Things To Do
in Whistler
Whistler, Canada is a famous resort town known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities on the slopes of Whistler Blackcomb. The picturesque village is surrounded by stunning mountains and lush forests, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts year-round. In addition to winter sports, Whistler offers a wide range of activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and golfing in the summer months.
The town also boasts a vibrant dining and nightlife scene, as well as luxury spas and boutique shops for visitors to enjoy.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $150 - $400
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at one of the local cafes. Then take a scenic hike on the valley trails to immerse yourself in nature.
After your hike, enjoy lunch at the base of the mountain. Spend the afternoon mountain biking on the extensive trails that Whistler is known for.
Wind down with a relaxing dinner at a popular local restaurant. Consider strolling through the village to enjoy the vibrant nightlife.
Hit the slopes first thing in the morning after a filling breakfast. Experience the thrilling runs of Whistler Blackcomb as the mountain opens up.
Break for lunch at a slope-side lodge to recharge. Spend the afternoon enjoying more skiing or snowboarding on the fresh powder.
Unwind with a soak in a hot tub at your accommodation. Have dinner at a cozy restaurant and explore the village’s shops.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-renowned ski resort with a variety of slopes for all skill levels.
- Stunning natural scenery with majestic mountains and lush forests.
- Wide range of outdoor activities year-round including mountain biking, hiking, and golfing.
- Vibrant village atmosphere with shops, restaurants, and nightlife.
- High-quality accommodations and amenities catering to tourists.
- Cost of living and travel can be quite high, especially during peak season.
- Heavy tourist traffic can lead to crowded slopes and long wait times at lifts.
- Limited public transportation options may make it challenging to get around without a car.
- The weather can be unpredictable, with variations impacting outdoor activities.
- Seasonal nature of tourism can lead to a quieter atmosphere in off-peak months.
Best Activities in Whistler
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning trails around Whistler, such as the Garibaldi Lake Trail and the Whistler Trail, which offer breathtaking views of mountains, lakes, and forests.
Whistler is known for its world-class mountain biking trails. The Whistler Mountain Bike Park offers a variety of terrains for riders of all skill levels.
Experience the thrill of soaring through the treetops on a zip line tour. Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape from a unique perspective.
Take to the water on Alta Lake or the nearby rivers for kayaking and paddleboarding. It's a great way to enjoy the scenic beauty and tranquility of the area.
In the winter months, Whistler becomes a premier ski destination, offering a wide range of slopes for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.
Play a round of golf at one of Whistler's beautiful courses, such as the Whistler Golf Club or the Nicklaus North Golf Course, both set against stunning mountain backdrops.
Go on a wildlife tour to spot local animals such as bears, deer, and eagles in their natural habitats.
Challenge yourself with outdoor rock climbing in the nearby Callaghan Valley or join guided climbing tours suitable for all skill levels.
Tours
Uncover the best of Whistler with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Whistler
Visit one of these nice places.
Offering stunning panoramic views of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, the Peak 2 Peak Gondola is the world's highest and longest lift. It's an excellent spot for breathtaking photos, especially during sunset.
At the top of Whistler Mountain, you'll find a vantage point that overlooks the entire valley, forests, and stunning snow-capped peaks. The views are spectacular year-round.
The summit of Blackcomb Mountain provides incredible views of the alpine scenery and the surrounding landscapes. Visitors can capture the beauty of the glaciers and valleys.
A serene location just a short distance from the village, Lost Lake Park offers picturesque views surrounded by nature, perfect for capturing the autumn hues or summer reflections.
Just outside Whistler, Nairn Falls boasts stunning waterfalls and lush greenery. This spot is fantastic for photography, especially for those who appreciate natural landscapes.
Located on the shores of Alta Lake, Rainbow Park provides magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and is particularly beautiful during the golden hour at sunset.
The network of hiking trails in the alpine regions provides various lookout points with breathtaking views. Trails like the High Note Trail are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike.
The vibrant village itself offers plenty of photo opportunities with its stunning architecture, artwork, and the backdrop of mountains, especially during events or festivals.
An artistic area near Whistler, Function Junction features vibrant street art and offers unique opportunities to capture urban and natural beauty combined.
Located slightly south of Whistler, Brandywine Falls is a must-see for its majestic waterfall and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forest. A fantastic spot for dramatic landscape photography.
Food in Whistler
Whistler Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Canadian classic, featuring crispy fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in rich gravy, can be savored at Zogs Dogs or Dusty's Bar & BBQ.
Must-Try!
Whistler's proximity to the Pacific Ocean means fresh, wild-caught salmon is a must-try. Head to Araxi Restaurant + Oyster Bar for an exceptional culinary experience.
For a taste of local game, indulge in a juicy bison burger at Splitz Grill, known for using fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Whistler better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Open during the summer, this market offers a variety of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat treats showcasing the region's flavors.
