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Canadians

Canadian Visitors to Western New York Plummet Amidst Tensions with the US

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Canadian visitors have significantly dropped off since the start of the year, following tensions between Washington and Ottawa. The decline is evident in Western New York's Niagara and Erie counties, where Canadians typically account for a substantial chunk of tourism revenue. This reduction has been deeply felt by local businesses, particularly those that rely heavily on Canadian visitors.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Buffalo Bisons baseball club, an affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays, has seen a decline in Canadian fans from 25% to 10% of its fan base.
  • The Buffalo AKG Art Museum has experienced a significant drop-off in Canadian visitors, with monthly visits hovering between 7% and 10% before plummeting to under 3% after President Trump's inauguration.
  • Explore & More — The Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Children's Museum has anticipated a 25% decline in Canadian visitors for 2026, down from 25% last year.
  • The Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls has seen a nearly 50% decline in Canadian patrons.
  • The Aquarium of Niagara has experienced a nearly 50% decline in Canadian patrons.
  • Canadian school group tours have canceled their reservations for this year and 2026.
  • Businesses along the US-Canada border, such as Express Jewelers, have seen a decline of nearly half in Canadian customers.
  • The decline in Canadian visitors has been attributed to President Trump's tariffs and postures towards Canada, creating anger and alienation.

Statistics:

  • Canadians typically comprise 35-40% of Western New York's annual tourism revenue.
  • The Buffalo Bisons baseball club has seen a 75% decline in Canadian fans.
  • The Buffalo AKG Art Museum has seen a 90% decline in Canadian visitors compared to pre-Trump administration levels.
  • The number of vehicles crossing the Peace, Lewiston-Queenston, Rainbow, and Whirlpool Bridges was down nearly 14% in September compared to the previous year.
  • 63% of active travelers said they were less likely to come to the United States, with most citing tariffs and political statements by US leaders.
  • A slim majority of respondents disagreed that international travelers are valued in the US and that the country is welcoming to travelers of diverse backgrounds.

Sources:

  • The New York Times
  • Buffalo Bisons baseball club
  • Buffalo AKG Art Museum
  • Visit Buffalo Niagara
  • Explore & More — The Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Children's Museum
  • Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls
  • Aquarium of Niagara
  • Express Jewelers
  • Macerich
  • Envoy International
  • Longwoods International

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