Whistler tourist hacks: 7 tips to make the most of your trip
Whistler seems to always be the perfect getaway no matter the season for those craving an adrenaline-filled trip or an indulgent excursion.
Whether you regularly drive to this world-famous destination or are planning on visiting for the first time, we have some tips to help save you some money, time, and energy.
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1. Parking
If you drive up to the resort, you’ll notice free parking is pretty hard to come by.
Paid parking lots surround Whistler Village, but if you know where to look, you might just be able to nab a free spot.
Here are some suggestions from Whistler Adventures:
- Some free parking is available at the base of Blackcomb Mountain.
- Between November 1 and March 31, lots 1-5 close to Whistler Village are free between 5 pm and 3 am.
- Between April 1 and October 31, lots 1-5 are free between 5 pm and 8 am.
- Otherwise, it’s $14 to park in lots 1, 2, or 3. It’s $8 daily for lots 4 and 5.
- Whistler Creekside is an option if you’re driving up the Sea to Sky Highway from Vancouver.
- And if you’re staying outside the main village, there may be some free parking spots in the surrounding neighbourhoods; however, be sure to read the signs so you don’t get towed!
Also, be warned if you book to stay at a hotel, some charge a parking fee per night.
If this extra charge (sometimes $25 or more a day) is a turn-off, book an Airbnb (since many have parking included).
For those just up for the day, there are cheaper rates available for a couple of hours at the Whistler Convention Centre, Main Street, and Marketplace.
For $20, underground parking at the Conference Centre and the library is available.
Other alternatives are ditching the vehicle altogether, catching a shuttle from the airport for $27, and then hopping on public transit to get around.
2. Accommodation
According to the Champion Traveler, in a week, a tourist in Whistler spends about $1,500, a couple spends about $2,775 and a trip for a family of four can cost about $5,200.
A significant chunk of this cost is the accommodation — especially if you stay in a hotel.
If you are looking for an alternative, consider a stay in cabins like the ones offered at the Riverside Resort or a hostel like HI Canada, which even has a Work for Stay program.
Airbnbs can also be significantly cheaper depending on when and where you book.
And if you’re willing to commute a little further out of town to find a lower price, Squamish is an option since it’s about a 40-minute drive, bus, rideshare, or shuttle from Whistler.
Mid to late September is the cheapest time to visit Whistler.
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3. Lift tickets
In the winter months, you’ll probably want to hit the slopes. However, the lift can be quite costly after a few days.
For one day, an adult ticket goes for $229 if you buy them online ahead of time. Walking up to the ticket booth, that same ticket will set you back $269.
What some Canadians and Washington state residents may not know is that they are eligible for a discounted “Edge Card.”
This seasonal pass offered by the Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort provides packages for two, five, or 10 days of skiing and snowboarding.
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4. Gondola
When in the village, you will probably see a long line for the Peak 2 Peak Gondola since many are waiting to ride the glass bottom gondolas.
The gondola lineup at Whistler on December 28, 2020 (EB Adventure Photography/Shutterstock)
However, the gondolas without the glass bottom are just as beautiful while riding.
So really, there is no reason to be too picky!
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5. Hotel gift shops
If you’re hoping to take home a trinket to remember your stay here, stepping out of your hotel might save you some money.
Hotel gift shops can be a little pricey, so take a stroll through the village and beyond and you’ll have countless more affordable options when you wander.
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6. Gear rental
Renting ski gear on the mountain can be convenient but there are many other shops outside the village. One option is to rent in Vancouver so you can be set up for a day of powder before you even drive up the highway, often saving you time with shorter lines as well.
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7. Spa
We know how much you deserve time during your vacation to unwind. So you may be considering popular options like the Spa at Nita Lake Lodge or Scandinave Spa.
A helpful tip when booking your appointment is to book in advance with a registered massage therapist so you can apply for a claim if you have benefits.
Spas also have promotional packages, so keep an eye out for those.
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