Whistler Blackcomb Ski School for Kids 2015.

A New Whistler Kid’s Centre In Creekside & Family Friendly Activities.

Whistler Kids in Whistler Creek:

Known to harried parents (especially those from Vancouver) as the drop-off spot for Whistler Kids’ Camps, Whistler Blackcomb has officially opened a new Whistler Kid’s Centre in Creekside Village. The new Centre, for children ages three and four, is designed specifically with kids that age in mind; everything from a den for those who are homesick or not feeling well, to the size of the furniture, kid-sized comfort comes first.

See the rest of the Vancouver Sun article by Steven Threndyle.

Spring-break ski-school deals at Whistler:

Whistler Blackcomb is offering discounts on select group ski-school lessons now through to March 13.

That’s thanks to Discover Whistler Days, the mid-winter deal offers 25-per-cent off adults’ MAX4 group lessons; certain two-, three-, and five-day ski and snowboard camps for kids ranging in age from three to 12,; and teens’ ski and snowboard programs (two- and five-day Ride Tribe program for those aged 13 to 18).

Whistler Blackcomb Kid’s Ski School Locations Map:

Whistler Kid’s Ski School Video:

Whistler Blackcomb Kids Ski Lessons – AltiTube EP14.

See the complete listing and details of Whistler child care, daily ski lessons & kid’s programs here on WhistlerBlackcomb.com. Check out TripAdvisor reviews to find out how lessons go for the little tykes.

For non-skiing alternatives… indoor and outdoor Whistler family friendly activities and reviews check out this article.

Need Family Friendly Vacation Rentals by Owner?

Why stay in a cramped hotel room when you can rent a Whistler home with full kitchen and private space for the family? Plenty of VRBO rental homes to choose from. Scam free. BBB A+ Rating.

8 Whistler Tips to Maximize Fun on your Vacation

1. Keeping a weather eye on the snow forecasts and webcams helps to plan your ski day in order to make the most of your time in Whistler. Of course, to ensure winter sports safety, it is also important to be aware of the avalanche forecasts during a stay in the resort.

2. Beat the crowds – get up and out early! Do fresh tracks have your breakie on the top of mountain and get the first runs in. And since you’ve eaten breakfast early – go for lunch early too, heading in around 10:30 or 11:00 means you will get in and out without waiting in lines and standing while you eat!

3. Take a lesson – It never hurts to brush up on your tree skiing skills and if you’re looking for something really different you can ski with an Olympian.

4. Apres early – since you’ve been on the hill since before sunrise, you’ve put in a full day by 3 and you’re good to go put those feet up and enjoy one of the epic Whistler Apres spots. If you’re not sure where to go check out the list of locals top picks here.

5. Check out the Top 10 Whistler Family Tips video.

6. Squeege – Whistler can be a bit wet at times…and this means those goggles will fog up! Pick yourself up a mini squeege to take care of this and if you’ve decided that you’d rather check out the village on a soggy day, have a look at the 10 Wet Weather Activities you can do to keep the fun factor up!

7. Travel Light – you’re taking a family vacation and one of the family members just happens to be recently born! You’re not sure you want to go through the trouble to bring all the accompanying items…well you don’t have to! Baby’s on The Go is a local company that can provide all that for you. They will drop it off and pick it up all for a reasonable rate.

8. Find an Awesome Vacation Rental Home Deal – book directly with the owners here, find exactly what you are looking for, ski-in, ski-out, hot tub, everything you need right at your fingertips. Book, save, arrive, play!!

Enjoy Whistler Rain or Shine

Mother Nature doesn’t always go along with what we want! So you’ve planned your Whistler vacation and the weather is less than perfect…what to do?

Here’s a snippet from a great article by Steven Threndyle in the Vancouver Sun. Inspiring ideas to enjoy Whistler indoor activities on rainy days.

1. Hire TasteWhistler.com to come to your home/condo/chalet/suite for a personalized wine tasting. They bring the wines, glassware and a delicious charcuterie board from Bearfoot Bistro for a casual, informative and fun tasting. The wine is left behind for you and your friends to continue the night!!

