“Any improvement in exchange rates or travel sentiment could support a gradual rebound later in the year,” she added.
Canada is Arizona’s second-largest source market for international visitors. In 2024, Arizona welcomed 852,000 Canadian visitors, up 3.6% YOY.
That’s not counting long-stay snowbirds. “Snowbirds remain a critical pillar of the market,” said Magnusson. Canadian snowbirds contribute some US$1.4 billion annually to Arizona’s economy through extended winter stays and local spending.
From Toronto and Vancouver to AZ, travellers can fly with Air Canada, WestJet and Porter. From Calgary, service is available via WestJet and Air Canada, and from Montreal, via Air Canada. Additional cities such as Winnipeg, Regina, Saskatoon, and Kelowna are served through seasonal WestJet services, providing further access during peak travel periods. Plus, of course, there’s Porter’s just-launched YOW-PHX flights.
New hotel highlights for 2026 include the Villas at Canyon Suites at The Phoenician, with eight standalone luxury villas and private pools. Scottsdale Golf Retreat at Troon North offers 26 modern desert villas near championship courses. Kimpton Miralina has been reimagined with 400+ rooms, six pools, wellness amenities, and more. Outbound Sedona debuts in May 2026 with Bell Rock views, enhanced spa facilities, and the Moonwater pool area. L’Auberge de Sedona has a US$30 million transformation, and Denū Hotel & Spa in downtown Phoenix opens in late 2026 with 236 rooms, a rooftop pool, wellness spa and over 22,000 sq. ft. of meeting space. Adventure travellers can check out Highland Grand Canyon’s glamping tents, or Trailborn Grand Canyon, a restored Route 66 gateway.
New attractions include the International Dark Sky Discovery Center in Fountain Hills, Dorrance Planetarium and more. Meanwhile The Route 66 Centennial adds fun experiences like Meteor City Dino Drive-Thru, Winslow’s Musical Road, Tin Can Alley, Grand Canyon Caverns & Inn and themed stops in Flagstaff.
Reach Global’s Charmaine Singh (left) and Kirk Dsouza (right) with Marjorie Magnusson from the Arizona Office of Tourism
Travelweek asked Magnusson about AOT’s message for Canadian travellers (and travel advisors).
“Arizona isn’t just about stunning landscapes and world-class resorts, it’s a destination that truly welcomes every traveller. We want Canadian travellers and their advisors to know that whether visitors are seeking luxury, adventure, culture, or culinary experiences, they’ll find a warm, hospitable environment at every turn,” she said.
Arizona’s communities take pride in making guests feel at home, she added, “whether it’s through personalized service, authentic Indigenous and cultural programming, or family-friendly adventures. Arizona is ready to welcome Canadians with open arms.”
More information about travel to Arizona can be found at VisitArizona.com.
Lead image caption: The AOT’s team at last night’s Park Hyatt Toronto event included delegates from Gilbert, AZ (“America’s largest town”), Lake Havasu, Navajo Nation and the shopping, spa and golf mecca of Scottsdale