Kayakers paddle through Neddy Harbour in Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland and Labrador, on Monday, August 15, 2016. (The Canadian Press)
The federal government says its Canada Strong Pass, launched this summer, gave a major lift to tourism and rail travel across the country. Officials introduced the pass on June 20 and kept it in effect until Sept. 2. It offered free access and deep discounts that encouraged more families and young people to explore Canada.
Perks for youth and families
The pass gave children aged 17 and under free entry to national museums. It also cut admission prices in half for visitors aged 18 to 24. Parks Canada sites were included in the program, where admission came at no cost to young travellers and their families.
VIA Rail also joined the effort. The company offered free train rides for children and teens when they travelled with an adult. Youth aged 18 to 24 received discounted fares, making rail travel more affordable.
Numbers show strong results
The Department of Canadian Heritage shared early data this week. Officials reported a 10 per cent rise in visits to national parks and sites during the pass period. National museums also saw an average 15 per cent increase in attendance through midsummer compared with last year.
VIA Rail confirmed that the program proved popular. More than 50,000 bookings came through the Canada Strong Pass. Families used the free and reduced fares to explore different regions without high costs.
Encouraging exploration
The government says the results highlight how affordable travel options can encourage Canadians, especially young people, to experience their history, culture and natural spaces. By lowering barriers, the pass opened doors for many families who may not have planned trips otherwise.
The Canada Strong Pass ended on Sept. 2, but officials are studying the impact of the program. The strong uptake suggests that similar initiatives could return in future summers to support tourism and give Canadians easier access to cultural experiences.
