Join Parks Canada on Canada Day with free admission at national historic sites, national parks and national marine conservation areas!
June 26, 2024 Ottawa, Ontario Parks Canada
Parks Canada administers one of the finest and most extensive systems of natural and cultural heritage places in the world. These treasured places, including national historic sites, national parks and national marine conservation areas, provide visitors the opportunity to connect with history and discover nature.
On July 1, the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, invites visitors to connect with some of the most iconic places in Canada with free admission to all national historic sites, national parks, and national marine conservation areas. Lockage along the Trent-Severn Waterway National Historic Site and the Rideau Canal National Historic Site, as well as at Québec’s historic canals will also be free for the day.
Canada Day provides an opportunity to reflect on the diverse perspectives of our shared culture and history. This includes learning more about the historic and contemporary contributions of Indigenous peoples, their histories and cultures, as well as the special relationships Indigenous peoples have with ancestral lands and waters. Parks Canada administered places tell us the stories of who we are and allow visitors to experience the country’s rich and diverse natural and cultural heritage. These special places are the perfect setting for the many stories yet to be made this summer.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, fun for the whole family, a chance to explore nature and history, or a break from everyday life, Parks Canada administered places offer countless unique experiences to suit every visitor’s needs. From taking a wagon tour at Bar U Ranch National Historic Site to learning about Mik'maw knowledge at Wejisqalia'ti'k Encampment at Kejimkujik National Park and Historic Site or enjoying period music, captivating musket demonstrations and cannon firings at Fort George National Historic Site, there is an amazing array of places and stories to discover!
Parks Canada is committed to providing all visitors with high quality and meaningful experiences across the country. To make the most of their Parks Canada experience, visitors are encouraged to plan their trip in advance. The Parks Canada App provides accessibility support and on-the-go access to essential information for planning, travelling, and visiting Parks Canada administered places. The app also provides exclusive access to on-site experiences, such as interactive self-guided mobile tours that allow you to explore at your own pace… right there at your fingertips! Visitors can also visit the Parks Canada website, sign up for Parks Canada’s e-newsletter, listen to Parks Canada’s podcast ReCollections, and follow Parks Canada on social media for inspiration to help plan the perfect visit.
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“On July 1, admission will be free at all Parks Canada administrated places across the country. I hope you will spend this day with family and friends creating your own stories against the backdrop of inspiring national historic sites or breathtaking national parks and national marine conservation areas. Happy Canada Day!”
The Honourable Steven Guilbeault,
Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada
Parks Canada protects a vast network of cultural and natural heritage places that includes 171 national historic sites, 47 national parks, five national marine conservation areas and one national urban park.
National historic sites, national parks and national marine conservation areas are an important part of local economies, helping to generate billions of dollars annually and employing tens of thousands of people. Parks Canada works with partners and nearby communities to help grow local tourism and create jobs.
Countless Indigenous tourism experiences, kid-approved family activities, and events will be happening throughout the summer at Parks Canada administered places across the country.
The Parks Canada Discovery Pass provides unlimited admission for a full year to over 80 destinations across the country. Visitors can purchase their Parks Canada Discovery Passes online or at Parks Canada administered places and partner retailer locations across the country. Please visit Passes, permits and fees for more information.
Free or discounted admission programs exist for youth 17 years old and under, senior citizens (visitors aged 65 years and older), Canadian Armed Forces members, Veterans of the CAF, and their immediate families, and newcomers to Canada, who are within their first five years as permanent residents or are within their first year of Canadian citizenship. Parks Canada also offers free entry and access to programs for support persons who are traveling with a visitor who has a disability and depends on the support person to travel and experience a park or site.
Kaitlin Power
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change
819-230-1557
Kaitlin.power@ec.gc.ca
