New York has a message for Canadian tourists who might be rethinking their trips to the US: “We’re lucky to have neighbors like you!”
The Empire State is particularly exposed to a decline in Canadian tourism as President Donald Trump’s proposed 50% tariffs and calls to make Canada America’s 51st state have strained relations between the two countries and prompted some Canadians to call for boycotts of US travel.
According to the governor’s office, Canadian visitation to New York State fell more than 26% in 2025, the year Trump took office, and Canadian spending fell 28%. The Canadian government also reported a 25% drop in residents’ border crossings to the US in 2025 compared to 2024.
As a destination that relies heavily on Canadian tourism, New York’s “NY LOVES CANADA” and “Northern Neighbour Deal” campaigns are trying to win them back. The limited-time promotions are organized by the New York Department of Economic Development and New York City Tourism + Conventions, respectively.
The Northern Neighbour Deal offers Canadian tourists 30% off at nearly 100 hotels, restaurants, shows, and attractions across New York City’s Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, and The Bronx. The discount was “designed to help offset the exchange rate.” As of August 2026, $1 CAD equals $0.72 USD.
‘Our message is one of love’
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The list includes observation decks atop the Empire State Building, One World Observatory, and Top of the Rock; butterbeer at the Harry Potter Shop NYC; and cruises offering views of the Statue of Liberty from the Hudson River.
Several Times Square hotels, city museums, and Broadway shows such as “Maybe Happy Ending,” “Book of Mormon,” “Aladdin,” and “Buena Vista Social Club,” are also offering the discount to Canadian visitors.
“We know travellers are thinking carefully about where and how they spend right now,” New York City Tourism + Conventions wrote on its website. “This summer, we want Canadians to know they are valued, welcomed and very much part of the life of NYC.”
Outside New York City, the NY LOVES CANADA travel deal, on the “I LOVE NY” website, applies to 25 hotels, restaurants, and attractions throughout New York state, including the Hudson Valley, the Adirondacks, Long Island, and Greater Niagara.
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Adventureland on Long Island, for example, is offering BOGO admission; the nearby Heckscher Museum of Art is free for Canadians during certain days and times.
The Northern Neighbour Deal runs from August 18 through September 7 for destinations in New York City, while some statewide offers remain valid through the end of the year.
“Our message is one of love: New York loves Canada, despite whatever headwinds may challenge our fellowship. This new program is our invitation to Canadian travelers,” New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said. “New York and Canada are neighbors by geographic destiny, but we are friends by choice, and we want our Canadian companions to know that they are welcome in New York State.”
Other US cities have also launched special promotions targeting Canadian tourists to offset the financial impact of Trump’s trade war. In Las Vegas, another destination popular with Canadian travelers, hotels are offering a “Vegas At Par” promotion with a more favorable currency exchange rate, discounted helicopter rides, and all-inclusive specials to those visiting from Canada.
