Curator’s statement
Whistler is an unforgettable destination that captivates visitors from the very first trip. Its incredible atmosphere, diverse cultural blend and welcoming people from around the world make it a place worth returning to year after year. Offering an extensive range of activities for both skiers and non-skiers, it seamlessly caters to every type of traveler. Whether it’s a lively getaway filled with après-ski parties and vibrant nightlife, a relaxed outdoor retreat with scenic skiing and cozy restaurants or an action-packed family vacation featuring bobsledding, ski school and spacious rental homes, Whistler delivers. It also serves as a luxurious escape for special occasions, with breathtaking properties like the Four Seasons and Fairmont, upscale shopping, world-class dining and a charming, picturesque village perfect for strolling.
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Things to do in Whistler
Skiing: Whistler is a premier skiing destination, offering an expansive 8,000+ acres of diverse terrain spread across the iconic Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. With runs suitable for all skill levels, from gentle beginner slopes to challenging expert trails, it’s an ideal spot for skiers and snowboarders. Beyond the slopes, the resort features stunning mountain views, state-of-the-art lifts and a vibrant après-ski culture. Whether you’re new to the sport or an experienced skier seeking adventure, Whistler provides an unforgettable winter experience with its powdery peaks and dynamic alpine atmosphere.
Explore Whistler Village: At the base of Whistler Mountain, the Mountainside area offers a vibrant mix of shopping, dining and accommodation options. Stroll through the pedestrian-friendly village and explore boutique shops, rental stores and local art galleries. After a day on the slopes, enjoy a wide range of dining options, from casual après-ski spots to upscale restaurants with stunning mountain views. This lively area also features a variety of hotels and lodges, offering convenient access to the ski lifts and a cozy retreat after a day of adventure. Whether you're looking to shop, dine or relax, the base of Whistler Mountain is the perfect place to experience the heart of Whistler.
Blackcomb Base: At the base of Blackcomb Mountain, Blackcomb Base offers a charming mix of shopping, dining and lodging options. This lively area features a range of boutiques, rental shops and cozy cafes, perfect for browsing or grabbing a quick bite. For dining, enjoy a variety of options, from casual eateries to more refined restaurants with incredible views of the mountain. The surrounding hotels and lodges provide convenient access to the Blackcomb lifts, making it easy to hit the slopes or unwind after a day of skiing. With its relaxed vibe and mountain-town charm, Blackcomb Base is the perfect spot to explore, eat and stay in Whistler.
Thrilling bobsledding experience at Whistler Sliding Centre: Whistler offers an exhilarating bobsledding experience at the Whistler Sliding Centre, where visitors can race down an Olympic-grade track once used for the 2010 Winter Olympics. Thrill-seekers can take part in a bobsleigh ride with a trained professional pilot, reaching speeds of up to 125 km/h (77 mph). The ride offers an adrenaline-pumping experience as you twist and turn through the ice track, taking in the excitement of this high-speed sport. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned adventurer, bobsledding in Whistler provides a unique and unforgettable winter activity that’s sure to get your heart racing.
Snowshoeing and winter hiking: Snowshoeing and winter hiking in Whistler offers a peaceful yet adventurous way to explore the stunning winter landscapes. With miles of scenic trails winding through snow-covered forests and alpine meadows, snowshoeing provides a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the mountains at a slower pace. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, there are trails for all levels, with options to venture out on your own or join a guided tour. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the winter wilderness, surrounded by breathtaking views of Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains.
Places to eat & drink in Whistler
Earls: Earls in Whistler, Canada, is a stylish and contemporary restaurant known for its diverse menu, lively atmosphere and stunning mountain views. Located in the heart of Whistler Village, it offers a mix of global and West Coast-inspired cuisine, including fresh seafood, gourmet burgers and flavorful bowls. The restaurant features a modern yet cozy interior, a welcoming bar area and a scenic patio perfect for après-ski drinks or summer dining. With its relaxed yet upscale vibe, Earls is a go-to spot for both locals and visitors looking for a great meal and a vibrant dining experience in Whistler.
