Ontario’s tourism sector is experiencing an unexpected boost heading into summer, defying concerns about rising U.S.-Canada tensions and economic uncertainty. Operators in popular regions like Prince Edward County and Niagara are reporting strong booking numbers, largely fueled by Canadian staycationers and a steady flow of American visitors.
In Prince Edward County, local entrepreneurs Rachel and Scott Clément, who manage over 100 cottages near Sandbanks Provincial Park, say their bookings are up 87% compared to last year. The surge comes despite initial worries sparked by cross-border political shifts and past economic disruptions.
“Canadians have rallied behind domestic travel,” said Scott Clément. “We’re seeing far more interest than we expected, and it’s given us a lot of relief after the difficult pandemic years.”
Hotels and boutique motels in the region, including The Royal Hotel and June Motel, are also reporting increases of up to 30% in early reservations. Visitors are primarily coming from the Greater Toronto Area, Ottawa, and Montreal, with a smaller but consistent share from the United States.
Sarah Fox, executive director of Visit The County, said early projections show 30–40% more bookings for the upcoming season through platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. “After a few slower years, there’s real excitement among local operators,” she said.
Meanwhile, in Niagara Falls—a major tourist magnet—American travelers continue to play a significant role, drawn by the favorable exchange rate and iconic attractions. Janice Thomson, CEO of Niagara Falls Tourism, noted a strong return of both domestic and cross-border visitors. The region typically attracts 12 million tourists annually, with about 40% coming from the U.S.
However, industry experts caution that despite early optimism, uncertainty remains. Economic factors, potential trade impacts, and global travel options could still influence consumer behavior.
Andrew Siegwart, president of the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario, emphasized the importance of staying adaptable. “While things look positive now, readiness is key. Some businesses are still hesitant to scale up due to unknowns around the economy and international relations,” he said.
Still, the mood across Ontario’s tourism sector remains largely hopeful, with operators eager to welcome guests—both domestic and international—with open arms.
