100 Things to Do in Whistler

Whether you’re visiting Whistler for the first time or returning for another adventure, this mountain town has something for everyone. From heart-pounding outdoor activities and rich cultural experiences to world-class dining, vibrant events, and serene natural escapes, Whistler offers an unforgettable experience in every season.

At its heart, Whistler is home to North America’s largest ski resort and the world’s number-one lift-accessed bike park, making it a thrill-seekers’ paradise. But the adventures don’t stop there. Whistler’s endless trail networks, scenic lakes and breathtaking views are perfect for hiking, paddleboarding, ziplining and more. Plus, with its rich Indigenous heritage and vibrant arts and culture scene, there’s always something happening to bring people together.

No matter your interests, whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, food, or festivities, you’ll find endless ways to make the most of your time here.

Things to Do in Whistler in Spring

(March, April, May and June)

Spring is great for the all-rounders. With one of the longest ski seasons in the world, running from November until May, there‘s plenty of spring skiing for those keen to squeeze every day out of the winter season!

There’s a buzz of excitement as the bike park and golf courses open, and the longer days and warmer weather invite outdoor dining, making for an ideal après scene. Plus, everything in between.

1. Enjoy late-season powder days, fresh goggle tans and soft snow with the transition to spring skiing.

2. Sip and savour refreshing drinks as patio season begins and revel in the afternoon’s après sunshine.

3. Head to the green, tee off and swing your day away with unrivalled golf courses at Fairmont Chateau Whistler, Nicklaus North, Big Sky and Whistler Golf Club.

4. Experience the number one lift-accessed downhill bike park in the world when the Whistler Mountain Bike Park opens.

5. Restore, revive and renew with the Nourish Whistler Wellness Series. Offering 30-plus events that awaken the mind, nourish the body and invite creativity with masterclasses, speaker series, chef demonstrations, yoga, art and movement classes, all happening in June.

6. Chow down on Whistler’s incredibly diverse dining scene, from Pacific West Coast seafood to Italian, Japanese, Mexican and Indian. Spring is a great time to dive in and discover as the restaurants offer dining specials at this time of year.

7. Learn from knowledgeable guides as Whistler’s furriest residents, the black bears, emerge from hibernation.

8. Immerse yourself in the annual celebration of sports, music, art and mountain culture at the World Ski & Snowboard Festival.

9. Run your hand along a towering snow wall on Whistler Blackcomb. This road carved out of the melting snowpack only stays as long as Mother Nature lets it, so be quick and don’t miss this winter-to-spring experience!

10. Grab a coffee, browse locally-owned shops and wander the peaceful streets of Creekside Village. Creekside was the original location of Whistler Village, and you can use the free Go Whistler Tours app to uncover more of its history.

11. Enjoy roving circus performers, magic shows, science workshops, interactive experiences and internationally acclaimed children’s performers at the annual Whistler Children’s Festival hosted by Arts Whistler in May.

12. Glide over glistening creeks, fly through the forest and feel free with an exhilarating high-wire adventure with Whistler ziplining. If you’re up for it, tackle the Sasquatch Zipline, which, at over two kilometres (1.2 miles / 7,000 feet) long and 183 metres (600 feet) high, is the longest zipline in North America.

13. Grab your friends, head underground, and dance the night away with Whistler’s nightlife.

14. Combine spring skiing, golf and mountain biking to tailor your perfect multi-sport day.

15. Uncover the meaning behind the human-like stone Inuksuks, which stand in many places around Whistler.

16. Embody your inner Canadian at Forged Axe Throwing. As you’re down in Function Junction for this activity, pop into Coast Mountain Brewing and/or Whistler Brewing to sample local craft beer.

17. Cheer on or participate in the Whistler Half Marathon, a beautiful run through some of Whistler’s beautiful, lake-side trails. Or up the ante on the Run Comfy Numb, which gives runners exhilarating climbs, thrilling descents and countless sweeping vistas along a singletrack route with either a 25 or 50-kilometre course option.

18. Whether you’re after a quick bite before hitting the first lift (be that on skis or a bike), a relaxing catch-up over bennies, or a hearty plate to fuel your day of adventure, Whistler’s breakfast and brunch scene has got you covered.

