Canadian Tourism Decline Puts Pressure on Vermont's Economy

Vermont shares a lengthy border with Quebec and Ontario, and Canadian visitors have historically represented a substantial share of the state's tourism revenue. The state's ski resorts, lakeside towns, and seasonal attractions have long marketed directly to Canadian audiences within driving distance. Since early 2025, travel data and consumer sentiment surveys have indicated a measurable shift in Canadian attitudes toward U.S. travel, tied in part to the Trump administration's immigration enforcement posture and statements about Canada. That shift has translated into tangible spending reductions that Vermont's relatively small and tourism-dependent economy is poorly positioned to absorb quickly.