2. There are no fewer than nine spas that operate in Whistler and most of them are top-notch. It’s worth going to the baths at the top-rated Scandanave Spa. Experience the age-old Finnish tradition of soaking in soothing outdoor baths at Whistler’s most unique spa, which combines rustic elegance with majestic scenery in a tranquil, secluded setting.

3. In a town that celebrates healthy living and physical activity, it should come as no surprise that there are plenty of yoga studios. Locally owned Yogacara in Function Junction is a good bet; it’s a favourite with many Whistler residents, too.

Check out the full list and Steven’s article here. Have fun, regardless of the Whistler weather!

Find Whistler Weather Forecasts & Info at http://whistlercanadaweather.com

Whistler Activities Video

Private Vacation Rentals are Warm & Dry

Rent a private home from the Whistler owner and you may enjoy the rainy days more than the sunny ones.

Search 70+ Scam Free Whistler Rentals by Owner here…

Best Deal, Local’s Top Pick’s and more Insider Whistler Breakfast Tips.Whether it’s a quick, early, breakie before you hit the slopes or a full-on brunch after a night on the town you are looking for, here’s the lowdown on Whistler Breakfast Restaurants.

BEST BREAKFAST: WILDWOOD

PHOTO BY COASTPHOTO.COM / BRAD KASSELMAN

Pique Newsmagazine Best of Whistler 2014 – Every year Whistler locals vote for their fav’s.

The vote wasn’t as tight as last year when Wildwood and Elements tied for top spot in this category, but the results were proof positive that morning diners are appreciating what Dixon and his team are doing.

“We take a lot of time to make sure we’re providing good value and quality food for a fair price, and that sells itself,” he said.

While Wildwood’s Function Junction haunt is something of a hidden gem, the second location just moved from its spot at the Whistler Tennis Club to a prime village location in the basement of the Crystal Lodge. See Pique Best of 2014 complete list

BEST DEALS for Breakfast in Whistler

Mount Currie Coffee Company
The Mount Currie Coffee Co offers one of the best breakfast deals in town. Before 10 AM five dollars scores you a small Americano and a tasty breakfast sandwich called a Stud Muffin (bacon, free-range egg, cheddar and sundried tomato aioli on an English muffin.) Veggies can opt for “Tree Huggers” which swaps out the bacon for tomato.

Gone Village Eatery
Gone Village Eatery, tucked away in the heart of the village, is a favorite spot of locals  looking for quick, fresh, healthy meals and tops the list for best most inexpensive breakfast in town. The menu changes frequently and whenever possible they use fruit and veggies from local sources.

OFF THE BEATEN PATH: INSIDER’S FAV’SThe Alpine Cafe

North of the main village about 6k to Alpine Meadows is a local favorite, the Alpine Cafe. The cafe serves up food that is hearty and homemade and, wont leave you hungry. They get busy and seating is somewhat limited, you may want to get your breakie to go.

The Riverside Café
Located a few minutes drive north of the Village at the Whistler Campground, the Riverside can be a nice change of pace when the Village breakfast spots get toohectic. Locals love home-made flavours and organic specialty coffees. Eggs Benedicts are just $9 and the Riverside offers a daily $8 breakfast (includes coffee and juice) on weekdays.

The Southside Diner

A Whistler Creekside landmark, The Southside Deli was reincarnated in 2005 as the The Southside Diner. This is Whistler’s best kept secret, the little greasy spoon, without the grease that could. The diner’s the local’s favourite for breakfast, check out the signature B.E.L.T.C.H or huevos rancheros and a double bailey’s coffee (singles don’t exist).

NEWEST WHISTLER LOCAL’S BREAKFAST SPOT

Stonesedge Kitchen

The menu is a delicious & unique reinvention of traditional comfort foods with wholesome, nourishing & beautiful ingredients. Food that both deeply nourishes your body and indulges that delicious guilty pleasure seeking part of you.

TOP WHISTLER BRUNCH RESTAURANTS

Crepe Montagne

A trip to Whistler definitely isn’t complete without a visit to this delightful French crêperie. Until 2:30 p.m., you can choose from a variety of sweet crêpe masterpieces, pancakes and Belgian waffles. If savoury is more your fancy, be sure to order the homemade pesto and smoked mushroom eggs Benedict.

