America is on the brink of a historic collapse in tourism, with international visits plummeting at an alarming rate. Last month alone, Canadian tourism to the United States dropped over 30%, leaving planes nearly empty and travelers fleeing to other destinations. Sarah from Toronto canceled her $8,000 Disney World trip, opting instead for Europe, echoing a sentiment shared by millions.
The U.S., once the world’s top travel destination, now faces a staggering decline, bleeding tourists faster than any other nation. While 183 countries see tourism rebounds, America spirals downward, costing the economy billions monthly. In July, overseas visitors dropped by 3.1%, equating to millions of empty hotel rooms and canceled reservations. The World Travel and Tourism Council warns that by 2025, America will be the only country experiencing a decline in international visitor spending.
The root causes are alarming. Aggressive immigration policies and negative rhetoric have left potential visitors feeling unwelcome. Canadian visits have plummeted by over 25% this year alone, threatening the livelihoods of countless American families dependent on tourism. Starting in October 2025, a new $250 visa fee will further deter international travelers, exacerbating the crisis.
Major cities are already feeling the impact, with New York City projecting a loss of $4 billion in tourism spending. Airlines are cutting routes, and competing nations are rolling out the red carpet for travelers that America is pushing away. The situation is dire, with predictions of an 8.2% drop in international arrivals for 2025.
As the U.S. prepares for major global events like the FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympics, the current trajectory risks turning these opportunities into public relations disasters. The world is watching, and right now, they are choosing to vacation elsewhere. The question remains: will America act before the damage becomes irreversible? The time to reverse course is running out.
