Whistler’s rather lofty reputation as a winter ski resort might lead you to believe this mountain jewel is off limits during the Summer months. However, in the same way puppies aren’t just for Christmas, Whistler really isn’t just for winter. Whistler is the ideal place to enjoy a family vacation with an abundance of Kid-friendly activities, plenty of open space, and the opportunity to run free and explore new places. So, book a flight to Vancouver and Visit Whistler with Your Kids This Summer. Here’s what’s waiting for you…
Fun Whistler Summer Activites
1. Ride The Peak to Peak Gondola
No visit to the mountains of Whistler would be complete without a trip on the Peak to Peak Gondola. There’s something truly awesome about riding the highest gondola lift of its kind, at 1,427 feet above the valley floor. Parents and kids alike will enjoy the staggering views of the mountain landscape.
Accessible via the Whistler Village Gondola and the new Blackcomb Gondola, the Peak to Peak reopens for summer from May 25th until early October. Children aged six and under go free!
2. Get Lost at Lost Lake
Warm sunny days are perfect for a trip to Lost Lake. The Lost Lake trail is just a short walk or bike ride from Whistler Village and the well-signed Valley Trail will guide you through lush green forests interspersed with tadpole-filled lakes and streams.
The lake reaches refreshing yet comfortable temperatures, so a splash in the shallows is inevitable if you have water-loving kids. For more experienced swimmers, there are docks and floating platforms that sit on the lake too. Prefer keeping your feet on dry land? Head to the large grassed area complete with onsite BBQs, picnic tables and a beach for playing frisbee or other outdoor games.
3. Head Out on a Magical Night Walk
The Whistler Night Walk, or The Vallea Lumina as it’s also known, comprises 1.5 km of mysterious trails that lead you through an enchanting coastal rainforest. The luminescent journey is everything you’d expect from a real-life fairy tale.
Opening in spring, The Night Walk runs throughout the summer months and there are special rates for youth while children under five go free. Overall, it takes between 50 and 80 minutes to complete but allow around two hours to make time for transportation to its hidden location.
Free Kid-friendly Activities
1. Take a Hike
With the snow melted away, the area’s labyrinth of hiking and biking trails are ready to explore. Head out on the five-kilometer Whistler Train Wreck Hike to discover the colorful train cars hidden away in ancient forests. Alternatively, head out on a Guided Whistler Hike and benefit from local expertise as you exercise and explore.
2. Tree Climbing Near the Olympic Rings
Whistler Treehouse Playground is located at Whistler Olympic Plaza, the home of the famous Olympic Rings. This playground is suitable for all kids – including toddlers and has so you can sip on a cappuccino while the kids run riot!
3. Attend Whistler Public Library Events
The library in Whistler is another great option on hot or rainy days, and this centrally located facility has loads of free activities for kids of all ages – from mini-workshops to story time and more.
Perfect Activities for Older Kids
1. Axe Throwing. Yes, Really!
Axe throwing is huge right now, with venues opening up all across the United States and beyond. While the idea has gone global, its roots can be found here in the Great White North. Perfect for older kids (10 years and over) this quintessentially Canadian pastime happens to be one of the best things to do in Whistler and you’ll soon see why.
Forged Axe Throwing is THE place to get started, and the venue recently picked up an award for offering the best customer service in town. The friendly team will provide all the guidance you need to perfect your aim, and will have you sinking bullseyes in no time.
2. Soar Like a Superhero
Who doesn’t want to soar like a superhero? A zip line adventure in Whistler is a great way to make that aspiration almost come true. Zipline tours are available for children aged 7 years and over or a minimum weight of 27 kgs (60Ibs). You’ll be safely harnessed as you take off on this invigorating high-wire flight, taking in the stunning views below. Just awesome.
Where To Eat in Whistler
1. Splitz Grill
Splitz Grill is a favorite spot among locals to grab a quick bite, and this burger joint makes all of their patties fresh daily. This family-friendly grill has been serving up hand made burgers in Whistler and Vancouver since 1997 so they know what they’re doing!
The Legendary Splitz Burger with cheese and grilled pineapple as extras come highly recommended! For the veggies, they’ve recently added Beyond Meat burgers to the menu and offer the world’s first plant-based burger. Even the meat aficionados won’t be able to tell the difference.
2. Hunter Gather
The locals flock to Hunter Gather and it’s not hard to see why. The order at the bar system creates a casual, relaxed atmosphere, and this relatively new venue to Whistler has certainly made a splash. The hearty Pullman pulled pork sandwich is unmissable and healthier families can dine on the Pemberton bowl, made with local beets and crisped organic veggies. The patio opens in late spring, so is ideal for outdoor dining. Craft beer is a specialty here, and their rotating selection of delectable BC taps is carefully curated and always on point. Perfect for parents!
3. Mongolie Grill
The kids will love this selection. You can completely design your own dish and then see it cooked in front of your very eyes on a huge grill plate. Choose from a huge selection of vegetables, raw meat, and fresh seafood, smothering it all in your favorite sauce and hand it over to be cooked. Simple. The cost of your meal is worked out by weight ($20.95 per pound) so keep that in mind!
4. The Green Moustache
Trying to get your kids eating healthier? Head to The Green Moustache where healthy eating is fun and colorful. This family-owned organic juice and live food bar offers nutrient dense yet tasty meals made fresh daily. Choose from an impressive selection of plant-based breakfast bowls, superfood salads, or zingy smoothies. There’s also an extensive kids menu.
Last Thoughts
Whistler has so many fun activities for the whole family no matter what ages your kids are. If you are looking for a summer vacation destination, then Visit Whistler with Your Kids This Summer!
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Happy Travels!!
The post Visit Whistler with Your Kids This Summer! appeared first on Food Family and Chaos.
