The Top Things To Do In Whistler: A Whistler Vacation Itinerary

If you’re looking for an adventurous vacation but still want to be comfortable, look no further than Whistler. This popular Canadian resort town has something for everyone, whether it’s sunny or snowy outside. You can spend your days hiking to waterfalls, skiing or snowboarding on the slopes, or enjoying the local cuisine. Check out our guide to the top things to do in Whistler if you need some help planning your trip.

  • Scandinave Spa

Scandinave Spa, an unforgettable highlight of any Whistler visit, offers a variety of soothing Nordic-inspired spa treatments in breathtaking surroundings. Enjoy the genuine Scandinavian Spa baths experience, which begins with the eucalyptus steam room, Finnish sauna, or wood-burning sauna, before moving onto a cold bath or waterfall and then unwinding on the terrace in a hammock or indulging in your choice of massage.

After you’ve been properly cared for, tuck into a delicious light dinner on the restaurant’s patio overlooking swathes of cedar forests in Whistler and Blackcomb valleys. This is one of the top things in Whistler that you can experience.

  • Ziptrek Ecotours

Ziptrek Ecotours is a 3-hour adventure that explores the natural wonders of Whistler’s ancient rainforest and allows visitors to discover these ecological marvels. Ziptrek employs a variety of techniques, including suspension bridges, treetop platforms, ground tracks, and zip lines, to provide you with spectacular views.

Ziptrek is built on ethical foundations that support environmental teaching and renewable energy production. Ziptrek Ecotours is one of the top things in Whistler for you to explore.

  • Whistler Sliding Centre

The Whistler Sliding Centre, which is operated by a non-profit organization called “Whistler Sport Legacies,” was the site of the bobsleigh, skeleton, and luge competitions during the 2010 Winter Olympics. The track is currently recognized as being the world’s fastest ice track since it reaches nearly 1mi in length.

Feel the rush as you hurtle down the track on a bobsleigh or skeleton at up to 78mph (125kph). If that’s not enough excitement for you, try the summer version of bobsleighing on wheels from June to September. To avoid being disappointed, be sure to book your spot in advance. For an adventurous experience, add this to your bucket list as one of the top things to do in Whistler.

  • Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre

This has been one of the top things to do in Whistler for many visitors. The Whistler mountain resort was only recently built; however, it is located on the traditional lands of the Squamish and Lil’wat First Nations tribes. They had the idea to construct the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre to share their customs and beliefs with others, all while maintaining a respectful attitude towards nature. 

You may learn more about the history of the region through a local guide, who will be on hand to answer any questions while you explore the center’s variety of visual exhibits and engaging activities, including an opportunity to meet artists and acquire traditional craft skills. The building is inspired by First Nations longhouses and earthen pit houses.

  • Peak 2 Peak Gondola

The Peak 2 Peak Gondola’s hidden pot of gold is the panoramic views of Whistler Village and the surrounding mountains. These glass-bottomed capsules provide you with a bird’s-eye view of the valley floor as you travel 2.7 miles (4.4 kilometres) between the massive Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, which is the longest unsupported span for a lift of this kind.

You’ll see towering volcano peaks, coastal rainforests, and ancient ice fields along the route. Peak 2 Peak Gondola has become one of the top things to do in Whistler for visitors during summer as well as winter.

  • Whistler Film Festival

The Whistler Film Festival, which was founded in 2001, is held on the first weekend of December each year. It has since become a popular cultural event in Whistler and one of Canada’s major film events. Each year, the program features a mix of new feature films and short film programs, filmmaker interviews, industry initiatives, and other special events.

Canadian and foreign filmmakers are invited to submit movies of all lengths and genres for consideration. The finest films are shown at the festival. Save time to visit the film festival as one of the top things to do in Whistler.

  • Whistler Tasting Tours

Whistler Tasting Tours was created in 2008 by friends Joe Facciolo and Skai Dalziel to show visitors the best local cuisine has to offer. Recently, it has been designated a Canadian Signature Experience by the Canadian Tourism Commission.

Across lunch, dinner, and dessert tours, you can sample menus from some of the area’s best restaurants while being introduced to their owners and chefs. The dining experience also features local beers and Okanagan wines for your enjoyment.

A Whistler Vacation Itinerary

  • Whistler Mountain Bike Park

Feel the wind whistling through your helmet as you descend down one of the world’s best downhill biking courses. With 70 expertly designed trails distributed across four mountain zones, the renowned Whistler Mountain Bike Park attracts riders of all abilities worldwide.

Although it may appear difficult at first glance – spanning 50 kilometres in length and 4,900 feet in elevation – novices are more than welcome. The park may be reached from Whistler Village by the Fitzsimmons Chair or the Whistler Gondola or via Creekside the Creekside Gondola. Whistler Mountain Bike Park is one of the top things to do in Whistler during summer with kids.

