Whistler Spring Vacation Ideas: 5 Activities for the Family
Those who take a Whistler spring vacation enjoy the best of sunshine and snow. As a top ski destination, Whistler welcomes visitors to hit the slopes and relax afterwards – whether with a more relaxed outdoor adventure or simply enjoying the view. Spring in Whistler means more sunshine, warmer temperatures and longer days, so guests can try everything this destination offers. When it’s time to plan, check out these family-friendly spring vacation ideas.
Top 5 Fun Whistler Spring Vacation Activities
Gear Up for Spring Skiing
Spring skiing ranks as a favorite thing to do on a Whistler spring vacation. The season runs until mid-May, depending on the weather, and visitors enjoy more time on the slopes and going at their own pace.
When visiting in April and May, skiers have a variety of trails to explore, all leading to the Coca-Cola Tube Park and Blackcomb Day Lodge. Afterwards, change into a T-shirt and enjoy apres ski at an area restaurant.
Don’t Miss the Festivals
Those who plan a Whistler spring vacation also have the opportunity to attend two of the area’s top events. World Ski and Snowboard Festival, a 10-day long festival, brings together skiing, music, film and food. Several events make this festival one of the most anticipated by frequent Whistler guests. In addition to skiing and free outdoor concerts, families enjoy film screenings, Whistler Dogfest, a roller derby and comedy showdown.
May brings Whistler’s Great Outdoors Festival – a.k.a. GO Fest. Due to milder weather, attendees can ski, golf, ride bikes and play in the water, all in the same day. GO Fest offers four days of outdoor fun where families try activities from fly fishing and tennis to stand-up paddleboarding and adventure races. The festival takes places over the Victoria Day long weekend and also features sports, music, clinics and mountain culture.
Play Golf
Springtime in Whistler also kicks off the opening of four championship golf courses. Golf season starts late April or early May to mid-October, and each course has been designed by a world-renown designer. Each course features scenic mountain views, different water hazards, rolling greens and challenging holes. Here’s a quick guide to the courses:
- Big Sky Golf Club: Robert Cupp course; Par 72; 7,001 yards
- Fairmont Chateau Whistler Golf Club: Robert Trent Jones Jr. course; Par 72; 6,635 yards
- Nicklaus North Golf Course: Jack Nicklaus course; Par 71; 6,961 yards
- Whistler Golf Club: Arnold Palmer course; Par 71; 6,722 yards
Book a Zipline Adventure
An ideal activity anytime of the year, work ziplining into your Whistler spring vacation. Whistler Ziptrek Ecotours offers nearly a dozen different tours and packages, including wildlife tours and the Sasquatch, the longest zipline in Canada and the U.S.
Another top tour is the twilight tour, suitable for couples and families, where visitors explore the area’s old-growth rain forest at night. The twilight tour also ranks as a top apres ski activity for all ages.
Indoor Fun for the Family
Sometimes the weather won’t allow for outdoor fun, but don’t worry. Whistler houses several indoor attractions that entertain the whole family.
Start the day at one of the area’s gyms or yoga studios. Visitors will find both located throughout the area, perfect for relieving stress and getting into shape. Next, try an indoor adventure, such as rock climbing, swimming, ice skating and tennis. One of the top spots is Meadow Park Sports Centre, which houses a six-lane lap pool, hot tub, steam room, sauna and kids’ pool with a lazy river.
To help everyone burn energy, head to Bounce, an indoor trampoline gym with 12 spots for bouncy fun. Other top indoor activities include tennis at Whistler Racquet Club, gymnastics at Oros Whistler Gymnastic Centre and escape games at Escape! Whistler.
Looking for a place to kick back? Check out these Whistler nightlife spots. Need accommodations? Browse Whistler vacation rentals.