Where to Stay in Whistler, BC - 5 Best Areas & Hotels

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Whistler, located in Western Canada in the province of British Columbia, is the largest ski resort in North America. Situated less than two hours north of Vancouver, the Whistler area is one of Canada's most popular wintertime destinations.

The resort has over 200 ski slopes lining the Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. It was even the site of the 2010 Winter Olympics. But despite being most known as a cold-weather destination, Whistler has plenty to offer visitors all year round.

The city of Whistler is split into several smaller neighborhoods, each offering its own unique reasons for staying there. No two spots are quite the same. If you're planning a trip to the mountains, picking the right area to stay is your most impactful decision.

In this article, you'll learn all about where to stay in Whistler by discovering the pros and cons of each of the most popular neighborhoods.

🏨 Best mid-range hotel:	Cascade Lodge
🏖 Best family-friendly hotel:	Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel Whistler
💕 Best romantic hotel:	Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel Whistler
🛎️ Best luxury hotel:	The Westin Resort & Spa

5 Best Places to Stay in Whistler, BC

Top Areas to Stay in Whistler, Canada

David Buzzard/Shutterstock.com

Whistler Village

Famous for its car-free cobblestone streets and mountain-resort ambiance, Whistler Village is the beating heart of Whistler. It's the area's most lively spot, often called just "the Village." In Whistler Village, you will find the largest selection of boutique shopping, dining, and après-ski nightlife.

Whistler Village also has the area's largest hotel concentration. You can often find decent rates, however, make sure you book in advance to get the most budget-friendly prices possible.

Although with so much going on in the Village, don't expect the peace and quiet or immersion in nature that you'll get in other neighborhoods. But you will have direct access to ski lifts running up the area's mountains and hotels offering ski-in and ski-out rooms.

If this is your first time in Whistler, staying in Whistler Village will give you the best taste of the area, especially if you're only in town for a short weekend trip. It's also an excellent choice for families, thanks to its pedestrian-only streets and central location providing easy access to the area's attractions.

🏨 Mid-range places to stay in and nearby Whistler Village Centre

• Aava Whistler Hotel (relax by the pool)
• Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside (4-star)
• Cascade Lodge

🏖 Child-friendly places to stay in and nearby Whistler Village Centre

• Gibbons Life Accommodations (scored highly by guests)
• Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel Whistler (highly rated)
• The Westin Resort & Spa (rated 5-stars)

💕 Romantic accommodations in and nearby Whistler Village Centre

• Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel Whistler (rated very highly)
• The Westin Resort & Spa (5-star rating)
• Pan Pacific Whistler Village Centre (4-star rating)

🛎️ Luxury places to stay in and nearby Whistler Village Centre

• The Westin Resort & Spa (5-star rating)
• Four Seasons Resort Whistler (5-star rating)

knelson20/Shutterstock.com

Upper Village

Located just a few minutes walk from Whistler Village, the Upper Village keeps you near the action but in wooded and secluded surroundings. This is where you want to be if you're looking for all of the amenities of the main Village but prefer a more private and romantic vacation experience.

Although you can find rooms fitting a variety of budgets in the Upper Village, the emphasis here is on luxury accommodations. You will notice the most well-known upscale brands in the Upper Village.

The neighborhood is home to some of Whistler's best-rated golf courses during the summer. And if you're looking for a wintertime ski-in ski-out suite, the Upper Village is the best location to stay in Whistler.

You'll find a smattering of dining and shopping in the Upper Village, primarily on-site options within the more renowned resort properties. But most people in the Upper Village make the short trek to Whistler Village for relaxation after a day on the slopes.

🏨 Mid-range places to stay in and nearby Upper Village

• Cascade Lodge (relaxing pool)
• Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside (4-star rating)
• Pangea Pod Hotel

🏖 Child-friendly places to stay in and nearby Upper Village

• Gibbons Life Accommodations (scored highly by guests)
• Powderhorn by Whistler Blackcomb Vacation Rentals (top-rated)
• Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel Whistler (highly acclaimed)

💕 Romantic accommodations in and nearby Upper Village

• Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel Whistler (rated highly)
• Four Seasons Resort Whistler (rated 5-stars)
• The Westin Resort & Spa (rated 5-stars)

🛎️ Luxury places to stay in and nearby Upper Village

• Four Seasons Resort Whistler (5-star rating)
• The Westin Resort & Spa (5-star rating)

Luis War/Shutterstock.com

Whistler Creek

The original resort destination in the area, Whistler Creek, also commonly called Creekside, began ferrying skiers up Whistler Mountain on the region's first chair-lift in January 1966. The site has evolved since then, with Whistler Village, around 10 minutes north by car, taking over as the region's tourism hub.

