Canada Strong Pass Expands: Over 80 More Museums Offer Free or Discounted Youth Access This Summer
In an exciting move aimed at promoting education, exploration, and affordability for youth, Canada’s Strong Pass program has added 86 more provincial and territorial museums and galleries to its growing list of attractions.
This expanded access will provide children (17 and under) with free admission, and young adults (aged 18 to 24) with a 50% discount to a wide range of cultural and historical institutions across Canada.
The Canada Strong Pass—which officially launched on June 20, 2025—initially applied to federal museums and galleries. Now, as of July 17, dozens of provincial and territorial institutions have voluntarily joined the initiative to broaden the experience for youth across the country.
No Registration, No Physical Pass Required
Visitors do not need to register or carry a physical pass. Simply show up to a participating location, and the discount will be applied on the spot.
Even better, the Canada Strong Pass is open to everyone—Canadian citizens, permanent residents, international students, foreign workers, and even tourists. Your immigration status does not affect your ability to benefit from the program.
This seasonal initiative is available until September 2, 2025, giving families plenty of time to explore Canadian history and culture.
Participating Provinces & Territories Include:
- Alberta: Royal Tyrrell Museum, Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, Lougheed House, and more
- British Columbia: Royal BC Museum
- Ontario: Art Gallery of Ontario, Royal Ontario Museum, and several Ontario Heritage Trust locations
- Nova Scotia: Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, Fisheries Museum, Black Loyalist Heritage Centre, and 25+ other locations
- Manitoba: The Manitoba Museum, Winnipeg Art Gallery-Qaumajuq
- Saskatchewan: Western Development Museums in four cities
- Newfoundland & Labrador: The Rooms, Colonial Building, Trinity Sites, and others
- New Brunswick: Kings Landing, Beaverbrook Art Gallery, Place Fort La Tour
- Yukon: Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre
And many more, including historic settlements, botanical gardens, lighthouses, and art galleries.
Additional Benefits with the Canada Strong Pass
On top of museum access, the Canada Strong Pass offers a range of exclusive perks, including:
| Age Group / Visitor | Exclusive Benefits |
|---|---|
| Ages 0–17 | Free VIA Rail tickets (with a paid adult companion) |
| Ages 18–24 | 25% off VIA Rail tickets |
| All Visitors | Free access to Parks Canada sites |
| 3-month extension on single-location Parks Canada passes | |
| 25% off campsites and overnight lodging | |
| Waived fees for day-use in Northern Canada | |
| Discounts on overnight backcountry access | |
| Possible discounts on guided tours and events |
This program is an opportunity to explore Canada’s heritage, landscapes, and innovations without worrying about high admission costs—making it a perfect summer activity for youth, students, families, and tourists alike.
Why This Matters
As summer vacation continues and families seek enriching, affordable experiences, this expansion makes high-quality cultural attractions more accessible than ever. It also offers international visitors a chance to experience Canada’s rich history and natural beauty at reduced or zero cost.
The government hopes this initiative will foster greater participation in cultural life, promote national unity, and support local tourism.
Key Dates to Remember
- Program Validity: Until September 2, 2025
- Available to: All visitors in Canada, regardless of immigration status
- No registration: Simply visit a participating museum or site
For a consultation about Immigration options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!
