There’s a brand-new reason to stay home this summer—and trust us, it’s not a punishment, it’s a party. The Canada Strong Pass is here, and it’s serving national pride, cultural connection, and outdoor fantasy realness all across the country. From coast to coast, this limited-time pass gives travelers access to some of Canada’s most iconic parks, museums, and train rides, all with serious discounts and perks. Whether you’re a museum-hopper, a campground queen, or a VIA Rail romantic, the Canada Strong Pass is your ticket to experiencing Canada without breaking the bank.

We know summer can sometimes feel like a battle between expensive flights, stressful airport drama, and the pressure to “go somewhere new.” But what if you flipped the script and treated your own backyard like the dreamy destination it really is? With rising costs of travel and a growing desire for sustainable tourism, exploring Canada has never made more sense—or felt this fabulous. From national historic sites and pristine parks to train trips that cut through the Rockies and museum strolls in our cultural capitals, this summer is all about rediscovering what makes Canada fierce, proud, and uniquely us.

If you’re queer, love the outdoors, have a thing for history, or just want to camp under the stars with your chosen fam, the Canada Strong Pass is your invitation to pack up, head out, and soak up everything this glorious country has to offer. There’s no registration, no physical card, no apps—just perks and possibilities waiting for you. Here’s the tea on why this might be the most exciting reason yet to spend your summer choosing Canada.

What Is the Canada Strong Pass?

Launched for summer 2025, the Canada Strong Pass is a bold initiative from the federal government to encourage Canadians (and visitors from abroad) to experience the natural and cultural richness of the country. Available from June 20 to September 2, the pass includes free and discounted access to Parks Canada sites, national museums, VIA Rail train travel, and select provincial and territorial cultural institutions.

The goal? Make travel more accessible. Make nature and heritage easier to explore. And give Canadians more chances to build summer memories rooted in national pride. The Canada Strong Pass celebrates the spaces and stories that shape who we are, with a commitment to affordability, access, and cultural connection.

Even better, you don’t need to register, download anything, or flash a physical card. Just show up to any participating location and take advantage of the deals. That’s right—free and discounted travel perks, no strings attached.

Why the Canada Strong Pass Is a Political Power Move

Let’s be real—travel is political. Since February, Canadian travel to the United States has plummeted. Canadians are boycotting American destinations in response to the Trump tariffs and his outrageous claims that Canada should become the 51st State. This summer, we’re saying, “No thanks.” We’re keeping our dollars at home and choosing to explore the beautiful land we already call home.

The Canada Strong Pass is more than a travel perk—it’s a patriotic response to U.S. aggression and a celebration of sovereignty. We’re not crossing borders; we’re crossing provinces, from Vancouver to Montreal and everywhere in between, waving our Pride and Canadian flags with joy. This isn’t just travel; it’s resistance wrapped in a rainbow.

Gay Travel Made Easy With Canada Strong Pass

For gay travelers, summer is peak Pride season. But many are skipping U.S. events this year, opting instead for homegrown celebrations. Thanks to the Canada Strong Pass, exploring Canada’s thriving LGBTQ scene has never been easier or more affordable.

Headed to Banff Pride this fall? You can visit Banff National Park for free and save 25% on camping fees while you’re there. Making your way to Toronto Pride, Montreal Pride, or Ottawa Capital Pride? VIA Rail will get you there in style—and for less—with discounted fares. Hitting up Victoria Pride in July or Vancouver Pride in August? Don’t miss free admission to participating museums while you’re in town.

The Canada Strong Pass is your key to turning every Pride celebration into a multi-day adventure of cultural immersion and scenic beauty. Whether you’re strolling the seawall in Vancouver or hiking through Jasper before the parade, this pass is your golden ticket to a truly Canadian summer.

Explore Parks Canada for Free

From the windswept cliffs of Cape Breton Highlands to the wild Pacific shores of Gwaii Haanas, Canada’s national parks are legendary. With the Canada Strong Pass, admission to all national parks, historic sites, and marine conservation areas managed by Parks Canada is completely free.

Plus, there’s a 25% discount on camping fees, making it easier than ever to sleep under the stars. Whether you’re lounging on a lakeside beach, hiking a glacier trail, or soaking in hot springs post-Pride, there’s a Parks Canada destination waiting for you.

