Destination Canada Aims for Global Top 7 Rank with Four New Tourism Corridors in 2024

Destination Canada is building on the success of its pilot Tourism Corridor Strategy Program by launching four new tourism corridors in 2024, designed to enhance the nation's tourism infrastructure. This initiative forms a crucial part of Destination Canada's bold 2030 Tourism Strategy, which aims to elevate Canada back into the top 7 global tourism destinations. By fostering cross-border collaboration between provincial and territorial tourism organizations, the program will create iconic travel experiences for visitors while boosting local economies across the country.

This corridor links existing bike routes in Ottawa, Cornwall, and Montreal while developing new paths in partnership with local communities. Cycle Ontario and Quebec will emphasize connecting local businesses, artisans, and Indigenous groups to ensure the benefits of tourism are widely shared. Year-round, bike-friendly routes will provide accessible opportunities for physical activity, mental wellness, and reduced environmental impact.

Cycling tourism continues to thrive in Canada, especially in Quebec, where Velo Quebec data reveals:

Connecting Edmonton, Alberta to the Northwest Territories, the Northern Sky Corridor celebrates the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Canada's north. As demand for Indigenous and northern experiences outpaces supply, this corridor aims to address gaps by developing new itineraries, forming transportation partnerships, and identifying infrastructure needs.

Destination Canada's Global Traveller Research shows that 67.7% of international visitors to Canada are highly interested in experiencing Indigenous cultural tourism.

Crossing into the United States, the Juan de Fuca Corridor is a collaboration with the Pacific Northwest Economic Region (PNWER). This initiative focuses on increasing economic well-being for residents and enhancing the natural environment. As the first tourism corridor to link Canada with its largest international market, this partnership creates new opportunities to engage with U.S. travelers.

According to Destination Canada's 2024 USA Market Highlights, 16.2 million U.S. travelers are expected to visit Canada in 2025, contributing $13.7 billion to the economy.