This area works out well for travelers on a budget, especially families looking for a quieter, laidback locale without sacrificing the convenience of the Village. While smaller than the one in Whistler Village, Whistler Creek offers its own pedestrian-friendly downtown area.

You'll find a variety of ski-in ski-out rooms in Whistler Creek, with the convenient Peak 2 Peak Gondola, which opened in 2008, connecting Whistler Mountain to the slopes on adjacent Blackcomb Mountain. Overall, Whistler Creek is an intelligent choice if you plan to spend most of your time on the slopes and prefer the quieter, budget-friendly ambiance.

🏨 Well-priced accommodation in and nearby Whistler Creek

• Evolution Whistler (well-regarded)

🏖 Child-friendly places to stay in and nearby Whistler Creek

• Nita Lake Lodge (4-star rating)
• Glaciers Reach by Allseason Vacation Rentals (4-star rating)

💕 Romantic places to stay in and nearby Whistler Creek

• Nita Lake Lodge (4-star)
• Glaciers Reach by Allseason Vacation Rentals (4-star rating)

Alta Vista

Situated just a few minutes drive to the south of central Whistler, between the Village and Whistler Creek, Alta Vista is a relaxing residential area that is one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Whistler in the summer. In the winter, Alta Vista remains a secluded escape for privacy seekers and a practical base for cross-country skiers.

Named for its scenic views over Alta Lake, Alta Vista attracts warm-weather visitors to its miles of hiking and mountain biking trails. It also has some of the top lakeside beaches in the area, with the two most popular at Lakeside Park and Wayside Park.

Alta Vista is a small, quieter area like Whistler Creek. However, expect few dining and shopping options and even fewer large hotels. Most accommodations within Alta Vista will be small inns and private rentals. If you're staying in Alta Vista, anticipate making the short ride to Whistler Village for meals and après-ski indulgences.

🏨 Well-priced accommodations in and nearby Alta Vista

• Aava Whistler Hotel (unwind poolside)
• Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside (4-star)
• Pangea Pod Hotel

🏖 Child-friendly places to stay in and nearby Alta Vista

• Gibbons Life Accommodations (scored highly by guests)
• Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel Whistler (well-rated)
• The Westin Resort & Spa (5-star rating)

💕 Romantic accommodations in and nearby Alta Vista

• Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel Whistler (scored highly by guests)
• The Westin Resort & Spa (exceptional rating)
• Pan Pacific Whistler Village Centre (rated 4-stars)

🛎️ Luxury accommodations in and nearby Alta Vista

• Four Seasons Resort Whistler (well-rated)
• The Westin Resort & Spa (5-star rating)

Alpine Meadows

Just a short drive north of central Whistler, Alpine Meadows is a terrific alternative for anyone looking to experience the sights and attractions of Whistler, Canada, without the touristy feel of the Village. Located on the western edge of Green Lake, Alpine Meadows gets the most visitors during the summer thanks to some of the region's prime fishing, golfing, and hiking.

Alpine Meadows is a quieter residential area than most popular Whistler neighborhoods to the south. While this is great for travelers looking to get away from it all, anticipate heading into Whistler Village if you plan on going out to dine or enjoy nighttime entertainment.

Although Alpine Meadows has access points for cross-country skiing, most wintertime visitors planning to hit the slopes will likely be better suited to staying in Alta Vista. You'll find similar accommodations and activities but more convenient access to the ski lifts and the rest of town.

🎉 View the best Alpine Meadows lodging deals

• View prices at Booking.com
• View prices at Agoda

Where to stay in Whistler, Canada

Where to stay in Whistler with family?

