Whistler is known for being one of the best ski slopes in the world in the winter and a top-notch biking destination in the summer. But the Canadian resort town deserves a lot more credit for its infrastructure. Between outdoor adventures, folks can explore the beautiful, walkable town at the base of the mountain and fuel up at the best Whistler restaurants.
Visiting Whistler, it's easy to see where Collingwood, Ontario's Blue Mountain Village got its inspiration — only, the B.C. original is much more developed. The best Whistler restaurants serve a variety of different cuisines, often paired with local B.C. craft beer and wine; shopping options range from big brands to souvenir shops and local stores; and there are art galleries and other things to do in Whistler that put the region's culture on full display. The wellness offerings could give any of our Ontario spas a run for their money, and the focus on sustainable items everywhere you look gives us that warm fuzzy feeling.
Whether you're visiting to ski, bike, hike or just enjoy the outdoors, Whistler is a gorgeous destination with plenty to see, do and eat. Tuck into excellent cuisine at the best Whistler restaurants and experience all the fun, cultural and relaxing things to do in Whistler.
Whistler restaurants
1. Bar Oso
150-4222 Village Square
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This contemporary Spanish spot in the Whistler Village serves tapas plates to the après crowd in the early evening and to dressed up diners as the night gets later. Chef Jorge Muñoz Santos is from Madrid, and it certainly shows.
Sit at a high top or around the glowing, orange marbled bar in the relaxed yet polished atmosphere and snack on one of the best assortments of meat and cheese you'll ever have. The savoury iberico with juicy, flavourful fatty parts is a must. Round out the meal with crispy croquettes and beef tartare with tangy capers. The excellent craft cocktails range from sweet to refreshing to the irresistable Oso Sour served with candied bacon that's made fresh daily.
2. Barn Nork Aharn Thai
8018 Mons Rd.
Don't let the unexpected location in an RV park and campground deter you from trying this delicious and authentic Thai spot. The chefs and staff are transplants from Chiang Mai, serving an ever-changing menu that ranges from street food and snacks to noodle and rice dishes, curry, stir-fry and even home-made, Thai-coffee-flavoured ice cream. Try to snag one of four tables in the simple shop, order delivery or grab takeout (in warmer weather you can eat it on their patio).
3. Peaked Pies Whistler
4369 Main St. #105
Meat pies never piqued our interest until we tried Peaked Pies. Forget all the soggy, mushy pies of your past — this Australian-style pie shop in the Whistler Village absolutely nails the perfect texture. Their meat pies are crispy, flaky and firm on the outside, and wonderfully warm and melty on the inside. Flavourful fillings like ground beef, steak, cheese, bacon, chicken, mushrooms or a vegetable medley make for a hearty meal during any day of physical pursuits.
5. Purebread Bakery + Coffee
4338 Main St. #122
Stop into this bakery and café in the Whistler Village for a coffee and a quick bite — although deciding what to order from the mountain of glistening treats behind the glass might take you a while. From savoury scones stuffed with cheese and bacon to sweet treats like the Outrageous Brownie with espresso powder, the baked goods will blow you away with their unique and delicious flavours.
4. Provisions
4222 Village Square, Unit 120
For a heartier breakfast or lunch, this all-day café in the Whistler Village serves mouthwatering sammies, soups, salads and roast chicken. In the morning, chow down on breakfast options like the Provisions Egg Sandwich, a crispy poached egg, tomato, avocado and smoked cheddar on a seeded milk bun, and in the afternoon, go for a tuna melt, grilled cheese or a rotisserie chicken salad sandwich. They also serve freshly baked pastries and have a full espresso bar.
6. Black's Pub
7-4340 Sundial Pl.
Tourism Whistler/Justa Jeskova
Right at the base of the mountain, Black's Pub is the spot to get into one at the end of the day. Order one of the Bullldog drinks, like the Royale Mojito Bulldog that sees the classic cocktail topped with an up-turned mini bottle of prosecco. They've got a whole menu of drop shots and shooters, like the butterscotch and rum Burt Reynolds. Fill up on elevated pub fare like chicken wings, short rib poutine, burgers and pizza before your big night.
7. The Longhorn Saloon
4280 Mountain Square
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If you want the full shot-ski, sparklers, water-guns-full-of-alcohol, dancing on the table après experience, The Longhorn Saloon is the place. Visit on a day when the sun's out and watch the afternoon patio party at the base of the mountain unfold in all its glorious chaos.
Things to do in Whistler
1. Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre
4584 Blackcomb Way
The Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre is a must visit on any trip to Whistler. The not-for-profit is jointly operated by the Squamish Nation and Lil'wat Nation, providing an opportunity for visitors to learn about each of these unique, rich cultures and the people who historically called this region home. Hourly tours include a beautiful hand drum welcome song, a powerful 15-minute film and a guided tour of the exhibits and artefacts (including an excellent and spooky folklore storytelling) with a cultural ambassador. Take the time to peruse the gift shop for authentic, Indigenous-made treasures, and grab a bite or a snack to go, like candied salmon or blueberry bison meat sticks, at Thunderbird Café.
2. Vallea Lumina
Sixteen Mile Creek Forest Service Rd.
Hiking through an old-growth forest is already a beautiful experience, and at Vallea Lumina it's made into a moving multimedia night walk. To say it's a light show with music doesn't begin to capture the magic, wonder and storytelling of this immersive, all-ages experience. Follow the tale of two hikers as you walk through enchanting projections, light displays and music that surrounds you. It feels as though the forest has come alive just to share this story with you.
3. Scandinave Spa
8010 Mons Rd.
Scandinave Spa/Joern Rohde
Tourism Whistler/Mirae Campbell/Scandinave Spa
Tourism Whistler/Mirae Campbell/Scandinave Spa
Tourism Whistler/Justa Jeskova
Scandinave Spa/Chad Chomlack
Tourism Whistler/Mirae Campbell/Scandinave Spa
Tourism Whistler/Mirae Campbell/Scandinave Spa
Tourism Whistler/Chad Chomlack
Tourism Whistler/Chad Chomlack
After a long day on the trails or slopes, unwind in peace with a silent, digital detox at Scandinave Spa Whistler. The thermal therapy circuit features hot and cold installations, like pools and saunas, in a gorgeous natural setting surrounded by old-growth rainforest and mountain views. Spend the evening moving from hot to cold to relaxation areas at your leisure, while any tension in your body melts away. Then, enjoy the best sleep of your life that night.
4. Audain Art Museum
4350 Blackcomb Way
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It's hard to believe that this expansive art museum began as the personal collection of home builder Michael Audain and his wife Yoshiko Karasawa. Founded on the major philanthropic gift of Audain and Karasawa, the art museum houses a permanent collection from British Columbia's most celebrated artists.
