• Revised Free Entry Schedule: A new calendar of “patriotic fee-free days” for U.S. residents replaces previous dates like MLK Day and Juneteenth, adding dates such as Flag Day and Constitution Day.
• Increased Fees for International Visitors: Non-U.S. residents now face a $100 surcharge at 11 major parks and a price hike to $250 for the annual “America the Beautiful” pass.
• Digital Pass Integration: The introduction of digital passes allows for mobile storage and linking to physical cards, reducing issues with lost passes for groups like seniors and military members.
• 250th Anniversary Commemoration: The National Park Service will host events throughout the year to celebrate the semiquincentennial of the United States at historic sites nationwide.

In 2026, visitors to America’s national parks will encounter significant changes as the country marks its 250th anniversary. The National Park Service plans to host numerous commemorative events at historic sites ranging from Independence Hall to Revolutionary War battlefields. Beyond the celebrations, operational policies regarding entry fees and pass systems are shifting substantially.

One major change involves the schedule of free entry days. While the number of fee-free days has increased, eligibility is now restricted to U.S. residents only. The new calendar of “patriotic fee-free days” includes dates such as President’s Day, Flag Day (which coincides with President Donald Trump’s birthday), and Independence Day weekend. This schedule replaces previously established free days like Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth.

A second significant policy shift affects international visitors. Non-U.S. residents will face higher costs to enter the country’s most popular natural attractions. As of January 1, foreign tourists without an annual pass must pay a $100 per person surcharge—in addition to standard entry fees—at 11 high-traffic parks, including Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, and Yosemite. Furthermore, the cost of the “America the Beautiful” annual pass for non-residents has risen to $250, while the price remains $80 for U.S. residents. Officials state these measures are intended to ensure U.S. taxpayers retain affordable access while international visitors contribute more to maintenance.

Finally, the pass system itself is being modernized. New digital passes are being introduced for various groups, including seniors, military personnel, and volunteers. These passes can now be stored on mobile devices and linked to physical cards, preventing the need to repurchase lost passes. The new passes also feature updated artwork with patriotic themes, including imagery of George Washington and Donald Trump.