Have you heard about the new Canada Strong Pass at Parks Canada? The Government of Canada has announced free entry to all national parks and national historic sites. Plus, the pass gives big discounts on camping, museum entry fees. Even train travel on Via Rail has deals for kids and youth. What a great time to visit some national parks and historic sites!
Atlantic Canada is full of beautiful and educational sites for the whole family. Here are 6 great places to use your Canada Strong Pass this summer in Nova Scotia and Newfoundland:
1. Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site (Cape Breton, Nova Scotia)
You’ll need a whole day to really enjoy Louisbourg, but with the Canada Strong Pass, it’s a really good deal. You can also break up your visit into two days (which I would recommend for families). Usually, an adult day pass is $19.75, so free access is saving a good chunk of money. 40 minutes from Sydney, Louisbourg is a must-visit during a trip to Cape Breton Island. The whole town has been reconstructed; you can wander the buildings, and speak with actors in period clothing. Be sure to stay for the firing of the canon!
2. Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site (Baddeck, NS)
On your way back down to from Louisbourg, be sure to visit the Alexander Graham Bell museum. This is another great deal on the Canada Strong Pass. Ordinarily $9.00 for adults, with the pass, entry is free! There is so much to see in this museum, plan to easily spend a whole afternoon. Or, come back for two visits to take it all in slowly. There are lots of interactive displays, and activities for young visitors. For anyone interested in flight, telephones, and the growth of science, this is a must-see.
3. Grand-Pré National Historic Site (Annapolis Valley, NS)
Located just outside Wolfville, only one hour from Halifax, Grand-Pré is a beautiful stopping point. Admission, usually $9.00, is free with the Canada Strong Pass. You can also camp in one of the very cool oTENTiks on the property. The Canada Strong Pass gets you a 25% discount on camping fees.
Visit the museum that tells the history of the French Canadian people who lived in this area. Learn about their expulsion – how they were sent away – from this area by the British. And be sure to visit the viewing site a few minutes down the road for beautiful views at sunset.
Find a complete itinerary for a day in Grand-Pré here.
4. Port-Royal National Historic Site (Annapolis Royal, NS)
The little town of Annapolis Royal is worth visiting for great food, a cute farmers’ market, and little shops. But Port-Royal National Historic Site is another good reason to stop. This summer, use the Canada Strong Pass to visit one of the earliest sites of European settlement in North America. The grounds are lovely. Grab an ice cream from across the road and hang out in the iconic red chairs. Speak with the interpreters, view the original paintings on display, and see demonstrations of handcrafts and workmanship.
5. Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site (St. John’s, NL)
St. John’s, Newfoundland, has too much to see to fit in a weekend. But even if you only have a couple of days, a trip to Cape Spear is a must-do. During my last visit in June 2025, I spotted icebergs right from the land- you won’t want to miss it! It’s always free to visit the grounds, and walk the trails around the lighthouse. But the Canada Strong Pass now offers admission inside the lighthouse as well. See what it would have been like to keep the light on in the 1830s. And, try out some of the activities that would have kept families occupied at that time in history.
Check out a whole itinerary for 24 hours in St. John’s
6. Signal Hill National Historic Site (St. John’s, NL)
Finally, a trip to Newfoundland wouldn’t be complete without a hike up (or maybe just around) Signal Hill. This is where you’ll find the best view of the city. Spot boats in the Narrows – the entry to the harbour- and the colourful houses on the Battery. This is also a telecommunications landmark. Guglielmo Marconi received the first transatlantic wireless signal on Signal Hill (hence the name) in 1901. Head inside the visitor centre (for free this summer!) for the whole story.
About the Canada Strong Pass
- Admission is free at all National Parks and National Historic Sites.
- You don’t need to register or order a pass. Just show up and guides will let you in.
- Camping sites still have to be reserved, and receive a 25% discount.
- If you’ve already bought an annual pass, Parks Canada will extend that pass for three more months.
- Planning to travel? Check out great rates on Canada’s train, VIA Rail, when traveling with children and youth.
- Before you go, check out the information at parks.canada.ca for admission hours and restrictions.
