In 2025, Canadian tourism experienced a notable transformation, with political tensions between Canada and the United States significantly impacting travel decisions. A Desjardins Group study found that Canadians reduced trips to the U.S. by 25%, opting instead to explore their own country. This shift led to a 10% increase in domestic tourism spending and a rise in related employment, bolstering the Canadian economy.
The trend is expected to persist, influenced by ongoing geopolitical developments and economic factors like fuel costs. While international travel to Canada also saw a slight increase, the primary narrative for 2025 was the strong resurgence of domestic tourism, highlighting a renewed appreciation for Canadian destinations among its residents.