Monday, June 9, 2025
Canadian travel to the US is shrinking fast, with Minnesota tourism hit hard by high costs, weak exchange rates, and growing global travel uncertainty.
This past weekend’s Major League Baseball series between the Toronto Blue Jays and the Minnesota Twins brought the familiar influx of Canadian fans to the Twin Cities—a seasonal tradition that highlights the strong cross-border connection between Canada and Minnesota. Yet, this year, that connection seems slightly strained as evolving global conditions and economic considerations shape the travel decisions of Canadian visitors.
According to the state’s tourism promotion agency, Explore Minnesota, the number of Canadian travelers entering the state from January through April saw a noticeable dip of three-point-five percent compared to the same period last year. This decline is being attributed to a combination of global uncertainty, shifting travel preferences, and economic pressures impacting outbound travel from Canada.
Tourism officials believe that recent geopolitical tensions and concerns about international travel may be influencing how Canadians choose their destinations. With global affairs evolving rapidly, some travelers are reportedly opting to explore Europe or domestic destinations instead of crossing into the United States.
Even so, many Canadian visitors continue to cross the border for recreational trips, sports events, and family outings. Longtime visitors emphasize that they still feel welcomed by Minnesotans, and their positive past experiences keep them returning year after year. For these travelers, cultural familiarity, ease of access, and personal connections often outweigh broader geopolitical narratives.
Another key factor weighing on Canadian tourism into Minnesota is the current exchange rate. The weaker Canadian dollar, when compared to the U.S. dollar, has made vacations and short-term visits more expensive for Canadians. From lodging and dining to tickets and souvenirs, visitors from the north are feeling the pinch. This economic reality is prompting some to reevaluate the frequency and length of their U.S. trips.
Business owners in northern Minnesota, particularly those in the hospitality and outdoor recreation sectors, have taken notice. While not all rely heavily on Canadian tourists, there is widespread acknowledgment that currency fluctuations are creating financial hesitation among potential visitors. For small businesses operating near the border or in popular vacation spots like the North Shore, this dip in Canadian travel can have tangible consequences during the peak tourism season.
Some travelers have noted that while everyday expenses are higher, they are sometimes offset by discounted airfare or special travel deals that make certain trips feasible. Even so, many Canadians are recalibrating their travel expectations, prioritizing value and budgeting more carefully.
Despite these headwinds, Canadian travelers continue to make up a vital share of Minnesota’s international tourism economy. In fact, data from Explore Minnesota indicates that Canadians represented more than fifty-five percent of the state’s total international visitors in the previous year. This figure underscores the longstanding significance of Canadian tourism to local businesses, especially in retail, hospitality, and entertainment.
However, the outlook for the summer travel season appears mixed. A recent survey conducted by Explore Minnesota reveals that the majority of tourism businesses in the state are forecasting a decline in Canadian visitors this year. These predictions are largely based on current booking trends, currency issues, and cautious sentiment surrounding international travel.
Still, local tourism leaders remain optimistic that the appeal of Minnesota’s natural beauty, sporting events, and welcoming communities will continue to draw Canadian guests, even if at a slightly reduced pace. Ongoing marketing efforts are aimed at reassuring travelers about safety, affordability, and the diverse experiences available throughout the state.
As the summer unfolds, the Minnesota tourism sector will be watching closely to see if Canadian arrivals rebound or if current trends continue to shape a more cautious cross-border travel landscape. Regardless of the outcome, one thing remains clear: the relationship between Minnesota and its northern neighbors remains a vital part of the state’s tourism identity.