WHISTLER BRUNCH FOR HANGOVER CURES

White Spot
Stumbling into White Spot after a long night of partying is considered a Whistler rite-of-passage. Brunch is served until the glorious hour of 4 p.m.

WHISTLER BRUNCH FOR THE INSATIABLE

The Wildflower
You won’t need to dress in your Sunday best, but you will need to be prepared for a feast at The Wildflower’s famous Sunday brunch buffet, available 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The delectable spread includes all of your morning favourites, such as pastries and omelettes, as well as the things you never knew you’d love to eat for brunch, such as king crab, prime rib and dim sum. There’s even dessert. Cheesecake pops for brunch? Yes, please.

WHISTLER BRUNCH WITH AN IRISH TOUCH

Dubh Linn Gate
Forget the Lucky Charms: brunch at this authentic Irish pub includes hearty fare such as pancakes, egg scrambles and corned beef hash, served until noon. Each table is also given a basket of freshly baked Irish soda bread and Pemberton fruit jam, on the house. Bonus: be sure to ask for seating in “Arthur’s Breakfast Room,” named after Arthur Guinness. This space looks and feels like a cozy bed and breakfast, so you’ll be able to tuck into that tasty brunch by the warmth of the fire.

WHISTLER BREAKFAST TOP 10 BREAKFAST LISTS AND YELP RATINGS

Yelp Ratings – Breakfast & Brunch

USA Today 10 Best

7 Top Whistler Brunch Restaurants

Whistler Village Tour Video

Best Whistler Accommodation Guide Maps

Whistler Accommodation Maps & Guide

Need to find out if your Whistler vacation rental is close to the restaurants?

Grab our Whistler accommodation guide and maps here…

View online instantly or print the pages you need and take them to Whistler with you.

Whistler Blackcomb & Whistler Resort Continue to Win Awards.

Awards from magazines, websites, TV stations pour in from around the world in 2015.

Whether you put a lot of faith into awards or not, you must admit that there’s some merit in paying attention to big trends or patterns.

Unless you’ve been hiding under a rock for a decade, you must have noticed a fairly conspicuous trend at Whistler Resort. Trend might even be an understatement. An avalanche of sorts, really.

OK, I’ll just come right out and say it, already… Whistler Blackcomb wins tons of awards and accolades.

Whistler Blackcomb has been ranked number one on an Active Times list of the 50 best ski resorts in North America. The New York–based magazine had readers vote on 103 nominated resorts out of more than 600 ski areas across the continent.

Here are the winning B.C. spots, with their ranking:

Whistler Blackcomb (No. 1)
Big White Ski Resort (No. 18)
Revelstoke Mountain Resort (No. 22)
Red Mountain Resort (No. 31)
Fernie Alpine Resort (No. 39)

“With the most ski-able acres on the continent, Whistler Blackcomb is the full package of adrenaline, good snow-conditions, stellar dining and accommodation and proximity to the city (122 km).”

Recent Awards for Whistler…

In addition to this latest Award and SKI Magazine #1 Resort in North America 2015 award follows a series of impressive accolades bestowed upon the resort in recent weeks including:

TopEventsCanada.com: Top BC Events and Festivals (top 20):

Whistler Pride + Ski Festival
World Ski and Snowboard Festival
Cornucopia
Whistler Film Festival

Travel + Leisure, World’s Best Awards: Top hotels overall (top 100):

Four Seasons Resort Whistler (81)

Travel + Leisure, World’s Best Awards: Top resorts in Canada(top 10):

Four Seasons Resort Whistler (2)
Fairmont Chateau Whistler 6)
Pan Pacific Mountainside (8)

Celebrated Living Magazine Platinum List: Top 10 Canadian Hotels:

Fairmont Chateau Whistler (6)
Westin Resort & Spa Whistler (8)
Four Seasons Resort Whistler (10)

The 2014 UltraTravel 100 Awards:

