Published on August 14, 2025
By: Tuhin Sarkar
Orlando unites New York City, Miami, Seattle, Los Angeles and other US cities in facing more new tourism challenges as trade disputes, strong USD, and reduced flights loom over the travel industry. These cities, known for their global appeal, now share a common struggle. Trade disputes are adding extra costs, the strong USD is making trips more expensive, and reduced flights are limiting travel options.
Orlando unites New York City, Miami, Seattle, Los Angeles and many other American cities and metropolis in preparing for a tougher year ahead. Tourism challenges are not new, but now they are more complex. Trade disputes may discourage visitors, the strong USD may shrink spending, and reduced flights may slow arrivals.

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Together, Orlando, New York City, Miami, Seattle, and Los Angeles are working to keep travellers coming, even as more new challenges build. The road ahead will demand smart planning, quick action, and strong cooperation between these world-famous destinations.

Tourism in the United States Faces a New Challenge

Tourism in the United States is an important part of the economy. Many cities depend on visitors from other countries. In 2024, travel numbers were strong for some destinations. But 2025 has brought new problems. New tariffs announced by former President Donald Trump are starting to affect how people around the world see the US as a holiday destination. Canada, the UK, and Brazil are some of the countries that could be affected the most. Some travellers are already changing their plans.

Why Tariffs Are Causing Worry

Tariffs are extra taxes on goods from other countries. They are often used in trade disputes. But they can also affect tourism. When a government puts tariffs on another country, the other country may respond with its own measures. This can lead to higher prices for flights, goods, and services. It can also create bad feelings. In early 2025, the US added new tariffs on Canadian goods. Later, it extended some tariffs on China and introduced new ones for Brazil. These moves have caused concern among tourism officials.

Canada Is the First Big Test

Canada is the number one international market for US tourism. Millions of Canadians cross the border every year for holidays, shopping, and events. In March 2025, Canada’s Prime Minister told citizens to “buy Canadian” and travel at home instead. Air Canada says bookings to the US are down by double digits for the rest of the year. The US Travel Association warned that a 10% drop in Canadian visits could mean two million fewer trips, $2.1 billion in lost spending, and 14,000 job losses across the country.

New York City Feels the Pressure

New York City is one of the most popular destinations for foreign visitors. But it is already adjusting its 2025 forecast. Officials expect about 64.1 million visitors this year, down from earlier estimates by more than three million. Foreign arrivals are expected to fall from 14.6 million to 12.1 million. That means less spending in hotels, restaurants, and shops. Canada and the UK are key markets for the city, and both are seeing slower demand. New York’s tourism board says this could mean a loss of over $4 billion in direct spending.

Las Vegas Faces a Visitor Decline

Las Vegas has also seen fewer visitors. In June 2025, the city’s visitor numbers were down by over 11% compared to last year. Hotels had lower occupancy rates and earned less per room. The city attracts many Canadian visitors, so it is exposed to changes in Canadian travel patterns. The decline in foreign visitors adds to other challenges, like fewer big conventions in the summer months.

California’s Gateway Cities Prepare for Impact

California is another major tourism destination. It attracts travellers from around the world. In 2024, the state welcomed millions of Canadians, Britons, and other international visitors. But in 2025, Visit California expects international visits to fall by more than 9%. Some of this is because of the strong US dollar, which makes trips more expensive for foreigners. Safety concerns and the tariff disputes are also playing a role. Cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco depend heavily on long-haul travel, so they are paying close attention to these changes.

Orlando’s Tourism Risks

Orlando, known as the “Theme Park Capital of the World,” had a record year in 2024 with more than 75 million visitors. Over 6.5 million came from other countries, with Canada being the largest market. But in 2025, the city faces a big challenge. Early numbers show fewer Canadians are coming. International visitors usually stay longer and spend more than domestic tourists. If their numbers drop, Orlando’s hotels, attractions, and restaurants could feel the impact. New theme parks like Epic Universe may help, but the loss of high-spending tourists is still a concern.

Miami Watches the Latin American Markets

Miami is famous for its beaches, nightlife, and cruise industry. In 2024, it welcomed more than 28 million visitors and earned $22 billion in tourism revenue. Many of these visitors came from Latin America, especially Brazil. But in August 2025, the US announced new tariffs on Brazilian goods. This raises the risk that Brazil could respond with measures that affect travel. Miami, Orlando, and New York are top destinations for Brazilian tourists, so any drop in demand from Brazil could hurt their local economies.

Seattle and the Cross-Border Connection

Seattle is close to the Canadian border and benefits from a steady flow of Canadian visitors. In 2024, it welcomed about 40 million visitors and earned $8.8 billion in tourism revenue. But in 2025, local businesses report fewer Canadians crossing over. This could affect hotels, attractions, and shopping districts in the city. While domestic travel remains strong, the loss of cross-border trips is a noticeable change.

