Blue Jays’ Spring Training Keeps Dunedin, Florida Afloat Amidst Tourism Downturn

  • Dunedin, Florida, is experiencing an economic boost thanks to loyal Toronto Blue Jays fans, despite a broader decline in Canadian tourism to the U.S.
  • A Canadian boycott of the U.S., triggered by political tensions and tariffs, has significantly impacted Florida’s tourism industry.
  • Dunedin, home to the Blue Jays’ spring training facility, has been largely insulated from this downturn due to consistent Canadian visitation.
  • The city saw a 9.6% increase in tourism development tax collections from 2024 to 2025, bucking the trend in Pinellas County.
  • Tourism has a $200 million annual impact on Dunedin’s economy, supporting 1,600 jobs.
  • Local businesses in Dunedin heavily rely on the influx of Canadian visitors during spring training and spring break.

Read the full story here: https://www.thestar.com/sports/blue-jays/blue-jays-fans-keeping-dunedin-economy-afloat-during-turbulent-times-for-tourism/article_07f8f678-b4d1-5abb-9a92-419cb6841cfa.html