Best Ski Resort in the World

Condé Nast Traveller – Best hotels and Resorts of the Americas (Platinum Circle)

Fairmont Chateau Whistler
Four Seasons Resort Whistler

Condé Nast Traveller – Top Hotels and Resorts of the Americas (Gold List)

Fairmont Chateau Whistler
Four Seasons Resort Whistler

Luxury Travel (Australia) – Best Overseas Ski Resort (Gold)

Whistler Blackcomb

TripAdvisor – Best Hotels in Canada

Nita Lake Lodge (13)
First Tracks Lodge (24)

Trip Advisor – Best Canadian Destination (top 10)

Whistler | Whistler Blackcomb
Where Magazine’s “Where to Dine” Awards
Araxi Restaurant + Bar – Best Formal Whistler

Vancouver Magazine Awards

Araxi Restaurant + Bar – Best Whistler – Gold Award
Bearfoot Bistro – Best Whistler – Silver Award
Sidecut – Best Whistler – Bronze Award
Alta Bistro – Honourable Mention
Mexican Corner – Honourable Mention

Vancouver International Wine Festival Awards

Araxi Restaurant + Bar – Gold Wine List Award
Alta Bistro – Gold Wine List Award
Rim Rock Café – Silver Wine List Award

The Georgia Straight’s 17th annual Golden Plates Awards

Araxi Restaurant + Bar – Best Whistler Restaurants (first place)
Bearfoot Bistro – Best Whistler Restaurants (second place)
Rim Rock Café – Best Whistler Restaurants (third place)
Whistler Brewing Company’s Bear Paw Honey Lager – Best BC Beer Brewed Outside Vancouver (third place)

US News, Travel: 2014 Best Hotels in Canada

Fairmont Chateau Whistler Resort
Four Seasons Resort Whistler

Whistler Blackcomb’s Awards Page for 2014-15

Too long to publish here, this list of awards on the WhistlerBlackcomb.com website is impressive.

World Ski Awards Video

Whistler Vacation Rentals by Owner

Find an award-winning vacation rental home and book directly with the owners. Scam-free Whistler rentals guaranteed.

Whistler Pride January 24 to 31 2015.

More than just a gay ski week.

Whistler Pride is an 8-day festival that combines Sports, Culinary, Wellness and spectacular Social and Cultural events.

With 8 days filled with over 60 events the energy and diversity of the festival is reflected in the calendar of events – click here to see festival and partner events happening throughout the week.

GayWhistler’s WinterPRIDE has a fresh new name as we get ready to celebrate the 23rd annual Gay Lesbian Ski/Snowboard week at the award-winning Whistler Blackcomb mountains.

Last year’s festival highlights video – 2014 – compliments of Outlook TV…

For up to the minute Whistler Pride & Ski Festival info check out the Facebook page.

Dining at Whistler Pride & Ski Festival

1. if its coffee you’re looking for to start your day, check out Whistler’s Best Coffee Spots 

2. after your full day of activities and events on hill and off – it’s apres you need – here’s the Whistler locals top apres ski choices

3. to balance it out with some healthy food and see Whistler’s Best Restaurant list click here

What to Do at Whistler Pride

There’s as much to do in Whistler for non-skiers as for snowboarding and skiing fanatics, during the annual Winter Pride and Ski Festival. Everything from cooking classes and blow-out parties to Ziptrek ecotours and dog-sledding.

Gay ski week events kick off in Whistler on Sunday, January 25, where guests pick up information and can buy tickets at WinterPride’s hospitality center and Pride House inside the hip Aava Whistler Hotel.

Throughout the week there’s skiing, apres ski hobnobbing, dances and parties (including the always-packed Splash Pool Party and a rollicking cowboy party), and a number of events appealing to nonskiers: snowmobile tours, dog-sledding, dine-arounds, tubing, a Zipline eagle tour, wine tastings, cooking classes, and plenty more – check out all the events, including a January 28 concert this year by queer comic legend Margaret Cho.

For all of the events, activities, and parties held throughout the week you can buy tickets online.

