Off-mountain culture is a critical piece of the whole ski-vacation experience and at its center is après-ski (noun: the social activities and entertainment following a day’s skiing). The beauty of après-ski is that it loosely encapsulates a variety of activities and experiences, which typically range from cold beers, wings and billiards to champagne, fondue and high-end spa treatments. Each person can tailor it a bit to fit their own preferences, so long as your celebrating a good day on slopes.
With three base villages brimming with post-skiing diversions, Whistler Blackcomb has long been reputed as having some of Ski Country’s best après-ski options. Part of Whistler’s après-ski allure is that with 8,100-plus acres to conquer and 432,000 acres of pristine heli-skiing terrain to play in, you really feel like you’ve earned that beer, mouth-watering burger or zen-like hot tub session.
To help you maximize your post hoc observances, we comprised a list of Whistler’s best après-ski spots and experiences.
Whistler’s best après-ski bars
Dusty’s Bar & BBQ | Creekside Village
If barbecue and beers call to you after a day of schussing, make your way to Creekside Village and saddle up at Dusty’s.
Photo: Dusty’s Bar & BBQ
Garibaldi Lift Co. (GLC) | Whistler Village
Located above the Whistler Gondola building, Garibaldi Lift Co. is the places to apres in Whistler Village—if not for convenience (simply ski right up), for the rowdy, indoor bar scene and sunny, outdoor patio.
Photo: Garibaldi Lift Co.
Merlin’s Bar & Grill | Center Village
Renowned for offering some of Whistler’s best live music (don’t miss an apres session here if the local band, the Hairfarmer’s are playing), Merlin’s Bar & Grill will please the skier or rider who craves cold, cheap beers and hot tunes.
Photo: Merlin’s Bar & Grill
Dubh Linn Gate Irish Pub | Whistler Village
The place “where Irish comfort food meets West Coast mountain goodness,” Dubh Linn Gate Irish Pub is perfect for a post-skiing ritual that includes pub fare, good beer and even live Irish music and dancing.
Photo: Dubh Linn Gate Irish Pub
Bearfoot Bistro | Whistler Village
For an upscale apres, head to Bearfoot Bistro. Enjoy champagne and Pacific oysters or sample Ketel One Vodka in the onsite Ice Room. Plus, it’s a convenient place to tie one on after a day with Whistler Heli-Skiing, as their Apres Lounge is located in the back of the restaurant.
Photo: Bearfoot Bistro
Whistler BrewHouse | Whistler Village
If you’re a microbrewery enthusiast, head to the Whistler Brew House. Belly up at the bar and sample a flight of their hand-crafted, local suds or gather with a group on the mezzanine or outdoor patio and dig into a plate of poutine and share a pitcher.
Photo: Whistler BrewHouse
Whistler’s best après-ski spas
Scandinave Spa | Located on 8010 Mons Rd.
Contemplate your amazing day on the slopes, while you rejuvenate your muscles at the Scandinave Spa, which features hot and cold pools, hydrotherapy, saunas, relaxation rooms and massage treatments.
Photo: Scandinave Spa
Vida Spa at Fairmont Chateau Whistler | Center Village
Photo: Fairmont Chateau Whistler
Enjoy inner calm and outer vitality after an après–ski session at Vida Spa at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler. Rituals and treatments are rooted in Ayurveda—an ancient, holistic Indian practice.
Four Seasons Resort Whistler Spa | Center Village
The Four Seasons Resort Whistler Spa was recognized at the No. 1 Hotel Spa in Canada by Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards. Indulge the eucalyptus steam room and make a reservation for a massage, body treatment or facial.
Photo: Four Seasons Resort Whistler
Westin’s Avello Spa & Health Club | Whistler Village
Featuring 75-plus treatments ranging from facials and body wraps to hot-rock massages, Vichy showers and Bouvier tubs, the Avello Spa & Health Club at the Westin Resort & Spa, Whistler provides incredible post-skiing R & R.
Photo: Westin Resort & Spa, Whistler
Ready to book your Whistler ski trip? Our 70+ Mountain Travel Experts are standing by at 800-610-8911 for your call. You can also get started by filling out a form for a free, custom quote.
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