Banff, Alberta
Banff’s breathtaking landscapes have always made it a magnet for travelers, but lately, the sheer intensity of visitors is starting to take its toll. In 2024, the town saw a record-breaking 4 million tourists, a figure that’s almost unfathomable when you consider Banff’s small population. Locals are increasingly frustrated with traffic jams that clog the narrow streets, and parking headaches have become a daily annoyance. There’s a palpable tension in the air as residents worry about their town’s future—will Banff’s charm survive this relentless popularity? The mayor recently called for stricter visitor caps and more robust infrastructure investment, warning, “We can’t afford to love Banff to death.” Businesses, too, are caught in the crossfire, struggling to serve both the steady flow of tourists and their loyal local clientele. The challenge of preserving the environment while keeping tourism alive is now front and center for everyone who calls Banff home.
Whistler, British Columbia
Whistler’s alpine magic draws thrill-seekers from around the globe, but the mountain town has become a victim of its own success. During peak winter and summer seasons, the population explodes from 12,000 to over 50,000—a stunning fourfold increase that puts immense pressure on local resources. Trails and ski runs are often packed to capacity, making it harder for both visitors and locals to enjoy the area’s natural beauty. Complaints about overcrowded gondolas and long lift lines have become the norm. Rising housing costs, fueled by short-term rentals and investor demand, are squeezing out year-round residents, making it tough for Whistler’s workforce to find stable accommodations. In response, the municipality is considering new zoning restrictions and visitor quotas. As one local business owner put it, “Whistler’s not just a playground—it’s our home, too.” There’s now a growing movement to rethink how tourism is managed to ensure the town’s long-term health.
Victoria, British Columbia
Victoria has always prided itself on its old-world charm and walkable streets, but a surge in visitor numbers—over 3 million in 2024—has left the city scrambling to keep up. Public transport, once a point of pride, now groans under the pressure of packed buses and ferries. Residents often complain about the noise and exhaust from cruise ships that crowd the harbor, with many calling for stricter regulations to limit emissions and reduce congestion. Waste management systems are being pushed to their limits, sometimes resulting in unsightly litter in popular areas. The city council has launched campaigns to encourage tourists to explore lesser-known neighborhoods, hoping to relieve the crush on downtown hotspots. Many Victorians are also advocating for a tourism tax to help fund improvements and offset the strain. The push for a more sustainable tourism model is no longer just talk—it’s a necessity.
Jasper, Alberta
Jasper isn’t just a gateway to a national park—it’s a living, breathing community that’s starting to buckle under the weight of its popularity. In 2025, over 3 million people passed through, leaving a noticeable mark on the landscape. Hiking trails are showing signs of erosion, and wildlife sightings have become more rare as animals retreat further into the backcountry. Conservation groups are sounding the alarm, demanding tighter restrictions on visitor numbers and better education around responsible tourism. The town itself is feeling the pinch, with infrastructure upgrades lagging behind demand. Many residents are worried about losing Jasper’s small-town feel, especially as prices rise and seasonal workers flood the market. Town meetings have become lively forums for debate over how best to balance tourism dollars with environmental preservation. The sense of urgency is real, and the path forward is anything but simple.
Niagara Falls, Ontario
Niagara Falls might be one of the most famous tourist destinations in the world, but fame comes at a price. In 2024, the area was swamped by over 14 million tourists, pushing local services to their absolute limit. Emergency response teams have reported longer response times due to gridlocked streets, while garbage collection crews struggle to keep up with the endless flow of litter. Many residents complain that their town has become a “giant souvenir shop,” with the natural wonder overshadowed by kitschy attractions and aggressive commercialization. Local officials have begun exploring strategies to redirect visitors to lesser-known sites and reduce pressure on the main viewing areas. Environmental advocates are especially concerned about the long-term health of the river and surrounding parks. There’s a growing consensus that something has to give if Niagara Falls is to remain both a global icon and a livable community.
Tofino, British Columbia
Tofino’s rugged coastline and legendary surf breaks have turned this once-sleepy town into a bustling hotspot. The 2025 tourist season saw a stunning 30% jump in visitors, putting the squeeze on everything from parking spots to rental homes. Waste management has become a significant challenge, with overflowing bins and concerns about pollution threatening the fragile ecosystem. Locals are increasingly outspoken about the impact on housing, as short-term rentals eat into the supply of affordable homes. The town council has started public forums and workshops to brainstorm solutions, including new regulations on vacation rentals and stricter rules for beach access. Many longtime residents worry that Tofino’s laid-back vibe is being lost in the rush. The debate over how to balance growth with preservation is more heated than ever, with no easy answers in sight.
