Montreal local summer tourism expected to rise amid U.S. tensions

Despite heightened tensions with the U.S., one Quebec industry may come out better on the other side – tourism.

A boom is expected this summer, with many Quebecers choosing to travel more locally and Americans taking advantage of the weaker loonie. Industry experts estimate at least $1 billion will be spent in the province.

“We are known as an incredible destination and people know that when they come to Montreal, (whether) they’re Canadians from Western provinces or the Maritimes or American from south of the border,” said Glenn Castanheira, Executive Director of Montréal centre-ville, the city’s downtown business association.

Montreal is already a popular destination for those south of the border. But even as 25 per cent across-the-board levy on goods — except for vehicles, which received a one-month pause — came into effect Tuesday, Montreal’s summer economy could get a boost from those right at home.

A recent Léger poll found that nearly half of Quebecers who planned a trip to the U.S. in 2025 have either already canceled their plans or intend to do so. The report suggests that this could see an estimated potential $3 billion divested from the American economy.

“Everyone’s going to be chasing tourists at this point because they recognize that in the recent wave of patriotism (…) the idea of staying at home is going to be a very viable option for people,” said Moshe Lander, Economics Professor at Concordia University.

Tourisme Montréal reported a 7 per cent increase in the number of visitors to Montreal in 2024, a number that could stand to rise this summer. Montreal’s signature cultural and sporting events like the Formula 1 Grand Prix of Canada and music festivals like Osheaga and Lasso continue to be a big draw, according to Castanheira.

“A couple of weeks ago we had Igloo Fest – which other city parties at -30 outside?” he said. “Well, we party at -30, we party at +30 as well. So what is there (not) to look forward to?”

CityNews spoke to some Montrealers Wednesday about their impressions on staying home for the summer amid American tariff tensions.

“The festivals are to showcase a lot of different cultures around the world because there’s a lot of different culture in Canada and Montreal,” one Montrealer said.

“People are looking for something else than American, see, shopping centres, looking for nice little restaurants, and bistros and terrace,” another added.