  • Après-Ski

Whistler has a variety of activities to enjoy after the ski runs close. Even if you haven’t been skiing all day, you can join in the eating and fun at Whistler’s most iconic après-ski bars, Dusty’s – Whistler’s first apres-ski bar, founded in 1965 – or Merlin’s Bar and Grill in the Upper Village. While watching snow fall across the pine-covered mountains from a hot tub (almost every resort and accommodation in Whistler offers one), consider relaxing with a delicious drink.

  • Helicopter Park Whistler

A helicopter trip is a must for Culture Trip if you want an amazing aerial view of Whistler’s coast mountains, ancient glaciers, and hidden lakes. Soak up the stunning scenery on a brief flight or, if you’re feeling more daring, choose from heli-sightseeing, glacier landings, and fly-in picnics, among other things.

Although it is one of Whistler’s more expensive activities, it is truly one of a kind and will provide you with an unforgettable experience of nature. The operation of helicopters may vary depending on the season. Add this one of the top things to do in Whistler to your itinerary.

  • Vallea Lumina

For an unforgettable evening adventure, explore the old forest of Cougar Mountain while enjoying an immersive light show. Vallea Lumina is a magical night walk suitable for all ages, which brings Whistler’s natural landscape to life using a combination of video, lighting, sound, and special effects. A story filled with unexpected enchantment unfolds as you walk along a brightly lit pathway searching for a hidden valley. Excursions run from Thursday to Monday, every 30 minutes from sundown. The experience takes place whatever the weather, so dress appropriately. Many people add this as one of the top things to do in Whistler.

  • Ski at Whistler Blackcomb

Whistler’s 8,100 acres (3,278ha) of snow-covered slopes are recognized as the best ski location in North America. Not only did Whistler host the 2010 Winter Olympics, but it also has some of the finest powder in North America, with an average yearly snowfall of 39ft (12m).

It also has a vibrant après-ski scene; reward your efforts on the slopes with mountain-high nachos and a renowned Jester Caesar at Merlin’s in The Upper Village. Why not experience this, one of the top things to do in Whistler during your vacation?

  • Horseshoe Bay and Shannon Falls

Horseshoe Bay is one of the most beautiful seaside settlements in British Columbia. It’s also an ideal spot to stroll along the wharf and have a bite. The fish and chips at Troll’s are widely regarded as among the finest you’ll find on this side of the Burrard Inlet.

Stop by Shannon Falls, which has a simple trail that leads to perhaps the area’s best vantage point, while heading to Whistler. Hiking is one of the top things to do in Whistler, so let’s explore.

  • Audain Art Museum

In between your skiing days, visit the Audain Art Museum for local culture. Patkau Architects, the minds behind Winnipeg’s Millennium Library, took ideas from Whistler’s forests to create the distinctive museum, which is raised a full story above ground level.

The museum’s permanent collection includes historic First Nations masks and some of Emily Carr’s finest works, while several special exhibits are also held each year. Add some quiet time to your top things to do in Whistler list.

  • Snowmobile through Callaghan Valley

A hearty breakfast is essential before you hit the slopes on a snowmobile. After carving your way through the winding trails of Callaghan Valley – the site of the 2010 Winter Olympic events – make your way to Mount Sproatt for a traditional Yukon breakfast.

Cooked on an old-fashioned wood stove, this mountain-sized feast includes Canadian back bacon, Yukon gold potatoes, pancakes, real maple syrup, and cowboy coffee. Why not add this exciting event to your top things to do in Whistler bucket list?

  • Whistler Olympic Plaza

Whistler Olympic Plaza, one of the top things to do in Whistler, also known as the epicentre of celebration during the 2010 Winter Games, may be well-known to you as a popular photo spot, but it has a lot more to offer than simply that. If you visit in the winter, make sure to skate on the plaza’s own rink surrounded by thousands of twinkling lights. The area is also home to some of Whistler’s best New Year’s parties and hosts several free outdoor concerts and shows throughout the summer.

  • Cycle the Whistler Valley Trail

The Whistler Valley Trail is home to some of the city’s most incredible sights, including lakeside neighborhoods, viewpoints, and a Golfer’s Course. Open all year round, this 40km trail from Function Junction to Emerald offers a path less travelled full of scenery. Our favourite spot is Green Lake for its mountain views or anywhere on the golf course- where you’re likely to see black bears!

  • Whistler Brewing Co.

When you’re feeling a little weary from sightseeing, take a breather and try some of Whistler’s craft breweries for a cold, crisp beer. This brewery is located in Function Junction, known as Whistler’s coolest area. This brewing facility is bordered by miles of bike trails, making it an ideal endpoint for your trip. It’s also close to the Train Wreck Beach hike.

  • Hike to Brandywine Falls

This 70m (230ft) waterfall, located between Whistler and Squamish, is a little-known attraction to visitors of British Columbia. Make your way down the Brandywine Gorge Boardwalk and trek 1km to the falls’ main viewing platform from the car park, which also has restrooms and a picnic area. You don’t need to be a pro-hiker to complete this one because of its flat terrain, but if you want a challenge, visit during winter and bring your snowshoes.

Here are the top things to do in Whistler during summer and winter. Make your dream Whistler vacation full of exciting and adventurous stays by adding things from our top things to do in Whistler to your bucket list.