Whistler's Best Beer: Top Places To Visit For A Pint

Whistler, British Columbia, is known for its outdoor activities, but it also has a thriving craft beer scene. There are several breweries in Whistler, ranging from hole-in-the-wall spots to world-class restaurants, and many pubs and bars serving a variety of beers. Here is a guide to some of the best places to buy good beer in Whistler.

The Fitz Pub

Upon entering, you'll find a welcoming space filled with board games, card games, and friendly staff who are always happy to teach you the rules. But what truly sets The Fitz Pub apart is its impressive selection of local craft beers. With eight rotating taps, you'll be treated to a different chalkboard menu every week, ensuring that each visit brings new and exciting flavours to discover.

When I visited, the Phillips Short Wave West Coast Pale Ale was a standout choice, with its perfect balance of medium malts and citrus hops making it an ideal summer twilight beer. However, you really can't go wrong with anything on their ever-changing chalkboard menu.

To enhance your Whistler beer experience, consider visiting during the annual Whistler Village Beer Festival in September. This festival showcases over 80 varieties of craft beverages, and you can even vote for your favourite brewery to win the coveted tap contract.

Tapley's Pub

Tapley's offers a wide variety of drinks, including local craft beers, international favourites, and creative cocktails. Their food menu features typical pub fare, such as sandwiches, burgers, and pizzas, as well as shareable appetizers like nachos and wings. The pub also offers daily specials, such as Tequila Tuesday, featuring Music Bingo, and Well Wednesday, with trivia night.

The pub is located at 4119 Golfers Approach, Whistler, and is open daily from 11:00 am to 1:00 am. It is the perfect spot to unwind after a long day, catch up with friends, or simply enjoy a drink and some good company.

With its warm and inviting atmosphere, friendly staff, and extensive drink selection, Tapley's Pub is a must-visit destination when in Whistler. Whether you're a beer enthusiast, a sports fan, or just looking for a fun night out, Tapley's Neighbourhood Pub has something for everyone.

The Longhorn Saloon

For a bold finish to an adventurous day, try the Deep Cove Scout Rye IPA. This beer, with its tropical hop notes and rye malt spice, pairs well with the lively atmosphere of the saloon. At 7% ABV, it's not a drink to be taken lightly, but it's a tasty treat. If you're looking for something more sessionable, the Parallel 49 Gypsy Tears Ruby Ale is a well-balanced, easy-drinking ale with caramel malts and dry-hopping.

Coast Mountain Brewing

The brewery creates nearly a dozen different premium craft beers onsite, including a Valley Trail Pale Ale, a Heart of Darkness Stout, and a Crystal Chair Pilsner. The tasting room has a 10-foot window with views of the brewery, where visitors can enjoy a flight or a pint of beer. The taphouse has a rustic, all-wood interior, and there is also a covered outdoor patio for those who want to enjoy their beer outside.

The draught beers are available throughout many local hotel lounges, bars, and neighbourhood pubs in Whistler, while their packaged beers can be found in Squamish, Whistler, and Pemberton BC Liquor and Cold Beer and Wine stores. Coast Mountain Brewing is also one of the few breweries in Whistler that distributes its craft beers to restaurants and bars in the wider BC area.

The brewery is open seven days a week, with hours from 11 am-8 pm Sunday to Thursday, and 11 am-10 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

The Garibaldi Lift Company

The GLC stands out from other breweries in Whistler Village due to its full menu of classic après plates inspired by global cuisines. Their food offerings are not limited to snacks, as is the case with some other breweries. Patrons can enjoy a tight selection of handcrafted craft cocktails and a comprehensive wine list along with their beers. The GLC also boasts a giant stone fireplace and multiple outdoor patios, making it an ideal spot to relax and take in the stunning views.

Whether you're a beer connoisseur or just looking to unwind after a day of activities, The Garibaldi Lift Company is a must-visit destination in Whistler. With its diverse beer selection, delicious food, and cosy ambiance, it's no wonder that The GLC is a favourite among locals and tourists alike. So, if you're looking for good beer in Whistler, be sure to put The Garibaldi Lift Company at the top of your list!

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