During special events and festivals, the Olympic Plaza turns into a hub for diverse street food vendors offering global culinary delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Whistler is known for its stunning natural beauty. When hiking, biking, or enjoying outdoor activities, it’s important to follow Leave No Trace principles. Respect wildlife, stay on marked trails, and dispose of waste properly to preserve the environment.
Whistler is situated on the traditional territories of the Squamish and Lil'wat Nations. Acknowledge and respect Indigenous cultures by learning about their history and traditions. Participate in cultural events and support local Indigenous businesses when possible.
When interacting with locals and fellow visitors, practice courtesy. This includes basic manners like saying 'please' and 'thank you,' waiting your turn in queues, and being considerate in public spaces, especially in crowded areas such as ski lifts and restaurants.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Whistler with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Whistler
Ensure a smooth experience
In Whistler, Canada, tipping is common and generally expected in the service industry. It is customary to tip around 15-20% at restaurants, depending on the level of service. For other services such as ski instructors, guides, and massage therapists, a similar tipping range is appreciated. Tipping taxi drivers, hotel staff, and baristas is also standard, with amounts usually rounding up to the nearest dollar or a percentage of the total cost.
Payment practices in Whistler are convenient and diverse. Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. Cash is also accepted, but it's advisable to carry some for small purchases or tips. There are ATMs available throughout the resort for cash withdrawals. Many places also offer mobile payment options such as Apple Pay and Google Pay for added convenience.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Whistler.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Winter in Whistler runs from December to March, making it a prime time for skiing and snowboarding. Expect fresh snow, vibrant après-ski scenes, and winter festivals. Temperatures are usually cold, ranging from -5°C to -15°C (23°F to 5°F), so visitors should be prepared for the winter chill.
Spring occurs from April to June, transitioning from snow to blooming flowers. It is a quieter time, with skiing typically diminishing in April and outdoor activities like mountain biking and hiking becoming popular. Expect milder temperatures ranging from 0°C to 15°C (32°F to 59°F) and melting snow.
Summer spans from June to August and is an excellent time for outdoor adventures like mountain biking, hiking, and zip-lining. The weather is usually warm and sunny, with temperatures reaching 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Festivals and events are common during this season, making it lively and vibrant.
Fall, from September to November, ushers in a picturesque change of colors with foliage and cooler temperatures. It's great for hiking and enjoying the scenic views without the summer crowds. Expect temperatures between 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F), along with opportunities for wine tours and early seasonal events.
Whistler at Night
Hiking in Whistler
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning alpine lake surrounded by glaciers, offering various hiking trails with breathtaking views and challenging terrain.
A prominent volcanic peak with a challenging hike that rewards adventurers with panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Features a series of beautiful turquoise lakes accessible via trails, providing picturesque scenery and great hiking opportunities.
Hike to the summit of Whistler Mountain for incredible views of the surrounding coastal mountains and valleys.
Offers various trails suitable for hiking and mountain biking, with scenic views and lush forests.
A network of trails through stunning wildflower meadows and alpine lakes, perfect for both casual and experienced hikers.
A family-friendly hiking destination with easy trails around the lake and opportunities for swimming and picnics.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Whistler through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Whistler by plane.
Located approximately 131 km from Whistler, YVR is the primary international airport serving the Greater Vancouver area.
About 179 km from Whistler, YXX serves the Abbotsford area and offers limited international flights.
Located around 225 km from Whistler, SEA is a major international hub that serves the Seattle metropolitan area.
Approximately 232 km from Whistler, YLW serves the city of Kelowna and the Okanagan Valley region.
Located about 324 km from Whistler, YYJ serves the Vancouver Island region with both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents are Canadian citizens, with a significant number being long-term residents or locals.
Whistler attracts a large number of international tourists, particularly from the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom.
A considerable demographic of seasonal workers, primarily in the hospitality and service industries, often hailing from different parts of Canada and abroad.
Indigenous peoples, primarily from the Squamish and Lil'wat Nations, are part of the community and contribute to the cultural heritage of the area.
A small community of expatriates from various countries who have settled in Whistler, often drawn by the lifestyle and job opportunities.
The Soul of Whistler
Discover the essence of Whistler through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Whistler is renowned for its world-class ski slopes and facilities, attracting ski enthusiasts from around the globe during the winter season.
With extensive snowboarding terrain and parks, Whistler is a popular destination for snowboarders of all skill levels.
During the summer months, Whistler transforms into a mountain biking haven, featuring a variety of trails and bike parks.
Whistler offers numerous hiking trails that showcase the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding mountains and forests.
Whistler boasts several golf courses that provide beautiful scenery and challenging play during the warmer months.
The region's extensive network of trails makes it a popular spot for trail running, attracting both casual joggers and serious athletes.
Whistler offers various climbing routes for enthusiasts, both in the mountains and at indoor climbing gyms.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Whistler.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Whistler offer vegetarian and vegan menus, with options ranging from plant-based bowls to creative meat substitutes.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy a worry-free dining experience, as numerous restaurants and cafes provide gluten-free choices on their menus.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Whistler with these cultural adventures.
