Although Canada is so close, it couldn’t be more different. Canada begs to be explored, and you and your family have the tools to do it. A new passport card is available, and they make traveling with your family easier than ever before. If you and your family are looking for a fun, unique way to take a vacation, you only need to look to our northern neighbor.

The history of Canada starts with the arrival of the Paleo-Indians almost 27,000 years ago. Ever since then, Canada has become shaped and adapted by its native Aboriginal peoples, and that cultural influence is still felt today all over Canada. Traditional music, art, and Aboriginal languages are still seen and heard in even Canada’s most urban areas, showing their widespread impact and homage to their country’s first inhabitants. The Aborigines can be credited with the invention of the canoe, maple syrup, tobacco, lacrosse, and many other things that have become fully integrated into Canadian, as well as American, society.

Canada is only a road trip away; no need to purchase airplane tickets or rent a car, making it a great place for a family vacation. The passport card, a new variation of the original passport book, allows a family to travel for much cheaper than usual. The passport card, available for $30, is a fourth of the price of a passport book, and allows a family to travel by land or sea for less money. Saving this money helps reduce the cost of vacation, making a relaxing get away that much more accessible.

Arctic safaris are one of Canada’s most famous attractions. Bundle up and head out into Arctic Somerset Island in Nunavut. Nothing promises to stir up your inner adventurer like discovering Canada as the Aborigines saw it. Find prehistoric fossils, see seals sunbathing, hear the belugas singing, and see an aurora shining over mountains of snow in the clear air. Everything is there to be discovered, and you and your family are the discoverers. You can stay up late in your wilderness-worthy tent without even noticing; the sun is up until 2 am!

If you are looking for a great night out with your friends, or even if you want to make some new Canadian ones, head out to Montreal. This friendly, chic party town is known for its world famous bars, clubs, and lounges. Eat at a fashionable restaurant and head out dancing afterwards. Attend the Cirque de Soleil and see for yourself the cultural scene that makes Canada so unique.

No trip to Canada is complete without a trip to Niagara Falls. Put on your poncho and head out on the Maid of the Mist to float under the falls, or, if you prefer to stay dry, hop aboard a helicopter and see what a bird’s eye view of the falls would look like. A world famous, family friendly landmark, Niagara Falls is a must-have for any visitor’s itinerary.

Canada is the perfect place if you’re looking for a different setting without traveling too far. And with your USA Passport card, getting there is even easier. There is no need to step foot on a plane. Canada has something for everyone, whether you prefer adventure over spa treatments or great food over great views. Either way, all you need is a sweater and your pass port, and Canada is yours for the discovering.