Whistler may have a relatively short history as a resort town, but it has a wealth of culture and heritage.
Whistler is a pedestrian-friendly resort making it ideal for self-guided walking tours of cultural highlights. Guided tours at some sites can provide extra details and local knowledge.
Aboriginal Tours
Visitors to the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre are greeted by a traditional song of welcome and then can choose to join a guided tour or explore at their leisure. Guided tours provide added insight and stories about the exhibits, which include a Salish canoe in the Great Hall, a hands-on canoe carving and basket weaving area, an outdoor forest walk, and the Longhouse and Istken. Visit the cafe for Aboriginal-inspired food such as salmon, venison and bannock.
Whistler and Olympic Tours
At the Whistler Museum, learn about the history and development of Whistler and its ski culture, including its participation in the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. The museum offers guided daily walking tours, free tour brochures, and a chance to hold an authentic Olympic torch.
Continue learning about Whistler's culture of winter sports at the Whistler Sliding Centre. The centre was home to Olympic bobsleigh, skeleton and luge competitions and is now open year-round for tours. In winter, visitors can take on the challenge of zooming down the icy track (advance booking is required).
Art Tours
Whistler has an active and thriving arts community and was named a Cultural Capital of Canada in 2009 by the Government of Canada. Come to Whistler in summer for the Whistler ArtWalk, which features local artists displaying their wares in non-traditional venues such as cafes, restaurants, hotels, retail outlets and businesses. Other art events also take place at various times throughout the year; check with the Whistler Visitor Centre or the Whistler Arts Council for an up-to-date list.
Driving Routes
Travelling from Vancouver to Whistler on the Sea-to-Sky Highway is more than a scenic driving route – it's now also a Cultural Journey highlighting Squamish and Lil’wat First Nations culture with information kiosks, signage and highway pullouts.
Practical Points
- High season for most attractions is usually May to September and tours often run daily. During low season, tours can run infrequently. Most self-guided tours can be done year-round.
- Some tours may require a minimum number of participants or advance booking. It’s best to call ahead to check for schedules and availability.
- Visit local Visitor Centres or museums for walking tour brochures, maps and information on tour operators and help with trip planning.
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