VIA Rail Canada: Kids Ride Free in Summer 2026 (Full Details & How to Book)

Kids Ride Free This Summer

Seriously Great News: Kids are Riding VIA Rail for FREE this Summer!

I just had to share this because, honestly, trying to plan a family vacation these days usually involves looking at flight prices and then immediately closing your laptop in a minor panic.

But if you’ve been eyeing a cross-country trip, 2026 is actually looking out for us!

VIA Rail is doing that Canada Strong Pass thing again, and the deal for families is actually legit: kids and teens (17 and under) ride for free. No, for real—$0.

The Lowdown & How to Book

Basically, if you’re an adult (18+) and you’re booking a seat in Economy, you can bring a kid along for free.

• When can you go? Any time between June 19 and September 7 — the prime summer window.
• When to book? Do it now. Like, yesterday. People are already jumping on this.

How to snag it:

• Click the button below
• Enter the discount code CANADAFAM
• The kid’s ticket drops to $0 before checkout

Get Your Tickets

Extra Perks & Winnipeg Reality Check

• 18–24 discount: Get 25% off with code CANADA1824
• More than just trains: Kids 17 and under also get free access to National Parks and select museums, including the Canadian Museum for Human Rights

We all know how fast “Escape” fares disappear on The Canadian. If you’re planning to head toward the mountains or out to the Maritimes, don’t wait. Once those seats are gone, the code won’t do much for you.

Honestly, even a short train trip for a weekend getaway is a better vibe than long highway drives—you actually get to enjoy the scenery.