Il Caminetto: Il Caminetto is an elegant Italian restaurant that blends refined cuisine with a warm and inviting atmosphere. Nestled along Whistler’s bustling dining scene, it offers a sophisticated dining experience with a menu inspired by traditional Italian flavors and locally sourced ingredients. A standout dish is the Lobster + Saffron Linguine, which is rich, flavorful and a must-try for seafood lovers. The restaurant also offers a wide range of gluten-free options, making it a great choice for those with dietary preferences. With its stylish yet cozy interior, extensive wine selection and exceptional service, Il Caminetto is perfect for a romantic dinner or a special gathering in Whistler.
Rim Rock Cafe: Rim Rock Café is a renowned fine-dining restaurant celebrated for its exceptional seafood and game meats. Tucked away in a cozy, chalet-style setting in Creekside, it offers a warm and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a romantic evening or a special occasion. The menu features expertly prepared dishes like fresh oysters, wild salmon, elk and their signature rack of lamb, all crafted with high-quality ingredients and bold flavors. Rim Rock Café also boasts an impressive wine list, carefully curated to complement its exquisite cuisine. With its outstanding service and reputation as one of Whistler’s top dining destinations, this hidden gem is a must-visit for food lovers.
Araxi: Araxi in Whistler, Canada, is an upscale dining destination known for its farm-to-table cuisine, fresh seafood and exceptional oyster selection. Situated in Whistler’s lively village center, this award-winning restaurant offers a refined yet welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a special night out. Araxi’s raw bar features a diverse selection of oysters, sourced from both the East and West coasts, served fresh with house-made accompaniments. Beyond oysters, the menu highlights expertly crafted dishes like locally sourced beef, sustainable seafood and handcrafted pasta. With an extensive wine list, top-tier service and a chic alpine setting, Araxi delivers a world-class dining experience in Whistler.
Blacks Pub: Black’s Pub is a lively and casual spot known for its stunning mountain views, hearty comfort food and great selection of drinks. Conveniently located at the base of Whistler Mountain, it’s a prime après-ski destination with a spacious patio offering some of the best views in the village. On Sunday nights, the pub overlooks the free Fire and Ice show on the ski hill, which is a must-see experience with impressive fire displays and acrobatic performances. For the best view, consider requesting a table on the second floor near the windows, as it offers a perfect vantage point. Be aware that there is a minimum spend or deposit of $300 CAD (~$210 USD) for these premium spots. With a menu featuring pub favorites like gourmet burgers, hearty pastas and stone-baked pizzas, along with a well-curated selection of craft beers, wines and cocktails, Black’s Pub is the ideal place to enjoy dinner and the show in style.
Need to know
Whistler is incredibly beginner-friendly, with plenty of green runs for those just starting out, but also offers challenging terrain for more experienced skiers and snowboarders. The après-ski scene is unbeatable, with bars and cozy spots to grab a drink around every corner of Whistler Base—ideal for unwinding after a day on the slopes. Dining in Whistler is a true highlight, offering incredible meals at affordable prices compared to U.S. cities. However, it's essential to make dinner reservations in advance, as restaurants tend to book up quickly, with limited availability for late reservations on short notice.
To get to Whistler, fly into YVR (Vancouver International Airport) and drive about 2 hours north to the resort. Arriving early in the day is recommended, as the latter half of the drive can be challenging, especially in the dark and snow, with winding roads along the mountainside. The drive offers stunning views during daylight. The local culture is laid-back and welcoming, with staff members often coming from places like England, Italy, New Zealand, and Australia, all drawn to Whistler for its exceptional skiing and vibrant après-ski atmosphere.
For a quieter experience, visit Sunday through Friday, as weekends and holidays tend to be much busier. During the week, the slopes offer minimal lift lines, and the town is lively but not overcrowded. Arriving on Saturday and departing on Friday is a great way to experience Whistler without the weekend rush.
Travel Advisor
Madison Ebben
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Whistler page.