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Keep reading to discover how to have a great and effortless Whistler day trip from Vancouver.
Who am I? Oh, I’m just the girl that has done two day trips from Vancouver to Whistler this fall. But in my defence, both visits were completely different. Trip #1 it was sunny and I went by myself. Trip #2 was freezing cold and I was with my aunt and uncle. So I thought it was time to share my top tips for a Whistler day trip from Vancouver. I think I’m kind of an expert now, right?
Whistler day trip – getting from Vancouver to Whistler
Get the bus to Whistler with Epic Rides
I have to thank my friend for this tip, but Epic Rides was a great way to get to and from Whistler in one day. It’s $35 for a return trip, and I decided to leave Vancouver at 10 am and return at 9 pm, which gave me seven hours in Whistler. When I visited Whistler over Christmas a few years ago, I also used Greyhound.
Drive to Whistler
For my second visit, my uncle drove along the Sea to Sky Highway. This drive is usually beautiful, but on this day the rain didn’t stop. However, I recommend stopping at Shannon Falls, which is just outside Squamish. Thanks to the rain, the waterfall was powering down the cliff. I have seen many waterfalls in my day, but none that monstrous. Once you get to Whistler, there are many parking lots around the Village.
Whistler day trip – where to eat and drink in Whistler
As Whistler is a tourist town, there are many pubs, restaurants and cafes to choose from. Here are my tried and tested favourites to enjoy on your Whistler day trip.
El Furniture Warehouse
The Warehouse Group operates in Vancouver as well, and everything on the menu at El Furniture is $4.95. But don’t think the cheap prices mean they skimp on quality. I have enjoyed a burger and pasta there, and both dishes were good.
The Brewhouse
We had our Christmas lunch at The Brewhouse, which is great for burgers and beers.
Cow’s
I love Cow’s Ice Cream. I am such a dedicated supporter I even ate the ice cream in the snow on Christmas Day. But it was much more appreciated after an afternoon walk in the fall.
La Bocca
Although their food looks good, I can only say that La Bocca is a great place for drinks during your Whistler day trip. Their wine list is extensive, and they have an actual heated bar. Ah-mazing.
La Brasserie
With a patio made for summertime eating and drinking, La Brasserie is definitely a restaurant to check out in Whistler. Although we enjoyed the cosy interior in winter, the food was delicious. They even have a poutine bar if that’s your sort of thing.
Whistler day trip – things to do in Whistler
Pick up a map at the beginning of your Whistler day trip
You can find maps at the Whistler Visitor Centre, or at one of their stands around the Village. They have a Village map, as well as maps of the surrounding area, which are perfect for people looking to hike.
Walk around the village with your map
This is the town’s heart, so there are plenty of shops to keep you busy. I’m a sucker for a souvenir shop, so definitely check out Cool as a Moose. It’s my favourite, and where I may have picked up a certain stuffed moose named Caesar (after the shockingly awful national drink). He is sitting above my desk as I type this.
Ride the Peak2Peak Gondola
I was sad to miss out on the Peak2Peak Gondola when I did my Whistler day trip at the end of September. But apparently it closes for a few weeks between summer and Thanksgiving. Next time, I will be checking out the view.
Walk over to Rebagliati Park
This is where your map will be handy, as Rebagliati Park is located just east of the Village and it’s a must for photographers. From the flowing rapids to the mountain backdrops and the cute bridge, it’s a great place to chill in fall. In winter, it is the spot to build a snowman close to the Village.
Take to the mountains
I mean, Whistler is a ski village, so this makes sense. But it’s also a popular spot for mountain bikers in summer.
Get a photo in front of the Olympic Rings
You know you want to!
Six weeks later…
Check out a train wreck
It kind of sounds like I’m talking about a person! But I actually read about this trail before I visited the first time this fall. However, I opted to walk to Alta Lake instead. It not only looks like a nice hike through the woods but a fun place to photograph too.
Take a walk to a lake
There are three lakes within walking distance from Whistler Village. Green Lake is the furthest, Lost Lake is the smallest and Alta Lake is the one I visited. You can kayak at Alta Lake, but I followed the signs to Lakeside Park and just enjoyed the afternoon sun for a little while. It was only about 20 minutes each way from the Village.
And then…
Visit the Audain Art Museum
Audain Art Museum is British Columbia’s newest museum. It’s dedicated to showcasing the province’s best art.
Be adventurous on your Whistler day trip
Whistler is an adventure capital for sure. There is bungee jumping, zip-lining, hiking and even bobsledding awaiting you.
Warm-up with some hot chocolate
If planning a winter Whistler day trip, you’re going to need to stop for hot chocolate and warm up during the day. I recommend Blenz because their hot chocolate is delicious. But if tea is more your thing, then a visit to David’s Tea might be preferred.
Pick up a postcard
I still love to send my parents and grandad back home postcards to display on the fridge. I wrote my postcards by the lake and posted them before getting on the bus home.
Play golf
This has got to be one of the more picturesque golf courses in the world. I walked past it on my way to Alta Lake and kind of couldn’t get over the views.
Visit the Farmers Market
The Farmers Market happens at the base of Blackcomb Mountain every Sunday between June and October. The market also opens on Wednesday afternoons in July and August.
Stay at a Fairmont Chateau
Fairmont Chateaus are located all over Canada, and the Chateau in Whistler is quite beautiful.
Just looking at the images of Scandinave Spa makes me relax. If the spa treatments fit into your budget, I say go for it.
Visit the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre
Learn more about the First Nations people at the museum and cultural centre. You can also learn more about the town’s history at Whistler’s Museum.
I hope you enjoy your day trip from Vancouver to Whistler!
Whistler is such a fun place to escape to from Vancouver. It’s now my mission to visit in summer and get to all of these attractions I missed in autumn and winter. Say hi to all of my fellow countrymen for me 😉. Just like Banff, really!
Here’s my entire Vancouver archive, if you’re looking for advice on free things to do and where to stay. But my budget accommodation recommendation is always Samesun Backpackers.
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