Arts and Culture in Whistler
Whistler's Artful Fall
Visit Whistler during our most creative season and discover how our mountain town vibe lifts arts and culture to new heights. Beneath the high-energy adventure lies a thriving community of artists and curators showcasing the stories, art and enduring spirit that have shaped this region for generations. Fall brings vibrant colours, great value, a quieter Village and a slower pace. It’s the perfect season for contemplation and fresh perspectives.
Art Venues and Attractions
Whistler’s creative scene is rich with galleries, museums, and public spaces built to inspire – and fall is the best time to experience it. Let the energy of this wildly creative community spark your imagination.
View Arts and Culture Events in Whistler This Month
April 28 - September 15
The Coast Mountains: Recent Works by Edward Burtynsky
Location: Audain Art Museum
Internationally-acclaimed, Toronto-based artist Edward Burtynsky presents a selection of large-scale, photo-based works. Over the past 40 years, Burtynsky has focused his camera lens on the impact of human industry around the planet and he continues to be a leader in artistic discourse that speaks to a greater social consciousness. Image: BC Bella Coola 2023 painting by Edward Burtynsky.
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June 1 - September 29
Valley of Dreams Walking Tour
Location: Whistler Visitor Centre | Time: 11 AM
On the Whistler Museum's Valley of Dreams Walking Tour, you'll uncover the early resort history of Alta Lake, tales behind the mountain development, and the stories behind Whistler's journey to the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. The tour is approximately one hour long and is for all ages. Tours run daily in June, July, August and September. Tours are offered by donation and meet at the Whistler Visitor Centre on Gateway Drive.
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June 14 - October 13
Gathered Leaves: Discoveries from the Drawings Vault
Location: Audain Art Museum
This landmark exhibition features rarely seen drawings from the National Gallery of Canada’s renowned Prints and Drawings collection. Established in 1921 as the first of its kind in Canada, it spans the 15th to 20th centuries and highlights masterpieces by Edgar Degas, Gustav Klimt, Edvard Munch, Marc Chagall, Wassily Kandinsky, Pablo Picasso, alongside newly acquired and never-before-displayed works.
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September 3
Barbed Choir
Location: Whistler Public Library | Time: 7 - 8:30 PM
Do you love to sing? Do you love meeting new people? Do you like all types of rock music, new and old? Head on down to sing with Barbed Choir - Whistler’s rock choir. Meetings are drop-in, no registration or experience necessary.
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Thea Wang Live at Lost Lake Park
Location: Lost Lake Park | Time: 6 - 8 PM
Experience the quiet magic of Lost Lake Park with rising Norwegian artist Thea Wang. Blending indie-folk, dream-pop, and poetic storytelling, Thea has earned global praise and comparisons to AURORA and Joni Mitchell. Now, she brings her intimate, acoustic sound to Whistler for a special evening under the stars. Bring a blanket, warm layers, and an open heart. Free and open to all.
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September 4
Yoga at Audain Art Museum
Location: Audain Art Museum | Time: 9:30 - 10:30 AM (Thurs) & 10:30 - 11.30 AM (Sat)
Revel in the stunning architecture of the Audain Art Museum every Thursday and Saturday as you work through a calming one-hour practice with rotating instructors. Classes emphasize breathing, alignment and ease as you stretch and strengthen your body and mind. Registration includes access to the galleries on the day of from 11 AM to 6 PM.
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Riviera & Rosé Thursdays: A Mediterranean Escape
Location: Four Seasons Resort Whistler | Time: 5 - 8 PM
Picture white-and-blue coastal décor, fragrant olive and lemon trees, and draped pergolas setting the stage for a dreamy al fresco retreat at the Four Seasons Resort. Indulge in a sun-kissed Mediterranean buffet, savour chef-crafted dishes from a live cooking station and end your evening with something sweet. As the sun begins to set, enjoy live music and mountain views – the perfect finishing touch to your Mediterranean escape.
