A quick family escape to Whistler for the weekend. Things are heating up (temperature-wise too) as the Olympics approach and folks are getting anxiously excited. The hopes are high, and thousands of people have been working very hard to make things perfect for everyone - athletes, visitors, sponsors and locals too. Go Canada Go!
Whistler can be an expensive place for families. After all, skiing and snowboarding are among the most pricey sporting activities out there.
But, given that fact, Whistler remains a very family-friendly place with much to do and see. Here's a short run-down of some of the winter offerings, for your consideration.
Whistler Kids - You're at a ski resort - go skiing! Or at least enroll the kids in a ski or snowboard lesson program with Whistler Kids. Offering experienced ski instructors and programs for all ages and ski abilities, you can choose one day private lessons, or a week's worth of public Adventure Camps. If you need to brush up your ski skills, this is the place.
The Squamish Lilwat Cultural Centre - A stunning, multi-media showcase of Squamish and Lilwat culture, heritage and history. Located within easy walking distance of Whistler Village and most hotels. Guided tours of the Centre are offered by Aboriginal Youth Ambassadors.
The Core Climbing Centre - If the kids still have energy after a day's worth of skiing, check out Whistler's indoor/outdoor fitness facility, located in the Village. The Core offers climbing lessons (& child-minding) for the kids, as well as a children's "Climb & Dine" evening (dinner included) for 2-3 hours, allowing parents a precious dinner evening to themselves.
Meadow Park Sports Centre - Every hotel has a pool, but if you're staying in a condo or rented house, or just want a change of pace, travel just a few kilometers north to this sports centre for hours of swimming family fun. Amenities include; indoor kids pool (with a lazy river), lap pool, hot tub, steam room and fitness facilities. Great for all ages, with a reasonable family entrance fee.
Where to Dine? Options
Even if you have a kitchen in your hotel room or rental condo, you may wish to venture out for a bite to eat in Whistler Village. Here are some of our tried & tested family favorites, all within easy walking distance in the main village.
21 Steps - Tasty menu of appetizer-portion dishes with a funky, relaxed atmosphere. Offers a children's menu, with some added goodies like ribs & steak & mashed potatoes. A lounge-like "Attic" is upstairs for drinks and quieter meals.
Caramba! - Great place for the family. Features pizza from a wood-burning oven, as well as pasta and meat dishes. Reasonably priced, and the wood oven can be quite entertaining for the kids.
Sushi Village - Reputed to be Whistler's favourite sushi restaurant. Our family loves sushi so it's become our favourite sushi restaurant in Whistler too. Fine, fresh fish, and sake margaritas for the adults. [travellingmom tip: If your kids eat a lot of sushi, the bill can add up very quickly.]
Wild Wood Bistro - Located at the Whistler Raquet Club in Village North. This family-friendly restaurant has its own kids menus, with favourite offerings such as pizza and spaghetti and meatballs. The adult offerings are equally tasty, with emphasis on west coast cuisine and flavours. The extra benefit of the Wild Wood Bistro is its location at the Raquet Club - lots of activity to keep the kids occupied until dessert comes. [Note: Closed until April 2010.]