Alberta Places Families Can Visit for FREE With the Canada Strong Pass This Summer
If you’ve been waiting for an affordable excuse to explore Alberta this summer, this is it.
The Canada Strong Pass is officially returning for Summer 2026, giving families access to FREE national park admission, FREE museum access for kids and teens, discounted camping, and even FREE train travel for children on VIA Rail.
The program runs from June 19 to September 7, 2026, and there is no physical pass required. Discounts and free admission are automatically applied at participating locations.
What Is Included With the Canada Strong Pass?
✨ FREE admission to Parks Canada locations
✨ FREE museum admission for children and teens 17 and under at participating locations
✨ 50% off admission for young adults ages 18 to 24 at participating museums
✨ FREE VIA Rail travel for children 17 and under when travelling with an adult
✨ 25% off camping fees at participating Parks Canada campgrounds
Elk Island National Park 🦬
📍 Near Fort Saskatchewan
One of the easiest and BEST family day trips from Edmonton. Spot bison, walk family-friendly trails, pack a picnic, go paddleboarding, or stay late for incredible stargazing.
Jasper National Park 🏔️
📍 Jasper, Alberta
One of Canada’s most iconic mountain destinations is FREE to enter this summer. Spend the day hiking, exploring waterfalls, visiting lakes, or planning a camping getaway with discounted camping fees.
Banff National Park 🏞️
📍 Banff, Alberta
Perfect for summer road trips, scenic drives, canoeing, sightseeing, and family adventures.
Waterton Lakes National Park 🌲
📍 Southern Alberta
A stunning mountain escape known for lakes, wildlife, hiking, and breathtaking scenery.
Royal Alberta Museum 🦖
📍 Edmonton
One of Edmonton’s top indoor family attractions. Kids and teens 17 and under receive FREE admission this summer through the Canada Strong Pass program.
Rutherford House 🏡
📍 Edmonton
Step back in time and explore one of Edmonton’s historic homes located right on the University of Alberta campus.
Royal Tyrrell Museum 🦕
📍 Drumheller
One of Alberta’s most famous museums and absolutely worth the road trip. Dinosaur lovers will want to spend HOURS here.
Reynolds Museum 🚜
📍 Wetaskiwin
Perfect for kids who love vehicles, airplanes, tractors, and transportation history.
Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump 🦬
📍 Southern Alberta
A UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers an incredible look into Indigenous history and culture in Alberta.
Frank Slide Interpretive Centre ⛰️
📍 Crowsnest Pass
A fascinating stop filled with Alberta history, mountain scenery, and interactive exhibits for families.
Fort George & Buckingham House 🪵
📍 Near St. Paul
A hidden gem for families who love Alberta history and quieter road trip destinations.
Victoria Settlement 🛶
📍 Near Smoky Lake
Explore Alberta’s fur trade history with costumed interpreters, historic buildings, and riverside scenery.
Historic Dunvegan 🏕️
📍 Fairview Area
A beautiful historic site along the Peace River with historic buildings, walking trails, and picnic areas.
Don’t Forget About VIA Rail 🚂
Children and teens 17 and under can travel FREE on VIA Rail when accompanied by an adult. Young adults ages 18 to 24 also receive discounted fares.
Things Families Should Know Before Visiting
✔️ The Canada Strong Pass runs from June 19 to September 7, 2026
✔️ No sign-up or physical pass is required
✔️ Some attractions may still require reservations
✔️ Camping is discounted, not free
✔️ Special exhibits or events may still have additional fees
✔️ Check attraction websites before visiting for hours and availability
This Summer Might Be the Perfect Time for an Alberta Adventure ☀️
With travel costs continuing to rise, the Canada Strong Pass might be one of the BEST ways for Alberta families to explore more this summer without breaking the budget.
Whether you’re planning mountain road trips, museum adventures, camping weekends, or quick day trips from Edmonton, there are so many incredible places families can now experience for FREE or at a major discount.
Stay caffeinated ☕
Edmonton Mama