Discover Ontario’s national parks, museums and travel deals with the Canada Strong Pass

Canada Strong Pass

The Canada Strong Pass offers free or discounted admission to VIA Rail train trips, select Parks Canada locations and national museums and galleries. You can use the Pass’ special pricing as many times as you like this summer, from June 20 to September 2, 2025.

Everyone is eligible to use the Canada Strong Pass, whether you live in Canada or are visiting from outside the country. There are no physical or virtual passes. All you need to do is arrive at one of the participating sites. However, keep in mind that some locations may require advance reservations, and due to limited capacity, certain sites may not be able to accommodate all visitors.

As well, certain benefits of the Canada Strong Pass, such as the discounted VIA Rail fare, are age-specific. Make sure you double-check your eligibility before travelling.

Learn more about how the Canada Strong Pass works.

Free and discounted VIA Rail

Embark on an affordable train trip with VIA Rail discounts. The Canada Strong Pass allows children 17 and under who are accompanied by an adult to enjoy a free VIA Rail ride, while young adults aged 18–24 receive 25% off their fare. This offer applies to all VIA Rail routes nationwide on Escape and Economy fares.

Ontario’s major cities, like Toronto, Niagara Falls, Windsor, Sarnia and Ottawa, as well as charming smaller towns such as London, Oakville, Kitchener, Stratford, Belleville, Kingston, Brockville and Sudbury, are all train stops serviced by VIA Rail.

Transportation in Ontario is convenient and cost-effective, especially when paired with travel promotions like the Canada Strong Pass. Use GO Transit’s Kids GO Free promotion for budget-friendly travel between major cities like Toronto, Niagara Falls and Hamilton. For easy transit access, consider a PRESTO card, which makes getting around even easier and unlocks special discounts at top Ontario attractions with the PRESTO Perks program. 

Free or reduced admission to museums and galleries

This summer, visit many of Canada’s national museums and galleries for free or with reduced admission. Participating museums and galleries are offering free admission for children aged 17 and under and 50% off for youth aged 18 to 24. Here are a couple of the Ontario museums and galleries included in the Canada Strong Pass.

National Gallery of Canada

View rotating exhibitions and permanent collections that showcase Canada’s creative spirit across centuries.

A must-see for art lovers, the National Gallery of Canada is home to a vast quantity of Canadian and Indigenous art, as well as celebrated international works. Located steps from Parliament Hill, the gallery’s striking glass architecture and towering “Maman” spider sculpture make it one of Ottawa’s top landmarks.

Location: 380 Sussex Drive, Ottawa

Canadian Museum of Nature

Containing one of the world’s largest natural history collections, the Canadian Museum of Nature displays over 14.6 million dinosaur specimens, rocks, Arctic ecosystems, live insects and more.

With hands-on exhibits and immersive galleries, it’s a fascinating destination for curious minds of all ages.

Location: 240 McLeod Street, Ottawa

Ottawa is also home to other national museums participating in this initiative, including the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, Canada Agriculture and Food Museum and Canadian War Museum.

Remember that this discount only applies to general admission, and there may be additional costs for special exhibitions, programs or time-ticketed events. Visit the official websites of each museum and gallery for more information.

Free admission to Parks Canada locations

The Canada Strong Pass grants all visitors to Parks Canada free admission to its national historic sites, national parks and national marine conservation areas.

Rideau Canal National Historic Site

This iconic Ottawa landmark stretches over 200 kilometres and offers year-round recreational fun and historic charm.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Rideau Canal is North America’s oldest continuously operated canal system. In warmer months, you can paddle, canoe or kayak along the scenic waterway. If the canal freezes in the winter, skate along the world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink.

Location: Various access points between Ottawa and Kingston

Fort George National Historic Site

Step back in time at Fort George, a key military post during the War of 1812. Located in Niagara-on-the-Lake, this restored 19th-century fort comes alive with costumed interpreters, musket demonstrations and daily programs.

Stroll through the scenic grounds, take a guided group tour or listen to a featured talk to learn about the battles that shaped Canada’s early history.

Location: 51 Queen’s Parade, Niagara-on-the-Lake

Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area

Explore one of the world’s largest protected freshwater areas, shaped by glaciers and crashing waves, and spanning over 10,000 square kilometres along Lake Superior’s rugged shoreline. This beautiful conservation area is a favourite for paddlers, hikers and nature lovers.

Take a guided kayak experience through the lake or search for geocaches while exploring Terrace Bay.

Location: 22 3rd Street, Nipigon

Bruce Peninsula National Park

Known for its turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs and rare plant species, Bruce Peninsula National Park is a must-visit for outdoor adventurers. Hike the Bruce Trail, explore the Grotto’s hidden sea cave or enjoy a peaceful paddle on Cyprus Lake.

Wildlife watchers may spot black bears, Massasauga rattlesnakes and snapping turtles, while geology enthusiasts will marvel at the ancient limestone formations of the Niagara Escarpment.

Location: 469 Cyprus Lake Road, Tobermory

Thousand Islands National Park

Discover 21 picturesque granite islands, plus numerous smaller islets, scattered along the St. Lawrence River between Kingston and Brockville. Thousand Islands National Park offers excellent boating, kayaking, camping and hiking opportunities.

Keep an eye out for herons, turtles and other wildlife, or simply relax and admire the scenic views from the wooded trails or island campsites.

Location: 1121 Thousand Islands Parkway, Mallorytown

Point Pelee National Park

Situated at the southernmost tip of mainland Canada, Point Pelee is an ecologically diverse sanctuary for birdwatchers and beachgoers. Visit during the spring or fall migration season for incredible birding or walk the boardwalk through Carolinian forest and marsh.

The park has also been designated as a Dark Sky Preserve and is one of the best spots to view millions of stars with the naked eye.

Location: 1118 Point Pelee Drive, Leamington

Discounts on overnight stays at Parks Canada sites

Enjoy a 25% discount on Parks Canada overnight stays this summer. Accommodation types include:

• Tent and RV camping
• Equipped camping
• oTENTiks
• MicrOcubes
• Cabins
• Yurts
• Tipis
• Ôasis
• Historic stays
• Backcountry overnight stays

This discount is valid for all visitors, but reservation system administrative fees may still apply. Certain items, such as parking, permits and third-party services, are excluded from this discount. Check your Parks Canada location for more details on fees.

Many Parks Canada campgrounds and overnight accommodations require advance reservations and can fill up quickly during the summer, so book early.

Learn more about how to prepare for a camping trip in Ontario.

Summer travel tips

Have a smoother, more enjoyable experience travelling through Ontario by keeping these practical travel tips in mind:

• Book VIA Rail tickets and Parks Canada sites in advance, especially during peak summer weekends.
• Consider travelling mid-week or combining nearby attractions into a day trip to avoid crowds and save time.
• And since many of these experiences are outdoors, dress for the weather and remember to pack water, sun protection and comfortable gear.

With careful preparation, your whole family will be ready to make the most of everything Ontario has to offer.