19. Visit the Squamish and Lil’wat Cultural Centre to connect with First Nations ambassadors who share their connection to the land, artwork, music and stories on a guided visit. You can also connect with a series of places in Whistler that are culturally significant to the First Nations by following the Art & Storytelling of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh and Líl̓wat7úl app tour.

20. With all this adventuring, we know you’ll need a carb refuel, so we put together some of our top picks for Whistler’s best pizza and poutine. The question is, which one will you choose? Trick question. You’re on holiday, you can have both.

21. Face your fears with the most scenic bungee jump as you free-fall with Whistler Bungee.

22. Dance, stretch, and move with classes at ALGN Whistler, designed to be your gateway into experiencing dance magic and taught by passionate dancers from around the world.

23. As the snow begins to melt, drink in the magnificent mountain views from the water by canoe, kayak or SUP.

24. Experience alternative evening entertainment at Tapley’s Pub with music bingo (alternate Tuesdays with regular bingo), test your knowledge with their quiz night on Wednesdays, or sing your heart out with karaoke at Crystal Lounge every Tuesday.

25. Soar to new heights and explore Whistler from the skies. A scenic tour by helicopter or float plane will have you flying over the rugged peaks, majestic glaciers, alpine lakes and lush alpine meadows of the Coast Mountain Range.

Things to Do in Whistler in Summer

(June, July and August)

Summer in Whistler is filled with lake dips, bike trips, alpine hikes and patio après. Whistler’s award-winning dining scene is unrivalled, and in the summer, you can dine alfresco while enjoying the stunning mountain backdrops. Talking of keeping it outdoors, the summer concert series held in Olympic Plaza is an incredible venue to listen to music as the stars replace the sun.

26. Dig into Whistler’s biking scene with some of the best downhill in the world in the Whistler Mountain Bike Park and hundreds of cross-country trails weaving you in and out of Whistler’s varying bike terrain.

27. Be awe-inspired by the expanse of the Coast Mountains when you go sightseeing on Whistler Blackcomb. The Summer Alpine Experience gives you access to their record-breaking gondola system, which you can use to explore over 50 kilometres of hiking trails, wildflowers, glacial lakes and the incredible Cloudraker Suspension Bridge.

28. Revel in the long summer days and golf from sunrise to sunset at Whistler’s golf courses, which all boast incredible mountain views.

29. Take to the water with kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, sailing and foiling. Float down the River of Golden Dreams on a guided tour first thing in the morning or at twilight to see watershed wildlife working away.

30. Whistler has a great craft cocktail scene with passionate bartenders serving up some unique options, often utilizing local produce. Try something new on a sunny patio with a view!

31. End your perfect summer day listening to live music under the stars. The free Whistler Summer Concert Series in Olympic Plaza brings international and Canadian artists in a range of musical styles to the stage throughout the summer. Grab a picnic, a blanket and enjoy!

32. Don’t miss the heart-pounding action of Crankworx Whistler, a huge celebration of everything mountain biking. Cheer on the pro riders as they compete on some of the toughest courses on the planet right here in Whistler.

33. From May until October, head to the Upper Village to explore Whistler’s Farmers’ Market. Speak to artisans, buy local produce, try a new cuisine and shop for unique gifts and mementos.

34. Relax at one of Whistler’s lakes. Get there via bike on the Valley Trail, leave your gear with the free bike valet, swim out to the docks, rent a water toy (at Lakeside and Wayside Parks) and grab a treat from the Park Eats vendors.

35. Watch a drive-in movie theatre without the drive-in! Watch classics, family favourites and recent releases with Movies in the Plaza every Wednesday and Saturday throughout the summer.

36. Looking for a once-in-a-lifetime mountain bike experience? Whistler heli biking drops you off at the top of Hidden Peak for a thrilling downhill ride to the bottom.

37. Enjoy a mouth-watering buffet dinner with live music and unrivalled views of Whistler Mountain when you dine at the Mountain Top Summer Feast.

38. With sections aptly named Little Burn, Big Burn and Heart Burn, hiking the Blackcomb Ascent Trail is a great challenge for those keen on earning their mountain views.

39. XFondo is a bike race featuring four different types of terrain: road, gravel, trail and dirt! It’s an adventure that will challenge your thighs and get mud on your clothes but put a smile on your face!

