Things To Do
in Whistler
Whistler is a year-round mountain resort town in British Columbia, Canada, famed for its world-class skiing on Whistler and Blackcomb mountains and its vibrant village atmosphere. Nestled in the Coast Mountains just north of Vancouver, it offers a seamless blend of adrenaline-fueled adventures and refined dining. The pedestrian-friendly core buzzes with après-ski, shops, and cultural experiences, all centered around the resort lifestyle.
Beyond the slopes, Whistler rewards outdoor enthusiasts with hiking, biking, golf, and countless scenic viewpoints throughout the seasons.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Whistler and check into your accommodation, allowing yourself to freshen up and prepare for an exciting adventure ahead. Spend your morning strolling through the charming Whistler Village, where you can enjoy the scenic views and vibrant atmosphere. Stop by a local café for a delightful breakfast, fueling up for a day of exploration.
After breakfast, visit the picturesque Whistler and Blackcomb mountain slopes for a scenic gondola ride. Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, taking in the fresh alpine air. Spend your afternoon exploring the hiking trails that lead you through stunning landscapes.
As the sun sets, return to Whistler Village and indulge in dinner at one of the many diverse restaurants offering local cuisine. Enjoy the lively ambiance as you explore shops and art galleries, soaking in the culture of the area. Conclude your evening with a leisurely stroll, perhaps stopping for a drink at a cozy pub.
Start your day with energy and excitement by joining a ziplining tour through the stunning treetops of Whistler. Feel the rush as you soar through the air, taking in spectacular views of the surrounding wilderness. Grab a quick breakfast at a nearby café before your adventure begins.
After ziplining, switch gears and head to the mountain biking trails that cater to all skill levels. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, the immaculate trails provide thrilling experiences amidst breathtaking scenery. Pack a picnic to enjoy on the mountain after an exhilarating ride.
As the afternoon winds down, treat yourself to a well-deserved meal at one of Whistler’s popular eateries. Try the fresh local seafood or gourmet burgers, making sure to sample some craft beer. After dinner, explore Whistler's nightlife, where you can relax at a bar or dance the night away.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $150-250 |
| 🚗Taxi starting fare | $4-5 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class skiing and snowboarding with scenic alpine views
- Vibrant village atmosphere and excellent dining options
- Can be crowded and expensive during peak seasons
- Weather can be highly variable and snow conditions may affect accessibility
Places to Visit in Whistler
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic 2010 Olympic Rings and surrounding architecture with mountain silhouettes—great for sunset shots and night photography.
High-alpine vantage points between Whistler and Blackcomb; capture sweeping panoramas and dramatic clouds with a sense of height.
Glassy water, forested shoreline, and mountain reflections ideal for tranquil landscape photography.
Impressive multi-tier waterfall along the Sea-to-Sky corridor with vantage points for dramatic long-exposure images.
Glacial-fed turquoise lakes and fast-moving rivers offering vibrant color contrasts and wildlife photography opportunities.
Reflective water, trees in seasonal foliage, and crossing bridges provide picturesque close-ups and golden-hour frames.
Food in Whistler
Whistler Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A BC specialty featuring fresh Atlantic or sockeye salmon cooked on cedar to infuse a smoky, buttery flavor; commonly found in many lodge and fine-dining menus.
Must-Try!
Wild game options that reflect the mountain landscape; look for elk burgers, venison steaks, or game ragout at local eateries.
Seasonal, succulent shrimp often served grilled, with garlic butter or in pasta—best enjoyed at restaurants focusing on West Coast seafood.
A Canadian staple elevated with local cheeses and toppings (truffle oil, smoked meat, or wild mushrooms) offered at casual eateries and food stalls.
Seasonal risotto featuring local mushrooms and herbs, highlighting the BC terroir.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market in the summer and early fall featuring local produce, baked goods, and prepared foods; great for sampling regional products.
Seasonal or rotating street food options around the village offering quick bites, warm beverages, and snacks between activities.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Whistler sits on the traditional territories of the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations; show respect for cultural heritage sites and follow posted guidelines.
Yield to uphill hikers and riders on shared trails; stay on marked paths and avoid startling wildlife; keep noise limited in residential and nature areas.
Queue politely, use indoor voices in quiet areas, and dress appropriately for dining venues; tipping is customary as above.
Safety
Tipping in Whistler
Ensure a smooth experience
In Canada, tipping 15-20% pre-tax in restaurants is standard; round up or add 5-10% for exceptional service. Tip bar staff and tour guides similarly; not typically expected for self-serve or buffet-style meals.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Carry some local currency for small vendors or markets; many places include a service charge for large groups.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect deep powder, cold temps, and clear bluebird skies; plan for avalanche awareness on some backcountry routes and carry proper layering and eye protection.
Meltwater streams, still-snowy ridgelines, and blooming wildflowers; some trails may be muddy or rocky as slopes thaw.
Warm days, cool nights, and abundant outdoor activities; afternoons can bring mountain thunderstorms—carry a light rain shell.
Brisk air, vivid fall colors, and fewer crowds; early mornings can be chilly, but daytime hikes are comfortable with layered clothing.
Whistler at Night
Hiking in Whistler
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging day hike to a vivid turquoise lake in Garibaldi Provincial Park; rewarding alpine scenery and distant glacier views.
Easy-to-moderate hike along a well-maintained trail to an impressive waterfall with photo-worthy overlooks.
Steep and strenuous hike to a high-altitude lake; popular with experienced hikers for its dramatic surroundings.
Moderate hike through evergreen forest to a tranquil lake with reflective water and wildlife opportunities.
Accessible lakefront trail perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride with mountain views and forest scenery.
Airports
How to reach Whistler by plane.
Primary international gateway for Whistler; about a 2- to 2.5-hour drive via Sea-to-Sky Highway depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large influx of seasonal staff supports ski operations, hospitality, and tourism year-round.
Whistler attracts a broad mix of families and couples seeking outdoor adventures and spa/rest relaxation.
Visitors from around the world contribute to a diverse cultural scene and multilingual services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Downhill and Nordic skiing are paramount in winter; both Whistler and Blackcomb offer extensive runs and terrain parks.
A premier summer activity with lift-assisted trails and varied terrain for all levels.
Scenic courses with mountain backdrops and well-designed greens.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Whistler.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Whistler restaurants typically offer a variety of vegetarian dishes; look for seasonal vegetable plates, mushroom risottos, and pasta alternatives. When dining out, ask about cheese rennet and stock ingredients for vegan requests.