The UK Market Shows Signs of Caution

The United Kingdom is another key market for US tourism. British visitors spend a lot during their trips, and they visit cities across the country. But UK travel companies say their customers are more cautious about booking US trips in 2025. Extra fees, visa changes, and news reports about strict border checks are adding to the hesitation. This means destinations like New York, Orlando, and Los Angeles could see fewer UK visitors this year.

Airline Adjustments Show the Trend

Airlines are often the first to notice changes in travel demand. Air Canada has already cut capacity on routes to the US for late 2025 and early 2026. They report a significant drop in bookings from Canada to major US cities. If these trends continue, other airlines may also adjust their schedules. This can reduce the number of available seats and increase ticket prices, making trips even less attractive for international visitors.

How Big US Cities Can Respond

Tourism boards and city officials are looking for ways to limit the damage. Some US states, like California, have launched special campaigns to attract Canadians. These include price promotions and marketing focused on value for money. Cities are also promoting conventions, regional travel, and cruise tourism to make up for fewer long-haul visitors. Improving communication about safety, entry requirements, and new attractions could help restore confidence among travellers.

The Bigger Economic Picture

Tourism is a major employer in many US cities. In places like Orlando and Las Vegas, more than 30% of jobs depend on the industry. A drop in foreign visitors can lead to job losses, lower tax revenue, and less business for hotels, shops, and restaurants. The US Travel Association warns that without action, the current slowdown could cost the economy billions of dollars. The situation also shows how connected tourism is to global politics and trade decisions.

Orlando: The Ultimate Destination Guide for US and Canadian Tourists

Orlando remains one of the world’s most dynamic and thrilling US destinations, with something for every traveller. In 2024, the city welcomed an impressive 75.3 million visitors, securing its position as the most-visited city in the United States. Known as the “Theme Park Capital of the World,” Orlando is also a hub for culture, shopping, dining, and outdoor adventure. With the grand opening of Universal’s Epic Universe in 2025, plus new attractions at Disney and SeaWorld, there’s never been a better time to plan a visit. This guide explores Orlando’s must-see attractions, hotels for every budget, flight tips, and practical advice for travellers looking to make the most of their trip.

Why Orlando is More Than Just Theme Parks

While Orlando is famous for its mega-parks, there’s far more to discover beyond the gates of Disney and Universal. The International Drive (I-Drive) district offers a vibrant mix of attractions, restaurants, shopping outlets, and family-friendly entertainment. Here you can ride go-karts at Andretti Indoor Karting & Games, test your skills at The Escape Game Orlando, or enjoy the classic Americana fun of Fun Spot America. For travellers who want to slow the pace, the surrounding region offers eco-tours, cultural districts, and art galleries. Orlando is also becoming a foodie destination in US, with new restaurants and dining concepts opening regularly across the city.

The Theme Parks: Big Names, Big Adventures

Universal Orlando Resort has changed the city’s tourism map with the launch of Epic Universe in 2025, the resort’s first new park in over 25 years. Epic Universe is split into five immersive lands—Celestial Park, Super Nintendo World, Dark Universe, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, and How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk. Expect high-thrill rides like Stardust Racers and interactive adventures across every zone. The park also boasts dining and entertainment areas that make it a nighttime destination in itself.
Walt Disney World Resort continues to reinvent itself, with four iconic parks—Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom—offering new attractions and seasonal events year-round. In 2025, Magic Kingdom welcomes The Beak and Barrel, a pirate-themed pub in Adventureland, opening in late August. EPCOT’s transformation continues, with updated pavilions and expanded festival programming.
SeaWorld Orlando remains a favourite for thrill-seekers and marine life lovers. It’s now home to some of the region’s most exciting roller coasters alongside animal exhibits, live shows, and seasonal events. Pair a day here with a visit to Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park for a fun change of pace.

Where to Stay: From Budget to Luxury

Orlando’s hotel scene caters to every type of traveller. For first-timers or those without a car, the I-Drive/Convention Area is ideal. It offers walkable access to restaurants, attractions, and the I-RIDE Trolley service, which connects you to dozens of stops along the strip.
If Universal Orlando is your main focus, staying at one of the on-site Universal hotels can be a game changer. Guests benefit from early park entry and seamless access to Epic Universe and the other parks.
Disney fans will find value in on-site Disney resorts, which offer free transport between parks, early entry privileges, and immersive theming. These resorts range from budget-friendly to luxury, giving families plenty of choice.
For large families or groups seeking a luxury stay, the Evermore Orlando Resort offers multi-bedroom villas and houses built around a sparkling Crystal Lagoons® feature. It’s perfect for multi-generational trips, with plenty of space for everyone to relax.

