Ontario Joins Quebec, British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Others in Skyrocketing Domestic Travel Across Canada with Record Tourist Arrivals and Tourism Spending This Year: Everything You Need To Know

Ontario joins Quebec, British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and others in skyrocketing domestic travel across Canada, with record tourist arrivals and tourism spending this year. This growth highlights the province’s diverse attractions, from cultural landmarks to natural wonders, driving an exceptional tourism boom. With major cities like Toronto offering vibrant cultural scenes, world-class museums, and iconic landmarks, alongside the stunning natural beauty of Niagara Falls and provincial parks, Ontario has become a top destination for Canadian travelers. As the province continues to lead in tourism growth, it mirrors the broader success seen across Canada, with other regions also benefitting from increased domestic travel and spending in 2025.

Overview of Domestic Tourism in Canada

In the second quarter of 2025, Canadian residents significantly contributed to the growth of domestic tourism. A total of 90.6 million trips were made within Canada, marking a 10.9% increase compared to the previous year. This consisted of 58.6 million same-day visits, which increased by 12.4%, and 32.0 million overnight visits, up by 8.4% year-over-year. The total expenditure on domestic tourism reached $20.3 billion, reflecting a 13.5% rise. The average spending per same-day visit was $101, while for overnight visits, it was considerably higher at $449, with an average visit length of 2.6 nights. Below is a detailed summary:

Ontario: The Heart of Domestic Tourism Growth

Ontario played a central role in driving Canada’s domestic tourism in the second quarter of 2025, accounting for a remarkable 42.3% of all visits and 34.1% of total expenditures. The province’s popularity as a travel destination can be attributed to its rich cultural heritage, urban attractions, and natural beauty, which continue to draw visitors year after year. With millions flocking to cities like Toronto for its world-class museums, entertainment, and iconic landmarks, Ontario’s role in Canada’s tourism sector is undeniable. Its diverse offerings—from the breathtaking Niagara Falls to vast provincial parks—helped solidify the province as a key player in Canada’s domestic tourism boom.

Quebec: Cultural and Natural Appeal Drives Growth

Quebec, with its unique French heritage and spectacular landscapes, contributed significantly to Canada’s domestic tourism surge in Q2 2025. The province captured 19.5% of all visits and 17.6% of total expenditures, showcasing its enduring appeal. Montreal’s vibrant arts scene and Quebec City’s rich historical charm make it a magnet for both international and domestic tourists. Meanwhile, the picturesque regions of the Laurentians and Charlevoix drew outdoor enthusiasts looking for nature-based escapes. Quebec’s strong blend of cultural offerings and natural beauty continues to attract Canadian residents, maintaining its status as one of the most visited and cherished provinces in the country.

British Columbia: A Haven for Nature Lovers and Tourists

British Columbia, renowned for its stunning landscapes from the Pacific coastline to its rugged mountain ranges, played a pivotal role in boosting Canada’s domestic tourism in the second quarter of 2025. The province accounted for 12.6% of visits and a dominant 20.9% of tourism spending, underscoring its position as a leading destination. Vancouver, a cosmopolitan city with easy access to outdoor adventures, continues to captivate travelers. Additionally, the allure of Vancouver Island’s scenic beauty and the famous Rocky Mountains ensure that British Columbia remains an iconic choice for Canadian residents seeking both urban culture and natural escapes, contributing to the province’s substantial share in the tourism sector.

Alberta: The Adventure Capital of Canada

Alberta, with its rugged mountains and world-famous national parks, remains a cornerstone of Canada’s domestic tourism in Q2 2025. The province recorded 12.3% of visits and 13.5% of expenditures, driven by the increasing number of Canadians visiting iconic destinations like Banff and Jasper National Parks. Alberta’s appeal lies not only in its natural beauty but also in its year-round offerings for adventure-seekers, including hiking, skiing, and wildlife viewing. As more residents flock to Alberta’s stunning landscapes, its role in domestic tourism becomes even more integral, contributing significantly to both the national economy and the tourism sector.

Manitoba: A Gateway to Canada’s Heartland

Manitoba, often seen as the heart of Canada, has carved out its place in the country’s tourism landscape, capturing 3.2% of visits and 2.3% of expenditures in the second quarter of 2025. Known for its diverse ecosystems and vibrant cultural scene, Manitoba is attracting Canadian residents seeking a blend of urban and natural experiences. Winnipeg, with its rich arts scene and historical landmarks, serves as a cultural hub, while the province’s vast wilderness areas, such as Riding Mountain National Park, provide exceptional opportunities for outdoor exploration. Manitoba’s ability to offer both urban charm and outdoor adventure makes it an essential contributor to the growth of domestic tourism.

Saskatchewan: A Hidden Gem of the Prairie

Saskatchewan’s role in Canada’s domestic tourism growth during Q2 2025 cannot be overlooked. The province captured 3.3% of visits and 3.0% of expenditures, reflecting its increasing appeal. Known for its vast prairies and the iconic boreal forests of northern Saskatchewan, the province continues to captivate travelers looking for an authentic Canadian experience. Regina and Saskatoon, with their thriving arts scenes and friendly communities, offer a welcoming atmosphere for tourists, while the stunning landscapes of places like Prince Albert National Park and Grasslands National Park provide a serene backdrop for nature lovers. As Saskatchewan becomes a more prominent destination, its contributions to Canada’s tourism industry continue to grow.

Other Canadian Provinces and Territories

In the second quarter of 2025, several provinces and territories outside the major regions of Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan also saw significant domestic travel. Newfoundland and Labrador accounted for 1.1% of the total visits and 1.3% of expenditures. Prince Edward Island had a smaller share, with 0.5% of visits and 0.9% of spending. Nova Scotia attracted 3.4% of visits and 4.1% of expenditures, while New Brunswick had 2.4% of visits and 2.2% of expenditures. The Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut together contributed a negligible 0.0% of visits but accounted for 0.1% of the total expenditures. These regions, though smaller in comparison, still represent important destinations for Canadian residents traveling within the country.

Ontario joins Quebec, British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and others in skyrocketing domestic travel across Canada, with record tourist arrivals and tourism spending this year. This growth highlights the province’s diverse attractions, from cultural landmarks to natural wonders, driving an exceptional tourism boom.

Conclusion

Ontario’s remarkable rise in domestic travel, alongside Quebec, British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and other provinces, showcases a record year for tourist arrivals and tourism spending across Canada. This surge reflects the country’s growing appeal, with diverse attractions and experiences drawing Canadian residents to explore new destinations. As provinces continue to invest in tourism infrastructure and promote regional highlights, the upward trend in domestic travel is expected to persist, strengthening Canada’s tourism industry in the years to come.

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