As the Honourable Nathalie Provost, Secretary of State (Nature), puts it:
“Canada’s natural landscapes are a pillar of our identity and are vital for our well-being. Parks Canada plays a critical role in protecting some of Canada’s most iconic destinations that offer Canadians the opportunity to reconnect with nature. This summer, I encourage all Canadians to take advantage of free or discounted admission with the Canada Strong Pass, which is making it easier for everyone to access the natural and cultural wealth of the country.”

And here’s a bonus: if you already bought a Parks Canada Discovery Pass for the summer months, it’s being extended for an additional three months. More adventure, same price.

Culture, Art, and Queer History at Your Fingertips

If you’re more into air conditioning and curated exhibits than bug spray and hiking boots, you’re still covered. The Canada Strong Pass includes free admission to national museums and the Plains of Abraham Museum, plus 50% off tickets at select provincial and territorial museums.

From queer art exhibits in Toronto to natural history displays in Ottawa and Indigenous heritage stories in Winnipeg, this is a chance to connect with Canada’s diverse narratives. Whether you’re learning about Two-Spirit traditions or admiring Canadian fashion through the decades, these spaces invite you to reflect, feel seen, and be inspired.

The Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture, shared:
“We’ve seen an incredible show of unity from Canadians since the beginning of the year. Our Canada Strong Pass aims to make it even easier for Canadians to choose Canada—to discover the beauty of our country, connect with nature, and enjoy our culture all summer long. Whether it’s visiting a national park they always wanted to see, exploring a museum, or booking a camping trip, Canadians can create lasting memories together. Canadians are proud of what defines us, and this Pass is about celebrating a strong, united Canada.”

VIA Rail and the Romance of Canadian Train Travel

VIA Rail is one of the most iconic ways to see Canada, and with the Canada Strong Pass, it’s now more affordable than ever. There’s a 25% discount on fares for young adults, but even without that, it remains one of the best ways to travel in comfort, especially for those attending Pride events or planning multi-stop summer adventures.

Imagine boarding in Vancouver, gliding through the Rockies, and arriving just in time for the Calgary Stampede or Edmonton Pride. Or rolling into Montreal for a long weekend of culture, nightlife, and Pride celebrations, with panoramic views along the way. VIA Rail offers a peaceful, low-stress travel experience, perfect for getting you in the right headspace to celebrate yourself.

As the Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Transport and Internal Trade, explains:
“Transportation is more than just a means to get from one place to another—it’s a way to connect Canadians and help them discover the great beauty and history of our country. The Canada Strong Pass makes it easier and more affordable for Canadians to explore our country by rail this summer. Whether it’s discovering a new part of the country or revisiting a favourite spot, this initiative allows Canadians to travel, connect and celebrate what makes our country so special.”

Supporting Local Economies and Queer Communities

When you stay local, you support more than just your own adventure. Tourism is a major economic driver, and keeping your travel plans domestic means helping queer-owned businesses, local cafes, LGBTQ bookstores, indie galleries, and neighborhood Pride events flourish.

Parks Canada sites alone contribute $4 billion annually to the national GDP, with visitors spending more than $11 million every day in communities across the country. Your travel choices matter, and this summer, the Canada Strong Pass makes it easy to put your money where your pride is.

As the Honourable Rechie Valdez, Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State (Small Business and Tourism), puts it:
“Canada’s tourism sector is dynamic, innovative and essential to our national economy. The Canada Strong Pass will give a much-needed boost to the tourism industry by encouraging Canadians to rediscover our country, support local businesses and celebrate the communities that make Canada extraordinary. This summer, let’s choose Canada.”

Proud and Free: The Summer of Staying Canadian

With the Canada Strong Pass, you don’t need to leave the country to have an unforgettable summer. From national parks to urban Pride festivals, scenic train routes to inspiring museums, everything you love is right here at home.

This is the summer to stand up, speak out, and travel proud. Fly your Canadian and Pride flags high from coast to coast to coast. We’re not just exploring Canada—we’re celebrating it.

To explore what’s included and how to plan your trip, check out the official sites:
Canada Strong Pass
Choose Canada