Canada Strong Pass 2026 savings in Ontario

What is the Canada Strong Pass

The Canada Strong Pass offers free or discounted admission to select Parks Canada locations and national museums and galleries, as well as savings on VIA Rail train trips from June 19 to September 7, 2026.

The pass is eligible to all, including Canadians and visitors from outside the country. There are no physical or virtual passes; you can access the savings directly at participating sites. However, note that some locations may require advance reservations, and due to limited capacity, certain sites may not accommodate all visitors.

As well, certain benefits of the Canada Strong Pass, such as the discounted VIA Rail fare, are age-specific. Double-check eligibility before travelling and make your summer plans well in advance to take advantage of the Canada Strong Pass.

Free entry and savings at museums and galleries

Visit Canada’s top national museums and galleries for free or with reduced admission this summer.

Participating museums and galleries are offering free admission for children aged 17 and under and 50% off admission for visitors aged 18 to 24. Ontario museums and galleries offering savings with the Canada Strong Pass include:

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, this museum 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

Other participating national museums in the Capital Region include the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, Canadian War Museum, Canada Science and Technology Museum and the Canadian Museum of History.

The Canada Strong Pass discount applies only to general admission. There may be additional costs for special exhibitions, programs or time-ticketed events.

Free admission to Parks Canada locations

The Canada Strong Pass grants visitors Parks Canada free admission to incredible national historic sites, parks and marine conservation areas. Key sights in Ontario include:

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. During the summer, paddle, canoe or kayak along the scenic waterway.

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 and 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 stunning conservation area is a favourite for paddlers, hikers and nature lovers.

Location: 22 3rd Street, Nipigon

Bruce Peninsula National Park

Known for turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs and rare plant species, Bruce Peninsula National Park is a bucket list destination in Ontario. Hike the Bruce Trail, explore the Grotto’s hidden sea cave or enjoy a peaceful paddle on Cyprus Lake.

Look for black bears, Massasauga rattlesnakes and snapping turtles and marvel at the ancient limestone formations of the Niagara Escarpment.

Location: 469 Cyprus Lake Road, Tobermory

Thousand Islands National Park

Explore 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.

Watch 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, popular with birdwatchers, nature lovers and beachgoers. While the spring and fall migration seasons are particularly impressive, the summer also delivers incredible birding experiences.

The park has also been designated a Dark Sky Preserve and is one of the best spots in Ontario for stargazing.

Location: 1118 Point Pelee Drive, Leamington

Discounts on overnight stays at Parks Canada

Extend your Parks Canada visit from a day trip to a multi-day holiday with 25% discount on Parks Canada overnight stays this summer.

Types of accommodation include traditional front- or car-tent camping, backcountry camping and RV sites, as well as unique roofed structures. These range from rustic cabins to oTENTiks, MicrOcubes, yurts, tipis and Ôasis dwellings.

While this discount is valid for all visitors, reservation system administrative fees may still apply. Certain items, such as parking, permits and third-party services, are excluded from this discount. Check the specific 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.

Save on VIA Rail travel

Embark on an affordable train trip with the Canada Strong Pass VIA Rail discounts.

Children and kids aged 17 and under who are accompanied by an adult can enjoy a free VIA Rail ride, while young adults aged 18 to 24 receive 25% off their fare. This offer applies to all VIA Rail routes nationwide on Escape and Economy fares.

In Ontario, VIA Rail connects major cities like Toronto, Ottawa and Niagara Falls as well as mid-sized and smaller communities, including London, Kitchener, Stratford, Kingston, Brockville, Sarnia and Sudbury.

Public transportation in Ontario is convenient and cost-effective, especially when paired with travel promotions like the Canada Strong Pass. Travel car-free and with ease between major cities like Toronto, Niagara Falls and Hamilton on GO Transit. Take advantage of the Kids GO Free promotion for budget-friendly family travel.

For easy transit access in Toronto, consider a PRESTO card, which also unlocks special discounts at top Ontario attractions with the PRESTO Perks program.

Ontario travel tips

For a smoother, more enjoyable Ontario summer vacation, consider the following:

• Book VIA Rail tickets and Parks Canada sites in advance, especially during peak summer weekends.
• Travel mid-week or combine nearby attractions into a day trip to avoid crowds and save time.
• Many of these experiences and attractions are outdoors, so dress for the weather and pack water, sun protection and comfortable gear.
• For out-of-province and first-time visitors to Canada, learn more about Ontario, including weather, currency, measurements and public holidays observed.
• If you’re planning a summer road trip with the Canada Strong Pass, make note of health and safety services in Ontario.

With planning, preparation and extra savings with the Canada Strong Pass, make the most of everything Ontario has to offer this summer on your family vacation or getaways with friends.