40. Bouncy castles, rope courses, pump tracks, trampolines, mini golf and more can be found right at the base of Blackcomb Mountain at the Family Adventure Zone for the young and young-at-heart.

41. Paddle hard, hold on and ride the rapids with whitewater rafting. This is a surefire way to get your adrenaline pumping as you splash around in Whistler’s waterways.

42. Rent a bike, e-bike or EVO and discover the five lakes of Whistler: Lost, Green, Alpha, Alta and Nita, which are all linked by the Whistler Valley Trail system.

43. The arts thrive in Whistler, and summer’s the season for Art on the Lake, where live music and arts take to the waters of Alta Lake. In August, enjoy original theatre, live music, comedy and more with Flagstop Theatre & Arts Festival, which includes performances on a floating dock.

44. One of Whistler Mountain’s signature hikes is the High Note Trail. It’s a 9.4-kilometre trail with incredible views over Black Tusk, Cheakamus Lake and Cheakamus Glacier. There’s also Half Note, which, as the name suggests, is a shorter option!

45. Conquer tightropes, planks and suspension bridges on a Whistler Tree Adventure.

46. Did you know that Whistler is home to the second-largest skate park in Canada? Well, now you do. It’s located along the Valley Trail close to the Audain Art Museum and is a bit of a mural-based piece of artwork itself.

47. Save the toads! Every summer, dime-sized Western Toads, which are a sensitive species native to BC, move from the forests of Lost Lake to the water in their thousands. You have to watch where you step during this migration, and you can also help by donning a pair of gloves (don’t pick them up with your bare hands) and helping them along their way.

48. Hit the trails for the ride of your life with Whistler’s off-road ATV tours. Access the backcountry, ride up Whistler or Blackcomb Mountain, or rip along old logging roads out in the Callaghan Valley.

49. Enjoy stunning mountain views, big skies and a huge sense of achievement as you reach the top of the Via Ferrata, a unique and exciting way to climb Whistler Mountain, using an engineered vertical pathway with metal rung ladders and fixed cables.

50. Hike the 12-kilometre route to the hidden gem of Russet Lake and spend the night camping under the stars, surrounded by the mountains.

Things to Do in Whistler in Fall

(September, October and November)

As the vibrant colours of fall sweep through Whistler, a mellower vibe takes over, although it’s Whistler, so there are still adventures to be had. Fall is a great time to dive into the arts and culture scene, there are also amazing dining deals and events like Cornucopia and the Whistler Village Beer Festival.

With fewer people around, it’s a great time to get in the last laps of the season at the Whistler Mountain Bike Park or head out on those bucket-list hikes and bikes before the snow comes in.

51. With around 70 events spread over 11 days, Whistler’s festival of food and drink, Cornucopia, is every foodie’s dream.

52. It’s a cooler time to hit the Whistler Mountain Bike Park, which stays open until mid-October. This is hero-dirt time, when the trails are nice and tacky and also less busy.

53. A trip to the Squamish & Lil’wat Cultural Centre is one to have at any time of the year, but it seems especially pertinent in the fall as Truth & Reconciliation Day is on September 30. Listen, learn and reflect on what’s being said during the special events that take place at this time of year.

54. Get hooked on the ideal slow-it-down activity of fishing in the fall.

55. The Whistler Village Beer Festival brings together over 80 craft beverages for you to try at Whistler Olympic Plaza. This is set against a magnificent mountain backdrop with live music and fancy food trucks.

56. Celebrate creativity, music, books and ideas with your chance to hear from some of the best Canadian and international authors writing today at the Whistler Writer’s Festival.

57. Admire the vibrant colours of fall with a wander through the Village Stroll or along one of the curated, self-guided tours on the free Go Whistler Tours app.

58. Relish culinary creations inspired by the season with Whistler’s diverse restaurants and discover your new favourite eatery with the dining deals offered by local restaurants.

59. Rest and recuperate with a day at the spa. Sit back, soak and enjoy some pampering – your body needs it. A unique experience in Whistler is the outdoor Scandinave Spa. Embark on a restorative thermal journey as you cycle through hot saunas, pool and steams, cool down under a waterfall or in a plunge pool before relaxing in a solarium or hammock.