Need a Private Vacation Rental for Whistler Pride? We have over 50 scam-free VRBO homes on our website. Send out a FAST rental request instantly right here…

5 Minute Guide to New Year’s Eve 2015 in Whistler

Whistler Presents: New Year’s Eve Celebrations

Join the fun at a ticketed, family-style celebration at three different venues within Whistler Village. Bundle up the kids and explore what each venue has to offer between 6 and 11 p.m.

The ticketed fun ends at 11 p.m. and then there is a free Fire and Ice Show that starts at 11:30 p.m. at the base of Whistler Mountain. Be amazed by the ski and snowboard athletes as they leap through two giant rings of fire.

There will be a firework display at Skier’s Plaza at midnight.

Tickets will be available online from December 1, as well as at the Whistler Visitor Information Centre, Millennium Place and Meadow Park Sports Centre.

Venues for New Years Eve

Millennium Place: On New Year’s Eve all three levels of Millennium Place will come alive with sparkling entertainment, live music and two kids’ countdowns that include a giant bubble wrap and balloon stomp. Expect nothing short of bedazzlement and awe with an explosion of creative arts and crafts, cartoons, face painting, dress-up storytelling and surprises – all in the name of family fun.

Whistler Conference Centre: The Whistler Conference Center transforms from an indoor play zone to a variety of new and exciting activities, games, and entertainment. The teen dance, inside its own special dance hall at the Conference Center, is the place for teenage music lovers to shake it until midnight.

Ice Skating in Whistler Olympic Plaza: Flash your wristband for free skate rentals, be dazzled by the twinkle lights and whimsical characters, enjoy a hot beverage and prepare to be entertained on and off the ice.

Free (no wristbands required)

Special NYE Fire and Ice Show at Skier’s Plaza – 11:30 pm to midnight

Who can resist fireworks and fire spinners? Watch Whistler’s best skiers and riders hit a big air jump then fly through a blazing ring of fire

Fireworks at Skier’s Plaza – Starts at midnight

A fireworks display will ring in 2015. The fireworks are best viewed from Skier’s Plaza at the base of Whistler Mountain.

Whistler Transit – 6pm to late (extended service)

Leave the car at home and take advantage of the free and extended Whistler Transit Service on New Year’s Eve.

Ticketed (wristbands are required for NYE Venues)

*Please note: You are not required to purchase a ticket to simply access Whistler Village on New Year’s Eve. Tickets are only required to enter the official Whistler Presents: New Year’s Eve venues.

Skating at Whistler Olympic Plaza

Skating at Whistler Olympic Plaza is open from 6 to 11 p.m. Show your wristband to receive free skate rentals.

Millennium Place – Open 6 to 11 p.m.

On New Year’s Eve Millennium Place will come alive with entertainment, live music and two childrens’ countdowns that include a giant bubble wrap and balloon stomp. The event includes creative arts and crafts, cartoons, face painting, dress-up storytelling and surprises.

Whistler Conference Centre – Open 6 to 11 p.m.

The Whistler Conference Centre includes an indoor play zone with a variety of exciting activities, games, and entertainment. The teen dance, inside its own special dance hall at the Conference Centre, is the place for teenage music lovers to shake it until midnight.

Teen Dance at the Whistler Conference Centre – Open 8 p.m. to midnight – Much Music Dance Party for ages 13 to 18

The Much Music Dance Party comes to town with wicked sound, killer lighting and the hottest new and old school videos for youth’s ages 13 to 18 years old.

The Hottest New Years Eve Parties & Events in Whistler.

NYE 2015 – Mojo’s Nightclub – Come along to this Whistler favourite and ring in the new year with a great live DJ, tasty drinks, and one of the best atmospheres in town! Moe Joe’s is well known around Whistler for hosting an awesome NYE party, and you definitely won’t wanna miss it!

Midnight in the Mountains – Garfinkel’s Whistler  – Join a fabulous crowd at the best venue in town in waving goodbye to 2014 and celebrating the start of 2015! But be quick, tickets will not last! This event sells out every year, so get them while they’re still hot!

