Dear Canada, We’ve Missed You: The Tensions Between U.S. and Canadian Tourism

The Vermont Connection

Rye, the outdoor center director at the von Trapp Family Lodge and Resort in Stowe, Vermont—the lodge made famous by The Sound of Music—has noticed a significant change this year. Typically a bustling destination for Canadian tourists, Stowe has seen a sharp decline in visitors from Canada, particularly those with Quebec plates. “When they do appear, I’m making it a point to thank them profusely for coming,” Rye shared, reflecting a growing sentiment among U.S. hospitality workers eager to welcome lost friends.

Empty Aisles and Quiet Streets

In Burlington, Trader Joe’s employee Nicolo Mendolia has experienced the noticeable absence of Canadian shoppers during peak seasons. “A big part of that would be that there’s nobody from Quebec coming down,” he said. The streets that once buzzed with Canadian tourists now feel eerily quiet. Recent statistics reveal that Vermont’s border crossings to Canada plummeted nearly 39% during July compared to the previous year.

Economic Ripples

The repercussions of this decline are multi-faceted. According to Statistics Canada, Canadian spending in the U.S. dropped 7.9% in the first quarter of 2025, even as Americans increased their visits to Canada. The lack of Canadian tourists is sending shockwaves through local economies reliant on such visitors. “The longer-term ramifications are that our economy will suffer,” warned Becca Brown McKnight, a city councilor in Burlington. Small businesses, often the backbone of these tourist-dependent towns, face an uncertain future.

Personal Stories of Missed Connections

During a recent visit to Vermont over Labor Day, I couldn’t help but notice the profound absence of Canadian accents in local restaurants. In past years, long wait times were the norm; this year, we were seated immediately. Conversations among local diners were devoid of the friendly Canadian banter that once filled the air.

Reflecting on this shift, Don Dompe, an electrician from Edmonton, described the current sentiment as one of strained relations. “It’s like tensions between neighbors,” he remarked. Despite the lack of outright hostility, the camaraderie cultivated over years is undeniably strained.

The “Dear Canada” Campaign

In light of this newly-fraught relationship, the city of Rochester, New York, has launched a heartfelt initiative titled “Dear Canada.” The campaign aims to rekindle bonds that have frayed in recent years due to tariffs and political tensions. The message captures a longing for the shared experiences and memories built over years of cross-border friendships. “We’ve missed you,” the city penned, addressing their once-frequent visitors.

Symbolic Gestures to Bridge the Divide

Burlington’s councilor McKnight initiated a temporary renaming of the city’s main street to “Rue Canada” as a symbolic gesture of goodwill. Addressing the challenges posed by political realities, she expressed a desire to show remaining openness and warmth towards Canadian neighbors. “We can’t change immigration policy,” she stated, “but we can promote the friendship that has always existed between us.”

The Emotional Toll

Despite these gestures, many Canadians are hesitant to cross the border. Several express reluctance stemming from an atmosphere filled with political uncertainty. A dual citizen shared, “I used to travel back to the States once or twice a year, but now I’m feeling more stressed about crossing.” Old ties are being overshadowed by contemporary fears, affecting relationships well beyond just tourism.

Nostalgia for Friendships

Matthew Hall, a resident of Victoria, British Columbia, lamented the shifting dynamics, stating, “Traveling to the States was part of our yearly plans,” something that now feels inaccessible. Many Americans and Canadians alike yearn for the connections forged through adventure, whether hiking in Olympic National Park or enjoying a leisurely dinner in Burlington.

A Shared Humanity Amidst Tensions

Despite the apparent discord, stories abound of shared experiences and nostalgia. As McKnight pointed out, the outpouring of letters and support from Canadians demonstrates the enduring connections people share across borders. A bouquet of flowers adorned with the Canadian flag colors sent to her office emphasized this shared sentiment.

The Lasting Impact of Change

As individuals from both sides of the border grapple with evolving perceptions, the challenge remains—how to navigate these changing relationships without losing the essence of what made them strong. As Dompe concluded, while it is still possible to cherish old friendships, the avenues to creating new ones feel increasingly distant. The wall of political tension looms large, creating an uncertain future for the unique bond that defined U.S.-Canadian relations for decades.