60. Hunt down a muddy puddle and charge through it on a side x side/RZR tour. The fall is a fun time to rip around the wilderness in full waterproof gear!

61. Get pumped for the winter snow season by watching the latest ski movies in one of Whistler’s bars, or look out for premiere events being held at one of Whistler’s theatres (Maury Young Arts Centre and Rainbow Theatre), like iF3 Whistler, which showcases up-and-coming and pro snowsport filmmakers.

62. Find out why the Train Wreck hike is one of the most popular fall stomps. Get coffee and snacks on your way in Function Junction at Forecast Coffee, The Green Moustache Cafe or Purebread, and finish your accomplishment with beers at Coast Mountain Brewing or Whistler Brewing Company.

63. Trail run courses that take you deep into ancient forests, by stunning mountain lakes, and through alpine vistas with the Ultra Trail Whistler by UTMB. Or make it a multi-discipline challenge with the Whistler X Tri, designed for athletes who crave off-road challenges.

64. Admire the strength and magnitude of Mother Nature by visiting two Whistler waterfalls, Brandywine and Alexander.

65. In October, explore Whistler’s art scene on a Whistler Wine Walk, where you stroll a selection of galleries and enjoy a glass of wine at each one. Want to make it more hands-on? Get crafty with a Paint & Sip Night hosted by local artist Andrea Mueller or Just Paint Experience led by visual artist Sara Robichaud.

66. How did Whistler become, well, Whistler? And what do the Olympics have to do with it? Dig into Whistler’s trail blazing past with a trip to the Whistler Museum, which dives into the human and natural history of Whistler and its unique mountain culture.

67. Take part in or cheer on the bikers pushing their pedals for 122 kilometres as they ride from Vancouver to Whistler in the RBC GranFondo.

68. Head to the Audain Art Museum and explore the art of British Columbia in their permanent collection, including one of the largest displays of Emily Carr, along with their revolving visiting exhibits and fun events. Get your Whistler Cultural Pass, combining access to the Audain Art Museum, a transformative experience for appreciating the art of British Columbia, and Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre.

69. Gear up for the winter ahead as the Turkey Sales start close to Thanksgiving Weekend in Whistler Blackcomb stores and a host of other retailers in Whistler.

70. Grab a friend and go hit some balls at the Whistler Racket Club, offering pickle ball and tennis right in Whistler Village. A short bus ride north of the Village will take you to Meadow Park Sports Centre, where you’ll find a gym, swimming pool and indoor ice rink.

71. Cosy up with a coffee and a good book at the Whistler Public Library. This space also offers the perfect place for remote working, storytime with the little ones and a range of community events to feel connected and supported.

72. Follow the fall biking route on the free Go Whistler Tours app, which takes you on a 12-kilometre Whistler Valley Trail loop to Creekside and around Alta Lake.

73. Delight in locally owned stores that cover everything from adventure gear to high-end fashion with a spot of shopping along the Village Stroll.

Things to Do in Whistler in Winter

(December, January, February and March)

Winter is when the magic happens. With the arrival of snow, the landscape transforms into a winter wonderland with thousands of sparkling lights illuminating Whistler Village. The season is full of winter sports galore, both on and off the slopes. Add Whistler’s dining and bar scene into the mix with its legendary après festivities, and you start to understand what makes Whistler simply magic in the mountains.

74. With over 1,800 acres of terrain, 16 alpine bowls and three glaciers giving you 200 marked runs, Whistler Blackcomb is the biggest ski resort in North America and a must-ride for skiers and snowboarders.

75. Whether you’re a complete beginner, want to learn tricks in the park or tackle Whistler’s backcountry, a lesson, camp, or clinic will get you there quicker. Not only do you get to hone your technique, but you get lift line priority, which is great for those peak season days or for when the snow dumps!

76. No skis? No problem. Admire the 360-degree views of Whistler Village, the mountain peaks of the Coastal Range, ancient glaciers and lush forests with a sightseeing ride on the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola, connecting Whistler and Blackcomb mountains.

77. At the start of December, experience movie magic with the Whistler Film Festival (WFF). Watch short and feature-length films featuring everything from top local talent to international superstars.