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September 5
The Art of the Cocktail Back-to-School Edition
Location: Audain Art Museum | Time: 5:30 - 6:30 PM
Celebrate the season of fresh starts with a back-to-school edition of The Art of the Cocktail. Enjoy expertly crafted cocktails inspired by classroom nostalgia, from crisp apple creations to playful takes on lunchbox favourites, with a fun 10-minute Art History mini-lesson. The featured Cocktail: The Pencil Sharpener! Raise a glass to learning, creativity, and a spirited new season.
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September 6
New Museum Exhibit: RMOW's 50th Anniversary
Location: Whistler Museum | Time: 11 AM - 5 PM
Whistler Museum is launching a new exhibition as part of the Municipality’s 50th celebrations! It explores the RMOW Act and its impact on Whistler’s past, present and future. The event also offers a first look at concept plans for the future Whistler Museum, with models and renderings on display. This special event marks the beginning of the Museum’s capital fundraising campaign and invites the community to be part of shaping what comes next.
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Spo7ez Artist Market
Location: Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre | Time: 10 AM - 3 PM
The Spo7ez Artist Market celebrates the incredible talents of artisans from the Squamish Nation and Lil’wat Nation. It takes place on the first Saturday of each month this summer, in addition to a full-day of immersive programming on National Indigenous Peoples’ Day on June 21.
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September 7
Sunday Slow Down
Location: Audain Art Museum | Time: 9 AM - 4 PM
After the excitement of RBC GranFondo Whistler, treat your body and soul at the Sunday Slow Down. Set in the tranquil Audain Art Museum surroundings, you can register to enjoy a calming sound bath meditation, a restorative yoga session, or a guided tour of the AAM’s Permanent Collection or Special Exhibition.
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September 12
Trailblazers to Tomorrow Makers: RMOW's 50th Anniversary
Location: Maury Young Arts Centre | Time: TBD
This special exhibition, presented by Arts Whistler as part of the Municipality’s 50th celebrations, features five established artists who have each mentored two emerging creators (ages 16–30) and collaborated on works that reflect Whistler’s legacy and future. The exhibition features pieces developed in the Village during launch weekend, alongside a tribute wall honouring creative icons from the past.
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September 13
Wendy Thompson Memorial Hut - 25th Anniversary
Location: Whistler Museum | Time: 5:30 - 9 PM
Celebrate 25 incredible years of the Wendy Thompson Memorial Hut at the Whistler Museum! This special milestone honors the hut’s rich history and the amazing community that has supported it along the way. Reconnect with friends, share stories, and make new memories over delicious pizza, appetizers, drinks, and a commemorative slideshow.
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September 14
Yoga at Audain Art Museum
Location: Audain Art Museum | Time: 9:30 - 10:30 AM (Thurs) & 10:30 - 11.30 AM (Sat)
Revel in the stunning architecture of the Audain Art Museum every Thursday and Saturday as you work through a calming one-hour practice with rotating instructors. Classes emphasize breathing, alignment and ease as you stretch and strengthen your body and mind. Registration includes access to the galleries on the day of from 11 AM to 6 PM.
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September 14 - November 30
Whistler Public Library: RMOW's 50th Anniversary
Location: Whistler Public Library | Time: TBD
As part of the Municipality’s 50th celebrations, the Whistler Public Library invites the community to connect through creative and collaborative events this fall. Includes a new oral history project with the Whistler Museum launching in late September, a high-stakes Puzzle Competition in October, and a grown-up edition of Show & Tell in November. Stay tuned for confirmed dates and details.
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September 17
Laugh Out LIVE! Sketch Comedy Acting Workshop
Location: Westin Resort & Spa | Time: 7 - 9 PM
This 5-week workshop is designed for actors and non-actors alike. Dive into character work, comedic timing and delivery while bringing hilarious scripted scenes to life! You'll practice essential performance techniques and gain tools to make bold, comedic choices on stage with an ensemble cast and a ton of laughs along the way. This mixed-level class welcomes everyone.
