Family-Friendly Whistler

Whistler’s youthful energy, alpine playground and accessible village make it the ideal place for a family vacation. There’s an endless number of things to do for everyone from toddlers to grandparents, and amenities that make travelling with family a breeze. Find out why many visitors return to Whistler year after year and why no two visits are alike.

Atmosphere

Whistler is a place that people come to have fun, and connect with nature. It's reflected in the smiles everywhere, and the authentic and happy people you meet. What better place is there to make a memorable vacation?

Easy to Get Around

Everything you need is close at hand which means less planning, more fun time. Stay in the Village or Creekside and you will find the pedestrian-only strolls go right to the ski lifts at the base of Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains, passing shops and other amenities. In-resort transit options mean it's easy to get from point A to B with all the kids, without the need to bring a car – kids 12 and under ride for free on the BC Transit System.

Plenty of Options

Every family has different needs. There is a huge range of accommodation to suit all size groups and budgets – self-cater or don't lift a finger the entire time. There are indoor and outdoor activities to suit all ages and interests including accessible options. Eating out is made easy with more than 100 restaurants catering to all tastes. Plus there are camps, childcare and babysitting services if you need some quality time alone.

Insider’s Guide: Multi-Generational Travel in Whistler

Entertainment

A busy events calendar means there is always something happening around Whistler and if you get stuck for ideas, there are helpful people in places like the Whistler Visitor Centre to help you out.

Family Fun

Fresh air, sunshine, snow and swimming! Whistler offers an endless number of activities throughout the year which are both kid and family friendly. Take a look through the summer and winter activities to see what you and your kids would like to try together.

Winter Activities

Snow days provide endless entertainment for all. Discover the simple joy of making a snow angel and catching snowflakes on your tongue. Whistler Olympic Plaza is a great place to visit, with a Snow Zone for play and sliding, a firepit, ice skating and plenty of coffee shops nearby when you need to warm up. Winter nights are the best time to wander the Village, taking in the sparkling light displays which change every year.

Whistler Wintersphere

Each year during the holiday season the Whistler Conference Centre transforms into a huge indoor, winter wonderland complete with entertainers, crafts, a holiday maze and more. There's no cost for admission, and parents will be glad to know there's a cafe inside where they can chat while kids burn off energy.


Indoor Activities

For a change of pace or when the weather calls for a break having options for indoor fun is important. There's a host of great ideas on our Indoor Activities page for ways to keep the kids entertained within four walls. (Note that many of the outdoor activities in Whistler go ahead rain, snow or shine. So pack a good set of snow or waterproof gear for everyone and you will be able to get outside and explore no matter what the weather is doing.)


Summer Activities

The longer summer days mean you can pack in even more adventure! Play in the mountains with the family and see how much you can tick off your bucket lists.

Family Adventure Zone

The Adventure Zone at the base of Blackcomb Mountain is packed with fun for kids big and small with mini golf, climbing walls and a bouncy castle, just for starters. Enjoy a few activities, stop for lunch on a sunny patio, then try a few more. Prepare for some exhausted kids at the end of the day!

The Adventure Zone is currently closed but will reopen for the Summer 2025 season. Please check back in spring for updates.


More Information

Tickets

Tickets are available at the ticket window at the base of Blackcomb Mountain.

Activities

  • STACYC Pump Track
  • Kiss the Sky Bungee Trampolines
  • Water Rollerz
  • Magic Climbing Wall
  • Mini Golf
  • Spin Cycle Human Gyroscope
  • Bouncy Castle
  • Glitter Tattoos
  • Rope Zone Ropes Course

Minimum weight and height requirements and completion of a Liability Release may be required for some activities. Children under 18 may require the signature of a parent or legal guardian.


Playgrounds

Kids can get active, parents can enjoy a coffee and a chat on the sideline. There are playgrounds scattered throughout Whistler including:

Disc Golf

Think golf, played with frisbees. There are several disc golf courses in Whistler. An 18-hole course is located at Whistler RV Park and Campground with discs available at the main office. A 9-hole course is located at Whistler Olympic Park next to the biathlon range with disc rentals available from the Activity Base. The Whistler's Powerline Disc Golf Course is 27 holes and stretches from Spruce Grove Park to Lost Lake Park. It's a combination of wooded and open terrain with lots of challenging elevation changes. Bring your own discs or rent some. Don’t forget the bug spray!

Insider's Guide to Disc Golf in Whistler


Scavenger Hunts

The Whistler Visitor Centre creates scavenger hunts for different seasons. It's a great way to get kids active and interacting with the environment. Drop into the Whistler Visitor Centre for a copy or download them here:

Events

From the free Summer Concert Series and the Whistler Children's Festival in summer to Whistler Wintersphere and Afterglow in winter, there is always something going on to entertain young kids and teens.

Here's a selection of upcoming, family-friendly events in Whistler. Be sure to check the main events calendar for a full listing of what's on during your stay.

Kids Perks in Whistler

Whistler welcomes families and kids with great perks to keep everyone smiling, like special offers on activities, transfers and rentals, and room amenities at select properties.

