Governor Walz: Canadians should visit Minnesota
ST. PAUL, Min. – Governor Tim Walz is asking Canadians to visit Minnesota.
In a news release he said, “We value that connection and the many ways our cultures overlap — from hockey to fishing, and from buffalo plaid to a bold winter spirit. We want our Canadian neighbors know they’re not just welcome here — they’re encouraged to visit and continue our long friendship.”
The Governor said more than half of Minnesota’s international visitors come from Canada.
Explore Minnesota, the state’s promotion agency, is focusing on outreach in Canada with advertising in Winnipeg and Thunder Bay.
Also in the news release Executive Director of Explore Minnesota Lauren Bennett McGinty said, “If you’re a Canadian traveler looking for something special this summer — Minnesota is ready for you!”
The number of people entering Minnesota by land from Canada has slid in 2025.
US Customs and Border Protection shows thousand of fewer travelers have entered Minnesota.
In January 2025 63,400 people arrived compared to 66,400 in January 2024 and 58,900 in January 2023.
In February 2025 57,400 people arrived comparted to 70,400 in February 2024 and 60,300 in January 2023.
In March 2025 55,800 people arrived compared to 79,000 in March 2004 and 67,900 in March 2023.
In April 2025 48,700 people arrived compared to 74,500 in April 2024 and 63,500 in March 2023.
In May 2025 77,900 people arrived compared to 102,000 in May 2024 and 90,300 in May 2023.
In June 2025 124,000 people arrived compared to 151,000 in June 2024 and 141,000 in June 2023.
