Après in Whistler: It Doesn't Get Any Better Than This!
If you are a skier, snowboarder, mountain biker or golfer, you already know that a vibrant aprs scene makes your outdoor adventures that much better. Whistler is world-renowned for its fabulous après featuring live music, drink specials, hearty food and the camaraderie that comes with enjoying this mountain paradise with others.
For something a little different, try a Whistler Tasting Tour and après at five of Whistler's best restaurants and lounges. There are two different tours to choose from and both feature British Columbia wines and unique culinary creations. Call 604.902.8687 for reservations.
Check out these must-do après spots:
The Famous Four
The Garibaldi Lift Company
Located slopeside, right at the base of Whistler Mountain in the Village, the GLC has a large, heated outdoor patio that's perfect for people-watching. See skiers and riders on their last run of the day or mountain bikers ripping it up in the Bike Park on the GLC Drop or Boneyard. In the winter, the patio is the perfect place to watch the Sunday evening Fire & Ice Show where skiers and snowboarders fly through dazzling rings of fire. The patio tends to be shady so it's a welcome break from the scorching sun in the summer. Catch live bands on weekends and hear a DJ spin reggae and ambient house music the rest of the time. The indoor fireplace keeps it cozy. The menu features tapas to share, gourmet entrees, signature martinis and, of course, the obligatory nachos and beer, both local and imported. Make sure you try the freshly made guacamole!
The Longhorn Saloon
A Whistler institution for more than 25 years, the Longhorn sits right at the base of Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains in the Village (right across from the GLC). The atmosphere is casual with a mix of locals and visitors; lots of storytelling happens on the sun-filled patio. Microsoft used the code name Longhorn for its Vista operating system when it was in the development stage – we think the stunning vistas surrounding the Longhorn must have had something to do with it!
Merlins
Blackcomb Mountain's best party always starts at Merlins. Head over to the Upper Village and right at the base of the Wizard Express chairlift is where you'll find live music, bar-top dancing, a gondola DJ booth suspended from the ceiling and a large, laid-back and sunny patio. A local's favourite, kids are allowed until 7:00 pm so it's a great place for families to celebrate after a stellar day on the slopes. The large nacho platter has to be seen to be believed.
Dusty's Bar & BBQ
Whistler's original watering hole has been serving locals and visitors alike in Whistler Creekside since the early days of 1965. This slopeside, classic western ski lodge has wood-beamed ceilings, a pool table and a cozy fireplace. Something's always going on whether it's live music, interactive trivia games or professional sports on the big-screen. The huge heated outdoor patio gets the best sun in Whistler and you can catch skiers and riders ending their day on the Dave Murray Downhill, site of the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic alpine competitions. Dusty's is famous for their BBQ menu and in the summer, the Canadian BBQ Championships are held here. For culinary nirvana, try the seasoned potato wedges with Butt Rub mayo and the Dusty's Caesar (similar to a Bloody Mary) that comes garnished with a stick of beef jerky.
And the Rest
Black's Pub
At only steps away from both Blackcomb and Whistler Mountain gondolas, Black's is the ideal family spot for après. The patio is sunny with unparalleled views and the bar offers 99 different beers from around the world and Whistler's largest selection of whiskeys with more than 40 varieties.
Dubh Linn Gate Pub
For a taste of Ireland in Whistler head to Dubh Linn Gate located inside the Pan Pacific Mountainside Hotel. This authentic Irish pub serves a perfect pint along with après favourites like classic Irish stew, steak and Guinness pie and BC halibut and chips. Irish music fills the room (with live entertainment every day of the winter season) and the heated lively patio holds 100 of your closest friends spinning tales of crazy cornices, smooth corduroy and big wipe outs.
The Mallard Lounge and Terrace
Two roaring fire pits on the terrace make this a warm and inviting place to après. Located in the Fairmont Chateau Whistler in the Upper Village, the Mallard is relaxing and cozy with leather sofas, famous martinis and live entertainment. Try an Alpine Warmer like the Polar Bear, an adults-only version of hot chocolate, or the hand-crafted hot buttered rum. The chocolate fondue for two is to die for. Fairmont Fridays are always popular and features free appetizers starting at 5:30 pm and $5 pints of Whistler Lager.
Fifty Two 80 Bar
Named for the vertical on Blackcomb Mountain, this upscale lounge is located inside the Four Seasons Resort in the Upper Village. The chairs are plush, the martinis are creative, the menu is sophisticated and the heated terrace has a wood-burning fire pit that is the perfect place to socialize after an energetic day on the mountain or golf course.
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