Local guide by Kyoko Hamazaki, Whistler luxury real estate advisor

Frequently labelled the “Best Resort in the World,” Whistler Blackcomb is legendary for skiing — but what truly sets it apart is everything beyond the slopes. At the heart of it all is Whistler Village: a vibrant, pedestrian-only hub where culture, cuisine, wellness, and community come together year-round.

Whether you’re planning a winter getaway, a summer escape, or exploring Whistler as a second-home destination, here’s a curated, local look at the best non-ski activities in Whistler — plus insider tips on where to stay and why so many visitors decide to make Whistler home.

Where Is Whistler?

Whistler sits in the Coast Mountains, about 120 km north of Vancouver, along the breathtaking Sea-to-Sky Highway (Highway 99).

• 🚗 Drive time: ~2 hours from Vancouver

• ✈️ Nearest airport: Vancouver International (YVR)

• 🚐 Transfers available by shuttle, private SUV, limo — even helicopter (weather permitting)

This easy access is a big reason Whistler is so popular with second-home buyers and vacation investors.

Get to Know Whistler Village

Whistler Village was intentionally designed as a walkable, car-free alpine town. The Village Stroll winds past boutique shops, award-winning restaurants, galleries, hotels, and residences — all set against dramatic mountain views.

Key areas to know:

• Village Core: Central, lively, steps from lifts

• Upper Village (Blackcomb Base): Quieter, ski-in/ski-out feel

• Creekside: Whistler’s original base, relaxed and local, 3 km south

👉 From a real estate perspective, each neighbourhood offers a very different lifestyle and investment profile.

Dining in Whistler: A Destination in Itself

With 200+ restaurants, cafés, and bars, Whistler’s food scene rivals major cities. Highlights include:

• Snowmobile-accessed mountain fondue dinners

• Progressive tasting tours across top restaurants

• Local breweries and après-ski lounges

• Refined fine dining and cozy pubs

💡 Dining demand is one reason Village-area properties remain highly sought after for short-term rentals.

The Best Non-Ski Activities in Whistler

Even non-skiers fall in love with Whistler. Top experienceinclude:

• Scandinave Spa Whistler – Hot and cold pools in a serene forest setting

• Vallea Lumina – Immersive night-time light walk through the woods

• PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola – Iconic sightseeing between Whistler & Blackcomb

• Whistler Sliding Centre – Passenger bobsleigh & skeleton on an Olympic track

• Dogsledding, ziplining, snowmobiling, and biathlon experiences

Families will love snow tubing, ice skating, snowshoeing, and simply wandering the Village under thousands of twinkling winter lights.

Culture & Indigenous Heritage

Whistler lies on shared traditional territory of the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations. A visit to the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre is a must — offering powerful insight into local history, art, and living culture.

Unmissable Events in Whistler

Whistler’s calendar is packed year-round:

• Whistler Film Festival

• World Ski & Snowboard Festival

• Weekly Fire & Ice shows

• Live music, comedy, art exhibitions, and races

📅 Events drive consistent tourism demand — an important factor for owners considering rental income.

Where to Stay in Whistler Village

Whistler offers:

• Luxury slope-side hotels

• Fully equipped condos

• Townhomes and alpine chalets

• Full-time residential neighbourhoods minutes from the Village

👉 Choosing the right property depends on your goals: lifestyle use, nightly rentals, long-term appreciation, or a mix of all three.

Planning Your Whistler Trip (and Maybe More)

Most visitors say longer stays are better — more time to explore, better value, and deeper connection to the community. Many of my clients first came for a holiday… and later returned as homeowners.

Thinking About Buying in Whistler?

As a Whistler-based luxury real estate advisor with deep local roots, I help clients:

• Find the right neighbourhood for their lifestyle

• Understand zoning & rental rules

• Evaluate investment and resale potential

• Navigate Whistler’s unique market with confidence

📩 Thinking about a Whistler getaway that could become something more? Reach out — I’m happy to help.

About the Author

Kyoko Hamazaki
Whistler Real Estate Advisor
Local knowledge • Global perspective

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