Getting There: Airports and Flight Deals

Orlando is served by two main airports. Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the busiest in Florida, offering extensive domestic and international connections. You’ll find a mix of full-service airlines and budget carriers, making it easy to find competitive fares. Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) is smaller but a great option for budget-conscious travellers, especially those flying Allegiant Air from smaller U.S. cities.
To score cheap flights, compare prices for both MCO and SFB. Travelling mid-week, avoiding major school holidays, and booking in advance can make a big difference. If you’re visiting for Epic Universe or Disney, look out for bundled ticket and hotel packages, which often offer better value than booking separately.

Epic Universe: A 2025 Game-Changer

The arrival of Epic Universe is the single biggest change to Orlando’s tourism landscape in decades. Designed as a next-generation theme park, it blends thrill rides, interactive zones, themed dining, and entertainment in a way that redefines the theme park experience. Super Nintendo World brings beloved video game worlds to life, while Dark Universe offers a gothic twist on classic monsters. For Harry Potter fans, the Ministry of Magic will transport you straight into the wizarding world. Each land is connected by Celestial Park, a lush central hub that’s perfect for dining, strolling, or catching live performances after dark.

Beyond the Parks: Orlando’s Other Sides

When you need a break from high-octane rides, Orlando offers plenty of alternative experiences. Head to the Orlando Museum of Art or explore the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts for concerts and theatre. For outdoor lovers, kayak tours and nature reserves are within easy reach of the city. Shopping is also a major draw—whether it’s the upscale Mall at Millenia, the sprawling Florida Mall, or the bargain-packed Orlando International Premium Outlets.

Getting Around the City

Orlando is spread out, so planning your transport is key. The I-RIDE Trolley is an affordable and convenient option along International Drive, running daily from morning until late evening. Staying at an on-site resort in Disney or Universal means you can rely on their complimentary buses, boats, or monorails. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available, but surge pricing can apply during park closing times, so plan ahead.

When to Visit: Timing Your Trip

For lower crowds and better deals, consider travelling in late August through September, after U.S. schools return, or in early December before the holiday rush. These shoulder seasons often bring cheaper hotel rates and more availability for flights. In 2025, Disney is running a kids’ half-price ticket promotion through September 20, adding extra value for families visiting during this period.

Sample Itineraries for Every Traveller

For first-time families with young children, a three-day trip could include a day at Magic Kingdom, a day at Epic Universe, and a day exploring International Drive. Teens and thrill-seekers might opt for Epic Universe, Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and SeaWorld. Multi-generational groups can balance park days with downtime at a resort like Evermore, where lagoon swimming and relaxed evenings are part of the appeal.

Insider Tips for a Smooth Trip

Book park tickets and popular restaurants well in advance, especially for Epic Universe’s early months. Use mobile ordering at Disney to save time at mealtimes. Plan park days strategically to avoid the biggest crowds—arrive early, take a midday break, and return in the evening. And remember to check the I-RIDE Trolley map if you’re staying along International Drive, as it can save you both time and rideshare costs.

Orlando’s Enduring Magic

What keeps travellers coming back to Orlando year after year is its ability to evolve. New attractions, fresh dining experiences, and a steady expansion of hotels mean there’s always something new to discover. In 2025, the debut of Epic Universe marks a bold new chapter, but the city’s charm lies in its variety—where world-class theme parks sit alongside art, nature, shopping, and dining that rival any destination in the world.
Orlando offers a unique blend of excitement and relaxation, making it as appealing for families with children as it is for couples, groups of friends, and solo adventurers. Whether you’re here for the roller coasters, the Harry Potter magic, the sunny weather, or simply the joy of discovery, Orlando is ready to welcome you with open arms and endless possibilities.

Possible Future Scenarios

If the tariff disputes ease and the US dollar becomes weaker, international tourism could recover in late 2025 or 2026. New attractions, events, and marketing campaigns could also help bring visitors back. But if more tariffs are introduced or travel becomes more expensive and complicated, the decline could continue. Cities that rely heavily on one or two international markets are the most at risk. Diversifying visitor sources and promoting to new markets could help reduce this risk.
In 2025, US cities are facing a tourism challenge that is tied to global trade tensions. Tariffs, higher travel costs, and changing perceptions are already affecting the number of international visitors. From New York to Los Angeles, from Orlando to Seattle, the impact is being felt in hotels, attractions, and local businesses. While domestic tourism remains strong, it cannot fully replace the spending of high-value international travellers. The coming months will show whether cities and the industry can adapt quickly enough to protect jobs, revenue, and their place on the world travel map.

Orlando’s Tourism Recovery at a Crossroads

Orlando’s tourism industry, long celebrated as the most visited destination in the United States, is experiencing a mixed year in 2025. In 2024, the city welcomed around 75 million visitors, up 1.8% from the previous year. This marked a steady recovery from the pandemic, though still slightly short of the 76 million peak recorded in 2019. Most travellers came for leisure, with only about 10% visiting for business. Now, 2025 has brought challenges. Early data reveals an 8% drop in international travel, led by a sharp decline from Canada. This is troubling for a city where over 30% of jobs rely on tourism.

