Discover the Sea to Sky’s abundant arts and culture scene this fall
Activities across Squamish, Whistler, and Pemberton honour the region’s history with bold autumn flair
SPONSORED POST BY Tourism Whistler
He-yay meymuy (Big Flood) by Xwalacktun at the Audain Art Museum. Photo by Justa Jeskova
Gain a deeper connection to the Sea to Sky region’s rich heritage this fall with an adventure through Squamish, Whistler, and Pemberton. The diverse selection of arts and culture attractions waiting to be explored means there’s an activity for everyone, from picking out produce at the farmer’s market to touring Western Canada’s largest collection of heritage railway cars.
Riding the Sea to Sky Gondola is the perfect way to soak in the natural beauty of the surrounding environment in Squamish, a community located on the traditional territory of the Squamish Nation, Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw. The 10-minute trip peaks at 885 metres above sea level, where sweeping views of the Howe Sound and coastal mountains welcome onlookers from every direction.
Sea to Sky Gondola. Photo by Destination BC / @entre2escales
Back down on the ground, there’s a collection of historic sights to behold. Visitors can check out the famous Royal Hudson steam locomotive at the Railway Museum of British Columbia; and then stop by the Britannia Mine Museum Experience, situated below a massive 20-storey mill carved into the mountainside along the Sea to Sky Highway.
Venture underground on a train ride through the historic mining tunnels, and try panning for precious gemstones and gold—all while learning the ins and outs of the Britannia Mine. A special feature exhibit celebrating “100 years of Mill No. 3” is on now until November 5.
A little further up the Sea to Sky lies the bustling community of Whistler, well-known for its skiing and snowboarding. Fall is just as wondrous a time as winter to plan a trip nestled under the towering trees, with accommodations offering two-night stay from $139 per night as leaves shift from vibrant green to soft orange.
Vallea Lumina. Photo by Moment Factory
Soak up the last bits of sun with a walk along the Whistler Cultural Connector, a pathway that weaves its way to six of the town’s cultural institutions. Once night falls, it’s the perfect opportunity to check out the Vallea Lumina, a multimedia night walk that features an immersive light show set in the forest of Cougar Mountain.
More creative endeavours are at arm’s reach with the Audain Art Museum, a transformative experience for appreciating B.C.’s Indigenous art. Pair a visit there with the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre using the Whistler Cultural Pass, which allows access to both locations at a reduced price of $30 per person. Learn more about the history and living culture of the Indigenous peoples with the cultural centre’s evolving rotation of exhibitions and events.
Pemberton Museum. Photo by Tourism Pemberton
Situated just 25 minutes north of Whistler, Pemberton is a mountain village home to a host of other fun activities. Stop by the vibrant Pemberton Farmers Market for organic, locally-grown seasonal produce, from berries to garlic; plus, learn about the village’s beginnings at the Pemberton Museum, where over 2,500 artifacts tell the region’s history of early pioneer life, farming, transportation, and more.
To learn more, visit whistler.com/seatoskyarts.
Post sponsored by Tourism Whistler.
Sea to Sky farmers market. Photo by Justa Jeskova