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The federal government is hoping to make it easier to vacation at home this summer with the introduction of the Canada Strong Pass .
The initiative comes as tourism to the U.S. continues to trend downward, with Canadians opting to stay close to home for their summer travel in light of President Donald Trump’s policies and continuing tariff and border concerns.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Canada Strong Pass:
What is the Canada Strong Pass?
The Canada Strong Pass was launched by the Government of Canada and allows you to visit a number of museums, parks and attractions across Canada either for free or at a discounted rate.
It also includes free travel for kids and discounted travel for young adults on board Via Rail this summer.
There is no cost for the pass and it is in effect from June 20 until Sept. 2, 2025.
Who is eligible for the Canada Strong Pass?
The Canada Strong Pass is for anyone, regardless if you live in Canada or if you are visiting from elsewhere.
The pass does offer great value in particular for families travelling with young kids or young adult travellers.
How do you get the Canada Strong Pass?
There’s absolutely nothing you need to do to get the pass! The Canada Strong Pass is not a physical or virtual pass that you need to get; just simply show up at the included attractions.
However, there are some included attractions that will require advance reservations or booking before you can avail of the Canada Strong Pass discount.
What destinations or admissions are included for free or a discount in the Canada Strong Pass?
The Canada Strong Pass includes discounts or free admissions to Parks Canada sites, national museums, Via Rail, and participating provincial and territorial museums and galleries.
Parks Canada
The pass includes free admission to all national parks, national historic sites and national marine conservation areas overseen by Parks Canada.
The pass also includes a 25 per cent discount on camping fees at Parks Canada sites.
Note that the pass does not include provincial, municipal or private parks, or Parks Canada locations operated by a third party. Fees will still apply for those sites.
For the full list of included Parks Canada sites, check their list online here .
National museums
The pass includes free admission for those aged 17 and under, and 50 per cent off for those aged 18 to 24 to national museums.
Note that the pass does not include special events and programs, or summer camps.
Participating national museums include:
Ottawa / Gatineau (National Capital Region):
• Canada Agriculture and Food Museum
• Canada Aviation and Space Museum
• Canadian Museum of History
• Canadian Museum of Nature
• Canada Science and Technology Museum
• Canadian War Museum
•National Gallery of Canada
Halifax: Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21
Québec: Plains of Abraham Museum
Winnipeg: Canadian Museum for Human Rights
Via Rail
The pass includes free Via Rail travel for those aged 17 and under when accompanied by an adult, and 25 per cent off for those aged 18 to 24.
Free travel: To access the discount for kids aged 17 and under, just use the discount code CANADAFAM when booking travel.
Discounted travel: To access the 25 per cent discount for those aged 18 to 24, just use the discount code CANADA1824 when booking.
If you had previously booked Via Rail travel for this summer, reach out to Via Rail directly to inquire about reimbursements.