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Tourism

Canada Unveils Tourism-Focused Initiative: Canada Strong Pass Offers Free Admission and Travel Discounts

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

Ontario residents eager to explore more of Canada this summer can enjoy free admission to museums, parks, and historic sites, as well as travel discounts through the Canada Strong Pass. First announced during the federal election campaign earlier this spring, the government of Prime Minister Mark Carney formally unveiled the tourism-focused initiative on Monday. The pass, available from June 20 to September 2, offers significant perks for visitors, including free admission to national historic sites, national parks, and national marine conservation areas administered by Parks Canada.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Canada Strong Pass offers free admission for all visitors to national historic sites, national parks, and national marine conservation areas administered by Parks Canada.
  • Camping fees will be discounted by 25 per cent.
  • National museums and the Plains of Abraham Museum in Québec City will offer free admission for children 17 and under and a 50 per cent discount for young adults 18 to 24.
  • Children 17 and under can ride the rails for free on VIA Rail when accompanied by an adult, while young adults 18 to 24 will receive a 25 per cent VIA Rail discount.
  • Selected participating provincial and territorial museums and galleries will offer free admission for children and a half-off discount for anyone 18 to 24.
  • The initiative aims to make it easier for people to choose Canada as they make their summer plans and to enjoy the places and experiences that bring them together and make Canada strong.

Statistics:

  • Parks Canada welcomes 24 million visitors annually.
  • The Canada Strong Pass is designed to make it easier for people to enjoy a summer vacation within Canada.
  • A family with three children under 18 could save over $50 in admission costs at the Canadian Museum of Nature.
  • A family with two children planning a five-day camping trip at a Parks Canada campground could save up to 50 per cent thanks to free park access and camping discounts.
  • Domestic tourism was responsible for more than $95 billion to Canada's economy in 2023, supporting one in every 10 jobs.
  • A May survey from the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario found that 32 per cent of operators reported lower bookings from U.S. visitors this year, compared to the summer of 2023.

Sources:

  • Government of Canada news release, "Canada Unveils Tourism-Focused Initiative: Canada Strong Pass Offers Free Admission and Travel Discounts".
  • Interview with Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture.
  • Interview with Rechie Valdez, Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State (Small Business and Tourism).
  • Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (OTIA) survey.

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