Activities

Snowmobiling
  • Kids snowmobile free with each paying adult on Callaghan Cruiser tours.
Audain Art Museum
  • Kids 18 and under receive free admission to the Audain Art Museum.

Ski and Snowboard Rentals

Black Tie Ski Rental Delivery
  • Free Kids Rental with paying Adult of equal length (helmet not included).
Whistler Blackcomb Rentals
  • Book by November 15, 2024 and for every adult rental get one kids' rental for free.

Accommodation

Crystal Lodge & Suites
  • Games room with Xbox
Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside
  • Kids' robes
  • Family games
Pan Pacific Whistler Village Centre
  • Daily complimentary breakfast
  • Kids’ robes
  • Family games
Adara Hotel
  • Free après cookies
  • PlayStation 3s in the room
Legends
  • Movie and Games Room
Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel
  • iPads in the room
  • Sock Monkey toys in room
Fairmont Chateau Whistler
  • Kids under 5 eat free
  • Free kids robes

Family FAQ

Here are some common questions we get asked - hopefully these resources will help you kickstart the family vacation planning.

I am travelling with kids, where should I stay?

There is a large range of places to stay in Whistler, from high-end hotels to condos and budget-friendly, self-catering places. Some offer features like indoor and outdoor pools, games rooms, cribs and more, which can help entertain little people and make travelling with kids easy.

Visit the A-Z page to see the accommodation on offer, or if you would like assistance, speak with a local travel consultant - they can help narrow down the choices.

I don't want to travel with lots of sporting equipment - can I rent kids ski gear in town? How about bikes?

Yes you can! There are places to rent skis, snowboards, cross country skis, snowshoes, golf clubs, bikes, water craft and more for the whole family. Some places also rent chariots for the Valley Trail and cross country skiing. That way you can travel light and still take part in all the fun outdoor activities on offer.

Is it possible to rent childcare equipment like strollers and high chairs?

There are places in town that rent out childcare equipment - visit the childcare page to find out more.

It 's a hot day - is there anywhere for the kids to swim and cool off?

Whistler has a number of lakes with beaches that are suitable for families to enjoy. Young families might also enjoy the waterpark and the indoor kids pool at Meadow Park Sports Centre.

Are there any camps for kids and teens in Whistler?

There are a variety of camps and workshops for young people available that vary with the season. Examples include Ski School in winter, summer skiing camps, biking camps, golf courses, music and art workshops and indoor climbing evenings.

Is there anything for teenagers to do?

Absolutely. Aside from plenty of activities to pick and choose from, there are a number of programs that teens might be interested in joining.

Are there any family-friendly hiking trails in Whistler?

There are plenty of trails you can enjoy with your family around Whistler. Mixed groups may enjoy to explore the Valley Trail on foot or by bike - this wide, paved trail provides easy access to Whistler 's lakes, beaches and parks and is a great way to get to know the town.

The PEAK 2 PEAK Alpine experience allows you to access the hiking trails on top of Whistler and Blackcomb Mountain - again, there are different levels of trail available from wide gravel paths to winding alpine singletrack. Ride the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola between the mountains and have a meal on the mountaintop for an incredible family day out.

There are other hiking trails around town that range from Interpretive Forest walks to waterfall viewing platforms to longer day hikes. Visit our hiking page or the Whistler Visitor Centre for more advice on suitable walks for your family.

Are there any family-friendly ski areas on Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains?

Yes there are! Both mountains have areas designated as family zones, which have learning areas, green and blue runs to explore as well as beginner terrain parks. Each mountain also has a special kids play area (The Treefort on Whistler and the Magic Castle on Blackcomb) where kids can take a break from skiing to play.

Take a look at the Whistler Blackcomb Trail Map to find the family areas. The Whistler Blackcomb trailmap for Kids is a colourful version that highlights the family friendly areas.

I'm trying to reduce the use of my car. Are there any deals for kids on transit?

BC Transit offers free transit in Whistler for children 12 and under. Kids aged 6 to 12 can ride conventional and handyDART buses for free, unaccompanied and without requiring a fare product or identification. Children aged 5 and under must be accompanied by someone 12 years or older to ride the bus, and must board and depart at the same stop as their guardian.

I'm out of ideas to entertain my family - help!

Not sure how to keep the crew entertained? Browse our Itineraries and Things to Do online, and see if you can find some inspiration. The event calendar and community event calendar are also great planning resources.

If you are in resort, visit the Whistler Visitor Centre - the friendly staff have lots of good ideas for families and up to date information on what 's on in the resort.

Family having fun in the mountains of Whistler

What to Do in Whistler
with Your Family

Ideas for how to have fun in Whistler with the family, from light shows in the forest to snowmobiling and escaping underwater lairs.

Family Activities in Whistler

Whistler Winter Itinerary:
Family Friendly Fun

For a family holiday to remember, just add snow. Our itinerary is packed with activities, travel tips and special holiday ideas to help you plan.

Nita Lake Lodge

Nita Lake Lodge
Save up to 20%

Whistler’s only lakeside hotel & spa. Minutes from Creekside Gondola, plus complimentary village shuttle.


Endless Fun for Families in Whistler