Uncorked! New Year’s Eve 2015 – Maxx Fish –  Well known as hosting the best NYE events in Whistler, you don’t want to miss out! Tickets include free champagne, an after midnight buffet, professional photos, amazing live entertainment, and much more! So ring in the New Year at Whistler’s best New Year’s Eve event!

New Year’s Eve – World Crawl Whistler Club Crawl – BG Urban Grill – Start the night off at BC Urban grill with a few games, Whistlers best nachos, and a shot to start off the night. A great place to get to know fellow crawlers, have a few beers, and prepare for the night. Then its on to Cinnamon Bear and finish up the night at Tommy Africa’s…more details

New Year’s Eve at Tommy Africa’s – Your ticket to an unforgettable New Years Eve at Whistler’s hottest nightclub, including appetizers and a complimentary champagne toast at midnight. Dress to impress and join us as we ring in the new year by once again throwing the biggest year-end party anywhere in the village!

Midnight in Moscow – Buffalo Bills – Featuring DJ Peacefrog, event ticket price includes access, hor d’oeuvres, and champagne toast at midnight. Considered as Whistler’s #1 dance floor and possibly even the best New Year’s Eve party in the village. For last minute tickets, contact the venue directly.

 “36 hours in Whistler” :: Video compliments of the New York Times

Longhorn Saloon’s Burlesque New Year’s Eve Party – Celebrate 2013 in spectacular style at the Burlesque New Year’s Eve Party. There will be a countdown, DJ, champagne toast at midnight and gourmet hors d’oeuvres.

Roaring 20’s Party – Firerock Lounge – The perfect themed event for The FireRock Lounge and New Years Eve. Join them for a fun filled night of dancing and welcome in the New Year with style. GA ticket guarantees entry, a champagne toast at midnight & dancing all night long to our special guest DJ. Tickets are $25.

Ciroc Presents New Year’s 2014 at the GLC – Dance to DJ Kori K and Foxy Moron at the GLC. Tickets are $75 and include two welcome drinks plus a bubbly toast at midnight. The party goes until 3 AM – dress to impress.

New Year’s Eve Extravaganza – Bearfoot Bistro – Celebrate the evening at a New Year’s Eve Extravaganza at the Beafoot Bistro. Tickets are available for $298 per adult and include an exceptional five-course menu created by Executive Chef Melissa Craig, live music, party favours, champagne sabering in the wine cellar and dancing after midnight. Early seatings available for family groups.

New Year’s Eve Party – Black’s Pub – Party at Black’s Pub with the BEST view in town for the Fire & Ice Show and midnight fireworks. Advance tickets from $45 including champagne toast at midnight and party favors. Music provided by Sean Rose and band playing into the wee, small hours.

Ruckus Deluxe at Dubh Linn Gate – Get ready to sing and dance all night long as Whistler’s Ruckus Deluxe perform innovative versions of current and classic covers.

Pique’s guide to New Year’s Eve :: A round up of all parties in Whistler and beyond

Whistler New Year’s Eve Dinner

If you’re wanting a world class, exquisite dinner with your special someone these award winning Whistler Restaurants have  New Year’s Eve Menus

Edgwater Lodge

New Year’s Eve Early Seating Three Course Prix Fixe Menu
New Year’s Eve Late Seating Five Course Prix Fixe Menu

Grill & Vine – Westin Whistler – New Year’s Eve Dinner Buffet

Fairmont Chateau Whistler – New Year’s Eve Gala

Cinnamon Bear Grille –  Year End Celebration

Araxi Restaurant + Bar

As Whistler’s favourite destination for a memorable night of spectacular food and wine, New Year’s Eve at Araxi is no different. With lively music and midnight countdown to accompany your dinner, we offer two options – celebrate early before your night on the town, or later for a full gala celebration to ring in the New Year.

Bearfoot Bistro – Fine Dining Extravaganza

Join us on New Year’s Eve for the Bearfoot Bistro’s favourite festive celebration. Come early for a wonderful dinner with family and friends, or come later and ring in the New Year with us.

Whistler Vacation Rentals for New Years Eve Available.

If you are planning to hit Whistler for New Years, there are still vacation rentals by owner available here. Scam-free rentals. BBB A+ rating. Better than Craigslist…