Ontario Tourism Industry Prepares for Unique Summer Season Amidst Canadian Staycation Trend

Strategic Insights -

Ontario's tourism sector is expecting a surge in domestic travel as Canadians opt for staycations due to rising costs, cross-border uncertainty, and patriotism. A new survey by the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario reveals that travel bookings into the United States have dropped, with 37% of operators citing U.S. tariffs and supply issues as the primary reason for increased costs. Meanwhile, local tourism hotspots in Ontario are preparing for a busy summer season, with most operators noting booking pace is either the same or better compared to last year.

Key Takeaways:

  • Travel bookings into the United States have dropped, with 37% of operators blaming U.S. tariffs and supply issues for increased costs.
  • 37% of operators sourced goods from the U.S., with 28% saying they regularly sourced from America.
  • The Ontario government has announced marketing support for summer 2025 tourism campaigns, as well as funding for the beverage and agri-tourism field.
  • Last-minute booking behaviour is on the rise across the province, with shorter windows, flexible group dynamics, and higher cancellation rates.
  • Almost one-third of tourism operators reported lower bookings from U.S. visitors for summer 2025 versus last year.
  • 13% of survey respondents said they are actually seeing more Americans.
  • Some Canadian provinces are trying to encourage more U.S. tourists, with events like the International Homecoming Festival in New Brunswick.

Statistics:

  • 37% of operators blamed U.S. tariffs and supply issues for increased costs.
  • 37% of operators sourced goods from the U.S.
  • 28% of operators regularly sourced goods from America.
  • 13% of survey respondents said they are seeing more Americans.
  • 37% of operators noted a shift in booking pace, with most operators noting bookings are the same or better compared to this time last year.

Sources:

  • InsideHalton.com news article, "Ontario Tourism Industry Prepares for Unique Summer Season Amidst Canadian Staycation Trend"
  • Tourism Industry Association of Ontario press release
  • Statistics Canada information
  • TIAO survey
  • Metroland Media reader survey