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Laugh Out LIVE! Mixed-Level Improv Workshop
Location: Westin Resort & Spa | Time: 5 - 7 PM
Laugh Out LIVE! workshop series presents a 5-week adult improv intensive in Whistler! This dynamic, mixed-level class is open to everyone from complete beginners to seasoned performers. Whether you're looking to sharpen your existing skills or take your very first leap into improv, this supportive and high-energy environment is the perfect place to play, connect and grow.
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Blind Drunk: In Conversation with Veronica Woodruff
Location: Whistler Public Library | Time: 7 - 8:30 PM
Experience an evening of insight and reflection with local author Veronica Woodruff, as she shares excerpts from her powerful memoir Blind Drunk: A Sobering Look at Our Boozy Culture. The reading will be followed by an open, honest conversation about our community's relationship with alcohol, along with a tasting of non-alcoholic wines.
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September 18
Yoga at Audain Art Museum
Location: Audain Art Museum | Time: 9:30 - 10:30 AM (Thurs) & 10:30 - 11.30 AM (Sat)
Revel in the stunning architecture of the Audain Art Museum every Thursday and Saturday as you work through a calming one-hour practice with rotating instructors. Classes emphasize breathing, alignment and ease as you stretch and strengthen your body and mind. Registration includes access to the galleries on the day of from 11 AM to 6 PM.
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September 20
St’át’imc Northern Tribez Powwow
Location: 347 kwetsa7, Mount Currie
The St’át’imc Northern Tribez invite you to gather for an unforgettable Powwow experience - an authentic homecoming grounded in protocol, culture, respect, humility, and knowledge-sharing. The mission is to honour and uplift the spirit of Indigenous traditions through the sacred medicines of dancing, drumming, singing and ceremony. Guided by ancestors and rooted in community, come together to observe self, reconnect with culture and unite from all walks of life. All are welcome.
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September 21
Adult Life Drawing Workshop
Location: Audain Art Museum | Time: 1 - 3 PM
Led by artist Shelley Rothenburger, this class is designed to guide students in uncovering their individual artistic voice while developing strong foundational skills. Includes Museum admission and guided tour.
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September 25
Laugh Out LIVE! Sketch Comedy Acting Workshop
Location: Westin Resort & Spa | Time: 7 - 9 PM
This 5-week workshop is designed for actors and non-actors alike. Dive into character work, comedic timing and delivery while bringing hilarious scripted scenes to life! You'll practice essential performance techniques and gain tools to make bold, comedic choices on stage with an ensemble cast and a ton of laughs along the way. This mixed-level class welcomes everyone.
More Information
Laugh Out LIVE! Mixed-Level Improv Workshop
Location: Westin Resort & Spa | Time: 5 - 7 PM
Laugh Out LIVE! workshop series presents a 5-week adult improv intensive in Whistler! This dynamic, mixed-level class is open to everyone from complete beginners to seasoned performers. Whether you're looking to sharpen your existing skills or take your very first leap into improv, this supportive and high-energy environment is the perfect place to play, connect and grow.
More Information
Yoga at Audain Art Museum
Location: Audain Art Museum | Time: 9:30 - 10:30 AM (Thurs) & 10:30 - 11.30 AM (Sat)
Revel in the stunning architecture of the Audain Art Museum every Thursday and Saturday as you work through a calming one-hour practice with rotating instructors. Classes emphasize breathing, alignment and ease as you stretch and strengthen your body and mind. Registration includes access to the galleries on the day of from 11 AM to 6 PM.
More Information
September 30
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Location: Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre | Time: 10 AM - 5 PM
This day of reflection, learning and cultural connection in honour of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation features programming throughout the cultural centre including the Great Hall, Theatre, Galleries and Mezzanine patio. Attendees can experience immersive storytelling and cultural sharing from the Skwxwú7mesh and Líl̓wat7úl Nations, enjoy guest speakers, artist demonstrations, traditional crafts, Indigenous cuisine, and explore art and keepsakes in the Gallery and Gift Shop. Donations are graciously accepted at admission.
