Local Tips for a Seamless Whistler Ski Vacation
Vacation is a time to rest, relax and unplug from life’s stresses. While in Whistler, you will feel transported to another world, where your biggest problems are often as simple as what ski run to explore next, and selecting just the right après cocktail. With that said, locals know that a bit of planning ahead can make all the difference in your holiday experience. To save you waiting in unnecessary lines and experiencing undue disappointment we have put together some of our best tips for how to have a seamless Whistler vacation.
Book Ahead
If there is one piece of advice you take from this that will make the biggest difference for your holiday, it’s this – plan and book early. Taking a little time from the comfort of home to secure your desired restaurant and activity bookings can make all the difference to having a carefree holiday.
Ski Passes
It’s time to make your mountain dreams a reality. Whistler Blackcomb 2025/26 Passes and Edge Cards are on sale!
Choose from 4 different pass and card options to best suit your mountain vacation.
1. Epic Pass
Experience the best of Whistler Blackcomb and top resorts across North America and Australia — including iconic destinations like Vail, Breckenridge, Park City, Stevens Pass, and more.
The Epic Pass also provides limited access to Canadian favourites such as Fernie Alpine Resort and Kicking Horse Mountain Resort. Get your pass and instantly unlock 20% off food, lodging, golf, bike rentals and more before the winter season even kicks off.
Ski or ride Whistler Blackcomb with freedom and flexibility. With this pass receive exclusive perks and discounts.
3. Edge Cards
Exclusively for residents of Canada and Washington State, the Whistler Blackcomb EDGE Card offers incredible savings designed just for locals. Choose from 2, 5, or 10 days to ski or ride during the 2025/26 winter season and unlock special perks on and off the mountain.
EDGE Card holders enjoy a range of benefits, including access to multiple resorts*, up to 20% off lodging and retail, $35 off group lessons and camps, and more.
*2 Day and Restricted 2 Day EDGE Cards do not include multi-resort access.
4. Whistler Blackcomb Day Pass
Save up to 65% compared to lift ticket prices with the Whistler Blackcomb Day Pass. Choose between one to ten days of skiing or riding, all exclusively at Whistler Blackcomb, and enjoy exceptional value on every run.
Restaurants
Don’t wait till your stomach starts grumbling to start making meal plans. Hungry can very quickly become hangry. You can reserve your meals at your favourite restaurants at your chosen times.
Reserving in advance is easy; deciding from the endless delectable options is another matter. Visit our Sip & Savour page to get inspired and start planning.
Here are a few options to get you started:
- Wildflower Restaurant – Locally inspired dishes and innovative classics in a family-friendly restaurant setting,
- The Mallard Lounge – Unforgettable après, Canadian and West Coast food, live entertainment and a spectacular mountainside setting.
- The Chalet – Savoury fondues, house-made pâté, schnitzel, rösti and artisan charcuterie platters.
- The Grill Room – Whistler’s AAA/CAA Four Diamond-rated restaurant destination for chops, steak and seafood.
- Portobello – Made-to-order sandwich selection and gourmet pastry and coffee.
Leave Your Car At Home
I don’t know about you, but cleaning snow off my car and driving slushy roads are the last things I want to be doing while on vacation. Whistler is designed to be pedestrian-friendly, and when staying with us, you are just steps away from the Blackcomb Gondola and a quick 10-minute walk to the Village Stroll.
With our festive lit paths, walking truly is the best and most beautiful way to get around town. For the times you do need a lift, our hotel shuttle and courtesy car are here to help.
Since you won’t need your car while you’re here, so you might as well leave it at home and let someone else do the driving to get here. Kick back and relax on a bus or private car and enjoy the views. You can learn more about your travel options with our transportation guide.
Visit Mid-Week
Whistler locals love weekdays. From lift lines to restaurants and roads the whole town is quieter Monday to Thursday. If you have the flexibility to plan a mid-week visit you can enjoy the slower pace and more space our local’s love.
Of course, one of the most important things to get right for an amazing vacation is your accommodation. Whether a quick weekend getaway, a week-long retreat, or a mid-week getaway, we have the perfect vacation package for you. Explore our offers for the best rates on stays at Fairmont Chateau Whistler.
