Buffalo’s Tourism Hit Hard by Decline in International Visitors

By RIO YAMAT

LAS VEGAS — A bright billboard on the highway linking Toronto to New York once greeted Canadian drivers with a message of love from Buffalo. The marketing campaign, complete with a $500 gift card giveaway, aimed to entice Canadian visitors who were sorely missed. While initial interest was promising, the anticipated wave of Canadian tourists never materialized this summer, leaving Buffalo and other U.S. destinations grappling with a decline in international tourism.

Experts attribute this downturn to President Donald Trump’s policies, including tariffs, immigration restrictions, and divisive rhetoric that have deterred travelers from abroad. As a result, the U.S. is projected to see a significant drop in foreign visitor spending in 2025, marking a concerning trend for the country’s tourism industry.

While some U.S. destinations have managed to attract domestic visitors and fill the void left by international tourists, others like Buffalo are feeling the absence of Canadian travelers. The city has shifted its marketing efforts to other domestic cities and events to make up for the loss.

Despite the challenges, tourism officials remain hopeful for a rebound in international visitors when the time is right, emphasizing the importance of welcoming all travelers with open arms.

Originally Published: September 1, 2025 at 3:16 AM MDT