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October 1
Barbed Choir
Location: Whistler Public Library | Time: 7 - 8:30 PM
Do you love to sing? Do you love meeting new people? Do you like all types of rock music, new and old? Head on down to sing with Barbed Choir - Whistler’s rock choir. Meetings are drop-in, no registration or experience necessary.
More Information
Laugh Out LIVE! Sketch Comedy Acting Workshop
Location: Westin Resort & Spa | Time: 7 - 9 PM
This 5-week workshop is designed for actors and non-actors alike. Dive into character work, comedic timing and delivery while bringing hilarious scripted scenes to life! You'll practice essential performance techniques and gain tools to make bold, comedic choices on stage with an ensemble cast and a ton of laughs along the way. This mixed-level class welcomes everyone.
More Information
Laugh Out LIVE! Mixed-Level Improv Workshop
Location: Westin Resort & Spa | Time: 5 - 7 PM
Laugh Out LIVE! workshop series presents a 5-week adult improv intensive in Whistler! This dynamic, mixed-level class is open to everyone from complete beginners to seasoned performers. Whether you're looking to sharpen your existing skills or take your very first leap into improv, this supportive and high-energy environment is the perfect place to play, connect and grow.
More Information
October 2 - February 2
Geoffrey Farmer: Phantom Scripts
Location: Audain Art Museum
Phantom Scripts reimagines three works by Geoffrey Farmer from the Museum’s Permanent Collection through newly written texts that offer speculative, poetic and critical perspectives. A multidisciplinary artist, Farmer explores how meaning shifts over time. His work has been shown at the Venice Biennale, the Louvre, SFMOMA and the AGO.
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Whistler Cultural Pass – $40 per Person
The Whistler Cultural Pass provides access to the Audain Art Museum as well as the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre at a reduced price.
Please note that the Audain Art Museum is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays and the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre is closed on Mondays from September to May. Passes may be used up to 6 days after your reservation date.
2 Nights, 2 Cultural Passes from $109 CAD per Person, per Night
Book your lodging and Cultural Pass on whistler.com, with two nights and two Adult Cultural Passes starting from $109 CAD per person, per night. Available on stays from September 9 - November 21, 2025.
Fine Art Galleries
Go Whistler Tours
Our curated tours guide you to unique experiences and locations throughout our resort, from art galleries to nature walks, and help you adventure more deeply in Whistler. Preview a few of our local art tours below then download the Go Whistler Tours App and do them in person when you are in Whistler for the best experience.
Valley of Dreams Walking Tour with the Whistler Museum
Take a gentle stroll around Whistler Village with a knowledgeable member of the Whistler Museum to learn more about the history of Whistler. Tours run July - August (by donation) with private tours and large group tours available on request.
Whistler’s Cultural Connector
A journey of adventure and discovery. Home to more than mountains, arts and culture flourish in the local community. Explore Whistler’s past and present – discover the stories, milestones and unique cultural institutions awaiting you in beautiful surroundings.
Art Gallery Tour (Self Guided)
Many of Whistler’s art galleries are locate within walking distance around the Village. The Whistler Visitor Centre have put together a guide to help you walk between them and explore some of the public art along the way.
Public Art Tours (Self Guided)
As well as a number of art galleries that house collections of world-class fine art, Whistler has a thriving public art program. Artworks are located throughout the Village, Village North, Upper Village and Whistler Creek as well as in the Village and on the Valley Trail.
A self-guided walking tour of Whistler’s public artworks is a great way to experience Whistler’s art and culture scene and landscape. Each piece of art on the tour is identified with an interpretive sign, with additional information accessed through a phone or QR code.
Whistler's Arts and Culture Institutions
Whistler's community is committed to improving the arts and culture scene. The following institutions work tirelessly to promote the arts and provide opportunities for locals and visitors to experience Whistler's unique culture:
Arts Whistler
Arts Whistler are a passionate bunch – passionate about Whistler, about arts, and about making arts and culture an integral part of day-to-day life. The magic happens at the Maury Young Arts Centre, right in the heart of Whistler Village, where Arts Whistler run a variety of creative classes and workshops, showcase a lineup of exciting live shows for the Performance Series, and host year-round free admission exhibits in The Gallery. Annual events include the Whistler Children’s Festival, Whistler Street Entertainment, Bizarre Bazaar, ArtWalk and Art Workshops on the Lake. As a non-profit organization established in 1982, the only thing that Arts Whistler seeks to make richer is Whistler’s love for arts and culture.
