In a sweeping effort to boost domestic tourism and celebrate national pride, the Government of Canada has launched the Canada Strong Pass, a nationwide tourism initiative offering Canadians and international visitors free and discounted access to the country’s top natural and cultural attractions. Running from June 20 to September 2, 2025, the program was officially announced by Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture Steven Guilbeault at a press conference held at the Canadian Museum of Nature in Ottawa.
The Canada Strong Pass is part of a broader effort to revitalize local travel, encourage staycations, and showcase Canada’s rich history, landscapes, and arts at a time when international tourism numbers are declining in neighboring countries.
What Is the Canada Strong Pass?
Unlike traditional travel cards, the Canada Strong Pass doesn’t require registration, sign-up, or payment. There’s no physical or virtual pass involved. Visitors simply arrive at participating sites across Canada during the promotion period to access benefits.
The program includes:
- Free admission to all Parks Canada sites
- 25% off camping and accommodation fees
- Free admission for children under 18 at national museums
- 50% off for youth (ages 18–24) at partner museums
- VIA Rail fare discounts (including free travel for kids under 17)
It is designed as an inclusive summer travel solution accessible to all Canadians and international visitors alike.
Where and How to Use It
There’s no complicated process. For most destinations, visitors can simply walk in and enjoy the benefits. However, for reservations (such as VIA Rail travel or Parks Canada camping), the discount is automatically applied at checkout on official booking platforms.
Already paid for a camping trip or train ticket this summer? You’re eligible for a refund. Those who purchased Parks Canada Discovery Passes that are valid in June, July, or August will have their passes automatically extended by three months.
What’s Included in the Canada Strong Pass?
National Parks and Historic Sites
- Free admission to over 170 national historic sites, 48 national parks, and 5 national marine conservation areas
- Participating highlights include Banff National Park, Pacific Rim, Prince Edward Island National Park, and Riding Mountain
- 25% off camping (tents, RV sites, backcountry, cabins, yurts)
Please note: parking fees still apply, and the pass does not cover provincial or municipal parks.
National Museums and Cultural Institutions
- Free entry for children 17 and under
- 50% off tickets for youth aged 18–24
- Featured sites include:
- Canadian Museum of History, Museum of Nature, War Museum, and National Gallery of Canada (Ottawa)
- Canada Aviation and Space Museum
- Canadian Museum for Human Rights (Winnipeg)
- Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 (Halifax)
- Plains of Abraham Museum (Quebec City)
VIA Rail Discounts
- Kids under 17 ride free in economy with an adult using code CANADAFAM
- Youth aged 18–24 get 25% off VIA Rail economy tickets with promo code CANADA1824
Who Is Eligible?
Everyone. Canadians and foreign visitors can take full advantage of the Canada Strong Pass during the summer 2025 promotion window. The only restriction is space—some destinations will operate on a first-come, first-served basis due to high demand.
Visitors are encouraged to check availability or make reservations in advance where required. Activities not included in base entry—such as guided museum tours or canoe rentals—may still carry additional charges and should be booked directly with the site.
Supporting Canadian Unity Through Tourism
Minister Guilbeault emphasized the cultural value of the initiative:
“This pass is about discovering and reconnecting with the nature, history, and culture of this remarkable country we all share and are proud to call our own.”
The Canada Strong Pass is intended to drive tourism spending within Canada, support heritage institutions, and promote interprovincial travel at a time when economic concerns and international policy tensions have made outbound travel more complicated for some citizens.
Why Now?
With U.S. tourism rates slipping due to border policies and global economic uncertainty, the Canadian government is positioning its own country as a world-class alternative for summer travel. From the Rockies to the Atlantic coast, from major cities to remote parks, the pass aims to foster exploration of Canada’s diverse regions and stimulate economic activity in local communities.
Final Thoughts: Summer 2025 Travel Just Got More Accessible
Whether you’re planning a cross-country rail adventure, a camping escape, or a weekend museum visit, the Canada Strong Pass offers something for every kind of traveler. And best of all—it’s simple, inclusive, and entirely free.
With free park access, cultural discovery, and reduced transportation costs, Canadians and international guests alike are being given a new reason to stay local and explore nationally.
So pack your bags, book your tickets, and rediscover Canada this summer—stronger, richer, and more welcoming than ever.
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