The federal government is bringing back the Canada Strong Pass this summer to encourage domestic travel.
According to officials, the pass will offer free or discounted access to national parks, museums, rail travel and camping from June 19 to Sept. 7. The program includes free admission to all Parks Canada sites, along with a 25 per cent rebate on camping fees.
Through the program, children aged 17 and under will receive free admission to national museums, the Plains of Abraham Museum and participating provincial and territorial museums and galleries. Young adults aged 18 to 24 will receive 50 per cent off admission at participating sites.
VIA Rail will again offer free travel for children 17 and under when accompanied by an adult, while travellers aged 18 to 24 can receive a 25 per cent discount.
The federal government said the program, first launched in 2025, is intended to help families and young adults manage travel costs while encouraging Canadians to explore destinations closer to home.
Government figures show the first year of the program contributed to a 6.5 per cent increase in VIA Rail ridership, a 13 per cent increase in visits to Parks Canada sites and an average 15 per cent increase in attendance at national museums.
Participating provincial and territorial museums and galleries also reported an average attendance increase of 6.3 per cent.
“There is no physical or virtual pass,” the government said in a release. “All that is needed is to show up at the participating sites to enjoy free admission or discounts.”
Some activities, including train travel and camping, will still require reservations.
Canadian Identity and Culture Minister Marc Miller said the program is aimed at helping Canadians experience more of the country at a lower cost.
“We are bringing the Canada Strong Pass back to deliver real savings and make it easier for families to experience Canada’s parks, museums, railways and campsites,” Miller said.
According to federal officials, the offers will be available to both Canadian and international visitors.
