Best Places To Visit In Whistler On Your Next Trip

The most well-known ski resort in Canada, Whistler, is situated at the base of two massive mountains, Blackcomb and Whistler. These magnificent peaks combined make up the largest winter sports region in North America, and Whistler Village, which is constantly buzzing, offers quick access to some of the greatest skiing around.

Encircling the village, this rugged expanse blends wild rivers, teal-hued lakes, endless forests, and volcanic summits. The Sea-to-Sky Highway, also known as Highway 99, is the only road that connects the area's attractions and communities. It is a breathtaking drive that ranks among Canada's most spectacular road trips. For more ideas on places to visit in British Columbia, see our list of the best places to visit in Whistler, Canada.

Whistler is the most well-known ski resort in Canada

Top Attractions In Whistler In 2024

Whistler is a year-round vacation destination that offers endless possibilities for adventure and excitement; visiting Whistler only once is not an option. Whistler is known for its epic ski hills on both Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, but there are plenty of Whistler tourist attractions off the slopes when the weather is nice and warm.

1. Whistler Blackcomb

With 200 runs, 36 lifts (including high-speed gondolas and chair lifts), and 16 alpine bowls spread over 8171 acres of terrain, Whistler Blackcomb is the largest ski resort in North America. There is a lot of terrain to choose from because you can ski both Whistler Mountain and Blackcomb Mountain. Even if you are not a serious skier, it would be a shame not to visit Whistler Mountain, which boasts the longest ski season in Canada with runs for all skill levels and the longest ski season in Canada.

If you're organizing a ski vacation in Whistler, it's advisable to allocate more than a single day for skiing. We suggest opting for a three-day pass at least. With numerous trails spanning Whistler Mountain and Blackcomb Mountain, attempting to cover them all in a day might feel overwhelming. Even during summer visits to Whistler, skiing on the mountains remains an option.

 Whistler Blackcomb is the largest ski resort in North America

2. Squamish-Lil'wat Cultural Centre

The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre is one of the top places to see in Whistler, Canada, and is the best way to connect with the culture and people of the area. The Center is run by the First Nation's People who have lived on this land for centuries. The Squamish and Lil'wat Peoples opened this cultural center to welcome visitors to their ancestral land. Watch the welcome video showcasing their culture to learn about the history and ways of the Squamish people, and do not miss the welcome song!

Take your time looking at the art and artifacts; the staff is very open and welcoming, so be sure to ask questions about indigenous culture as you visit the gallery. Do not forget to take a stroll down the meditative trail outside.

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3. Peak 2 Peak Gondola

If skiing isn't your thing, don't miss out on the stunning panoramic vistas by taking a ride on the Peak 2 Peak gondola. This scenic journey presents breathtaking views that link the renowned Whistler and Blackcomb mountains across a 4km span. The gondola operates almost continuously throughout the year, with only a brief pause in the fall for a week or two.

If you are lucky, you may be able to board one of the two gondolas out of 24 with a glass-bottom floor; these gondolas are gray rather than the characteristic red of the others.

Moreover, the Peak 2 Peak gondola is used by skiers and snowboarders during the winter to travel between Blackcomb and Whistler runs. 

The Peak 2 Peak gondola is a must-visit

4. Whistler Olympic Park 

The area boasts 160 km of trails and was the venue for the cross-country skiing events during the 2010 Olympics. Regardless of your skill level, there's a cross-country ski trail suited for you. 

Notably, Whistler Olympic Park attracts Olympians for training due to its extended season. Annually, Whistler stores snow during spring and preserves it through summer, allowing for an early start to skiing in the fall as soon as temperatures drop.

Whistler Olympic Park attracts Olympians for training due to its extended season

5. Whistler Mountain Bike Park

Next on our list of the best places to visit in Whistler is Whistler Mountain Bike Park. The renowned Whistler Mountain Bike Park stands as one of the premier mountain biking parks in the world and it is beginner-friendly too! Accessing the trails is convenient for mountain bikers from Whistler Village—either by using the Fitzsimmons Chair, the Whistler Gondola, or Creekside to reach the mountain's summit.

There are 70 bike trails covering a total of 80 km, catering to riders of all skill levels. For those seeking adventure in the park, intermediate and advanced cyclists will particularly enjoy The Gatorade Skills Park. Prior to embarking on your ride, ensure you've rented all necessary gear and understand your personal Limits.

Mountain Bike Park is one of the premier mountain biking parks in the world

6. Cloudraker Skybridge

When it comes to places to visit in Whistler in summer, people cannot mention Cloudraker Skybridge, which is located at the summit of Whistler Mountain, near the top of the Peak Chairlift.

Open only in summer, this metal-framed bridge spans 130 meters across a gaping chasm from Whistler Peak to West Ridge and provides some of the best views in all of British Columbia.

7. Audain Centre Art Museum

And last on our list of top attractions in Whistler for lovers of art galleries is the Audain Art Museum.

The Audain Centre is a great cultural experience, right in the middle of Whistler Village. It has both permanent and rotating exhibits, but we found the First Nations Art exhibits to be the most fascinating. The entrance is peacefully situated against a woodland backdrop, creating a perfect atmosphere for perusing art.

Audain Art Museum is among top attractions in Whistler for lovers of art galleries

8. Lost Lake

Lost Lake is a year-round destination for activities, offering mountain biking, hiking, and bird viewing in the summer and snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter. Trails branch out from the coastline, allowing tourists to explore the surrounding calm woodlands teeming with British Columbia wildlife. The little lake has a beach area and is one of the busiest sites on a hot summer day, especially because a shuttle runs from the village.

Head to Alpha Lake and Alta Lake for beautiful sandy, freshwater beaches near Whistler.

Best Time To Visit These Whistler Tourist Attractions 

The best time to visit Whistler tourist attractions falls between June and August

The best time to visit Whistler tourist attractions falls between June and August, as well as from December to March. The prime skiing conditions occur between December and February, with March offering slightly warmer weather yet maintaining good snow quality. 

June and July mark the reopening of Blackcomb Mountain for glacier skiing, while the wider Whistler area serves as a hub for camping and outdoor exploration. September, October, and November emerge as ideal for admiring foliage. April and May present moderate temperatures, perfect for engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking and biking.

In conclusion, Whistler is a destination that promises an unparalleled blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural richness. This Canadian treasure meets the needs of all travelers, whether they are looking for peaceful times by the lakes or heart-pounding activities on the slopes, making it the perfect place for your next trip of a lifetime.

For those eager to experience the best visiting places in Whistler, don't forget to apply for a Canada ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) via our Canada Immigration Services website. This essential step ensures a seamless and hassle-free entry into the country, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the wonders of Whistler from the moment you arrive.