When the clouds roll in, the Audain Art Museum is one of the best ways to spend a few hours in Whistler. Just a short walk from the Village, the museum’s striking building, designed by Patkau Architects, sits among tall trees, with long glass walls that bring the forest right into the galleries.
The permanent collection is dedicated to the art of British Columbia across more than two centuries. Highlights include an exceptional collection of historic Northwest Coast First Nations masks, a gallery of paintings by Emily Carr, and work by celebrated contemporary artists. Special exhibitions change throughout the year, so there’s often something new to see even if you’ve visited before.
The museum is calm, light-filled and easy to explore at your own pace, making it a great choice for couples, families with older children and anyone looking for a quieter day off the mountain. Plan for one to two hours, then wander back through the Village for a coffee or lunch.
Opening days vary through the year and the museum is closed on some weekdays, so check the website for current hours before you go.
Featured photo: Sam Saunders, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Flickr
