This summer, the new Canada Strong Pass drops the cost barriers to some of the country’s most iconic experiences!
Enjoy free access to national parks, major discounts on VIA Rail train trips (Canada’s National Rail system), and savings at museums from coast to coast.
No registration, loyalty cards, nor discount codes required to enjoy the beauty and culture of Canada – just show up and go!
Pass benefits
The Pass includes:
- Parks Canada: Free admission for all visitors to national parks, national historic sites, and national marine conservation areas administered by Parks Canada and a 25% discount on camping fees.
- National museums and the Plains of Abraham Museum: Free admission for children and teens aged 17 and under and a 50% discount for young adults aged 18 to 24.
- VIA Rail: Free travel for children aged 17 and under when accompanied by an adult and a 25% discount for young adults aged 18 to 24.
- Participating provincial and territorial museums and galleries: Free admission for children and a 50% discount for young adults aged 18 to 24.
Using the Pass
Here are some details on using the Pass:
- The Pass is available to all visitors, whether you live in Canada or come from abroad. It’s an invitation to experience Canada’s cultural and natural richness.
- There is no physical or virtual pass to present for these savings. Just show up at participating sites to enjoy the free admission or discounts. Some activities may require reservations. Visit the websites of participating sites for more information.
- The discounts cover admission only, but some participating sites may include guided tours or offer special rates — check with them directly.
- You can take advantage of the Pass offers as many times as you like during the summer period, from June 20 to September 2, 2025 (inclusively).
- Participating sites may not be able to accommodate everyone due to space limits. Please check with them directly before planning your visit.
- These discounts may not be combined with other promotions unless noted by participating partners.
Parks Canada visits and overnight stays
The Pass offers free admission to all national historic sites, national parks, and national marine conservation areas administered by Parks Canada.
It also includes discounted rates on camping, roofed accommodation and historic stays with Parks Canada.
Here are some details:
- This does not include provincial, municipal and private parks.
- Some Parks Canada locations are operated by third parties, and visitors will be required to pay applicable fees.
- Visitors are encouraged to visit the full list of Parks Canada administered sites before their visit to avoid disappointment.
- Parks Canada Discovery Passes already purchased and valid for the months of June, July and August 2025 will be extended for an additional three months.
Visit the Parks Canada website for more information.
Refunds for prior reservations
If you previously booked and paid for a Parks Canada campsite between June 20 and September 2, you will receive an email with more information on the process to receive your prorated refund as your reservation date approaches. Communicate directly with Parks Canada to get more details.
Admission to national museums
All national museums offer free admission for children and teens aged 17 and under, and 50% off admission fees for youth aged 18 to 24.
Here are some details:
- These savings apply to general admission. Tickets can be purchased or reserved online and in person.
- Time-ticketed exhibitions and fees regularly applied to special events, programs and experiences remain in effect and are not included (e.g., summer camps or group visits).
- If you had planned to visit one of the participating national museums this summer and had booked a ticket for children 17 and under and/or 18-24 years old, you will be reimbursed accordingly.
- Participating museums reserve the right to request proof of age upon admission.
For more information on family packages or membership prices, please consult each museum website.
Participating provincial and territorial museums and galleries
There will be many participating provincial and territorial museums and galleries across the country. It’s a good idea to check directly with each site before planning your visit.
VIA Rail travel
The pass offers free travel for children aged 17 and under when accompanied by an adult and a 25% discount for young adults aged 18 to 24.
Visit the VIA Rail website for more information on free and discounted travel with the Canada Strong Pass.
For information regarding reimbursement of previously bought tickets, VIA Rail’s capacity or summer travel plans, we recommend reaching out to VIA Rail directly.
The Canada Strong Pass is not a physical pass that you need to purchase, sign up for, or collect. Simply visit any participating Parks Canada site, museum, gallery, or VIA Rail to benefit from free admissions or discounts.
Which activity will you take advantage of?
My family has already confirmed plans to take the train from Ottawa to Toronto! I’d love to go across Canada but I don’t have that kind of time on my hands…one day I’d love to do that drive but that’s another blog post!
Jasmin Linton, TICO licensed Travel Agent
Book a consultation: calendly.com/theurbantraveler/15min
Email: TheUrbanTraveler@gmail.com
Visit me on Instagram @Urban_Traveler
