As part of a nationwide push to boost tourism and encourage Canadians to explore their own backyards, the country is now offering free and discounted admissions to national parks, museums, galleries, and train tickets throughout the summer season.
The Canada Strong Pass, a non-physical permit introduced by the federal government earlier this year, is available to Canadians until Sept. 2, offering a chance to explore some of the country’s cultural and natural heritages.
The program, which will be available to those living within Canada and abroad, also includes discounted rates on camping, roofed accommodation and national marine conservation areas, along with free VIA Rail travel for children aged 17 and under when accompanied by an adult. There is also a 25-per cent discount on camping fees, along with free lockage at the seven canals administered by Parks Canada on historic waterways.
In addition, the initiative hopes to invite more families to participate in domestic travel.
“The Canada Strong Pass celebrates what unites us — our shared experiences, natural wonders, and cultural richness. The Pass is about making it easier for everyone—especially youth and families — to explore Canada and celebrate what makes this country extraordinary,” the Government of Canada’s website says.
Some activities, such as guided tours, overnight stays, and exhibits may require reservation or additional payment separate from free admission.
Meanwhile, for Ontarians looking to take advantage of the Canada Strong Pass, there are a number of national parks, canals and historic sites to explore:
National Parks/National Marine Conservation Areas
- Bruce Peninsula National Park and Fathom Five National Marine Park
- Georgian Bay Islands National Park
- Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area (admission was already free)
- Point Pelee National Park
- Pukaskwa National Park
- Rouge National Urban Park (admission was already free)
- Thousand Islands National Park (admission was already free)
National Historic Sites
- Beausoleil Island National Historic Site (in Georgian Bay Islands National Park)
- Bellevue House National Historic Site
- Bethune Memorial House National Historic Site
- HMCS Haida National Historic Site
- Fort George National Historic Site
- Fort Malden National Historic Site
- Fort St. Jospeh National Historic Site
- Fort Wellington National Historic Site
- Laurier House National Historic Site
- Woodside National Historic Site (closed for the season in the summer and therefore the Canada Strong Pass will no longer apply once it opens for the season in the fall).
Canals
- Sault St Marine Canal (free admission to exhibits, lockage was already free)
- Trent Severn Waterway
- Rideau Canal
To learn more about the Canada Strong Pass and visitation areas around the country, click here.
Editor’s Note: This article has been updated to remove any provincial parks and historical sites that are not open or covered by the Canada Strong Pass.