There's so much for kids to do in Whistler that it's no surprise the city is one of British Columbia's top family-friendly resort destinations. And for families, the most suitable locations to stay in Whistler are Whistler Village and Whistler Creek.

Whistler Village is the area's most vibrant community, and the car-free town center is where you'll find most eateries and shops. There is plenty for kids to see and do in the Village, which also has ski lifts directly to the slopes.

Whistler Creek, the area's original resort community, is around 10 minutes south of Whistler Village and offers a similar, albeit smaller and quieter, experience. Hotel prices in Whistler Creek are typically budget-friendly, and the neighborhood still has ski lifts to take you right up the slopes.

Families searching for luxury accommodations will want to stay in the more private Upper Village, where you will encounter most of the region's upscale hotels. Despite its secluded appearance, the Upper Village is within walking distance of Whistler Village.

🏖 Child-friendly places to stay in and nearby Whistler Village Centre

• Gibbons Life Accommodations (well-rated)
• Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel Whistler (well-rated)
• The Westin Resort & Spa (5-star luxury)

Where to stay in Whistler for a romantic getaway?

From winter's idyllic white-covered wonderland to the beautiful blue and green alpine landscape in the summer, Whistler is an excellent choice for a romantic getaway year-round. It's notably one of the best weekend getaway destinations from Vancouver!

For many couples, the busy bustle of Whistler Village can detract from the intimate charm. Instead, staying in the Upper Village is the best choice for a romantic vacation.

Here you'll find a private setting that is still within walking distance of the dining and entertainment in the Village. Although it's home to the city's most upscale hotels, the Upper Village has various properties that fit most budgets.

Alta Vista and Alpine Meadows offer small-scale accommodations in a local and natural setting if you're after something even more secluded. You will get better views, fewer crowds, and more privacy. But expect limited options for going out in the evening without driving to Whistler Village.

💕 Romantic places to stay in and nearby Upper Village

• Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel Whistler (well-rated)
• Four Seasons Resort Whistler (rated 5-stars)
• The Westin Resort & Spa (5-star rating)

Where to stay in Whistler for sightseeing?

The top place to stay in Whistler for sightseeing is going to be Whistler Village. Here you'll find yourself in the heart of town, with most of the area's attractions within walking distance. Plus, the neighborhood has ski lifts that will take you directly up Whistler and Blackcomb mountains.

If you're looking for a quieter or slightly cheaper alternative, Whistler Creek, the original resort at Whistler Mountain, is a great option just 10 minutes to the south. Whistler Creek also offers direct slope access, although exploring the sights on Blackcomb Mountain means traveling across the scenic Peak 2 Peak Gondola line. Which, to be fair, is a sight worth seeing in itself.

During the summer, the residential area of Alta Vista becomes the place to be, with many of the area's most popular summer sights nearby. From miles of hiking and mountain biking trails to the city's best lakefront beaches, Alta Vista is an excellent alternative to Whistler Creek or the Village for sightseeing during the warmer months.

🏨 Well-priced accommodations in and nearby Whistler Village Centre

• Cascade Lodge (soak up the sun poolside)
• Pangea Pod Hotel
• Mountainside Lodge (highly acclaimed)

🛎️ Luxury accommodations in and nearby Whistler Village Centre

• The Westin Resort & Spa (5-star rating)
• Four Seasons Resort Whistler (5-star rating)

Where to stay in Whistler for a weekend trip?

Whistler, British Columbia, isn't a huge area. You can drive from Alpine Meadows in the north to Whistler Creek in the south in under 20 minutes. But while there's plenty to keep you busy on an extended vacation, you can have a great time in just a couple of days on a weekend trip with the right game plan.

Convenience is key when you only have limited time to enjoy the Whistler area. On a weekend trip, that means staying nearest to where you plan to spend the most time. This will put most people in Whistler Village, the town center, and proximity to most of the area's draws.

However, if you're traveling in the summer, consider Alta Vista, where you will find Whistler's top beaches and trails. On the other hand, golfers should look to either Alpine Meadows or the Upper Village, where the area's world-class courses are located.

