10 Things to do in Whistler that aren't skiing or snowboarding

Welcome to Whistler, British Columbia, home to one of the largest ski resorts in North America, a world-class skiing and snowboarding resort, and a dream destination that sits at the top of many mountain-lovers’ bucket lists. Why is this charming Canadian mountain town so popular? Aside from hosting the 2010 Winter Olympics, which left a rich legacy of history, artifacts, and monuments, Whistler offers a wide variety of year-round activities for all ages.

For the adventurous, you can zipline through forests, snowmobile across snowy landscapes, bungee jump over valleys or even bobsleigh like an Olympian. If you prefer a more relaxing experience, unwind at a spa, take in breathtaking views from Canada’s longest gondola, stroll through the picturesque village, or explore a magical Valle Lumina. Let’s take a closer look at the year-round fun Whistler has to offer:

Ziplining

Soar down the mountain without ever having to learn to ski! Ziplining in Whistler offers breathtaking views in every direction as you fly through forests and over creeks, surrounded by the stunning Coast Mountains. Choose from various packages promised to immerse you in nature, including the longest zipline in Canada and the USA, zip lines connected by suspension bridges, boardwalks, and trails, or the fastest zip lines on Whistler Blackcomb. You can even take a 4x4 ride to reach the start, with incredible views along the way, all while learning about Whistler’s unique ecology and wildlife.

Peak 2 Peak Gondola

Riding the gondolas at Whistler Blackcomb isn’t just for the skiers and snowboarders. The Peak 2 Peak Gondola, stretching nearly 3 miles, is the longest in Canada and holds a Guinness World Record for being the highest lift of its kind and boasts impressive views of Whistler’s forests, glaciers, and lakes, while connecting the two peaks.

Visitors can use the gondola to access the terrain to ski, hike, or explore both mountains, but it’s also perfect for those looking to enjoy a relaxing ride with panoramic 360-degree views. Try the glass-bottom gondola to feel like you’re floating above the landscape for an extra thrill. After the ride, head to the Umbrella Bar atop Whistler Mountain, often called “Whistler’s best-kept secret,” and sip on a mulled wine or a UBar Caesar (the Canadian twist on a Bloody Mary). Or, indulge in a luxurious Bubbles & Brunch at Christine’s for a delicious and upscale meal to toast to a spectacular day ahead on the mountain.

Scandinave Spa

Vacations are all about relaxation, and there’s no better escape than the spa, especially one completely immersed in nature. At Scandinave Spa, you’ll be pampered with a complete therapeutic experience surrounded by mountains and coastal forests. The spa promotes a digital detox, allowing you to fully embrace the soothing sounds of nature.

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Guests are encouraged to try three rounds of hydrotherapy, which involves alternating between hot and cold water stages. Hydrotherapy is known for aiding in recovery after conquering the mountain by skis or foot. You can relax and unwind in the solarium, warm up by an outdoor fireplace, or relax in a eucalyptus steam room to truly help your mind rest. For an even more indulgent experience, choose from a variety of massages to complement the baths and deepen your sense of relaxation. Known as a “Nordic haven of relaxation,” Scandinave Spa offers an authentic Scandinavian sauna experience for the ultimate getaway.

Bungee Jumping

If you’re a thrill-seeker, bungee jumping in Whistler is a must! Take the leap from a bridge 160 feet above the Cheakamus River to add adrenaline to your mountain vacation. This is British Columbia’s highest and most scenic bungee site, open year-round, which means you can experience this thrill surrounded by snow-capped trees and mountains and feel the crisp mountain air during your descent. With experienced operators and an impeccable safety record, you can feel secure as you dive into the adventure. Beyond the excitement, this experience offers unique views of Whistler’s breathtaking landscapes. Jump through the forest and feel the crisp alpine air as you plunge toward the river below, making it an unforgettable way to enhance your mountain vacation.

