Calgary 
If you’re looking to explore more of Canada this summer without stretching your budget, the federal government has introduced the Canada Strong Pass.
Credit: Destination Ontario
Returning for the second summer, from June 19 to September 7, 2026, the program offers discounted and free access to a range of national attractions, including parks, museums, and public transportation.
Under the initiative, admission to all Parks Canada-administered national parks, national historic sites, and marine conservation areas will be free for all visitors. Additionally, camping fees will be reduced by 25%. The offer extends to over 200 locations managed by Parks Canada, which include 171 historic sites and 48 national parks. These locations attract about 26.2 million visitors annually and contribute roughly $5.9billion to Canada’s GDP.
Children aged 17 and under will receive free entry to national museums, the Plains of Abraham Museum, and participating provincial and territorial cultural institutions. Young adults aged 18 to 24 will benefit from a 50% admission discount.
VIA Rail is also participating in the program by offering free travel to children when accompanied by an adult and a 25% discount for young adults within the same age bracket.
The pass requires no registration or physical proof—visitors can access the benefits simply by arriving at a participating location. It is available to both Canadian residents and international tourists.
National Museums involved in the initiative include the Canadian Museum of History, the Canadian War Museum, the National Gallery of Canada, and several others that collectively promote Canada’s heritage, science, and culture.
Existing Parks Canada Discovery Passes valid during June through August 2025 will be extended by three months.
What is Canada Strong Pass:
What: Canadians can enjoy the very best Canada has to offer with the Canada Strong Pass.
The Pass includes:
- Parks Canada: Free admission for all visitors to national historic sites, national parks and national marine conservation areas administered by Parks Canada.
- 25% discount on camping fees.
- National museums and the Plains of Abraham Museum: Free admission for children aged 17 and under and a 50% discount for young adults aged 18 to 24.
- National Museums: Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, Canada Aviation and Space Museum, Canada Science and Technology Museum, Canadian Museum of History, Canadian Museum of Nature, Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, Canadian Museum for Human Rights, Canadian War Museum and National Gallery of Canada.
- 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.
- Selected participating provincial and territorial museums and galleries: Free admission for children and a 50% discount for young adults aged 18 to 24.
When: June 19 to September 7, 2026
