Travel tips & Best areas for a stay in Whistler Whistler's allure extends beyond its famous ski slopes to encompass a world of exploration and discovery. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the stunning natural environment, engage with the vibrant local culture, and experience the warm hospitality that defines this mountain town. The changing seasons bring new opportunities for adventure, from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking, biking, and golfing in the summer months. Whistler's pedestrian-friendly village offers a bustling atmosphere filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries, inviting travelers to wander and explore. Whistler's Must-Visit Spots and Must-Do Activities Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains As one of the largest ski resorts in North America, Whistler Blackcomb provides an unrivaled winter sports experience with over 8,000 acres of skiable terrain. The resort boasts a wide variety of runs that cater to all skill levels, from gentle cruisers for beginners to challenging steeps and bowls for the seasoned enthusiast. Beyond the snow, Whistler Blackcomb transforms into a summer playground, offering everything from alpine hiking and mountain biking to sightseeing on the scenic chairlifts and gondolas. Peak 2 Peak Gondola The Peak 2 Peak Gondola is not just a mode of transportation between Whistler and Blackcomb mountains; it's an experience in itself, offering unparalleled views of the alpine landscape. This engineering feat holds records for the longest and highest lift, providing a unique vantage point to gaze upon the vast wilderness, glittering lakes, and towering peaks. The journey aboard the gondola is a moment of awe and reflection, highlighting the natural splendor of the area. Lost Lake Park Situated a short distance from Whistler Village, Lost Lake presents a peaceful oasis amidst the excitement of the resort. In the warmer months, its clear waters and sandy shores attract swimmers, kayakers, and picnickers, while the surrounding trails offer serene walks through old-growth forests. When winter arrives, the area transforms into a Nordic skiing haven, with groomed trails winding through the snow-covered landscape. Audain Art Museum This museum stands as a testament to British Columbia's artistic heritage, featuring a remarkable collection that spans from the 18th century to the present. The exhibits include a significant number of works by First Nations artists, contemporary masterpieces, and the iconic landscapes of Emily Carr. The building itself is an architectural marvel, designed to integrate seamlessly into its forested setting, creating a tranquil space for art appreciation. Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre Celebrating the history and culture of the local Squamish and Lil'wat Nations, this cultural center offers insights through exhibits, guided tours, and cultural performances, enriching visitors' understanding of the area's indigenous peoples. The center not only serves as an educational resource but also as a place of gathering and celebration, showcasing the vibrant traditions and artistic expressions of these First Nations communities. Whistler Olympic Park This venue, which played a significant role in the 2010 Winter Olympics, continues to inspire visitors with its sporting legacy. Offering a chance to try Olympic sports such as biathlon or to explore the ski jumping complex, the park connects guests with the spirit of the Games. It's a place where the thrill of athletic achievement is palpable, set against the backdrop of Whistler's stunning natural beauty. Brandywine Falls Provincial Park The park is home to the breathtaking Brandywine Falls, a 70-meter waterfall that cascades into a cavern below. Surrounding the falls are trails that offer scenic views of the waterfall, the surrounding forests, and volcanic rock formations. It's a spot that exemplifies the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest, inviting explorers to witness the power and majesty of nature. Where to stay in Whistler Whistler Village The vibrant heart of the resort, Whistler Village, is where the action happens. It's here that visitors can find a wide array of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, all within walking distance of the main ski lifts. The village's lively atmosphere is perfect for those who want to be at the center of it all, offering convenience and a sense of community. Upper Village Offering a more refined and tranquil experience, Upper Village sits at the base of Blackcomb Mountain. This area is known for its luxury accommodations, sophisticated dining, and spa services, providing a quiet retreat with all the amenities for a pampering stay. Creekside With a laid-back vibe and its own set of amenities, Creekside is the original base of Whistler Mountain. This neighborhood offers a more relaxed pace, away from the bustle of the main village but still convenient for accessing the slopes and enjoying the lake. Alpine Meadows For those seeking peace and quiet, Alpine Meadows offers a residential setting with stunning mountain views and access to local parks and trails. It's an ideal choice for visitors looking for a more authentic Whistler experience, away from the tourist centers. Function Junction Known for its artisanal shops, craft breweries, and unique eateries, Function Junction is Whistler's creative hub. This area provides a glimpse into the local culture and is a great place for those looking to explore beyond the traditional tourist spots. Whistler, with its majestic mountains and vibrant village, is a year-round paradise, offering a wide array of vacation rentals for a perfect mountain getaway. Explore Canadian Winter Wonders and Mountainous Landscapes This premier destination offers exhilarating winter sports amidst breathtaking peaks. But the delight doesn't end here. Venture to rentals in Alberta for a different kind of snowy adventure in the Canadian Rockies, or explore rentals Sun Peaks, another gem in British Columbia known for its family-friendly atmosphere and skiing opportunities. For those seeking eastern thrills, the airbnb at Blue Mountain offers excellent terrain parks in Ontario, while airbnb Bromont accommodation provide a gateway to Quebec's ski trails nestled amidst charming villages. Beyond the slopes, this mountainous allure is echoed in the scenic surroundings of British Columbia. Enjoy the serene beauty of airbnb in Valemount, where the Cariboo Mountains provide a rugged backdrop for outdoor pursuits or relax in Squamish vacation homes to explore the Stawamus Chief Mountain's climbing routes. Further afield, places to stay in Rossland present opportunities to delve into the region's vibrant art scene alongside exceptional skiing and biking trails. For hiking enthusiasts, the destination serves as an ideal launchpad to discover more trails scattered across British Columbia's natural tapestry. Book accommodations in Maple Ridge to venture through the lush surroundings of Golden Ears Provincial Park or seek out the dramatic coastal vistas and rainforest pathways from Port Renfrew vacation rentals. Though further afield, airbnb Orford rentals offer another hiking haven, inviting exploration of Quebec's Mont Orford National Park with its combination of challenging trails and spectacular panoramas.