A Whistler Local’s Guide to 20 Apres Activities

They say you can’t buy happiness, but you can buy a lift pass. But what do you do in Whistler after a day of hitting the slopes? You après!

Après Culture in Whistler

While the tradition of après may have its origins in France, Whistler certainly has its own take on how to do Après right. From chill to thrill, there is plenty to keep your day packed from the moment you step out of your ski boots until your head hits your pillow (you may even want to consider skipping the skiing altogether and heading straight to your Whistler Après-Ski!)

• Hit the Spa

Rest your tired legs after a day on the slopes. The Scandinave Spa is a unique outdoor spa experience complete with multiple pools, soothing waterfalls, relaxing massages and saunas. Nestled in a lush cedar and spruce forest, the Scandinave spa will be sure to have you relaxed and invigorated to hit the slopes again the next day. At $79 per person, it is the perfect way to relax and unwind.  Be sure to bring a bathing suit, flips flops and low voices.

• Village Stroll

Take a walk along the Whistler Village Way. As you stroll through the picturesque mountain town you can take in all the sights and shops. Be sure to check out the Olympic Plaza, from the 2010 Vancouver Olympic Games, where you can pose with the Olympic rings.

• Bungee Jumping

In case you didn’t get your share of thrills on the slope. Whistler Bungee offers you the chance to jump off a 160 ft long bridge towards the roaring, glacier-fed Cheakamus river (pronounced Chek-A-Moose) a staggering 300 ft below. Take the plunge with tickets starting at $140 per person. Complimentary transportation from Whistler to the jump location is available (be sure to book in advance) and $10 for spectators.  Be sure to bring a camera, warm layered clothing and a friend who can act as a witness when you tell the tale of your jump!

• Feast the Night Away

Whistler is world famous for its skiing, but it’s not just the slopes you should be sampling. Whistler has a number of exceptional restaurants that will surely have your mouth watering, but eating out in Whistler doesn’t have to break the bank. There are a number of budget-friendly options if you’d rather spend your money on lift tickets.

• Dance the Night Away

Along with a smorgasbord of amazing restaurants, Whistler nightlife is unparalleled. No matter if you are into cosy pubs, cocktail bars or busting a move at a nightclub, there is something for you here. 

An hour spent axe throwing is a great way to unwind after a big day on the hill.

• Axe Throwing 

If your day wasn’t thrilling enough, you can top it off with forged axe throwing. An axe throwing session will teach you how to properly hold and throw the axe, and of course, stick a bullseye! Starting at $38 per person, gather your friends to see who is the Champion Lumberjack amongst you.

• Shooting

Release your inner expert marksman at the scenic Pemberton Wildlife Association Shooting Range. This exciting outing is just a 20 min drive north of Whistler in the scenic, mountain village of Pemberton. Packages start at $90 with a variety of options to choose from.

• Grab a Coffee

Coffee! Where would we be without it? Luckily, in Whistler, you’ll never have to know. There are plenty of amazing coffee shops to choose from to sit down, relax, drink a cup of joe and talk about the best runs of the day.

• Cheers to Craft Beer

Whistler is home to not one, but two craft breweries. The Whistler Brewing Company was founded in 1989 and has a been a staple in the community ever since. Nearby Coast Mountain Brewing is new to the craft beer scene, but also has a worthy selection of brews. 

A little magical winter journey by sleigh

• Sleigh Ride 

Experience the winter wonderland that is Whistler from a different point of view by booking a magical sleigh ride.  Whether this is for a memorable family outing or a romantic getaway, this magical experience starts at $69 per person, or book a private sleigh ride starting at $350.

• Art & Culture

The natural beauty of the west coast of Canada has inspired artists all over the world. Whistler is home to several studios and art galleries, including the Audain Art Museum. The Audain features over 200 paintings that will take you on a cultural journey of Coastal British Columbia, including many works by renowned Group of Seven artist Emily Carr. Adult admission is $18 and children under 18 are free.

• Shopping

While it may not be Rodeo Drive, Whistler can hold its own in retail therapy – especially if you’re hunting for outdoor wear and goods! From Canada’s own Arc’teryx and Lululemon,  to globally recognized brands such as the North Face and Patagonia – you’ll be sure to find something to suit your taste.

• Vodka Ice Room

The Ketel One Ice Room at the Bearfoot Bistro in Whistler is an ice room like no other. At -25°F it is the coldest vodka tasting room in the world. For $48 you can sample premium vodkas from Canada and around the world – the price includes the use of a cosy Canada Goose Parka to keep you warm, and of course, the liquid courage won’t hurt either.

• Shot-ski 

The quintessential activity for an Après Ski in Whistler – it’s literally a ski full of shots! Any self-respecting Whistler establishment should have a shot-ski – it doesn’t get much more Canadian than that!

• Instagram it! 

If you didn’t instagram it – did it really happen? Search for #whistler on Instagram and you will see nearly two million posts documenting everything Whistler has to offer. Be sure to leave your own mark by getting your own Insta-worthy shots in Whistler. 

Zip line all year old with Superfly Ziplines

• Zip-lining 

Experience the sensation of flying through the alpine forests and taking in the stunning views while on a zip-line excursion. Superfly Ziplines has two of Canada’s longest zip lines, at over half a mile long and up to 600 ft in the air, you’ll reach speeds of up to 60 mph on this thrilling ride. Be sure to dress appropriately for the season and wear layers – the weather can change suddenly in mountain environments. Prices start at $130 per person.

• Forest Bathing

Shinrin-yoku is a Japanese word which literally translates to “forest bathing.” While we all know that spending time outdoors soothes the soul, studies at Tokyo’s Nippon Medical School found that there are also many health benefits associated with spending time in the woods, such as lower blood pressure and lower heart rate. Take a stroll along the Valley Trail and immerse yourself in nature and let the forest rejuvenate you.

• Escape Room

These physical adventure games have taken the world by storm, and Whistler is home to several exciting escape rooms. With a variety of exciting and challenging themes to choose from, there is a level and room perfect for every group outing!

• Ice Skating

In the winter, Whistler’s Olympic Plaza is turned into a winter wonderful complete with skating rink. Enjoy this well-loved Canadian past-time in the heart of Whistler Village – and be sure to follow it up with a cup of hot chocolate afterwards to warm up!

• Cross Country Skiing

If you still have some energy left in your legs after a day of downhill skiing, taking in a night-time ski in the crisp, winter air might just be the way to limber up and finish off your day in Whistler. Whistler Olympic Park was the location for the Nordic ski events at the 2010 Winter Olympics and is open for night skiing on Wednesdays during their winter operations, so you too can ski on the same trails as the Olympians. Admission on Wednesday nights is only $7 and you can also get equipment rentals and a hearty dinner for $7 each!

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While we could keep going, we think you get the idea – there is a lot to do in for your après-ski in Whistler. Whether you want to keep you action-packed day rolling, unwind at the spa or let you hair day while exploring Whistler’s Nightlife – there is something for everyone. You may just have to extend your stay in Whistler to pack it all in!