Minnesota businesses & tourism organizations trying to bring back Canadian tourists

Fewer Canadians visiting Minnesota

Minnesota’s economy is taking a hit because of fewer visitors from Canada.

A recent Explore Minnesota survey shows 62% of tourism businesses expect fewer Canadian travelers this year.

The current U.S. political climate and tariffs are to blame.

RELATED: A downturn in international travel to the U.S. may last beyond summer, experts warn

Sarah Jorgenson-Hallberg, owner of Java Moose coffee shop in Grand Marais, has launched a social media campaign to attract customers from Canada, which accounts for approximately 25% of her business.

“We wanted to reiterate how welcome they truly are,” Jorgenson-Hallberg said. “Not only at the Java Moose, but in Grand Marais and greater Minnesota. Just saying, come on down, we miss you, we love you guys.”

Visit Cook County Minnesota, in Grand Marais, has an ad campaign focusing on Canadians.

Explore Minnesota reports that Canada is Minnesota’s top international tourism market, accounting for over 55% of the state’s international visitors last year, totaling more than 335,000 travelers and generating approximately $110 million in visitor spending.  
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