Looking for the best things to do in Whistler? Whistler is North America’s largest ski resort and a summer playground for mountain biking, hiking and lakes, about two hours from Vancouver on the Sea-to-Sky Highway. This list mixes famous landmarks with local favourites and easy day trips, with practical tips on timing, tickets and costs for Canadian travellers.
Best things to do in Whistler
1. Whistler Blackcomb
More than 8,000 acres of skiable terrain. Combine it with a nearby café or lunch spot.
2. PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola
Links the two mountains. It is great value for families.
3. Whistler Village
Pedestrian village. Weekdays are much quieter than weekends.
4. Whistler Mountain Bike Park
Lift-served biking. Weekdays are much quieter than weekends.
5. Scandinave Spa
Outdoor baths. Wear comfortable shoes; you will walk more than you expect.
6. Lost Lake
Swimming and trails. Arrive early for the best light and fewest people.
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7. Audain Art Museum
BC art. Bring a refillable water bottle.
8. Sea-to-Sky Highway
Scenic drive with Shannon Falls and the Sea to Sky Gondola. Combine it with a nearby café or lunch spot.
9. Skiing
One of the most popular ways to experience Whistler; ask your hotel or a local outfitter for current options and prices. Book tickets online to skip the line.
10. Mountain biking
One of the most popular ways to experience Whistler; ask your hotel or a local outfitter for current options and prices. Wear comfortable shoes; you will walk more than you expect.
11. Spa days
One of the most popular ways to experience Whistler; ask your hotel or a local outfitter for current options and prices. Weekdays are much quieter than weekends.
12. Ziplining
One of the most popular ways to experience Whistler; ask your hotel or a local outfitter for current options and prices. Allow at least an hour to enjoy it properly.
13. Take a day trip to Vancouver
Vancouver is where mountains meet the ocean, with Stanley Park, beaches, world-class Asian food and ski hills 30 minutes from downtown. Read our Vancouver travel guide. Book tickets online to skip the line.
14. Eat your way through the local food scene
Try après-ski, craft beer and Canadian comfort food. Food tours are a fun way to sample several places in one afternoon. Check opening hours before you go, as they change seasonally.
When to go
The best time to visit is December to April for skiing; July to September for summer.
| Season | Months | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | March–May | Mild and showery; blossoms in Vancouver and Victoria. |
| Summer | June–August | Dry and warm, 20–25°C; the best season. |
| Fall | September–November | Pleasant September, rainy November. |
| Winter | December–February | Mild and wet at sea level, snowy in the mountains. |
Where to stay
- Whistler Village: Central.
- Upper Village: Blackcomb side.
- Creekside: Quieter.
- Squamish: Value.
| Style | Typical price per night | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | C$180–300 | Motels, hostels, simple inns and campground cabins |
| Mid-range | C$320–550 | Comfortable hotels and B&Bs, often with breakfast |
| Luxury | C$650–1,500 | Resorts, historic hotels and boutique properties |
For more detail, read our Whistler travel guide.
Tips for visitors
- Winter tyres are required on the Sea-to-Sky Highway from October to March.
- Book lift tickets online in advance for better prices.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Visiting only on peak weekends, when parking and restaurants are packed.
- Not booking accommodation early enough in high season.
- Skipping the quieter trails and viewpoints just outside town.
- Driving tired after a long day outdoors.
- Forgetting that some shops and restaurants keep short seasonal hours.
Sample 3-day budget for two
| Item | Mid-range estimate |
|---|---|
| Hotel (3 nights) | C$960–C$1,650 |
| Food and drink | C$660–C$1,056 |
| Activities and entry fees | C$160–C$320 |
| Local transport or car | C$210–C$315 |
| Total | C$1,990–C$3,341 |
Estimates exclude flights and assume a mid-range hotel; travelling in shoulder season can cut accommodation costs by a third or more.
What to pack for Whistler
- Layers for cool, foggy mornings
- A windproof jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen
- A swimsuit
- Binoculars for wildlife
For seasonal advice, see our guide to the best time to visit Canada.
Planning tips for your trip
- ID for flights: Domestic flights require government-issued photo ID; carry a passport if you might cross into the US.
- Money: GST or HST is added to most prices at the till, so budget 5–15% more than the shelf price; tipping 15–20% at restaurants is standard.
- Insurance: Provincial health plans may not pay the full cost of care in another province, and ambulance and air-ambulance costs can be high, so check whether an out-of-province travel insurance policy makes sense for you. Read our guide to out-of-province travel insurance.
- Driving: Most Canadians road-trip in their own car; rentals are widely available, and winter tyres are required on many BC highways and in Quebec in winter. Fuel is usually cheapest in Alberta and most expensive in BC and the North.
- Saving money: see our Canada budget travel and cheapest places to travel in Canada guides.
What a trip costs
Typical spending per person per day, excluding flights:
| Travel style | Per person per day | Covers |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | C$150–C$220 | motel, hostel or campsite, casual meals, self-drive |
| Mid-range | C$300–C$480 | good hotel, restaurant meals, some tours |
| Luxury | C$700–C$1,400 | resort or historic hotel, fine dining, guided experiences |
Prices rise in peak season and on holiday weekends, and fall sharply in the shoulder seasons.
Responsible travel tips
Popular places are under pressure from crowds. Visit on weekdays or in shoulder seasons, carpool or use shuttles, refill a reusable water bottle, and buy from local businesses. Respect Indigenous lands and cultural sites, follow posted closures, and keep a safe distance from wildlife.
Safety basics
Carry water and layers on outdoor outings, check weather and road conditions before long drives, and tell someone your plans in remote areas, where mobile coverage can be patchy. In cities, use normal precautions with valuables at night. The emergency number is 911.
Travel gear we trust
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A refined weekender is perfect for two-night escapes.
Partner links: these go to our sister review sites, which may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Frequently asked questions
What is the number one thing to do in Whistler?
For most first-time visitors it is Whistler Blackcomb: more than 8,000 acres of skiable terrain.
How many days do you need in Whistler?
Plan 3–4 days to cover the highlights at a relaxed pace.
What is the best time to visit Whistler?
December to April for skiing; July to September for summer.
Is Whistler good for families?
Yes. Many of the top attractions suit children, and Whistler is popular with skiers, adventurers and couples.
What should I eat in Whistler?
Try après-ski, craft beer and Canadian comfort food.
Plan the rest of your trip
- Whistler Travel Guide: Skiing, Summer Fun and Where to Stay
- Vancouver Travel Guide: Neighbourhoods, Sights and Day Trips