether the boycott will continue or if new initiatives will successfully bring Canadian travelers back to Vermont.
