Trump’s Executive Order Redraws the Map for Foreign Visitors to U.S. Tourist Sites

 

In a move that has sparked widespread debate among travel experts, business leaders, and environmental advocates, former President Donald Trump, currently leading in GOP polls for the 2024 election, signed a new executive order targeting foreign visitors to U.S. national parks and cultural landmarks.

Dubbed the “American Priorities in Parks Act”, the executive order mandates the U.S. Department of the Interior to introduce increased entrance fees and use surcharges specifically for non-U.S. citizens visiting major federal attractions, including Yellowstone, Yosemite, the Grand Canyon, and historic sites such as Mount Rushmore and the Statue of Liberty.

The move comes amid growing nationalistic themes in Trump's re-election campaign, promoting the idea that U.S. resources should “first and foremost serve American families.”

A New Tiered Pricing System

Under the directive, the National Park Service (NPS) has been instructed to implement a dual-tier pricing model within six months. U.S. citizens will continue to pay existing rates or receive new discounts, while international visitors could see entrance costs increase by two to five times.

For example, entry to Yellowstone—currently priced at $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass—may rise to $100 or more for foreign vehicles. Tourists on foot or bike may pay upwards of $40–$50, compared to the current $20 fee.

“American parks are world treasures,” Trump said during a press event. “But American taxpayers have funded their maintenance for generations. It’s time that foreign visitors pay their fair share.”

Revenue or Restriction?

The Trump campaign says the funds generated from these fee hikes will be used to finance infrastructure upgrades, wildfire protection, and expansion of park services. However, critics argue the order is a thinly veiled deterrent aimed at reducing foreign foot traffic.

“This isn't about maintenance—it’s about exclusion,” said Lisa Martin, Director of the National Outdoor Access Coalition. “Raising entry fees for foreigners while waiving them for Americans sends a clear signal: outsiders are less welcome.”

Already, several travel agencies in Europe and Asia report clients asking about alternative destinations like Canada, Australia, or Chile for nature tourism. Industry insiders fear that the U.S. could lose millions in international tourism revenue, particularly from countries like Germany, Japan, and the UK whose travelers are more sensitive to costs.

Small Businesses Sound the Alarm

Park-adjacent towns are bracing for impact. In Moab, Utah—gateway to Arches and Canyonlands—hotels and outfitters rely heavily on international tourists, especially during spring and fall shoulder seasons.

“About 40% of our business comes from abroad,” said Sarah Gutierrez, owner of a local eco-tour company. “If those travelers stay away because of higher fees or a sense that they’re not wanted, we’re going to feel that.”

Nationally, the tourism industry contributes over $1.9 trillion to the U.S. economy and supports nearly 10 million jobs, according to the U.S. Travel Association. International visitors make up about 20% of that figure.

Cultural Fallout

Beyond economics, many see the move as damaging to America's global reputation.

“Tourism is more than dollars—it’s diplomacy,” said Jamal Blake, a professor of cultural studies at New York University. “When people from different countries experience our landscapes, our cities, and our heritage, it builds bridges. This policy builds walls.”

Educational and student travel groups may also be affected. The order does not distinguish between leisure travelers and those visiting as part of cultural exchange or academic programs, leaving nonprofits scrambling for clarity.

Environmental Implications

Some conservationists are cautiously optimistic, suggesting that reduced tourist numbers could lessen the environmental strain on popular parks.

“There’s no denying that places like Zion or Yosemite suffer from over-tourism,” said Emily Chan, a spokesperson for EarthBack. “But pricing people out isn’t the solution. Sustainable visitor management is.”

She noted that high fees may disproportionately affect tourists from developing countries who travel to the U.S. for once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Broader Pattern of Restriction

This executive order follows a broader trend of restriction in Trump’s policies regarding international mobility. In June 2025, his campaign revived elements of his prior travel ban, targeting visitors from certain countries deemed “security risks.” Coupled with the new national park fees, many observers see a shift toward an increasingly insular national posture.

Some European countries are considering issuing travel advisories or applying reciprocal measures to American visitors. “If U.S. parks are going to charge our citizens more, we may examine how we treat American tourists here,” said a spokesperson from Germany’s tourism board.

Legal and Political Challenges Ahead

The executive order is likely to face legal challenges from civil rights groups and environmental law organizations. Critics argue that creating separate fee structures based on nationality may violate principles of equal treatment, especially in publicly funded spaces.

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) is already exploring avenues to contest the order, citing concerns that the fees may discourage lawful entry and restrict access to federally protected lands.

Meanwhile, Democratic lawmakers have voiced concern over the message the policy sends to the world.

“Public lands belong to everyone, not just citizens,” said Rep. Maria Ortega (D-CA). “This policy risks turning our most iconic natural wonders into political gatekeeping tools.”

What Visitors Should Expect

Until the new pricing structure is finalized, foreign visitors can still enter parks under current rates. However, experts suggest monitoring NPS updates closely and booking visits before winter, when changes may be enforced.

Additionally, international tourists are advised to:

• Travel in groups to reduce per-person vehicle fees.

• Explore lesser-known national monuments or state parks, which may be less affected.

• Reach out to U.S. consulates or tourism boards for guidance on entry changes.

Conclusion: A Nation at a Crossroads

Trump’s executive order marks a clear shift in how the U.S. approaches tourism, particularly in the realm of natural and cultural heritage. While the administration positions the move as a patriotic investment in American resources, critics see it as a divisive measure that risks harming relationships, economies, and the spirit of public lands as shared treasures.

As implementation details unfold, the global community will be watching not only how the U.S. manages its parks, but how it welcomes—or discourages—those who come to admire them.