Whistler Film Festival Society
The Whistler Film Festival Society (WFFS) is a charitable cultural organization dedicated to furthering the art of film by providing programs that focus on the discovery, development and promotion of new talent culminating with the must attend, 5-day Whistler Film Festival for artists, the industry and audiences in Whistler over the first weekend of December. The WFFS produces one of Canada’s leading film festivals and plays a leadership role in offering project development programs and opportunities for filmmakers.
Art Gallery Association
The Whistler Gallery Association was formed in 2012 by the eleven commercial art galleries with locations in the Whistler area. Most of the galleries are in Whistler Village, with two located in the Function Junction district, 8 minutes south of Whistler Village and one in Whistler Creekside, 5 minutes south of the Village. The Association represents the interests of Whistler’s commercial fine art dealers, and provides a venue for co-operative marketing campaigns such as the Whistler Gallery Walk.
Whistler’s Public Art Program Committee
The Whistler Public Art Program Committee meets monthly to discuss art projects and sets the program for obtaining and implementing public art. The Committee consists of ten volunteers who are appointed by Council and includes: artists, gallery owners, Whistler Arts Council members, business community members, urban designers and developers, a member of Council; and Whistler residents who are passionate about art. Members have knowledge of contemporary art, are committed to excellence, and represent the community. They are also responsible for managing all public art projects to ensure that they are safe and durable.
Audain Art Museum
The Audain Art Museum is Rick Hansen Foundation Certified; RHF: 168-00565
General
Emergency Plan
- Emergency plan includes staff trained to provide in-person assistance for people with mobility, visual, and hearing requirements
- Emergency plan includes staff trained to provide in-person assistance for people with cognitive disabilities
High Speed Internet Service
- Business has high-speed internet service available for video application use
Service Dogs
- Staff have been trained on guide and service dog policies
Supporting Programs
- Business accepts Access2Card (www.access2card.ca) or permits a support person to accompany the customer at no cost or at a discount
Cognitive Sensory Friendly
Overall Space
- Neutral or muted colours that are calming and subdued
- Surfaces, window coverings, and décor with minimal glare or reflection, as well as minimal use of bold patterns, shapes, or stripes
- Subtle and/or natural lighting, no florescent or harsh lighting, and no dark shadows
- Minimal visual clutter and obstacles, with clear central access throughout the space
- Door handles have colour contrast with the body of the door; doors and frames have colour contrast with adjacent walls; any glass doors are marked to make them clearly visible
Restroom in Public Area
- Designated gender-neutral/family restroom that can also accommodate a support person
Signs & Navigation
- Signs are clear and concise, in large, plain font with good contrast between text and background
- Signs have minimal glare or reflection
Hearing
Overall Space
- Business has a visual warning (alarm) system
Mobility
Activities & Transportation
- Key activities are accessible to guests using mobility devices
- Accessible spaces have clear views of the main activity (i.e. stage, viewing area)
- Pathways are hard packed surfaces with a maximum slope 5%
Entrance
- Entrance has no steps or if there are one or more steps, there is non-slip ramp with a maximum of 5% slope
- Entry route has a door that is at minimum 815 mm wide
- One or more entry points are automated
Parking
- Designated accessible parking near an accessible entrance that is specifically marked
Restroom in Public Area
- Can be reached without going up or down stairs, has a main entrance and/or stall that is a minimum 815 mm wide and has an outward swing door
- Designated gender-neutral/family restroom that can also accommodate a support person
Vision
Overall Space
- Braille/large print signage for all publicly accessible areas
- Audible alarm and/or public service system
- Multiple lighting sources to improve visibility
Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre
The Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre is wheelchair accessible and wheelchairs are available onsite for guests to use. Please contact the SLCC prior to your visit to request a wheelchair, or inquire at the admissions desk upon arrival.
