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Maurice Li / Go Canada

Experiences

Canada Strong Pass: What You Need to Know For Free Parks, Discounted Travel, and More

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, 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!

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If there was ever a summer to say yes to exploring Canada, this is it. The federal government of Canada has just launched the Canada Strong Pass, a simple but meaningful invitation to hit the road, ride the rails, or wander through a gallery or a national park without spending a fortune.

Fundy National Park, NBTaylor Burk

From June 20 to September 2, 2025, admission to Parks Canada sites is completely free. Special rates are being offered for camping and roofed accommodations. Museum tickets for children, youth, and students are free or heavily discounted. VIA Rail fares for train travel are reduced for younger travellers, and kids can ride for free. Whether you are planning a big cross-country trip or just looking for a reason to get out of town for the day, this is your green light.

And here is the best part: there is no need to register or sign-up. No pass. No discount code. Just Go Canada!

What You Get

National Parks and Historic Sites

  • Free entry to all Parks Canada national parks, national historic sites, and marine conservation areas
  • 25 percent off camping and roofed accommodations, including oTENTiks and heritage lodgings
  • If you already have a Discovery Pass valid this summer, it will automatically be extended by three months

Museums and Cultural Sites

  • Free admission to participating national museums & galleries for visitors 17 & under
  • 50 percent off general admission for those aged 18 to 24
  • Many provincial and territorial museums are offering the same discounts for youth and students

VIA Rail Deals

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  • Children aged 2 to 17 travel free with an accompanying adult
  • Travellers aged 18 to 24 save 25 percent on VIA Rail fares
  • Valid on major routes including the Québec City to Windsor Corridor, the Ocean (Montréal to Halifax), and the Canadian (Toronto to Vancouver)

Why It Matters

This is not just about savings. It is about accessibility, about connection, and about giving more people a chance to experience what makes this country so remarkable. From wide-open wilderness to stories told in museum halls, this is Canada at its most welcoming.

The Canada Strong Pass makes it easier for families, students, and travellers of all kinds to discover more, go farther, and spend less. Whether you are revisiting a childhood camping spot or heading somewhere completely new, this is a good excuse to travel with intention.

Quick Facts

🗓️ When: June 20 to September 2, 2025
🌎 Who: Open to Canadians, residents, and international visitors
🎟️ How: No pass, registration nor code required - just show up or book

Maurice Li

Before You Go

  • Campgrounds and VIA Rail routes can book up quickly in summer, so reserve early when possible
  • Try mixing outdoor and cultural experiences, like hiking by day and visiting a museum in the evening
  • Check individual park and museum websites for seasonal hours, programming, and reservation tips

Whether you are chasing views, stories, solitude, or time with family, the Canada Strong Pass is an open invitation to travel deeper this summer. It is one of those rare government programs that actually feels like a gift: simple, generous, and genuinely helpful.

So pack your bag, pick a direction. and see where Canada takes you.

For full Canada Strong Pass program details and a list of participating sites, visit the official site.

Go Canada Staff

Editorial

Go Canada is a digital travel publication dedicated to being a trusted resource for information and inspiration for those traveling to and within Canada. Our mission is to showcase the very best Canada has to offer while making travel planning and trip preparation enjoyable and easy. Our staff is a diverse group of travel experts, writers, and content creators who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and love for Canada.

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