New Hampshire Tourism Faces Crisis with 30% Fewer Canadian Visitors Amid Political and Economic Friction Between US and Canada

Published on December 16, 2025

New Hampshire tourism sector is facing a significant downturn, with Canadian visitors plummeting by 30% last year, a direct result of escalating political and economic tensions between the United States and Canada. Tariffs, heightened border controls, and contentious rhetoric from the Trump administration have created a climate of uncertainty, discouraging Canadians from making the trip across the border. Once a steady flow of tourists contributing to local economies, Canadians have become increasingly hesitant, leaving businesses that rely on cross-border tourism struggling to cope. This sharp decline is not only affecting the state’s popular tourist spots and seasonal events but is also highlighting the broader consequences of strained international relations. As the state faces this challenge, the future of its tourism industry now depends on the restoration of positive U.S.-Canada relations.

The figures come from an analysis conducted by Democratic members of the Joint Economic Committee of the U.S. Congress, which found that New Hampshire was among the hardest-hit states when it came to the decline in Canadian tourism. The report highlights the economic ripple effects that have spread throughout the state, especially in industries that rely on cross-border travel, such as retail, hospitality, and tourism. For many communities along the U.S.-Canada border, Canadians have long been an essential customer base, and their absence is being keenly felt by local businesses.

One of the most noticeable changes has been in smaller towns near the Canadian border. Business owners have reported a marked reduction in Canadian customers, with some noting that many Canadians are now hesitant to cross the border due to fears about stricter enforcement and tariffs. This shift has turned what were once popular day trips into journeys fraught with anxiety, reducing the enjoyment and frequency of visits from Canadian tourists. As a result, local shops and businesses that have long depended on Canadian patronage are seeing fewer customers, leading to lower sales during crucial tourism seasons.

The effects of this decline extend far beyond small businesses. Iconic tourist destinations in New Hampshire that once thrived due to the influx of Canadian visitors have also been impacted. For example, popular spots like Old Orchard Beach in Maine and Mount Washington State Park have seen fewer visitors from Canada, which has led to diminished revenue from admissions, accommodations, and other services. Local events such as Laconia Motorcycle Week, which traditionally attracts a large number of Canadian attendees, saw a massive drop in participation, with Canadian attendance plummeting by as much as 80%. This drastic decrease in visitors has affected the overall success of these events and further underscored the reliance on Canadian tourism.

On a broader scale, Canadian tourism plays a vital role in the U.S. economy, contributing $20.5 billion annually and supporting around 140,000 jobs. For states like New Hampshire, this economic relationship is particularly important. The loss of Canadian tourists has created a void in the local economy, which is struggling to recover from the impacts of reduced tourism and trade. The economic fallout has been most pronounced in states that are geographically and culturally closer to Canada, where cross-border tourism has historically been a driving force for local economies.

The decline in Canadian visitors isn’t limited to New Hampshire. Other states along the U.S.-Canada border, such as Vermont and Maine, have also experienced similar decreases in Canadian tourism. Vermont reported a 28% drop in border crossings, while Maine saw a 20% reduction in Canadian visitors. The ferry service between Bar Harbor, Maine, and Nova Scotia experienced a 25% drop in ridership, illustrating the widespread effect of the strained relationship on regional tourism.

In New Hampshire, the challenges extend to the camping industry as well. Reservations by Canadian visitors at state-run campgrounds were down by a staggering 71% in the first five months of 2025 compared to the same period the year before. Private campgrounds also reported fewer Canadian bookings, signaling a broader trend that has affected the entire tourism sector. This has left local economies in flux, as many businesses that once relied on tourism-related spending are now struggling to fill the void.

The long-term consequences of this decline in Canadian tourism cannot be overstated. Canadian visitors have long been a vital part of New Hampshire’s tourism landscape, whether visiting to enjoy the outdoors, attend events, or spend time with family and friends. As the report suggests, the loss of these visitors has strained the close economic and cultural ties between the two countries. With fewer Canadians crossing the border, New Hampshire’s tourism industry faces an uphill battle to recover and rebuild what has been lost.

Restoring the flow of Canadian tourism to New Hampshire will require efforts from both governments. Strengthening diplomatic ties and addressing the concerns of Canadian travelers—such as relaxing border restrictions and resolving trade issues—will be crucial in rebuilding the tourism sector. In the short term, it may take time to reverse the damage done by years of political tensions, but with a focus on improving cross-border relations, both the U.S. and Canada can work to restore the flow of tourists and revitalize the local economies that depend on it.

In conclusion, New Hampshire’s experience highlights the broader impact of political tensions on cross-border tourism. The decline in Canadian visitors underscores the fragile nature of international relationships and the importance of maintaining strong, positive ties between neighboring countries. For New Hampshire and other states along the U.S.-Canada border, restoring Canadian tourism will be essential for economic recovery and the continued success of businesses that have long thrived on cross-border travel.