ALBANY, N.Y. — After recording a 26% decline in Canadian visitors last year, New York State is aiming to boost tourism from Canada by offering deals on some attractions and lodging.
As News10NBC has covered, several major attractions in Rochester, including the George Eastman Museum and RMSC, saw a decline in Canadian visitors last year. A state comptroller report attributed the drop, in part, to political disputes between the U.S. and Canada over tariffs and other issues.
The state has launched a website, NY LOVES CANADA, with promotions available to Canadian travelers through the end of summer, and some running through December. That includes some discounts to offset the currency exchange rate. Businesses and attractions that are interested in participating can contact their regional Tourism Promotion Agency.
Canada has long been New York State’s largest source of international travelers. However, last year, spending from Canadian travelers dropped by 28% statewide compared to 2024, according to the latest tourism economics report. For the Finger Lakes region, international arrivals fell by 6.3% last year compared to 2024, which the report attributes to a “sharp decline” in Canadian visitors.
For Related Stories: Canadian tourism decline New York State