St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador
St. John’s, famous for its colorful row houses and deep maritime history, is feeling the heat from a booming tourism industry. The city saw a 25% spike in visitors in 2024, a jump that caught many by surprise. Infrastructure like roads, public transport, and even popular hiking trails are showing signs of wear and tear. Residents have voiced concerns about the strain on healthcare services and the growing difficulty of finding affordable housing. City officials are working hard on a new tourism management plan, holding town hall meetings to gather public input and set priorities. There’s a renewed focus on promoting sustainable travel and protecting the city’s unique heritage. Locals are fiercely proud of their home and want to ensure that visitors respect and help preserve its character.
Quebec City, Quebec
Quebec City’s winding streets and centuries-old architecture have always drawn crowds, but now, the city is grappling with the downsides of its own appeal. In 2025, nearly 5 million visitors poured into the city, often overwhelming popular sites like Old Quebec and Montmorency Falls. Residents are increasingly frustrated by the commercialization of their neighborhoods, with souvenir shops and short-term rentals crowding out local businesses. City officials are experimenting with new approaches, from limiting group tour sizes to promoting travel during quieter months. There’s also a push for more community involvement in tourism decisions, reflecting growing concern that the city’s soul is at stake. Many Quebecers are calling for a renewed focus on authenticity and sustainability, rather than chasing ever-higher visitor numbers. The debate has added a new layer of urgency to city council meetings.
Canmore, Alberta
Canmore, nestled in the Rockies just outside Banff, has become a favorite alternative for travelers seeking stunning vistas without Banff’s crowds—yet now it’s dealing with its own wave of over-tourism. In 2024, visitor numbers soared past 1.5 million, bringing with them familiar problems: traffic jams, noise complaints, and a stressed housing market. Locals are particularly concerned about the impact on wildlife corridors and hiking trails, some of which are now heavily worn. The town has launched community forums to gather feedback on responsible tourism strategies and conservation efforts. Some residents are advocating for stricter limits on short-term rentals and guided tours. The delicate balance between welcoming visitors and preserving quality of life is a constant topic of conversation. Canmore’s future hangs in the balance as it tries to avoid the pitfalls experienced by its more famous neighbor.
Kelowna, British Columbia
Kelowna’s picturesque vineyards and sunny lakeshore have made it a go-to destination, especially for wine lovers. The region saw a remarkable 40% rise in visitors in 2025, leading to mounting concerns about water use and environmental sustainability. Locals have noted an uptick in traffic congestion, especially during the summer months when the city’s population effectively doubles. There’s also anxiety about the strain on emergency services and the increased risk of wildfires. Municipal leaders are actively working on new bylaws to regulate tourism growth, including stricter water usage policies for local businesses. Community members are pushing for more investment in public infrastructure to keep pace with demand. The challenge is to harness tourism’s economic benefits without sacrificing the natural beauty that makes Kelowna so special.
Mont-Tremblant, Quebec
Mont-Tremblant, renowned for its ski slopes and vibrant village life, is now experiencing what many locals call “tourism fatigue.” The 2024 season brought more than 2 million guests, often leading to jam-packed lifts and overbooked hotels. Residents are increasingly vocal about the loss of tranquility and the rising cost of living. Some have begun advocating for visitor caps during peak periods, a move that has sparked lively debate within the community. Municipal leaders are considering fresh initiatives, like promoting off-season activities and investing in sustainable infrastructure. There’s a growing recognition that the ski resort’s long-term appeal depends on preserving the environment and community fabric. Local business owners worry about the impact of any restrictions, but agree that the current pace is unsustainable.
Ottawa, Ontario
Ottawa’s reputation as a city of festivals and museums brings a steady stream of tourists, with numbers surpassing 11 million in 2025. While the economic boost is clear, the city faces growing pains in the form of congested streets, crowded attractions, and noisy nightlife. Residents in neighborhoods near Parliament Hill and the ByWard Market have raised concerns about rising rents and the impact on community life. The city has responded with a new tourism strategy that encourages visitors to explore lesser-known districts, aiming to spread the crowds more evenly. City planners are also looking at ways to enhance public transit and reduce the burden on popular sites. There’s a strong push to involve locals in decision-making, ensuring their voices are heard as Ottawa continues to grow as a global destination. The question of how to balance heritage, community, and tourism is more pressing than ever.