78. Head to the outdoor skating rink at Whistler Olympic Plaza to skate under the stars, right in the heart of Whistler Village.

79. Celebrate an unreal day on the hill with après! Share anecdotes, sip on hot chocolate or a cold beer, and dance the afternoon away and well into the evening at the many spots in town.

80. Slow down and step into winter mode with snowshoeing. This is a great way to explore Whistler’s winter scenery at a slower pace, and you can go on a guided tour or rent a pair and explore areas like Lost Lake Park and Whistler Olympic Park.

81. Find fresh tracks and explore Whistler’s backcountry on a guided tour.

82. Get in the festive spirit with a self-guided tour of all the twinkling lights throughout Whistler via the free Go Whistler Tours app.

83. Slide like an Olympian with a Passenger Bobsleigh or Public Skeleton adventure at the Whistler Sliding Centre.

84. Experience the breathtaking wilderness of the Callaghan Valley as you glide along on cross-country skis at Whistler Olympic Park or The Callaghan.

85. Be one of the first on the slopes with a First Tracks ticket. The first 600 people with a First Tracks ticket who line up at the Whistler Village Gondola upload an hour before the rest of the world. Those early risers receive a $17 one-time voucher, valid at any Whistler Blackcomb food and beverage establishment, that can be used anytime throughout the day.

86. Become part of one of the biggest and most inclusive winter celebrations with Whistler Pride & Ski Festival in January.

87. Explore Whistler Blackcomb after the skiers are done or ride the deep powder across thrilling terrain in the Callaghan as you explore via snowmobile.

88. Tick off a bucket-list adventure with heli-skiing in Whistler with options for intermediate, advanced and expert skiers.

89. Wander in awe through the immersive magic of Vallea Lumina, a multimedia light walk in the forest filled with stardust and fairy tales.

90. Home to one of the coldest vodka tasting rooms in the world, sample this complex spirit in a unique way at the Grey Goose Vodka Ice Room at Bearfoot Bistro.

91. Spend a night in the backcountry with a stay at The Journeyman Lodge, accessed via snowcat shuttle or cross-country ski trails in the Callaghan Valley.

92. Watch the legendary Fire & Ice Show as athletes flip and twist through a burning ring of fire at the base of Whistler Mountain.

93. Relive the 2010 Winter Olympics and visit some of its legacies by following the curated tour on the free Go Whistler Tours app. Another way of hitting up some of Whistler’s most scenic and famous spots is on a guided sightseeing tour of Whistler.

94. Laugh the night away with the best of improv, sketch and stand-up comedy with the Laugh Out LIVE! Comedy crew who put events on throughout the year.

95. Complete an avalanche safety course to ensure you’re well-equipped and up-to-date on how to explore the backcountry safely.

96. Take the plunge with an ice dip in one of the glacial lakes of Whistler. If you’d rather scale ice versus going through it, you can also ice climb in Whistler. You can also stick a rod in it and ice fish!

97. Bring your friends or family for a night’s adventure and fly down icy lanes at the bubly Tube Park. 

98. The Peak to Valley Race, one of the longest giant slalom races in the world, will leave your thighs burning. Bring a team fo four to tackle the course, which goes from the top of The Saddle right down to the base of Creekside. That’s 5.6 kilometres (1,400 metres) of vertical that involves steeps, flats, rollers and close to 180 gates, with racers reaching speeds of 70 kilometres per hour.

99. Test your skills and see if your group can solve puzzles and answer clues to escape your themed room within 45 minutes at Escape! Whistler.

100. The on-mountain dining at Whistler Blackcomb offers a lot of options, but some must-eats are the loaded buttermilk waffles at the Crystal Hut, fish and chips at Glacier Lodge and the cinnamon buns at Chic Pea.

This list could go on and on as I didn’t get the chance to tell you about Whistler’s fondue scene, the saunas hidden in the snow, how good the trail running is and where to get the best nachos. My point is, there’s so much to do and see in Whistler that you need to give yourself time to do it justice; I’d say a week at the very least.

Whether you’re looking to do that bucket-list outdoor adventure, immerse yourself in local culture, indulge your taste buds, or simply breathe in the fresh mountain air, Whistler has it all.