BANGOR DAILY NEWS • May 1, 2026
Many people whose livelihoods depend on the state’s $16.5 billion tourist industry are watching uneasily as the season takes shape amidst an affordability crisis that has pushed gas, health care and food costs to punishing highs. At the same time, the U.S.-led war in Iran is dragging on and international visitors are staying away. Fewer visitors came to Maine in 2025 than the year before — tourism numbers fell by about 4%. Of particular concern to Mainers: Visits from Canadians are down more than 20%.