WILDWOOD, N.J. — Watch the tramcar, eh?
For generations, Canadian visitors have flocked to the Wildwoods for a classic Jersey Shore vacation, and tourism officials are eager to welcome them back in 2025.
That could be in jeopardy as some Canadians are taking the advice of their leader, Justin Trudeau. Trudeau recommended Canadians skip their vacations to America this year as he and President Donald J. Trump continue sparring over trade relations.
Trump has called Canada the 51st state, but Canadians aren’t laughing.
Located within driving distance of Toronto, Montreal, and Quebec City, the Wildwoods offer a family-friendly atmosphere, free beaches, and a mix of vintage charm and modern attractions. Each summer, streets are lined with cars bearing Canadian license plates, and many local hotels cater to French-speaking guests with translated websites and even Canadian-themed names like the Royal Canadian, Quebec, and Fleur des Lis.
Hotel operators have claimed Canadians are canceling their reservations in recent news reports.
“The Wildwoods are always excited to welcome our Canadian friends back with open arms every year,” said Louis Belasco, executive director of the Greater Wildwoods Tourism and Improvement Authority. “They travel from Toronto, Montreal, Quebec City, and beyond, and we want them to know that the Wildwoods are still as welcoming and friendly as ever.”
With five miles of white sand beaches, a 2.5-mile-long boardwalk, and more than 100 rides, attractions, and eateries, the Wildwoods continue to be a top destination. The resort town hosts over 160 special events annually, drawing more than nine million visitors each year from the U.S. and Canada.
From free beaches to neon-lit nostalgia, the Wildwoods remain a beloved summer retreat for Canadian tourists.
