(Image generated using AI)

Families and young people will have more opportunities to explore Alberta’s rich history and culture this summer as the provincial government introduces free and discounted admission at museums and historic sites through the Canada Strong Pass initiative.

From June 19 to Sept. 7, 2026, children and teenagers aged 17 and under can enjoy free general admission to participating provincial museums and historic sites, while young adults between the ages of 18 and 24 will receive 50 per cent off admission. The discounts are applied automatically, with no physical or digital pass required.

The initiative aims to make Alberta’s cultural attractions more accessible while encouraging residents and visitors alike to discover the province’s diverse stories and heritage. There is no limit on the number of visits guests can make during the promotion, allowing families to return throughout the summer.

Minister of Tourism and Sport Andrew Boitchenko said the program helps bring Alberta’s history to life for the next generation.

“Alberta’s museums and historic sites bring history to life. Through the Canada Strong Pass, our government is making it easier than ever for families and young people to explore Alberta’s heritage and celebrate exactly what makes our province so special,” Boitchenko said.

Participating locations span the province, from Historic Dunvegan in northern Alberta to the Frank Slide Interpretive Centre in the south, offering everything from interactive exhibits to seasonal events and educational programming.

Among the participating attractions are the Royal Alberta Museum in Edmonton, the Royal Tyrrell Museum in Drumheller, the Reynolds Museum in Wetaskiwin, the Remington Carriage Museum in Cardston, the Oil Sands Discovery Centre in Fort McMurray and the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village in Lamont County.

Several well-known historic sites are also included, such as Lougheed House in Calgary, Rutherford House in Edmonton, Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump near Fort Macleod, Victoria Settlement in Smoky Lake County and the Turner Valley Gas Plant in Diamond Valley.

Meaghan Patterson, executive director of the Royal Alberta Museum, welcomed the initiative, saying it would provide more opportunities for families and young people to experience Alberta’s stories through the museum’s exhibits and programming.

In addition to the participating museums and historic sites, several provincial attractions remain free to visit year-round, including the Provincial Archives of Alberta, Okotoks Erratic, Leitch Collieries, Brooks Aqueduct and Father Lacombe Chapel.

The Canada Strong Pass also extends to several federally managed destinations in Alberta, including Jasper National Park, Banff National Park, Elk Island National Park, Waterton Lakes National Park and selected national historic sites.

The summer promotion is intended to encourage exploration, learning and greater appreciation of Alberta’s history by making cultural experiences more affordable for residents and visitors during the busy travel season.

Information for this article was sourced from the Government of Alberta website.