The Whistler nightlife ranks among night time heavyweights like Aspen and Vail. There are lots of options for party goers looking for a rowdy dance party, as well as sophisticated lounges and bars for the upwardly mobile looking to sip a quiet cocktail. Just keep in mind that the Canadian drinking age is 19, so there’s bound to be hoards of teens at the larger dance clubs.
Party like a rockstar at Tommy Africa’s, a Whistler nightlife hotspot since 1988. Tommy Africa’s DJ spins 90s and 80s classics and you may even encounter a fire-breathing bartender. If you’re looking to get down and dirty to heavy electro and dubstep beats, then Maxx Fish Lounge and Bar should be on your Whistler nightlife bucket list.
Merlin’s should be on the top of your Whistler après list. Located at Base II (the Blackcomb village) this bar and restaurant is a locals favorite; the atmosphere is chill and has a rec-room vibe to it. You’ll usually find local band The Hairfarmers performing and locals dancing on tables. The patio offers great views of the mountain, and it’s a little less crowded at Base II than Base I (Whistler Village) at the end of the day. Burgers, yam fries and pitchers of Kokanee are well-loved staples at Merlin’s. Dusty’s over at Creekside base area is also another don’t-miss après spot. This cowboy pub serves up Whistler’s best wings, barbeque, Canadian draft beer and specialty cocktails. The service is fast and friendly, and the location can’t be beat.
The Garibaldi Lift Company Bar and Grill, or “GLC” as the locals refer to it, is another après hotspot, in fact it’s a world-renowned hot spot. The GLC consistently ranks as “Whistler’s best après spot,” by ski and travel magazines, and for good reason, it’s located above the Whistler Gondola building, offering an unrivaled view of the slopes.
To learn more about Whistler nightlife call, or chat with, one of Ski.com’s knowledgeable Mountain Vacation Specialists.