10 Things to do in Whistler Village
Most people visiting Whistler come seeking thrills and adventure, to ski snow-powdered peaks, bike winding woodland trails, or take part in one of the many outdoor activities that can be found here. However, it is worth mentioning that there are many other things to do in Whistler Village.
At the base of both the Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains, you’ll find the pedestrian-only village, its promenade meandering through the heart of Whistler. Winter brings a festive feeling, with lights and decorations scattered along the stroll and summer blooms bringing colour and life to Whistler. Whatever type of activity you’re looking for, here are our top 10 things to do in Whistler Village.
1. Explore Whistler’s Heritage
Squamish lil’wat cultural centre is the perfect rainy day pit stop
Learn about Whistler’s history and culture rooted deep in these mountains, with Whistler’s Cultural Connector. The Cultural Connector is a walkway dotted with diamond-shaped, yellow and grey paths and lamp post flags connecting the Village proper to the Upper Village.
Weave along this trail to discover Whistler’s cultural institutions. These include the Squamish Lil’Wat Cultural Centre, PassivHaus, and Maury Young Arts Centre, as well as the outdoor art and parks along the way.
While all of these places will give you good insight into local First Nations art, history, and culture, the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre is not to be missed. Learn about the evolution of Indigenous culture and see curated carvings, canoes, masks, sculptures, weavings, and interactive exhibits.
2. Eat Your Way Through Town
Eat your way through Whistler Village and taste the flavours of local culture and contemporary trends. Like they say, the best way to bond is over good food. Take your friends or family and discover what has made its way onto the seasonal menus.
The village is packed full of cuisine set to satisfy every rumbling belly. A few local village favourites are: Bearfoot Bistro and Bar, Caraumba, Stonesedge, and the Chalet at Fairmont Chateau, and 21 Steps.
3. Grab the Latest Ski and Bike Gear
Sitting at the foot of some of the world’s best ski and snowboard terrain, as well as being home to Red Bull Crankworx World Tour, Whistler Village is the perfect spot to upgrade your gear.
Whether you want to immerse yourself in the history of Whistler’s ‘freeskiing’ scene by visiting TMC Freeriderz Pro Shop, or visit Whistler’s infamous bike and snowboard shop, Evolution, the village will provide you with all that you are looking for.
If you want to try before you buy, then you’re in luck; TMC Freeriderz offers demos on skis and snowboards, while Evolution offers demos on snowboards in the winter with rentals available for bikes during the summer.
4. Wander Through the Audain Art Museum
Take a break from the busy streets and slopes of Whistler and wander the halls of the Audain Art Museum. The museum boasts compelling history and captivating art, symbolising Canada’s rich cultural diversity from some of the province’s most celebrated artists.
Whether you’d like to explore one of the museum’s special exhibitions or browse their impressive permanent art collection, the Audain Art Museum will take you on a journey. The museum contains pieces dating back to the 18th century, showcasing art from coastal B.C., including one of the world’s finest collections of Northwest Coast First Nations masks.
The Audain Art Museum is open Thursday to Sunday from 11am to 6pm.
5. Lace Up! Hit the Outdoor Skating Rink
There’s fun for the whole family at the outdoor skating rink at Whistler Plaza. Channel your inner Canuck, lace up your skates, and get on the ice. Skaters are encouraged to bring their own skates; however, rentals are available. There is an admission fee of $8, which includes rental skates, or a fee of only $2 if you bring your own.
The rink is open from 11am–8:30pm with maintenance closures running from 1:30pm–2:30pm and 5pm–6pm.
6. Hit Up Family Après
Summer vibes in the Whistler Olympic Plaza
Celebrate an awesome day on the trails with Family Après at Whistler Olympic Plaza. This free event runs from 3pm–6pm on Mondays and Wednesdays, from December through to March. The kids can enjoy a variety of fun outdoor, winter activities.
The young ones don’t get to have all the fun; the adults are welcome to soak in free live entertainment while treating themselves to a hot beverage—the perfect way to end a jam-packed day and take in the ambiance of the village’s sparkling winter wonderland vibes.
7. Appease Your Sweet Tooth at The Great Glass Elevator, Whistler
With all of the things to do in Whistler Village, sometimes there is no time to stop and press pause. If this is the case and you find yourself looking for a little sugar rush, then look no further:
The Great Glass Door Elevator will transport you to those nostalgic childhood moments, with all the sweets and treats you could ever begin to imagine. Branded as “1,000 square feet of sweet” and packed with the best candy from all over the globe, it never, ever disappoints.
8. Whistler Tasting Tours
For those looking to dine at some of Whistler’s finest restaurants, Whistler Tasting Tours has got you covered, with a whole host of excursions to choose from that are sure to satisfy your taste buds.
These guided tours will not only provide you with some of the best food in town, but you will also take part in some blind wine-tasting and collect cards at each venue for some prize-winning, poker fun, whilst also gaining some invaluable knowledge of Whistler’s rich history from your local guide.
For dinner, there are two tours to choose from: the Finer Things Dinner Tour (the most popular) or the Hidden Gems Dinner Tour. Whether you choose to discover the impressive 15,000-bottle wine cellar on the Finer Things tour or venture off the beaten path with the Hidden Gems tour, your night is guaranteed to be one to remember.
9. Escape! Whistler
A new way to dine in Whistler Village.
Situated within the coastal mountains, Whistler is known for its wet weather, but don’t let that get in the way of a great trip. When the rain inevitably comes and you’re still looking for some family fun, be sure to check out Escape! Whistler, one of Whistler’s best indoor activities.
With a number of wacky themed escape rooms on offer from Pinball Machine to Underwater Lair, there is no shortage of mind-bending, puzzle-cracking fun to be had, transporting you on an otherworldly adventure.
10.Dine Under The Stars
Looking for a unique experience during your time here in Whistler? Well, The Raven Room is here to provide you with just that. Combining cocktails and constellations, The Raven Room is offering an opportunity for a dining experience like no other.
Hidden from the elements but exposed to Whistler’s beautiful surroundings, in a private geodesic dome you have a choice of two experiences: to dine at Tito’s Table or enjoy cocktails at the Campari Corner.
At Tito’s Table, you will dine under the stars, enjoying food and drinks from The Raven Room’s main menu, as well as having the opportunity to order from an exclusive Tito’s Table cocktail list. Meanwhile, the Campari Corner offers a 30-minute private cocktail experience with one of The Raven Room’s knowledgeable bartenders, with a view of Whistler like no other, under the stars.
This experience is available through fall, winter, and spring.
More Reasons Than Ever to Stroll Whistler Village
There is no denying that Whistler Village is packed full of life and wonder, from satisfying food spots and fun Family Après, to brain-teasing, puzzle-beating escape rooms.
So, what are you waiting for? On your next trip to Whistler, pause between the ski hill and the hotel for a moment to stroll through the Village.