Walking Around in Downtown Whistler

Here at Frugal and Fun, we’re all about working out what our priorities in life are. For many of us, travel will rank highly on that list. 

The village of Whistler is more than just the ski resorts that surround it. It has a life of its own, full of shops, delicious restaurants, and the best view of the mountains from safely on the ground. If you’re looking for a break from the slopes, take a relaxing walk downtown Whistler and enjoy all this great town has to offer.

Lodging

Nothing in Whistler Village is more than a short walk or bus ride away, but if you want to enjoy the village on foot, you’ll first need to choose which area you want to explore and base your accommodations on your itinerary. Whistler is broken up into three distinct areas – Village North, Village Centre, and Upper Village. For a quieter experience with a more local feel, stay in Village North. For easy access to Whistler Mountain, stay in Village Centre, where you can find some of the nicest hotels and spas, all within reach of the stunning Alta Lake. Upper Village is just a spit away from Blackcomb Mountain, and many thrill-seekers stay here to enjoy Adventure Zone, a family-friendly adventure park located at the base of the mountain.

Unless you’re looking for real estate for sale in Whistler, you’ll need to find accommodations that suit your needs, and there are many great ones to choose from that put you right in the middle of your favorite attractions. 

Dining

No matter where you’re staying, there’s a great restaurant within walking distance of your accommodations. A few favorite restaurants are Bar Oso, located in Village Square, and Alta Bistro, in the Pinnacle Hotel in the northern area of the village. COWS is a favorite spot for ice cream and sure to hit the spot after dinner. If you’re looking for a great spot to enjoy a morning coffee before hitting the slopes, check out Blenz Coffee for a cup o’ joe that will knock your socks off.

Shopping

One of the best parts of Whistler is the incredible shopping scene. Whether you’re looking for the best gear to take on the slopes or you’re here for fine jewelry and artwork, you’ll find it just a short walk away from your hotel. The best place to start your shopping excursion is the Marketplace Shopping Center, located in Village North. Here, you’ll find local shops mixed with your favorite brands, as well as an impressive grocery selection.

Entertainment

Be sure to plan your trip around some of the great events happening in the village. From live music to art exhibits, there’s always something entertaining going on to enjoy when you’re not on the slopes. Check out the Fire & Ice Show each winter for an impressive (and kid-friendly!) show that involves performers jumping through rings of fire, fireworks, music, and more. You can also take a nighttime snowmobile tour, visit the Audain Art Museum, or dance the night away at Moe Joe’s Nightclub.