Whistler Village is the main hub in Whistler. For nightlife, dining, shopping, accommodation and activities, Whistler Village is the go-to area for the majority of visitors in Whistler. The Village is separated by road called the Village Gate Boulevard. To the north of this road is an area often referred to as Village North or Whistler Village North.
To the south of the Village Gate Boulevard is the Village Square and Skiers Plaza. The Village stroll connects the North and Southside of the Village and when walking around, they are effectively the same place. I have decided to separate the two here simply because there is so much in Whistler Village, that it is easier to discuss it in two halves, and also because accommodations are often described as being located in Village North.
Within Village North itself there are 5 separate areas to think about when visiting Whistler. North Lands Boulevard is a main road that has plenty of accommodation options along it. The Market Place, which as the name suggests has plenty of shops. The Olympic Plaza plays host to many events, and has a few shops and accommodations surrounding it. Main Street has shops, a couple of attractions, and some good accommodation options. Finally the Village stroll which heads down to the South side of the Village. All areas are side by side and walk around will flow between the 5.
North Lands Boulevard is home to the Pinnacle Hotel, which does have a couple of nice restaurants below it, namely Alta Bistro. The Cascade Lodge is the closest hotel to the main Village, and both options will be comparably cheaper than staying in the Skiers Plaza, but involve a little walk to the ski lifts. Next along the road are Sunpath at Stoney Creek, The Lagoons at Stoney Creek and North Star at Stoney Creek. These 3 places have some wonderful condo’s and town houses. These are great for large family groups or people looking for a more independent vacation. Right at the very end of North Lands Boulevard you will find Twin Peaks, Valhalla and Symphony and Glaciers Reach. These accommodations often play host to long term visitors, but can provide great options if you are on a tight budget, but want to stay in Whistler Village.
Main Street comes off North Lands Boulevard and is home to the Whistler Library and as of writing this the temporary home for the Whistler Museum. There is a lively bar in the Delta suites called the Brickworks, which has live music and local ales. Mount Currie coffee is a popular cafe with the locals and just next door are two very popular eateries: Splitz Burger; and Peaked Pies. Both great options if you are in the mood for something quick, easy and not too expensive, hence their popularity with locals. Equally convenient but a bit more upmarket and probably a healthier option, is Pasta Lupino where you can eat in, take away, or by fresh pasta and sauce to cook and home. For accommodation on Main Street the Summit Lodge is a boutique and pet friendly hotel, or Alpen Glow is home to some reasonably priced condos.
The Market Place has one main accommodation option, the aptly named Market Place Lodge. This is one of the best value locations in the Village, and is incredibly convenient. Appart form the short walk to the lifts, everything else is right outside your door. Marketplace is home to banks, a liquor store, pharmacy, grocery store, 7-11, some fast food chains, shops and some wonderful eateries. la Cantina is a great place to grab some tacos and enjoy a beer with friends, while the Green Moustache serves up healthy organic food and drinks.
The Olympic Plaza has a village green and large stage. In the summer there is often live music and even movie screenings here. There is a great kids play area, and in winter a small ice rink. This is surrounded by cafes and shops, most notably Purebread, which is a must-try and wonderful treat while in Whistler. The Brewhouse is a great local bar and restaurant serving ales brewed in-house and hearty food. The bar in the Brewhouse is a great place to relax with friends and play a little pool. The main accommodation for the Olympic Plaza is Tyndalstone Lodge. Due to the nearby amenities this is a good option for families with young kids.
The Village Stroll runs through the whole Village, but the section in Village North has the Deer, Eagle and Bear lodges alongside it. There are also a few shops here and the infamous Garfinkles nightclub if you feel like partying!
In summary Whistler Village North is a vibrant area with a local charm. There is value to be had if you choose your accommodation here, and some real treats if you eat or drink in Village North.
