A significant initiative aimed at bolstering Ontario tourism and making summer travel more accessible has seen the historic sites of Fort Henry and Upper Canada Village join the Canada Strong Pass program. This pivotal move, which commenced on July 25, 2025, is set to alleviate financial pressures on families while simultaneously encouraging greater visitation to these iconic Canadian heritage attractions, fostering a deeper connection with the nation’s rich past.
The Canada Strong Pass program, a robust federally funded initiative, is strategically designed to invigorate Canadian tourism by dismantling financial barriers to national parks, historical landmarks, and various cultural sites for younger generations. Its comprehensive benefits extend from free admission to national parks and discounted camping fees to reduced tickets for historical locations and subsidized VIA Rail travel, all working cohesively to engage youth and young adults in exploring Canada’s diverse natural and cultural tapestry through accessible travel.
Specifically, Fort Henry in Kingston and Upper Canada Village in Morrisburg are now offering free admission for children and youth up to 17 years old, alongside half-price admission for young adults aged 18 to 24, with these benefits valid until September 2, 2025. This targeted approach ensures that these historically rich destinations become more readily available to local families and young visitors, inviting them to delve into the profound history and vibrant culture these sites embody.
The integration of Fort Henry and Upper Canada Village into the Canada Strong Pass program has garnered widespread acclaim from local communities, tourism operators, and the public alike. Both sites possess immense historical significance within the region, positioning them as ideal candidates for advancing cultural education and expanding Ontario tourism. This initiative serves as a timely and crucial stimulant for the local tourism economy, particularly with a contemporary emphasis on sustainable and community-driven tourism, rendering these destinations more attainable for families, young adults, and students who might otherwise face economic constraints.
Fort Henry, a formidable War of 1812-era fortress nestled in Kingston, stands as an enduring symbol of Canadian heritage, having historically safeguarded Kingston Harbour. Today, it thrives as a premier tourist destination, providing interactive educational experiences that immerse visitors in Canada’s military past. Kathryn Lowe, the manager of Fort Henry, affirmed that the Canada Strong Pass arrives at an opportune moment, enabling families to engage with the fort’s compelling historical exhibits and programming in an economical manner, enhancing its role in promoting accessible travel.
Upper Canada Village, located in Morrisburg, represents another cornerstone Canadian heritage site participating in the Canada Strong Pass program. This living history museum intricately recreates life in the 1860s, featuring over 40 historical buildings, working mills, and various trades, offering visitors a vivid glimpse into early Canadian life. Tracey Ogilby, the manager of Upper Canada Village, highlighted the site’s unique allure, especially during the summer, and expressed enthusiasm for welcoming more visitors, particularly local families, through the program’s provision of accessible travel options.
The inclusion of these sites underscores the vital importance of collaborative efforts among government agencies, local businesses, and communities in cultivating sustainable Ontario tourism. Amanda Liebeck, the communications officer for the St. Lawrence Parks Commission (SLPC), which oversees both attractions, conveyed optimism regarding the program’s potential. While the exact increase in visitor numbers remains to be seen, staff at both Fort Henry and Upper Canada Village are thoroughly prepared for an anticipated influx of guests in the upcoming months.
This program’s emphasis on inclusivity and accessible travel resonates with a growing recognition for equitable access to cultural resources, particularly in an era where economic challenges can restrict participation in travel and tourism. By dismantling financial obstacles, the Canada Strong Pass program creates unparalleled opportunities for individuals and families from all socioeconomic backgrounds to explore Canada’s historical landmarks, thereby significantly contributing to the local economy and fostering greater Ontario tourism.
The Canada Strong Pass program is indeed a welcome advancement for Ontario tourism, broadening access to cultural and historical attractions for a wider demographic. With Fort Henry and Upper Canada Village at the forefront, the program’s success is poised to inspire its expansion to other historical sites nationwide, guaranteeing that Canadians from all walks of life can readily explore the nation’s cultural treasures and deepen their appreciation for Canadian heritage.
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