Bobsleigh & Olympic Tour

If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to be an Olympian, the Bobsleigh experience at the Whistler Sliding Centre is a must. As the host of the 2010 Winter Olympics, Whistler holds a rich Olympic history, and visitors can tour this state-of-the-art facility, home to the world’s fastest ice track. For those seeking a real adrenaline rush, hop into a bobsleigh with a trained pilot and race down the 1,450-meter track, twisting and turning through 10 curves at speeds over 125 km/hr (over 77 miles per hour!). You’ll experience up to 4 g-forces, giving you a true taste of what Olympic athletes feel. The Whistler Sliding Centre is the only place in Canada where the public can ride a bobsleigh and slide like an Olympian.

Looking for even more Olympic fun? Whistler Olympic Park, the Nordic venue of the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, offers over 50 miles of cross-country ski trails and nearly 20 miles of snowshoeing trails, including dog-friendly options. Enjoy activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, or even try biathlon—a unique sport that combines cross-country skiing with rifle shooting.

Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre and Vallee Lumina

Whistler offers unique cultural experiences, including the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (SLCC) and Vallee Lumina. The SLCC is the first of its kind in Canada, celebrating and educating visitors about the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations, who came together to preserve and share their traditional cultures with the world.

Vallee Limina is a captivating night walk or “twilight expedition,” where a lighted pathway leads you through the forest while telling enchanting stories about the wonders of Whistler. As you follow the trail, radio transmissions narrate the legend of the area, creating a magical, immersive experience.

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Snowmobiling

Get your adrenaline pumping and your cameras ready for an epic snow-filled adventure, snowmobiling through the stunning forests in Whistler. This thrilling adventure can be catered to anyone from a beginner's first time to experts looking for an extreme ride. Choose from many different options, including an easy and scenic family tour, a wild backcountry tour, hitting first tracks on a ride to a Canadian Yukon breakfast, or a ride to the top of Blackcomb Mountain for a romantic candle-lit fondue dinner paired with fine wine. Visitors love the guided sled tours to experience a favorite Canadian outdoor pastime to capture some views you can only reach by snowmobile!

Foodie and Beverage:

Many visitors come to Whistler for the stunning mountain views but stay for the incredible food and après-ski cocktails. Whether you're looking for a quick bite to maximize your time on the slopes, some tasty bar food with a cold beer, or a romantic sleigh ride dinner with fondue and fine wine, Whistler has something for every palate.

A local favorite is Bearfoot Bistro, known for its unique dining experience featuring everything from a bubbly bar and Pacific Northwest cuisine to an impressive wine list. Don’t miss the underground wine cellar, where you can saber a bottle of Champagne and take the cork home as a keepsake. For an extra thrill, bundle up for the Grey Goose Ice Room, where you can enjoy a sub-zero vodka flight or party in the Champagne Lounge after hours.

For a classic après-ski experience, head to Dusty’s Bar & BBQ, a favorite of celebrity comedian Chelsea Handler. As Whistler’s original watering hole, Dusty’s offers live entertainment and a lively patio and claims to serve the world’s best spicy Caesar cocktail.

Village Strolling

There’s nothing like a relaxing stroll through a charming, peaceful mountain town. The pedestrian-only Whistler Village conveniently sits at the base of the ski resort. It offers something for everyone to love, including immersing yourself in arts and culture, snapping pictures at Olympic Plaza, ice skating with your family, shopping until you drop, or strolling through contemporary art galleries. Whistler has over 200 shops, including boutiques, galleries, jewelers, memorable souvenirs, fashion, and outdoor gear, and over 100 restaurants, from casual, quick-bites, lively apres-ski bars to finger food and fine dining. You’ll never get bored exploring all that Whistler Village has to offer!

Tube Park

The tube park is a fantastic attraction for the whole family, offering the thrill of sliding down the mountain. Adults will feel like kids again as they twist, turn, laugh, and scream while trying out this exciting winter activity. The best part? No special equipment or experience is needed to have a great time. The tube park features over 1,000 feet of slides with multiple lanes, including gentle slopes for kids and faster lanes for the more adventurous.

Whistler offers no shortage of fun, from world-class snow sports to unique culture, a bustling village, family-friendly activities, cozy accommodations, and exceptional dining. It’s a year-round destination that truly has it all—Are you interested in experiencing it yourself? Our Mountain Travel Experts are here to help you plan the ultimate Whistler vacation!

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Ready to plan a trip to Whistler but not quite sure where to start? Our Mountain Travel Experts have you covered. Start planning your dream trip today.