Whistler Blackcomb Insider Tips

Make the most of your Whistler ski holiday- it is a world renowned ski destination for good reason. Not only does it have some of the world’s best skiing it has so much to enjoy off the slopes. We have the inside word from the locals and return skiers with top tips, places to eat and things to do.

Chairlifts and Gondolas: Exploring Whistler’s Peaks

Peak 2 Peak Gondola

A visit to Whistler is incomplete without experiencing the breathtaking chairlifts and gondolas that connect the peaks of Blackcomb and Whistler mountains. The iconic Peak 2 Peak Gondola, with its distinctive cherry red cabins, offers an unforgettable 11-minute ride that’s nothing short of awe-inspiring. It’s a journey that captivates locals and visitors alike, providing panoramic views that never cease to amaze.

Peak Chair Express

For a more local flavor, hop aboard the Peak Chair Express, often dubbed the “local rollercoaster.” Ascending to the summit of Whistler Mountain in under four minutes, this chairlift grants swift access to some of the region’s most challenging terrains. These lifts aren’t just conveyances, but gateways to unforgettable experiences.

“My favourite place to ski on the hill is the Peak Chair on a sunny, powder day because the show from the lift line is almost as good as the skiing is.” Mike Douglas, Professional skier filmmaker.

“On a pow day, you just can’t beat riding from Peak Chair down to Creekside with a crew of friends; the routes down are endless, which is a big part of the allure.” Taylor Godber, Local & professional snowboarder

Après

Whistler has so many après ski options – whether you’re a bit crafty (think craft beer), feel the need to go urban, rustic or high-end after a day on the slopes. Maybe you want to kick up your boots and dance on the bar-top or it’s about enjoying quality time with your family. Whatever your style, you can après any way you like at Whistler Blackcomb on your ski holiday.

Party Après

Merlin’s Bar & Grill: Located at the base of Blackcomb Mountain in Whistler’s Upper Village, Merlin’s après sessions are described as “off-the-hook”. Good times, mountain-high nachos, bar top dancing and the shotski! This place also features an upstairs mezzanine just for families, with a smaller bar and additional seating overlooking the action downstairs.

Merlin’s in Whistler Blackcomb Canada | © Tourism Whistler / Mike Crane

• The Bearfoot Bistro: Catering to more high-end après featuring an onsite ice room if that’s your style.

  

   

  Coast Mountain Brewing Co: Enjoy craft beers that you will only find in Whistler. This brewing company offers a variety of brews including special seasonal options.  Ease into the après in their comfortable and relaxing tasting room.

  Buffalo Bills: Featuring a huge dancefloor, classic pub food and top 40 tunes. No trip to Whistler is complete until you’ve been to Buffalo Bills.

  Après Foodie Tours

• Tasting Tours
  Foodie’s Delight: This Whistler tasting tour takes you on a guided walking tour to some of Whistler’s favourite restaurants. Enjoy a different course at a different venue.
  Whistler Craft Crawls: A tour of four Whistler locales, where you get to sample tasty brews and meet some other like-minded beer lovers.
  Après Ski Mountain Dinner Tours
  Nightrider Snowmobile Tour: Venture high into the mountains under moonlight and explore the famous Fitzsimmons Creek Valley.
  Blackcomb Mountain Snowmobile Tour: Take a ride up Blackcomb Mountain and enjoy a mug of hot chocolate in an igloo, with the glittering lights of the Village twinkling below you.
  Mountain Top Fondue Dinner: A unique experience to Crystal Hut perched atop Blackcomb Mountain at 6000ft. Here you’ll be treated to a traditional fondue dinner and live entertainment from local musicians. The Snowcat Mountain Top Fondue was awarded the Canadian Signature Experience by the Canadian Tourism Commission, this is an activity that is considered a ‘must do’ in Canada. 

  

  Après with a VIEW

  Umbrella Bar & Deck
  This daytime après ski venue – The Roundhouse Lodge – is located 6,069 feet up Whistler Mountain. Perfect for ski refreshments and to enjoy stunning views before shredding more snowy laps.

