Whistler getaway: six family-friendly summer activities
Whistler is best known for its snowy slopes and world class ski conditions, but come summer it’s transformed into a lush, green, mountain paradise full of swimmable lakes, spectacular hiking trails and non-stop family friendly activities. Here are six activities your family will love as well as a great mid-week hotel deal.
Six family friendly summer activities in Whistler
Cycle along the Valley Trail
Be sure to bring your bikes with you when you visit Whistler. Go for a family cycle along part of the paved and glorious Valley Trail. Amid a valley of incredible natural beauty and record-setting attractions this simple 40-km bike path, built 30 years ago, may be Whistler’s greatest asset and legacy.
Wander around the Village
Amble around the pedestrian-only Village. It’s a magical place to explore in the summer with a lively atmosphere including buskers, markets, performances and artist demonstrations. Oh and plenty of bakeries (can you say Purebread?), pizza shops and ice cream spots.
Free summer concerts at the Whistler Olympic Plaza
From the sweet sounds of classical music to chilled out beats and local folk bands, Whistler Olympic Plaza is the place for free outdoor concerts this summer. Pack a picnic, let the kids dance or run around, and enjoy the views.
Cool off at the Meadow Park kids water park
Chill with the kids at Meadow Park and enjoy a long, lazy day. One of the largest flat open spaces in Whistler, Meadow Park also sits on the banks of the River of Golden Dreams. Take in the majestic views while the kids run around the water park.
Hiking & Swimming
If the kids are more of the adventurous type, up is where the real experience is. Whistler has an array of hiking trails to suit all levels of ability, with lots of mellow nature walks and gentle hikes for littler kids. There are too many to list here but you can’t go wrong with a wander around Lost Lake followed by a swim in Whistler’s warmest waters.
Celebrate Canada Day
Break out your red and white and head to Whistler village to celebrate Canada’s Birthday. Whistler will be bustling with free concerts by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, crafts, a kid-friendly parade through the village stroll, and, of course, cake.
Whistler Children’s Festival, July 5-7, 2019
The festival takes over Whistler Olympic Plaza all weekend long on July 5-7 The entrance fee gives access to activities such as face painting, balloon hats, origami and a covered free-play area for kids under 2 years. There will be performers on stage all day and roving characters to surprise and delight.
Protip: Take advantage of this Mid-Week Hotel Deal with stays from $139 per night.
This post is sponsored by Tourism Whistler.
Summer in Whistler means a smorgasbord of all-ages activities and outdoor entertainment. Celebrate Canada’s birthday on July 1, and enjoy music in the mountains with free outdoor concerts from the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra. Or, enjoy crafts, workshops and magic performances at Whistler Children’s Festival, July 5-7, 2019
Harriet Fancott is the Editor and Social Media Manager for Vancouver Mom. She has over 20 years experience in the arts, tech and mom-based blogging arenas. She lives in East Vancouver with her husband and son where they enjoy exploring all that Vancouver has to offer from festivals and events to playgrounds and beaches to sushi and ice cream (although not together).