Indulge in Whistler runs through May each year with a full month of meal deals. To get you in the mood for sneaky spring getaways we thought we’d share this experience from a recent visitor.
Guest Author: Portia Smith
Portia Smith is a writer and all-around obsessed-aficionado. Finding the #MomLife balance is her forte – ensuring style, fitness and happiness are well-maintained while enjoying the beauty of travel with her young children. She popped up to Whistler for an indulgent spring break with the kids and has some photos and travel tips to share.
Where to Stay
@obsessedbyportia:You don’t have to sacrifice luxury just because you’re traveling with kids! We found the perfect balance between location, comfort, and top-notch hospitality at the Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa. Steps away from the chairlifts and in the heart of Whistler Village, this made it easy to experience more activities and (and less walking for the littlies). Our winning recommendation from this resort is to take advantage of the concierge! After our 5-day stay, we felt like they had become family – providing tips to navigate the village (with kids), to coupons for rentals, and even board games for the room. A hotel can make or break your vacation – so choose wisely.
@obsessedbyportia: It’s the little things that start a vacation off right…
Spring Skiing
@obsessedbyportia: Whistler in the spring might be our favorite – you can hit the slopes in the morning, and lay by the pool in the afternoon – all within walking distance.
@obsessedbyportia: This being the inaugural year of skiing with a 3- and 5-year-old, we took the Whistler Village Gondola to the Magic Carpet and Olympic Chair – perfect for beginners. We even had encouragement and support from nearby instructors and lift staff (a plus of visiting during non-peak ski season). The only regret we had is not utilizing a full-day lesson for our kids – I would highly recommend this – to get the basics and learn from someone other than their parent. I witnessed the value in this! Insider Tip: Blackcomb Mountain is open for spring skiing until May 30, 2016.
Unique Kid-Friendly Adventures
@obsessedbyportia: Hands-down, best part of the trip – indoor rock-climbing at Whistler Core. Talk about a confidence booster – especially for young children. We opted for an hour guided session by expert climber and owner, Bob Allison, and he was fantastic. With a 3- and 5-year-old in tow, our expectations were mild – but the results were anything but. Both girls, especially the 5-year-old showed instant excitement and bravery. This is an absolute must-do when visiting Whistler (with or without kids). Plus, it’s open regardless of the season! Insider Tip: Climbing is one of many indoor activities available for rainy or chill days.
Village Time
@obsessedbyportia: It’s easy to get carried away with activities and planning – but I recommend taking one day to just enjoy all that Whistler Village has to offer. Having time to just walk, shop and explore is necessary in getting the full experience. We happened to discover Whistler Olympic Plaza and it became our favorite afternoon spot to soak up the sun and savor the mountain views. The tree house sets the stage for adventurous and creative games, right next to a beautiful grass field which holds outdoor performances during the warmer months and an ice skating rink in winter. Grab a treat from PureBread, a Whistler-based family bakery, which sits right next to the park – perfect for hungry kiddos.
Best Eats
@obsessedbyportia: Fun-filled days need fuel and our favorite morning spot was inside our hotel! The Cinnamon Bear Bar & Grille offers a full buffet, allowing everyone in the family to fill up their plates with everything from waffles, eggs, sausage, fresh fruit, etc. Picky eaters welcome!
@obsessedbyportia: With Whistler’s active lifestyle, there’s a plethora of restaurants that offer healthy fare, but our top lunch pick was The Green Mustache Organic Juice + Live Food Bar. Named the Best Vegetarian Restaurant in Whistler, it holds true to it’s title. They bring ‘fast food’ to a whole new level with a clean, nutritious menu. I recommend the Buddha Bowl paired with a Magnum Smoothie!
@obsessedbyportia: Dining with kids under 5 years old can be tricky, yet our dinner at The Old Spaghetti Factory deemed pure success. As I looked around, it was obvious this is the go-to spot if you have kids. Their staff is equipped with crayons and smiles and were gracious with our busy little ones. Bonus – the food was fantastic at a fair price! Insider Tip: Get the local’s take on the top places to eat with kids here.
Date Night (Without Kids!)
@obsessedbyportia: #1 piece of advice for parents traveling with kids – if you have an opportunity to take a date night – do it. We were recommended to Whistler Babysitting by the Hilton concierge (actually they set everything up for us). It’s a trusted service that will have a sitter come to your hotel room and watch your kids, for a great rate. We were supremely satisfied – as were the kids, spending the evening playing games! My top pick for Date Night Dinner is Earl’s Restaurant. I recommend the Warm Kale Salad paired with a Marilyn Monroe cocktail.
@obsessedbyportia: Top Pick For Date Night appetizers and late night food – Basalt Wine & Salumeria. I recommend the Cheese Plate paired with cava.
‘Me’ Time
@obsessedbyportia: Finding the balance between adventure and relaxation is made easy with the plethora of spas in Whistler Village. Take a ‘me’ day and enjoy a salt scrub and mud soak at Avello Spa in The Westin – you deserve at least one splurge on vacation.
You can keep up to date with Portia’s adventures on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook and check out all the spring deals on Whistler.com
