This summer, Canada Strong Pass offers free park access and museum deals to national parks, historic sites, and marine conservation areas.

In addition to exploring nature, pass holders can enjoy free or discounted entry to several museums and travel benefits such as reduced VIA Rail fares.

Launched by the federal government, this initiative began on June 20, 2025, and will be active until September 2, 2025.

Admission Benefits For Children And Youth

Children can access all included attractions and services for free at participating locations.

The Canada Strong Pass doesn’t come in the form of a physical or digital card, nor does it require registration. No payment is necessary—simply visit participating sites or use relevant codes for travel discounts.

Moreover, newcomers, temporary residents, Canadian citizens, and tourists are all eligible to benefit from the initiative, aimed at encouraging widespread exploration across Canada.

Eligible persons Benefits
Age 17 and under – Free VIA rail tickets, with accompanying ticket-holding adult.

– Free entry to national + participating provincial/territorial museums and galleries.
Ages 18-24 – 25% off VIA Rail tickets.

– 50% discount for admission to national + participating provincial/territorial museums and galleries.
Everyone – Free entry to Parks Canada sites.

– 3-month annual single-location (Parks Canada) pass extension.

– 25% discount on camp sites and lodging.

– Waived backcountry day-use fees in Northern Canada.

– 25% discount on overnight backcountry fees in northern Canada.

– Potential guided tour discounts or special offer rates at participating sites.

– Free lockage at canals on historic waterways (Parks Canada).

– Partial refunds for select pre-purchased/reserved attractions and services.

Highlights Of Canada Strong Pass Benefits

Canada Strong Pass offers free park access and museum deals. The Pass also offers an enriching opportunity to explore Canada’s natural wonders and cultural heritage. Here’s a breakdown of what you can enjoy:

1. Parks Canada: Visitors can enjoy free admission to all national parks, historic landmarks, and marine protected areas managed by Parks Canada. There will also be a 25% discount on both camping sites and roofed accommodations during the promotion period.

Parks Canada-managed historic waterways will also offer free lockage during this period.

Also, in Canada’s northern territories—Nunavut, Yukon, and the Northwest Territories—where entry is typically free, the Canada Strong Pass waives fees for day-use backcountry services and offers a 25% discount on overnight backcountry accommodations.

2. National Museums and Galleries: Children 17 and under will enjoy free entry, while young adults aged 18 to 24 can benefit from a 50% discount.

A complete list of participating national, provincial, and territorial museums and galleries can be found on the Government of Canada website. Moreover, these cultural institutions provide unique opportunities to explore Canada’s history, art, and science.

3. VIA Rail Travel: Children aged 17 and below can travel for free on VIA Rail, provided they are accompanied by an adult holding a valid ticket. Young adults aged 18 to 24 can receive a 25% discount on VIA Rail tickets.

Discounts apply to Escape and Economy fare categories only. To take advantage of these offers, travelers need to use specific codes:

  • Children and youth (17 and below): CANADAFAM
  • Young adults (18 to 24): CANADA1824

You can use the Canada Strong Pass benefits as many times as you want between June 20 and September 2, 2025.

While the Pass makes travel and cultural access easier, it’s important to plan ahead, especially when visiting popular campgrounds or attractions. So, check availability in advance to avoid disappointment.

For complete details, you can:

  • Visit the official Government of Canada website.
  • Reach out directly to Parks Canada, VIA Rail, or participating museums and galleries.

Anna Gainey, Secretary of State (Children and Youth), stated in a news release that with fewer financial barriers, they hope even more people will have the chance to explore the stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, as well as rich cultural heritage.

Who Can Use The Canada Strong Pass?

The Canada Strong Pass is available to everyone in Canada and abroad, including:

  • Canadian citizens
  • Canadian permanent residents
  • Temporary residents (e.g., foreign workers, international students)
  • Tourists and visitors

Thus, children, young adults, families, and newcomers are all encouraged to take advantage of this special opportunity.

What If You Have Already Paid For A Pass Or Reservation?

Canada Strong Pass offers free park access and museum deals. However, you may qualify for a partial refund if you’ve already purchased a ticket or made a reservation before the initiative began.

1. Parks Canada: 

If you purchased a seasonal single-location pass that is valid for fewer than 12 months, you may receive a partial refund.

  • Online purchases will be refunded automatically.
  • For in-person purchases, contact the specific Parks Canada location directly.

Passes valid for June, July, and/or August 2025 will be extended automatically by three months.

If you’ve already booked a camping or accommodation spot between June 20 and September 2, you will get an email with details on how to claim your refund as your booking date approaches.

2. VIA Rail: If you booked VIA Rail travel directly (through their website, by phone, or at a station) before June 16, 2025, for travel occurring between June 20 and September 2, you may be eligible for a partial refund.

In addition, to request the refund, complete the online form available on VIA Rail’s official website.

The Canada Strong Pass makes exploring Canada’s national treasures more accessible than ever before. So, don’t miss this opportunity to travel, discover, and connect this summer!

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