🏨 Mid-range places to stay in and nearby Whistler Village Centre

• Aava Whistler Hotel (chill out by the pool)
• Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside (rated 4-stars)
• Cascade Lodge

🛎️ Luxury accommodations in and nearby Whistler Village Centre

• The Westin Resort & Spa (exceptional rating)
• Four Seasons Resort Whistler (rated 5-stars)

Where to stay in Whistler in the summer?

Whistler Village is always a good option, no matter the season. However, if you plan to soak up the sun on the beach or take a casual hike along the area's miles of trails, Alta Vista is the best neighborhood to stay in Whistler in the summer.

Summer golfers will find highly-rated courses in the Upper Village and Alpine Meadows, making these top places to stay. However, the Upper Village is a more convenient and generally preferred location. Alpine Meadows does have some of the best fishing and boating on the region's largest body of water, Green Lake, though.

An added bonus of the Upper Village is that you have direct access to ski lifts up Blackcomb Mountain. One of the best things to do in Whistler in the summer is to ride the Peak 2 Peak Gondola from the top of Blackcomb Mountain to Whistler Mountain, where you can check out the unforgettable views of the area from above.

🏨 Mid-range places to stay in and nearby Alta Vista

• Evolution Whistler (rated highly)
• Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa (lounge by the pool)
• The Westin Resort & Spa at Whistler (rated 4-stars)

🛎️ Luxury place to stay in and nearby Alta Vista

• Four Seasons Resort Whistler (5-star rating)

Where to stay in Whistler in winter?

Winter is the peak ski season for Whistler, with most visitors opting to stay in Whistler Village or the Upper Village because of all of the nearby amenities and easy access to the slopes. Plus, every winter, Olympic Plaza in Whistler Village hosts the city's largest outdoor ice skating rink.

However, prices can be high during the popular winter months, so budget-minded travelers often look south to Whistler Creek for accommodations. Whistler Creek, the area's oldest community dating back to the 1960s, isn't as bustling as Whistler Village but still has plenty going on during the busy winter season.

Suppose some peace and quiet are what you're after. In that case, Alta Vista and Alpine Meadows offer more residential locales with scenic winter views and access to cross-country skiing trails. But without ski lifts in either neighborhood, expect to drive to get to and from the slopes.

🏨 Well-priced accommodations in and nearby Whistler Village Centre

• Aava Whistler Hotel (chill out by the pool)
• Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside (rated 4-stars)
• Cascade Lodge

🛎️ Luxury accommodations in and nearby Whistler Village Centre

• The Westin Resort & Spa (5-star rating)
• Four Seasons Resort Whistler (5-star rating)

Where to stay in Whistler for nightlife?

Ski resorts are often known for their active après-ski nightlife scene. The hands-down winner for après-ski is Whistler Village. This is the best area to stay in Whistler if you want to be within walking distance of the region's restaurants, bars, and nighttime entertainment.

The Upper Village is also an excellent area, within walking distance of Whistler's nightlife scene. This is where you'll find the largest selection of luxury hotels in a convenient-yet-private setting. But if you're looking at any other areas of town, plan for needing a ride back to your accommodations at the end of the night.

Whistler Creek has a small nightlife scene, especially during the busier winter months. But if you're more eager for the sun to go down than you are to go down the slopes, do yourself a favor and stay in Whistler Village.

🏨 Well-priced accommodations in and nearby Whistler Village Centre

• Aava Whistler Hotel (unwind poolside)
• Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside (4-star rating)
• Cascade Lodge

🛎️ Luxury places to stay in and nearby Whistler Village Centre

• The Westin Resort & Spa (5-star luxury)
• Four Seasons Resort Whistler (5-star rating)

In Summary

Whistler has several unique areas for a small resort town, each with its own distinct appeal. By matching your vacation plans with the ideal neighborhood, you can set yourself up for the most enjoyable trip with the fewest inconveniences.

For most people, especially first-time visitors, Whistler Village is the best place to stay. The heart of the town, this is where you'll find almost everything happening. Nearby Upper Village, the only other area within walking distance, is an excellent choice for more upscale accommodations.

Travelers on a budget flock to Whistler Creek for lower prices yet convenient mountain access, while summertime visitors often prefer the beaches and hiking trails of Alpine Meadows and Alta Vista.

This article was edited by Alli Sewell.

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