  

  
  

   

  Après Fun & Games

  Forged Axe Throwing
  The dart board has been supersized in this uniquely Canadian activity. As the name suggests, it involves wielding a few sharp things so it’s definitely an adult-supervised option for kids ages 10 plus.

  Shiver me Timbers!
  There’s a pirate ship at the base of Whistler Mountain? Of course there is!  This special place is a puzzle escape room – the kind where you have to solve clues to escape. A great family adventure… or anyone’s adventure with more advanced rooms on offer.
  

  Luxury Après

  Ice Cave Dining
  That’s right dinner in an ice cave. Bucket list jackpot! Limo ride, helicopter flight and a three-course private dining experience with incredible food. Surrounded by blue ice towers, seats lined with furs and fleece – this is a once in a lifetime experience and cheaper than a trip to space!

  

   

  Après with the family

  Whistler is definitely a family friendly ski resort and provides special après ski activities.

  Whistler Olympic Plaza: The go-to place at Whistler for families. This family fun zone is home to variety of outdoor, winter activities and entertainment (on selected nights). Activities vary but can include meeting Whistler’s sled dogs, sliding on the snow, warming up at the firepit, ice skating, arts ‘n craft, trying maple syrup taffy and story time. Developed as the home for Whistler’s medal ceremonies, Whistler Olympic Plaza has since become HQ for winter fun in Whistler Village.

  Whistler’s insider tip: “After skating, make sure to stop by the adjacent Olympic Rings for a photo. There is a rock podium there at perfect photo height, so you can put your camera’s timer on and get everyone in the shot.

  

  Teen Time: Plenty to keep them busy after a day on the slopes with teen only ski and snowboard groups plus young adult movie nights and more.
  Market: “Made in Whistler” Artisan Market is on Saturdays at The Westin from 12-6pm.

  Valley Après

  A Night at the Callaghan Valley
  When Whistler Blackcomb closes its slopes for the day, you can still get outdoors and get active at night with activities at the Callaghan Valley. On offer is snowshoeing, fat tyre biking, base boarding, and both Nordic and cross-country skiing. Amazing evening snow adventures.

Fire and Ice Show

Embrace a quintessential Whistler tradition by attending the Fire and Ice Show, an electrifying event that graces winter Sunday nights. A must-watch for locals and tourists alike, this free spectacle showcases local athletes flaunting their gravity-defying feats through a 16-foot ring of fire.

“Join the spirited crowd in awe or catch the action from the nearby Irish bar, the Dubh Linn Gate, with a craft beer in hand. This show encapsulates the heart of Whistler’s dynamic spirit. – Rachel Hughes, Toursim Whistler

Exploring Main Street

Stroll down Main Street to uncover a culinary haven that caters to all tastes. From savory meat pies to delectable French crepes, tantalizing sushi, flavorful pasta, hearty burgers, and more – the options are endless. This family-friendly enclave offers diverse dining choices that elevate your Whistler experience. Don’t miss the chance to savor a world of flavors all in one street, conveniently located close to Whistler Olympic Plaza.

Snowcat Mountain Top Fondue

Elevate your Whistler adventure with the Snowcat Mountain Top Fondue experience, a true Canadian gem. Recognized as a Canadian Signature Experience by the Canadian Tourism Commission, this activity is nothing short of a “must-do” in the Great White North. Venture to the mountaintop for an evening of indulgence, where you’ll savor the finest fondue against a backdrop of panoramic views. It’s a remarkable journey that encapsulates the essence of Whistler’s unique offerings.

In Whistler, the journey to the peaks is not just a ride – it’s an exploration, a tradition, and a gateway to cherished memories.

To book a beyond ordinary ski/board experience to Whistler British Columbia, Canada including flights, transfers, accommodation, lift passes and activities call the Active Travel Experts at travel&co NZ Toll-Free: 0800 555 035 or click here for our latest offers.

Banner image: Tourism Whistler