How Trump's policies could impact Cleveland tourist attractions
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Foreign anti-American sentiments fueled by President Trump's policies have caught the attention of Northeast Ohio tourist attractions.
Why it matters: Cultural institutions like the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Cleveland Museum of Art pride themselves on attracting international visitors, but per recent data shows their travel to the U.S. fell off in March.
- That is particularly true with tourists from Canada, where Trump's threat of tariffs and insistence that Canada should become the 51st U.S. state has sparked disdain for all things American.
By the numbers: Advance bookings for Canada-U.S. flights in April–September are down over 70% compared to this time last year, per aviation data firm OAG.
- Overall foreign arrivals into major U.S. airports tumbled in mid- to late March compared to last year, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection data, suggesting a sudden reluctance to visit the U.S. isn't a purely Canadian phenomenon.
Zoom in: The Cleveland Museum of Art doesn't have data for its recent numbers of foreign visitors, but is keeping a close eye on tourism trends, a spokesperson tells Axios.
- Meanwhile, the Rock Hall reports seeing a 30% drop in Canadian visitors during the first three months of 2025 compared to last year.
- Roughly 4% of the museum's half a million annual visitors come from the Great White North.
What they're saying: "As the busy summer travel season approaches, we're more excited than ever to welcome visitors from all over the world through our doors," Rock Hall CEO Greg Harris said in a statement.
- "Between our new 'SNL' exhibit opening Memorial Day Weekend, and Rock Hall Live summer concert series there is no shortage of things going on here at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame."
Fewer Canadian visitors could also affect Cedar Point in Sandusky, which is close enough to Canada to see it on a clear day.
- Cedar Point doesn't release statistics on foreign visitors. Spokesperson Tony Clark told Spectrum News 1 the amusement park is "hopeful Canadians, and roller coaster fans across the globe, will make a visit to Cedar Point this season," which starts in May.
The bottom line: Trump's attempt to re-order the global economy is an ongoing saga that could affect international sentiment and travel to the U.S. long-term.
- The effect on tourist attractions, including those locally, is worth watching in the coming months.