Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift for that person who is always impossible to shop for (we all know one of those), a meaningful piece for a loved one, or your own souvenir from the mountains, Whistler has some great shopping options for that unique find.
From mountain-approved apparel to local art and amazing experiential gifts (any tips on how to wrap a zipline tour?), Whistler has it all. Here are some of the top places in Whistler where you can find unique, gifts and possibly something for yourself (’tis the season).
1. Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre
After taking a tour at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, which allows you to dive into the rich history of Whistler’s Indigenous people, make sure you stop by their gift shop. From stunning art pieces to pottery, clothing, kitchen wares and jewelry, this is a beautiful gift shop to explore with an emphasis on highlighting Northwest Coast First Nations artisans.
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2. Get the Goods
Get the Goods is a Creekside gem known for its eccentric, unique products, so it’s worth setting some time aside to properly explore this store. They stock over 2,500 products, sourced internationally, that are split into six categories; build, create, think, write, read and converse. Pick from items like artisan-made craft sets, cocktail kits, quirky cards, 4D puzzles, writable maps, skull face decanters and Badass Candles.
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They also stock these amazing eco-friendly, yoga mats designed by a local photographer who wanted to infuse her practice with some incredible, Whistler scenery.
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3. The Whistler Hat Gallery
Stay (quite literally) on the top of your loved one’s mind by giving them a hat from The Whistler Hat Gallery. Opened by Whistler locals in 1995, head here to browse through styles of hats you may not have known existed. Grab a Canadian toque, outback hat, fedora or borsalino – or, just ask the friendly staff for guidance.
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4. Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory
When in doubt, chocolate is always a winning gift option. The special part about Whistler’s Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory? 80% of the products are made on-site, so you also get the added treat of watching the chefs make the goodies right in front of you.
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5. Cool As A Moose
Cool As A Moose is one of the best places in the village for Whistler-themed apparel, mugs and other goodies. This holiday season, they’re also selling a curated selection of artisanal products like stocking stuffers, handmade Christmas decorations and homeware.
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6. Experiential Whistler Gifts
Give the gift of incredible memories and opt for a Whistler-based adventure. For adrenaline-lovers, opt for snowmobiling, ziplining, or bobsleigh. For the fitness fanatic and nature lover, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, and for the family, Vallea Lumina.
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You could make the booking and set the date or give them a Whistler.com gift certificate, which means they can choose from all the activities on offer and pick the date that works for them. If you’re a BC or Washington resident then it’s worth signing up for Whistler Rewards for additional discounts and deals throughout the year.
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7. The Circle Kids
Grab some mountain-approved cool clothing, snow gear, footwear and toys for the little adventurer in your life at The Circle Kids (a favourite amongst Whistler parents). They even offer gift wrapping! Head to their adult counterpart, The Circle Skate & Snowboard Shop, to reward yourself with your own purchase afterward.
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8. Audain Art Gallery
Where can you check out famous works from artists like master carver, Haida Chief James Hart and iconic painter Emily Carr, and get your holiday shopping done at the same time? The Audain Art Museum. Their gift shop carries a variety of handmade jewelry, pottery, wood work and homeware from BC artists along with fun games, apparel and books for the artist in your life.
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9. Whoola Toys
Regardless of how old you are, it’s always exciting to step into the magic of a toy shop. Whoola Toys was created by four, local moms that wanted to offer a place where kids of all ages had a safe and fun place to spend their “tooth fairy money.” Pick up the perfect fuzzy stuffed animal, bracelet-making kit, puzzle, board game and more from this top, local spot.
10. Maury Young Arts Centre
The Maury Young Arts Centre is known as the arts and culture hub in Whistler; so it only makes sense that their gift shop showcases some amazing products made by Sea to Sky artisans. From art pieces to pottery and jewelry, it’s a must-visit stop for anyone looking for a unique gift from the Sea to Sky. A portion of all sales is used to support The Gallery at the Art Centre, a community gallery showcasing local artists with free admission.
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11. Art Junction
These unique wooden puzzles, designed by local artist Robyn Forsyth, are perfect for the creative in your life. Pick one up at Art Junction, a Canadian contemporary art gallery featuring established and up-and-coming talent from Western Canada, located in Function Junction.
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There are lots of shops to explore in Whistler, and in the winter season the strolls are lined with glittering, festive lights, which adds to the whole experience; plus you get to feel good for supporting local. We’d also suggest stopping for a sweet treat or craft beer / cocktail while you shop too (it’s thirsty work). Happy shopping!
