When most people hear the the town of Whistler they think of skiing. It’s for good reason, Whistler is a world-famous ski destination and home to the 2010 Winter Olympics. Last year Whistler received over 3 million visitors (45% in the winter) and many come for it’s skiing. But what if skiing isn’t your thing? Don’t worry there are plenty of fun things to do here besides skiing. Unlike many former Olympic villages, Whistler has recently gone through a major overhaul and is still full of exciting things to do, great restaurants and unique shopping.

Getting to Whistler is fairly easy. Once you arrive at the Vancouver airport it is about a 2 hour trip by car up highway 99, also called the Sea to Sky Highway. There are also buses that run from the airport to Whistler all day long so you should have no troubles getting there.

For the down-hill ski challenged, there are tons of fun things to do in the area. Here are 11 of our favorites:

1. Whistler Blackcomb Coca-Cola Tube Park: Not into skiing but still need your down-hill adrenaline fix? This tube park has over 1000 feet of sliding on seven lanes and a special conveyor lift that will bring you back to the top.  Located in the Base 2 Zone of Blackcomb Mountain, the park is open from 10 am to 6 pm, December to April. The best part about the experience is that it requires no skill. Anyone can enjoy the park as long as they are at least 36 inches tall. It is a perfect day out for the entire family.

   

2. Peak-to-Peak Gondola: if you are in Whistler then you can not miss this one of a kind experience. The Peak-to-Peak glass bottom Gondola spans 2.7 miles from the Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. It holds some very impressive records: it is the worlds longest unsupported span for a lift of this kind at 1.88 miles (Guinness Record). It is the World’s highest lift of its kind at 1,427ft above the valley floor (also a Guinness Record) and it is the World’s longest continuous lift system – connecting 2 high speed chair lifts and 1 gondola. Words don’t do it justice, check out the video then go experience it for yourself.

3. Whistler Snowcat Tours: This is a great choice for those that want to experience the rugged back country in the warmth of a snowcoach. This is an ideal luxury family experience that will be talked about for a long time. Aboard the snowcat, you will experience 360 degree views of the Whistler back country, amazing vistas and endless powdery white snow. Once your hour long tour ends you will be brought to the Crystal Hut where your Fondu-style dinner waits for you.

4. Mountain Sleigh Rides: Here is a perfect romantic experience for you and your loved ones. Bundle up, sit back, relax and enjoy the ride. Relive the days of old with a peaceful sleigh ride while breathing the fresh mountain air, taking in the panoramic views and maybe seeing a few local wild residents while you’re at it (Don’t forget your hot chocolate). You can also enjoy the city lights with a night ride if that’s more your thing.

5. Ice Skating in the Village: What better way to enjoy the cool mountain air then to bundle up, throw on the skates and enjoy an afternoon with the family on the ice. Don’t forget to take a break from the skating to enjoy a nice warm cup of hot chocolate. Whistler Olympic Plaza opens the rink when the conditions are right so make sure to check their website before you go. If the conditions are not right yet, go to the Meadow Park Sports Centre where you can find indoor skating, swimming, fitness center, basketball courts and more.

6. Pamper yourself at the Scandinave Spa: A short drive form the village is the Scandinave Spa that specializes in hydrotherapy treatment using alternating hot and cold water to relax and rejuvenate tired, sore muscles. Alternating or contrast baths have been used for years and I can attest myself, they work great. The spa is almost completely silent because it does not allow talking or cell phone use to preserve the serenity of the spa treatment. it’s definitely worth the trip, you will walk away feeling noticeably more relaxed and have more energy as well.

7. Try cross-country skiing or snow shoeing: Maybe you want to get in on the ski action but you’re not ready to hit the downhill slopes yet. If that’s the case give either cross-country skiing or snow shoeing a try. Nearby Lost Lake Park has over 18 miles of snow-covered trails with spectacular views of both Whistler and Blackcomb mountains perfect for your outdoor adventure. The park is a short walk from the village with daily shuttles to and from the park. Again, trails are open when the weather conditions are right so check the daily trail conditions report here.

8. Sample the world’s only organic potato vodka: If you need a break from the cold wintry weather take a drive about 30 minutes north of Whistler to the town of Pemberton. Here you can sample the world’s only organic potato Vodka, Gin, Absinthe, Schnaps and Liqueurs. They also make Whisky and Brandy from locally grown grains and fruits if Vodka or Gin isn’t your thing. If you come on a Saturday they offer tours and tastings for $6 per person.

9. Watch the Whistler Fire and Ice Show: Every Sunday night during the ski season sit back with your favorite winter warmer and watch Whistler’s best skiers flip over and jump through flaming hoops. After the jumpers are finished the show continues with music from the DJ, fire spinning and a fireworks display. The show is free every Sunday at 6:30 pm and a lot of fun for the whole family and friends.

10. Eat your way around Whistler Village: Whistler has a ton of food options for even the pickiest of eaters. Selections range from El Furniture Warehouse restaurant where every meal is just $5.95 to world-class cuisine found in Araxi Restaurant that specializes in locally sources ingredients straight from farm to table.  There are no shortages of great places to eat here. If you can think of it, chances are you’ll find it pretty close.

11. Unleash your inner lumberjack with Forged axe throwing: (My personal favorite!) This action-packed experience will keep you and your family or friends talking about it for years. Who doesn’t want to take out some aggression and try their hand at axe throwing? A sport that dates back to the early days of American civilization of both Native American’s and European settlers. Whether you are a first timer looking to try axe throwing, an experienced timber sports veteran who wants to practice their skills, or a competitor in our leagues, Forged is your spot!