Whistler Olympic Plaza

Whistler Olympic Plaza in winter image by Justa Jeskova

Summer Whistler Olympic Plaza image by Mike Crane

Snowy Whistler Olympic Plaza image by Justa Jeskova

Whistler Olympic Plaza image by Mike Crane

A legacy of the 2010 Winter Games, Whistler Olympic Plaza is a state-of-the-art outdoor performance facility and community space with a park and playground set against one of Whistler’s most dramatic backdrops.

Location

Address: 4144 Village Stroll (Road access from 4365 Blackcomb Way), Whistler BC

Whistler Olympic Plaza is in the heart of Whistler Village, adjacent to the Olympic Rings.

Getting to Whistler Olympic Plaza

Park in the Day Lots 1-5, located off Blackcomb Way. The entrance to Whistler Olympic Plaza is across the street from Day Lot 4.

Follow wayfinding signs along the Valley Trail towards the Village. Whistler Olympic Park can be accessed by the entrance on Blackcomb Way (across from Day Lot 4), or via Marketplace (located off Lorimer Road). Please note, cyclists must dismount once in Whistler Olympic Plaza. Don’t have a bike during summer? Don’t worry! Visit Whistler’s many bike rental shops.

Take advantage of free secure bike (and gear) parking at Whistler Olympic Park starting June 28 on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and statutory holidays during summer months. For hours of operation and information on how the bike valet works, visit whistler.ca/BikeParking.

Accessibility

The legacy of the Paralympics is seen in the network of low-grade (less than five per cent) ramps, and raised viewing areas for performances. The 4,000 square-metre inclusive playground meets the needs of children with disabilities (or children with parents with disabilities) to allow side-by-side play with friends, families, and caregivers. The area also has accessible and gender neutral washrooms that are located in a freestanding building beside the inclusive playground. In 2018, the Plaza was assessed and received accessibility certification through the Rick Hansen foundation accessibility certification program. Learn more about accessibility in Whistler at whistler.ca/accessibility.

Whistler Presents: Explore & Experience Program

You can check out the events and activities being offered at Whistler Olympic Plaza and within the valley: Whistler Presents schedule.

Skating at Whistler Olympic Plaza in winter

Each winter Whistler Olympic Plaza is transformed to an outdoor skating rink with the most spectacular view. Adjacent to the outdoor rink, a Snow Zone is created, where families can frolick and slide. Skating at Whistler Olympic Plaza

Visiting Whistler Olympic Plaza in the summer

Whistler’s parks are closed from dusk to dawn.
Dogs must be leashed at all times.
Smoking and consumption of alcohol are not permitted.
No temporary structures permitted (tents, suntents, umbrellas) on the Great Lawn.
No drones (UAV) permitted due to proximity to Medical Helipad.
Camping and campfires are not permitted.
Slacklining and hammocks are not permitted using trees.
Please use waste and recycling receptacles.
Please respect other park users and park neighbours.
Obey all rules and posted signs in all parks.

Olympic Legacy

For twenty-seven days during the 2010 Winter Games, Whistler Olympic Plaza was the site for nightly medal ceremonies. Reminders of those days are reflected in its design.

The Olympic rings and Paralympic Agitos that graced the entrance to Medals Plaza during the Games are a favourite spot for photos.

Just beyond the Olympic rings, eight aluminum panels commemorate every athlete who participated in the 2010 Winter Games. A special memorial for Georgian luger Nodar Kumaritashvili is a reminder of the commitment, spirit, and passion displayed by amateur athletes. The original Olympic cauldron, lit to signify the opening of the XXI Winter Games, has also found a permanent home in the plaza.

The Four Host First Nations’ participation in the 2010 Winter Games was essential to its success. The Olympic Lightning Figure was created to honour the Olympic legacy, the families of the area, and the legend of lightning snakes, which is depicted in the pole carving design. The lightning snakes brought skills and tools to the Squamish and Lil’wat people to allow them to flourish in their traditional territory.