Here’s what you can do in Ottawa with the Canada Strong Pass

Steven Guilbeault, minister of Canadian Identity and Culture, announces the Canada Strong Pass at the Canadian Museum of Nature in Ottawa on Monday, June 16, 2025. Photo by SEAN KILPATRICK /THE CANADIAN PRESASArticle content

Under the new Canada Strong Pass, Ottawa might see an uptick in tourists.

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On Monday morning, Canadian Identity and Culture Minister Steven Guilbeault said Canadians will have a “unique opportunity” to explore “the very best our country has to offer.”

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“I’m very happy to see how these initiatives will create momentum across the country,” Guilbeault said at the Canadian Museum of Nature.

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From June 20 to Sept. 2, 2025, Canada’s historic sites and national parks will be free to visit and Via Rail tickets will be 25 per cent cheaper for young adults aged 18 to 24. Children 17 and under can travel for free on Via Rail, accompanied by an adult.

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Museums will be offering 50 per cent off admission fees for youth aged 18 to 24 and free admission for children 17 and under. No registration or physical pass is required to use the pass.

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The pass launches on Friday and benefits will be immediately available at parks, museums and on the Via Rail booking site. Here’s what you can access and explore in the Ottawa area under the Canada Strong Pass.

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Historic sites

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Laurier House National Historic Site

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Located in Sandy Hill, this historic site commemorates two of Canada’s prime ministers, Sir Wilfrid Laurier and William Lyon Mackenzie King. From 1897 to 1948, the house acted as a central location of political life in Canada.

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The Laurier House on Somerset Street in Ottawa. Photo by ERROL MCGIHON /POSTMEDIAArticle content

Fort Wellington National Historic Site

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Originally built in 1838, this structure is one of the “best preserved nineteenth-century fortifications in Canada” and holds historical and strategic significance from the War of 1812. The fort is located in Prescott, right on the St. Lawrence River, a short drive away from Ottawa.

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Rideau Canal National Historic Site

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The Rideau Canal was labelled a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007. It transforms into the world’s largest skating rink during the wintertime, but you can easily rent a kayak at Dow’s Lake and explore the canal that way.

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Parliament Hill

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While the Parliament Buildings are not open to the public, the Hill is, and is always worth a quick visit. It’s a popular tourist destination and is a symbolic piece of Canadian politics and democracy.

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Museums and galleries

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Canada Agriculture and Food Museum