Strong 2024 Performance Sets High Expectations

Last year’s numbers were boosted by a surge in both day trips and overnight stays, with a notable rise in short-term rental bookings. International tourism grew 5.9%, totalling 6.5 million visitors. Canada led the way with a record 1.29 million arrivals, followed by the UK, Brazil, Mexico, and Colombia. Travel from Canada, Mexico, and Colombia even surpassed pre-pandemic levels. The UK saw steady 3.5% growth, and Brazil remained stable. Major theme parks, including Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and SeaWorld, kept drawing millions. Orlando also won accolades such as WalletHub’s No. 1 Summer Travel Destination and Good Housekeeping’s Best Family Travel Award.

Economic Impact and Job Creation

In 2024, Orlando’s tourism industry generated nearly $93 billion in economic impact. It supported 30% of local jobs and contributed $5.6 billion in state and local tax revenue. Mayor Jerry Demings stressed that the sector’s success directly benefits residents by creating opportunities for work and career growth. Hotels, attractions, restaurants, and convention venues all thrived, supported by investments in new experiences and infrastructure. The upcoming launch of Epic Universe was expected to further boost demand in 2025. Yet the recent decline in international visitors is now casting uncertainty over these optimistic projections.

International Travel Decline in 2025

While domestic tourism remains strong, international visitors are especially valuable because they typically stay longer and spend more. The 8% drop this year is significant, with Canada’s downturn being the steepest. Travel from other major markets like the UK, Brazil, and Mexico has also slowed. Industry leaders warn that losing high-spending tourists could impact hotel occupancy rates, restaurant sales, and retail spending. This comes at a time when Orlando is competing with other global destinations for the same pool of travellers. If trends continue, the city’s $92.5 billion tourism economy could face lasting damage.

Trump Tariffs Add New Concerns

The slowdown coincides with new tariffs announced by former President Donald Trump earlier this year. A February report from the U.S. Travel Association warned that tariffs on Canada could discourage millions from visiting the United States. A 10% drop in Canadian tourism alone could mean 2 million fewer visits nationwide, $2.1 billion in lost spending, and 14,000 job losses. For Orlando, which depends heavily on Canadian visitors, this is a serious risk. Analysts say even a modest decline could ripple through the economy, affecting everything from park attendance to conference bookings.

Theme Parks and Attractions Still Draw Crowds

Despite the headwinds, Orlando’s theme parks remain a powerhouse. Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando continue to see strong domestic attendance, buoyed by special events, seasonal festivals, and new attractions. SeaWorld Orlando and Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon also draw large crowds. Visit Orlando remains hopeful that domestic tourism will help offset international losses. CEO Casandra Matej says the city’s ability to reinvent itself through new experiences keeps travellers returning. She points to investments in attractions, hotels, and entertainment as a sign that the industry is adapting quickly to shifting market conditions.

The Role of Business Travel and Conventions

Although leisure travel dominates, Orlando is also expanding as a convention and business travel hub. The city’s convention centre hosts major industry events that fill hotels and drive spending across the local economy. This diversification could help stabilise visitor numbers, even if leisure travel slows. However, analysts caution that business travel often depends on global economic confidence. Trade tensions, such as those heightened by new tariffs, can influence corporate travel decisions and event attendance, making the sector vulnerable to broader policy changes.

Opportunities Amid Uncertainty

Industry experts believe Orlando can still sustain growth if it focuses on strategic marketing, especially in emerging markets less affected by tariffs. Partnerships with airlines, targeted promotions, and enhanced visitor experiences can help attract new demographics. Additionally, continued investment in infrastructure and attractions, like the much-anticipated Epic Universe, offers opportunities to capture traveller interest. While short-term challenges may slow momentum, Orlando’s long-standing reputation as the “Theme Park Capital of the World” remains a powerful draw. Success will depend on adapting to economic shifts while maintaining its status as a world-class destination.

The Road Ahead for Orlando Tourism

Orlando’s tourism sector stands at a delicate balance in 2025. Strong domestic travel, major attraction launches, and a track record of resilience offer reasons for optimism. Yet the decline in international visitors and the looming impact of trade tariffs cannot be ignored. With so much of the local economy tied to visitor spending, any sustained downturn could have wide-reaching effects. The coming months will test the industry’s ability to adapt to changing market dynamics. For now, Orlando remains focused on protecting its position as the most visited U.S. destination while preparing for potential headwinds in the global travel market.

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Tags: Orlando, Orlando tourism, reduced flights, strong USD effect, Trump tariffs impact

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