What are the best things to do in Whistler?

Summer is one of Whistler’s busiest and most popular seasons, usually running from June through September, when the weather is warm and daylight hours long. Visitors to Whistler, Canada, in summer can expect daytime temperatures of 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), while evenings are cooler, making a light jacket useful after sunset.

Popular summer activities in Whistler include a ride on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola for panoramic mountain views, a stroll beside Lost Lake or Alta Lake, and time exploring Whistler Village. The Valley Trail also offers a scenic way to explore the area on foot, with paved, relatively level sections suited to a more relaxed pace.

The Peak 2 Peak Gondola is a scenic gondola linking Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, and it’s worth experiencing for its panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. It reaches 436 metres (1,427 feet) above the valley floor, making it the world’s highest lift of its kind. The ride takes approximately 11 minutes one way, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. The ride is smooth, with seating available, and is generally a highlight for first-time visitors.

The Peak 2 Peak Gondola operates during both the summer and winter seasons, with seasonal closures for maintenance in spring and fall. Each cabin holds up to 28 passengers, including 22 seated and six standing. In summer, the ride offers views of alpine wildflowers, rugged peaks and glaciers, while winter brings snow-covered mountain scenery and a different perspective of Whistler and Blackcomb.

The Audain Art Museum opened in 2016 and features a collection spanning centuries of British Columbia art. Highlights include Indigenous masks, paintings by Emily Carr and contemporary works by artists from across the province. Designed by Patkau Architects, the cantilevered building sits among the forest near Fitzsimmons Creek.

Most visitors spend one to two hours exploring the museum’s permanent collection and special exhibitions. The museum is wheelchair accessible, with an elevator to the upper galleries and wheelchair access through the main entrance.

Located at the north end of Whistler Village, the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre is a First Nations cultural centre jointly operated by the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations, whose traditional territories meet in the Whistler area. It shares the history, cultures and artistic traditions of both Nations through exhibits, Indigenous art, cultural demonstrations and storytelling. Visitors can view traditional masks, baskets and regalia, and enjoy Indigenous-inspired food at the on-site cafe.

A visit typically takes around 90 minutes, allowing time to explore the exhibits and learn about the living cultures of the Squamish and Lil’wat peoples. The centre offers an opportunity to understand the Indigenous histories and traditions connected to Whistler and the surrounding region.

Whistler offers activities throughout the year, from lakeside walks and cultural attractions to winter sleigh rides and summer mountain adventures. Compare the best season, effort level and key details for each activity using the table below.