General
High Speed Internet Service
- Business has high-speed internet service available for video application use
Service Dogs
- Staff have been trained on guide and service dog policies
Cognitive Sensory Friendly
Overall Space
- Staff are available to accompany guests through the venue as a guide, and to describe the sights
Hearing
Overall Space
- Staff are trained to use alternative communication tools such as Apps or text messaging
Mobility
Activities & Transportation
- Key activities are accessible to guests using mobility devices
- Information displays (if applicable) at a lower height
- Accessible spaces have clear views of the main activity (i.e. stage, viewing area)
- Pathways are hard packed surfaces with a maximum slope 5%
Elevator
- Multiple floors with an elevator that is large enough for a 180-degree turn with a mobility device (minimum turning area of 1,500 mm in diameter)
Entrance
- Entrance has no steps or if there are one or more steps, there is non-slip ramp with a maximum of 5% slope
- Entry route has a door that is at minimum 815 mm wide
- One or more entry points are automated
Food Services
- Accessible path of travel and accessible style tables/booths
Lobby or Reception Area
- Lowered counter at the reception or ticket desk
Parking
- Designated accessible parking near an accessible entrance that is specifically marked
- Space specifically marked with a van-accessible sign, at minimum 4.7 metres wide, large enough to accommodate a vehicle with a side lift/ramp
Restroom in Public Area
- Can be reached without going up or down stairs, has a main entrance and/or stall that is a minimum 815 mm wide and has an outward swing door
Vision
Overall Space
- Braille/large print signage for all publicly accessible areas
- Audible alarm and/or public service system
- Customer service staff have been trained, and prepared to verbally describe rooms, menus, business amenities and contracts/waivers in detail
- Staff are available to accompany guests through the venue as a guide, and to describe the sights
Whistler Museum
Cognitive Sensory Friendly
Overall Space
- Staff are available to accompany guests through the venue as a guide, and to describe the sights
- Neutral or muted colours that are calming and subdued
- Subtle and/or natural lighting, no florescent or harsh lighting, and no dark shadows
- Nonslip floor surfaces with minimal reflection
- Door handles have colour contrast with the body of the door; doors and frames have colour contrast with adjacent walls; any glass doors are marked to make them clearly visible
- Background noise is minimal, and alarms or auditory cues are on a low frequency
Restroom in Public Area
- Designated gender-neutral/family restroom that can also accommodate a support person
- Entrance and exit are clearly identified on doors (including stalls and back of the main door)
Signs & Navigation
- Directional signs at key decision points, including main entrances, restrooms, lounges, and reception desks
- Signs are well lit
Mobility
Activities & Transportation
- Key activities are accessible to guests using mobility devices
- Information displays (if applicable) at a lower height
- Accessible spaces have clear views of the main activity (i.e. stage, viewing area)
- Pathways are hard packed surfaces with a maximum slope 5%
Entrance
- Entrance has no steps or if there are one or more steps, there is non-slip ramp with a maximum of 5% slope
- Entry route has a door that is at minimum 815 mm wide
Restroom in Public Area
- Can be reached without going up or down stairs, has a main entrance and/or stall that is a minimum 815 mm wide and has an outward swing door
- Designated gender-neutral/family restroom that can also accommodate a support person
Vision
Overall Space
- Multiple lighting sources to improve visibility
- Staff are available to accompany guests through the venue as a guide, and to describe the sights
An Elevated Arts Scene Awaits
Whistler’s creative spirit is woven into daily life – through galleries, festivals, and the voices of those who shape this place. Dive into the art, stories and culture that make Whistler uniquely inspiring.
Discover Whistler’s Cultural Side
From bold murals to mountain-inspired festivals, there’s creativity around every corner. Follow @GoWhistler and tag your moments with #OnlyInWhistler for a chance to be featured.